A Low Maintenance, Weather Ready Outdoor Transformation
When a Haddonfield homeowner reached out to Fix-It Buddy asking for an outdoor space that was built to last and easy to care for, the expectations were clear. They wanted a terrace that could handle South Jersey weather, look clean and modern, and avoid the constant upkeep that comes with older wood decking.
This blog walks through how our team delivered a composite deck terrace designed for long life, minimal maintenance and year-round enjoyment.
Project Overview
The existing terrace had weathered boards, uneven areas and the classic signs of a deck that had been repaired more times than it should have. The homeowner wanted something better. A place where they could relax, not spend weekends hauling out stain and sealant.
Primary goals:
- Install a composite deck designed for durability
- Reduce annual maintenance needs
- Improve safety, structure and overall appearance
- Create an outdoor living space that fits the character of a Haddonfield home
Our Approach: The Fix-It Buddy Process
1. Initial Walk-Through and Planning
We began with a full inspection of the terrace area, checking structure, safety and usability.
During this phase we:
- Measured the entire space
- Reviewed the condition of joists, framing and structural supports
- Discussed material options and composite board benefits
- Confirmed design details like board layout, color, railings and the finished look
The homeowner wanted something clean, straightforward and long lasting, so composite was the right fit.
2. Preparation and Structure
A great terrace starts with a sound base.
Our prep included:
- Removing old boards and clearing damaged material
- Replacing joists or blocking where needed
- Installing proper flashing and drainage to avoid moisture problems
- Ensuring the frame was strong enough for composite decking
This step sets the tone for a terrace that stays solid year after year.
3. Installation of Composite Decking
Once the groundwork was ready, we installed high quality composite boards designed to resist rot, fading and constant upkeep.
Our team:
- Used hidden fasteners for a clean, uninterrupted surface
- Installed boards with precision spacing for appearance and drainage
- Added railings and trim pieces to create a finished outdoor room feel
Composite was the perfect fit for a homeowner who values a long lasting solution.
4. Final Touches and Homeowner Walkthrough
After installation we:
- Cleaned and vacuumed the full area
- Checked alignment, spacing and structural soundness
- Walked the homeowner through simple maintenance steps like seasonal rinsing
- Provided warranty and care information
With composite decking, upkeep is simple. No annual sealing or staining, just routine cleaning.
Results: A Strong, Modern Terrace Built for Everyday Living
The outcome speaks for itself.
- The terrace now looks sharp and cohesive, complementing the home’s charm
- The structure feels solid and reliable underfoot
- Maintenance needs dropped significantly
- The space is now used as a true outdoor living area, not a project waiting for attention
The homeowner shared how much they appreciated the smooth process and how confident they feel knowing their terrace is built for weather and long term use.
Key Takeaways for Haddonfield Homeowners
- Durability and longevity: Composite decking stays strong in humidity, heat and freeze cycles
- Low maintenance: No sanding, sealing or staining required
- Weather ready design: Materials hold up through four season climates
- Lifestyle upgrade: A cleaner, more enjoyable outdoor space without weekends of upkeep
This upgrade solved both appearance and maintenance concerns in one project.
What Comes Next for the Homeowner
To keep the terrace looking great, we recommended:
- A simple seasonal cleaning to remove debris
- A quick visual check of railings and fasteners after winter
- Considering lighting or seating upgrades now that the main structure is finished
- Adding the terrace to their annual HandyHome maintenance plan so our team can keep an eye on it each year
