Simard Project – Composite Deck Renovation
Description of the mandate
For this project located in Saint-Lambert, on the South Shore of Montreal , our initial mandate was to replace the decking of an outdoor terrace of approximately 11 ft × 12 ft with a new composite covering, as well as to install new foundations on sonotubes.
However, after inspection of the existing structure, several problems were found, including rotten wood, sagging of certain sections, insufficient supports and a lack of fixings suitable for the new coating.
These discoveries necessitated an almost complete reconstruction of the structure , while preserving and reinforcing a small section that had been renovated more recently.
The project also included the reconstruction of the steps, the modification of the aluminum railings, and the preservation of the existing privacy panels.
Technical challenges
Reconstruction of the existing structure
The main challenge was to almost completely rebuild the structure of the terrace while retaining some existing installations.
A small section of the framework, still in good condition, was preserved and reinforced to allow its integration into the new structure.
The privacy panels and their upper structure also had to remain in place for the entire duration of the work.
Temporary supports were therefore needed to hold them during the demolition and reconstruction of the floor.
Installation of the new foundations
Adding new foundations also presented a challenge due to the proximity of the preserved structures and the other terrace level on which the steps rest.
The work required the excavation of two holes for the installation of 8-inch diameter and 4-foot deep sonotubes , with a bed of ¾-inch crushed stone, reinforcement, and concrete.
This step had to be carried out carefully in order to preserve existing elements located nearby.
Solutions implemented
Structure and foundations
Demolition of the old decking and removal of deteriorated structural sections.
Almost complete reconstruction of the treated wood frame.
Conservation and reinforcement of a section of an existing structure.
Installation of two new concrete foundations on sonotubes , with reinforcement and crushed stone bed.
Adding a protective membrane to the structural elements to limit their exposure to moisture.
Adaptation of the new structure to the existing elements that were retained.
Composite decking
Installation of a new TimberTech composite coating, Sea Salt Grey colour .
Concealed fasteners are used between the blades for a clean finish.
Additional fixings with matching screws and caps to conceal the screw heads.
Making cuts and adjustments around the railings, privacy panels and various existing elements.
Staircase and railing
Complete reconstruction of the access steps with a new treated wood structure.
Installation of a composite covering matching the terrace on the steps.
Relocation and modification of the black aluminium railings to adapt them to the new configuration.
Adjustment of the connections between the different terrace levels and existing access points.
Application of exterior paint matching the existing color on the visible treated wood parts of the staircase and structure.
Finishes
Preservation of the privacy panels and the upper decorative structure.
Making the necessary adjustments and finishing touches around the retained elements.
Site cleanup and waste removal at the end of the work.
Project duration
Approximately 3 weeks.
Final result
This terrace renovation in Saint-Lambert made it possible to replace an aging installation with several structural weaknesses with a completely refurbished terrace.
The new treated wood frame, the added foundations and the reinforcement of the preserved sections now form the basis of this exterior development.
The TimberTech Sea Salt Grey composite , rebuilt steps and black aluminium railings provide a modern and harmonious finish, while integrating with the privacy panels and other existing elements.
The result is a renovated, solid and functional outdoor terrace , whose appearance has been completely renewed while retaining the character of the original layout.
Are you planning to renovate your deck, replace wood decking with composite, or reinforce an existing structure? Discover our other exterior renovation projects in the Greater Montreal area.
