Went to look at a deck job today. Replace existing with Trex & hidden fasteners.
What’s out there that they don’t sell here in Cedar City Utah?
That would mean any.
Can Trex sit in dirt, like deck on grade?
Old deck is built right on the dirt, wants same.
Joe H
Replies
http://www.diyhomecenter.com/vendors/tigerclaw/tc3_composites.aspx
View Image
Anybody used these?
Whatcha think?
Joe H
Yeah- I am using it for decking installation. Got about 20 boxes on ebay for about $40 so thought that I would use them up. Look great BUT in the composite that I am using Professional Tropics by Fiberon, they do not go readily into the side. I found that I had to drill pilot holes in both sides and use a lot of muscle to get each new board correctly positioned. Will be happy when finally done.
Ron
How much contact with dirt does the pt frame have? The trex should have air flow below it, meaning no direct contact. Are there footings? Would anyone notice another inch or so off the ground? The best thing for any materials would be to raise it a little.
It's right in the dirt.
Can't raise it at all, it abutts a concrete slab patio.
I'm thinking of framing it with trex, eliminate the PT.
Alternative might be pour concrete & put it on top but there's no drainage so I'd need to figure some way to trench and put in drains and then what? There's no downhill to go to, it would need a sump pump or some damn thing.
Poor design from long ago, now needs a patch.
Joe H
You cant frame with Trex. Even the 2x6 from Trex is not structural. There are some types of composite framing out there but they cost a lot more$.
He should just pour a concrete patio or use patio blocks if this is the lowest spot on the property.
Raising both the concrete patio and deck height is an option but costly.
Is he opposed to a step down onto the patio? It could add character rather than being flush. Or is the hieght to home entrance a problem also?
Trex is no patch. It should and is an upgrade and should be built to last. Show this person you have what it takes to get the job done right. He may appreciate the honest approach. Sell the right job that will last a liftime.
Your right , I would avoid pumps but excavation work sounds like its required to get the right job done unless your open to stepping up the deck.
Edited 3/15/2007 3:09 pm ET by AllTrade