Deck Replacement in Gardner, KS

14' x 20' Deck Replacement with PVC Decking & Aluminum Railing

This deck replacement project in Gardner, KS involved removing and rebuilding an existing 14′ x 20′ deck, including the landing and stairs. The original deck had been built 30 years earlier by the homeowner’s father, making this project especially meaningful for the family.

Our team rebuilt the deck with stronger framing, upgraded decking materials, improved railing, and added protection to help extend the life of the structure. The finished result keeps the familiar character of the original deck while giving the homeowners a safer, stronger, and more comfortable outdoor space.

Removing the Original Deck

The original deck featured diagonal treated decking, along with a corner bench seat that had been part of the design for decades. While the homeowners wanted an updated deck, it was important to preserve some of the original charm and layout.

Structural Upgrades

As part of the replacement, our team added two additional piers at the cantilever of the existing house for improved support. We also upgraded the floor framing from 2×8 treated floor joists to 2×10 treated floor joists.

The original joists were spaced 24 inches on center. The new joists were installed 12 inches on center, creating a stronger and more durable structure for the new deck surface.

Added Deck Protection

To help protect the new deck structure, butyl tape was installed over all horizontal surfaces of the deck, landing, and stairs. This added layer of protection helps reduce moisture exposure on key framing areas and supports the long-term durability of the deck.

Upgraded PVC Decking & Railing

The original treated decking was replaced with Deckorators Tundra PVC decking installed on a diagonal, maintaining the style of the original deck while upgrading the material. One of the key benefits of Deckorators Tundra PVC decking is that it does not radiate heat the same way many composite decking materials do, making the deck more comfortable to use during warm weather.

The railing was also upgraded to aluminum, with a flat drink rail installed around the perimeter of the upper deck only. This gives the deck a cleaner, more finished look while adding a practical surface for everyday use.

Preserving the Original Character

One special detail of this project was recreating the original corner bench seat to match the look and feel of the old deck. Since the previous deck had been built by the homeowner’s father, our goal was to honor the original design while improving the strength, safety, and usability of the space.

This project also had a special family connection on our side, with three generations of Hazens working together to build the new deck.

The Finished Deck

The completed deck gives the homeowners a refreshed outdoor space that feels familiar, comfortable, and built to last. With upgraded framing, additional piers, tighter joist spacing, butyl tape protection, PVC decking, aluminum railing, and a recreated corner bench seat, this project blends durability with meaningful design details.