This composite deck installation project in Seattle, WA replaced a 25-year-old cedar deck that was falling apart. Olympic Decks removed the old structure and built a new 364 sq. ft. ground-level deck using Trex Transcend decking in English Walnut, black cable railing, step lights, benches, and a hot tub platform. For homeowners comparing deck builders and deck companies in the Greater Seattle area, this project shows how a failing backyard deck can become a safer, cleaner outdoor living space.
Composite Deck Installation Seattle WA: Project Snapshot
| Detail | Project Information |
| Location | Ballard, Seattle, WA |
| Project Type | Composite deck replacement |
| Style | Ground level deck |
| Size | 364 sq. ft. |
| Materials | Trex Transcend decking, cable railing, step lights, benches, hot tub platform |
| Color / Finish | English Walnut decking, black cable railing |
| Timeline | 5 days |
| Crew | 3 people |
| Result | Improved stair visibility and a more secure boundary around the deck and stairs. |
The Challenge: When Deck Repair Was No Longer Enough
The existing cedar deck was about 25 years old and falling apart. Simple deck repair or deck resurfacing was no longer the right choice, so the old structure had to be removed before new deck installation could begin.
Seattle’s frequent rain makes moisture management, airflow, and material selection important. Composite materials offer durability and lower maintenance requirements, making them a practical alternative to real wood.
Contractor Note: When an older deck is deteriorating across multiple areas, resurfacing is not always the right solution. The existing structure should be evaluated before new decking is installed so the homeowner understands whether repair, resurfacing, or full replacement makes sense.
Homeowner Goals
The homeowner wanted a solid, clean-looking deck that made the backyard easier to use. Built-in benches, lighting, and railing supported that goal by adding seating, improving visibility, and creating a more defined deck edge.
Olympic Decks also helped select materials and suggested deck design options before construction, helping turn the homeowner’s plan for a more functional backyard into reality.
The Solution: A Full Composite Deck Rebuild
Olympic Decks completed a full rebuild, replacing the failing cedar deck with Trex Transcend boards, black cable railing, step lights, benches, and a dedicated hot tub platform. The finished project combined durable materials with quality craftsmanship across the deck surface, stairs, railing, lighting, and built-in features.
Cable railing kept the space visually open, step lights improved stair visibility, and built-in benches added seating without crowding the backyard.
Materials Used
| Material | Where It Was Used | Why It Was Chosen |
| Trex Transcend decking | Main deck surface | Lower maintenance composite surface |
| Cable railing | Stairs and deck edges | Clean view and modern deck design |
| Step lights | Stair risers | Better visibility on the stairs |
| Benches | Deck perimeter | Built-in seating for outdoor living |
| Hot tub platform | Deck area near the house | Dedicated support area for the hot tub |
Our Deck Building Process: From the First Step to Cleanup
The first step was reviewing the failing deck and planning the replacement. The crew removed the old structure, prepared the site for the rebuild, installed the composite decking, railing, benches, and lighting, and cleaned up the work area.
The deck work was completed in 5 days by a 3-person crew.
Before and After: Composite Deck Replacement in Ballard
Before, the backyard had an aging cedar deck that was falling apart. After the rebuild, the home had a composite deck with improved stair visibility, new railing, built-in seating, lighting, and a cleaner outdoor living space.
FAQs
Is composite decking a good choice in Seattle?
Yes. Composite boards are often chosen in the Seattle area because they resist moisture better than wood and need less maintenance.
When is deck replacement better than deck resurfacing?
Deck resurfacing can work when the frame is sound. In this case, the old deck was falling apart, so deck replacement made more sense than repairs.
Do Seattle decks need a building permit?
Permit requirements can depend on deck height, project scope, and site conditions. Homeowners should confirm the requirements for their specific project with the City of Seattle before work begins.
How do I choose deck builders and deck contractors in Seattle?
Compare deck companies based on material guidance, a clearly defined scope, permitting support, the proposed schedule, and examples of completed deck work. Instead of relying only on “best deck builders” or “highest quality” claims, look for a deck building company that explains the materials, design choices, project details, and what is included in the free estimate or free quote.
