Upgrades & Enhancements
In addition to our standard construction methods and design tiers, we offer a range of optional upgrades and enhancements that allow homeowners to further customize their deck. These options can improve appearance, functionality, safety, and long-term durability, helping create an outdoor space that truly fits your lifestyle.
Enhancements may be selected individually or combined, depending on your deck design, site conditions, and how you plan to use the space.
Lighting Enhancements
Lighting adds both ambiance and safety, extending the usability of your deck well into the evening hours.
Post cap lighting
Stair tread and riser lighting
Accent lighting
Lighting can be added to most deck, stair, and railing systems, but is most commonly included with higher-tier designs, where visual detail and nighttime usability are a priority.
Drink Rails
Drink rails add a wide, functional top surface to compatible railing systems—perfect for resting drinks, plates, or décor.
Available with select composite and aluminum railing systems
Can match or contrast with decking materials
Integrated during railing installation for a clean, finished look
Note: Drink rails are not compatible with all railing styles, including frameless glass systems..
Gates & Access Control
Gates can be added to control access to decks, stairs, or pool areas, offering added safety and peace of mind.
Common gate locations include:
At the top of stairs to keep children safely on the deck
At the bottom of stairs to restrict access to pool decks
Entry points to manage pet access
Gates are designed to coordinate with the selected railing style and installed to meet safety requirements.
Stair Finish Enhancements
For homeowners looking to elevate the appearance and performance of their stairs, select finish upgrades are available.
Optional enhancements include:
Fully finished cutout fascia (Tier 3 stair design)
Perimeter detailing to mirror deck picture-frame designs
Nosing for a defined, finished tread edge
These options enhance both visual appeal and long-term performance, and are typically included with premium stair packages.
Sub-structural Protection Upgrades
While much of a deck’s beauty is visible above the surface, long-term performance depends heavily on the protection of the structure below.
Post Protection (Above & Below Grade)
We offer post taping 12" above and below grade to help reduce moisture absorption at one of the most vulnerable transition points of the deck.
Joist & Beam Taping
Joist and beam taping protects framing members from moisture intrusion along fastener penetrations and horizontal surfaces, helping extend the life of the structure.
Why Butyl Tape Matters
Seals exposed fastener holes: Even on new decks, small punctures or gaps in the framing can allow moisture to collect. On re-decks or resurfacing projects, the risk is greater — we remove all old nails rather than just cutting them off, leaving numerous holes where water could enter. Butyl tape seals these areas, protecting the wood from moisture intrusion.
Protects high-exposure areas: Posts near the ground and top framing members are particularly vulnerable. Wrapping these with butyl tape creates a durable, waterproof barrier against water exposure.
Enhances long-term durability: Combined with pressure-treated lumber and synthetic pads, butyl tape adds an extra layer of protection at critical points, helping maintain the integrity of the substructure.
Ideal for re-decks / resurfacing: Older decks can have hidden weaknesses from years of wear. This upgrade specifically addresses those areas, giving added confidence that the new decking is supported by a well-protected foundation
Protected Lighting Wiring
When lighting is included, all associated wiring can be insulated and protected within the framing to reduce exposure to moisture, critters, and wear over time.
Ground Protection & Drainage Upgrades
To improve drainage and reduce moisture retention beneath the deck, we offer optional ground-level protection systems.
Heavy-Duty Underlayment & Gravel Base
A heavy-duty plastic underlayment is installed beneath the deck and covered with 6A washed stone (3/8"–1") to:
Reduce mud and standing water
Limit weed growth
Improve drainage and airflow
Create a cleaner, more finished under-deck appearance
Landscape Perimeter (4×4 Pine Timber)
A 4×4 landscape perimeter is installed around the gravel and underlayment as a finishing detail, containing the stone and defining the under-deck area.
This is included with the underlayment + gravel upgrade where required.
Decks that already have skirting or fascia to grade may not require a perimeter, depending on site conditions..
Under-Deck Finish & Access Enhancements
For elevated decks and walkout basement designs, the space beneath the deck is often highly visible. These enhancements transform exposed framing into a finished, functional extension of the outdoor space.
Wrapped Structural Posts & Beams – Conceals pressure-treated framing, matches decking/fascia/trim, and creates visual continuity from deck to ground.
Stair Underside Coverage – Eliminates exposed stair framing for a polished appearance.
Under-Deck Access Doors & Sliding Panels – Provides storage access while maintaining a clean, finished look.
Critter Guard / Rodent Barrier – Prevents animals from entering the under-deck area.
Skirting / Under-Deck Panels – Creates a cohesive, finished aesthetic and can be removable for utility access.
Most Popular for Walkout Basements & Elevated Decks
These upgrades are typically selected where the underside of the deck is highly visible or functional, creating a space that feels intentional, finished, and usable rather than purely structural.
Final Note
Not every upgrade is right for every project. During your design consultation, we’ll help you determine which enhancements make the most sense based on your deck layout, site conditions, and long-term goals.