Imagine tearing down your old wooden deck, only to realize you’re left with a floating second-story door and half the summer slipping away! That’s the exact dilemma our clients in St. Michael, MN faced after taking down an aging deck before locking down a contractor. To make matters trickier, the home faced full, direct southern sunlight, sat right along a scenic golf course, and served as home base for energetic, large dogs, all meaning one thing: this home definitely deserved a bigger, better deck!
This homeowner needed a team that could fast-track construction, save the summer, and deliver a high-elevation deck tough enough for dog paws and sleek enough to frame those fairway views. Fortunately, our crew at BigDeck.com stepped up to deliver a fast, custom build overflowing with BigDeck Energy!
Key Takeaways
- THE CHALLENGEAn elevated rear deck required rapid construction, pet-resistant materials, and view preservation over an adjacent golf course.
- Our team installed SAX Sand Dune composite decking and black aluminum railings positioned strategically between home windows.
- THE RESULTThe fast-tracked build restored deck access, resisted pet wear, and provided clear sightlines across the golf course.
We started things out with a color and material consultation. The homeowners originally considered white railing, but we ultimately recommended black aluminum railing to improve sightline transparency. SAX composite decking was eventually selected for its thermal stability and resistance to surface scratching from large dogs.
Project Summary
| Client Profile: |
Residential Home Overlooking a Golf Course |
| Project Location: |
St. Michael, MN |
| Primary Objective: |
Build an elevated composite deck using our custom deck building services. |
| System Installed: |
SAX Sand Dune composite decking with black aluminum railing via deck replacement contractor solutions. |
| Key Outcome: |
Fast-tracked installation, scratch-resistant surface for pets, and unobstructed scenic views. |
The Goal: Fast-Tracking Access & Beating the Sun and Claws
Because the original deck had already been dismantled, restoring safe access to the upper level was our top priority. Once materials arrived on site, our crew fast-tracked construction, completing framing and board installation in just four days to get these homeowners back to enjoying the outdoor season.
Building in full southern exposure requires careful material selection. A south-facing deck takes a beating from direct sunlight and seasonal temperature swings. Plus, with big dogs running around, flimsy boards just wouldn't cut it. That's why we selected SAX Sand Dune composite decking for two major reasons:
-
Thermal Stability: Engineered to handle heat fluctuations without warping or splitting in the summer sun.
-
Scratch Resistance: Tough enough to resist surface wear and tear from heavy dog claws while maintaining a soft, natural wood-grain look.
Implementing Smart Design: Framing Views & Preserving Interior Light
When it came to railings, the homeowners originally considered traditional white. But at BigDeck.com, we know a thing or two about maximizing sightlines. We recommended black aluminum railings instead. Dark railings absorb light rather than reflecting it, acting like a pair of sleek sunglasses that fade into the background and let the vibrant green golf course scenery take center stage.
"We wanted to build a deck that maximized their view of the golf course, and the contrasting dark railing is what made all the difference." - (Mike Smisek, BigDeck.com)
We also paid special attention to how the deck structure interacted with the house itself. To keep the main floor flooded with natural sunlight, our installers positioned the 10-foot vertical support posts carefully between the home's primary windows rather than right in front of the glass.
SAX Sand Dune composite deck with black aluminum railing overlooking a St. Michael golf course.
The Result: Scenic Views and a Bigger, Better Deck!
The completed high-elevation deck completely restored functionality and safety to the home. The SAX Sand Dune composite boards brought a warm, natural aesthetic that complemented the siding, while the crisp black aluminum railing framed the golf course like a work of art.
In the end, this client got a scratch-proof, heat-resilient entertaining space delivered in record time, helping save the rest of their summer!
Build Your Dream Deck in St. Michael With BigDeck.com
BigDeck.com designs and constructs custom composite decks tailored to local landscapes, sightlines, and homeowner lifestyles all across the Twin Cities Metro area. Our team helps you select materials that balance aesthetics, durability, and view preservation.
Planning a high-elevation deck build in St. Michael? Contact BigDeck.com to start your project consultation!
Frequently Asked Questions
Why choose black railing over white railing for scenic views?
White railing reflects sunlight and catches the eye, creating a visual barrier. Black aluminum railing absorbs light and recedes visually, allowing human sightlines to pass through to background scenery like golf courses or yards.
What composite decking works best for homes with large dogs?
Dense capped composite boards with durable outer cap layers resist claw scratches better than softer composite products. Selecting dense composite boards ensures long-term surface protection against active pets.
How do builders position support posts around house windows?
Deck designers plan post spacing so upright supports align between window frames rather than directly across glass panes. This preserves window sightlines from inside the home while maintaining structural load distribution.
