The Front Landing And Deck

 As I said in my original post back in 2020, we bought a builder's grade home that lacked in wow factor. We chose to focus on the outside of the house and came up with a game plan. 

Front Landing

In 2019, we started to look at getting the deck and front landing replaced. It just met code with some parts being under code. We found the composite decking we like for the front but not for the back. The quotes to have the work get done set us on our butts. Plus we couldn't get anyone to do it that summer. We put it on the back burner for that year.

In 2020, the pandemic hit and we knew we weren't going to get the work done for how long. But, our neighbour came over and said he would do it. The university had closed it doors and he had time to do it as his work load was lighter. So, with social distancing in place, he started on the front deck in late spring. This is what we started with. 

The front deck had its issues. The bottom step wasn't level and the deck boards didn't go up to the house properly. When the old decking was removed, we saw it was under code. We had to buy a stair stringer to add two more to the stairs. When done, we had the nicest landing at the front of our house. It added some contrast to the beige look the house has. Bonus - I can wash it clean when it gets dirty.  

The Back Deck

The back deck was done in the summer of 2020. The same person did it. It was below code in many places.

All the lattice work was removed, the railing gone as well as the decking. They weren't in horrid shape so some of the lumber was used to beef up the deck joist. It is really solid now. Hurricane solid. The Spousal Unit and I spent some time looking at decking and our friend picked it up after I paid for it. We were pleased with the colour of the decking and the white railing. We also had wider stairs put in. 

We were so happy with the results of this deck and to this day it is one of the best things we had done. The Spousal Unit enjoyed it up until he went into the hospital in Aug. 2022.

Summer 2023 

I have decorated the deck this year. I have not enjoyed the deck as much due to the heat and humidity. On the days I have sat out there, it is nice to listen to the pond and enjoy the flowers. The umbrella does give some shade for part of the day. 

I had kept the big bbq knowing it would be going next year. But family needed it this year and came and got it. The space at that end of the deck is huge. 

I am going to get a bbq table from Ikea for the bbq to sit on. I plan on having the table set up to eat at and may get another rug for that space. The area I want to have the table usually is shaded in the late afternoon. I am thinking of dinner on the deck when it is cooler. I want to enjoy the deck as much as possible when the weather permits.