Frequently Asked Questions
Q: I hear talk about non-wood decking materials that don’t rot, crack, or need routine maintenance. What is this type of decking?
A: New materials are available that have the qualities of wood but not the problems or maintenance. One option is a “composite” material consisting of wood and plastic. Another is a PVC material that does not contain wood. There are many different brands of alternative decking materials, each with its features and benefits. We would be happy to make a recommendation based on our experience with other brands.
Q: Why would I choose a composite or PVC product over wood?
A: PVC products require very little maintenance. You never have to paint, stain, sand, or seal them. The only maintenance is basic cleaning. They are manufacturer-warranted against cracking, warping, splitting, insect infestation, and other wood-related problems. These products come in many colors and textures.
Q: Are composite and PVC products more expensive than wood?
A: Yes, initially, they are more expensive; however, when you include the time spent and cost of maintenance over the life of your deck, it is not as significant as you may think. In addition, choosing NOT to maintain your pressure-treated deck results in a cracked, split, and weathered deck in just a few years.
Q: I’ve heard these alternative products can look “plastic.” Is this true?
A: A few quality manufacturers have gone to great lengths in their Research and Development to produce a deck board that is aesthetically pleasing and has many characteristics of wood’s beauty. After working with several brands, we can recommend one that fits your desired finished look. Please visit timbertech.com to learn about the brand we consider to be the best in many categories.
Q: We are tired of painting and staining our railings. Are there railings and other accessories that are also low maintenance?
A: Yes, all the components, except the sub-structure that supports the deck, come in composite and PVC materials and can be cleaned with soap and water.
Q: Is replacing the old deck boards possible without removing the entire deck?
A: Quite often, the sub-structure supporting the deck is structurally sound. ACD will assess the structure’s condition as part of the initial quote.
Q: What happens if I change my mind about the deck or screen porch design or want it larger once construction has begun?
A: The sooner you change your mind, the easier it is to change the design once construction has begun.
Q: Does ACD have access to financing to help make our project more affordable?
A: Yes, Affordable Custom Decks is one of the more enormous and financially sound deck and screen porch companies in the state, and it can offer financing.
Q: Can my existing deck be turned into a screened porch?
A: Yes, depending on the elevation of your deck from the ground and the footing requirements for the city/county you live in.
Q: How do you keep the insects from entering the porch from beneath?
A: We install a layer of insect screen underneath the deck boards to create an insect barrier.
Q: What roof line style would look best on my new porch?
A: There are four choices, starting with the gable style, shed style, hip style,e, and flat roof style. The roof style is generally determined by how we need to attach it to the house where the porch will be built. Typically, the design consultant will evaluate this with you while creating a design that meets your needs.
Q: Can my screen porch be converted to a room addition later?
A: Yes, with some slight modifications. See Screen porch windows.
For comments or general questions, please refer to our contact page. For project inquiries, please use our online no-obligation form. We invite you to visit our office at 2505 Horse Pasture Road in Virginia Beach (23453) between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. Monday through Friday or call us at (757) 427-5252.
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