Wagon Trails

 

Two-Level Outdoor Living Space with Trex RainEscape System

 

A Safer Solution for an Aging Redwood Deck

Our client’s original redwood deck had reached the end of its lifespan.  Not only did it look dated, it was beginning to sag – creating a serious safety concern.  Knowing a replacement was essential, she reached out to Decks by Schmillen to design a new outdoor living space that felt modern, secure, and tailored to the way she wanted to use her backyard.

Custom Layout Improvements Without Expanding the Footprint

One of the biggest goals for this project was maximizing usable space.  Instead of increasing the footprint, we refined the layout by locating the deck stairs to one side.  This change opened up the main deck area, improved traffic flow, and created a more functional surface for everyday use – whether it’s relaxing outdoors, hosting friends, or simply enjoying a low-maintenance space that looks great from every angle.

TimberTech Legacy Tigerwood Installed at a Striking 45-Degree Angle

For the deck surface, the homeowner chose TimberTech Legacy Tiger Wood, a premium composite option known for its rich, natural wood look.  To elevate the design even further, we installed the decking at a bold 45-degree angle.  This pattern adds visual appeal, creates a high-end finish, and gives the entire deck a distinctive look that stands apart from traditional straight laid boards.

Fortress Fe26 Axis Horizontal Infill Railing for a Modern Look

A strong railing system was a must for both safety and style.  We installed a Fortress Fe26 Axis Horizontal Infill steel deck railing with 2-inch posts and flat pyramid post caps.  The clean horizontal lines and durable steel construction add a modern architectural touch while providing the protection the owner needs for peace of mind.

Trex RainEscape Adds a Fully Usable Outdoor Space Below

To make the most of the space under the elevated deck, we installed a Trex RainEscape system beneath the decking.  This under-deck drainage solution captures and channels water away, keeping the lower area dry and functional.  The result is essentially an additional “outdoor room” that expands our clients’ livable space without changing the home’s footprint.

Finished Ceiling, Lighting, and Privacy Details

The lower-level retreat was finished with a clean look that feels like an extension of the home.  It features:

  • A flat ceiling with recessed can lighting for evening use
  • Tongue-and-groove Blue Stain pine for warmth and texture
  • PreservaWood Transparent Tamarack Brown stain for a rich, natural tone

For added privacy, one side includes a matching Blue Stain pine wall.  On the exterior, we used lap siding to blend seamlessly with the home and keep the finished space looking intentional from every viewpoint.

The Final Result!

This project delivered a major transformation: a safe, beautiful TimberTech deck above a comfortable, finished outdoor living area below.  With modern materials, a thoughtful layout, and detail-driven craftsmanship, our client now has a two-level outdoor living space designed for everyday enjoyment – and built to last for years to come.

 

Click on images below to view larger…

 

Old redwood deck that is sagging and has become unsafe in Colorado Springs

Before

Old redwood deck that is sagging and unsafe in Colorado Springs

Before – You can see how the decking is sagging, making the deck unsafe.

TimberTech deck with 45-degree decking Trex RainEscape System under-deck drainage and a metal horizontal axis deck railing in Colorado Springs

1 – The new deck is much larger and includes a Trex RainEscape system which doubles the outdoor living space available.

New TimberTech deck with 45-degree deck boards and a horizontal metal deck railing in Colorado Springs

2 – The decking is TimberTech Legacy Tiger Wood laid at a 45-degree angle to the joists.  We added clipped corners to the deck per the homeowner’s request.

A new composite deck with a metal deck railing that has horizontal balusters an under-deck drainage system and 45-degree deck boards in Colorado Springs

3 – Our client chose to add a Fortress Fe26 Axis Horizontal Infill steel deck railing in matte black.

Closed deck stairs with TimberTech treads and risers and black horizontal metal deck railing located in Colorado Springs

4 – We moved the stairs from the front of the deck to the side.  The new deck stairs are 4′-wide closed steps in the TimberTech Tiger Wood material.

5 – In order to double the outdoor living space, our client decided to add a Trex RainEscape system.

6 – The ceiling of the lower outdoor living space is done in tongue and groove Blue Stain Pine.  The ceiling and privacy wall are stained with PreservaWood Tamarack Brown transparent stain.

A composite TimberTech deck with metal deck railing and Trex RainEscape under-deck drainage system at night in Colorado Springs

7 – Our client loves her two new outdoor living spaces and enjoys spending as much time as possible outside!

 

For more information on under-deck drainage systems, visit our Under-Deck Drainage page:

Under-Deck Drainage