Great question! Past clients have found themselves with similar questions. And in some cases, it was possible to re-use the sub-structure with certain amendments; whereas in other circumstances it was not possible. Once we pay your home a visit for an on-site consultation we’ll assess the sub-structure thoroughly and make recommendations accordingly.

We are known for solving problems using ingenuity! You may be open to moving the A/C unit to rest on top of the deck. However, if you prefer to keep it where it is and not have it take up space on your deck, we will build a wooden grate to over it for ventilation purposes. Next to it well build a trap door for easy access. To prevent any trip hazards all the hardware will be flush with the deck. And to prevent your daughter or any children from opening it when they’re on their own we have options to clamping it securely when closed or adding a lock.

Whatever decision you make we want you to be completely happy with it. Cedar is naturally rot resistant (although we’ve seen it rot, it just depends on exterior conditions); generally it tends to not absorb moisture easily making it less likely to warp as it ages; we find it also takes to stains wonderfully. Pressure treated lumber is a softwood as well (pine) and because it’s impregnated with a liquid (chemical) as it dries it may dry unevenly and become prone to warp, twist or shrink more than cedar; due to its moisture content, it presents more challenges when staining.