Thinking Above the Box

Creating Sustainable Outdoor Spaces with Thermory Products

Landscapers and builders are increasingly recognizing the environmental impact of their projects. While traditional approaches often disrupt the natural ecosystem, innovative professionals are adopting new strategies to minimize these effects. One approach gaining traction is creative decking, which combines woodworking craftsmanship and thoughtful design to harmonize outdoor spaces with existing landscapes. Actual Size Builders Inc., a company based in Durham, North Carolina, exemplifies this approach and stands out for its use of Thermory products.

Thermory, a leading provider of thermally modified wood products, caught the attention of Actual Size Builders due to its reputation for longevity and eco-friendliness. The homeowners were concerned about their deteriorating deck's negative impact on the surrounding trees and sought a solution to enhance their outdoor space while preserving the ecosystem.

"We had a deck leading to our house because of the height difference from the street to our front door,” explains the homeowners. However, the deck built in 1987 had rotting sections in contact with the ground. It was sloped and became slippery when it rained. Tight corners made furniture and large items difficult to maneuver, and the deck was encroaching on a large tree. We needed a deck redesign with stairs instead of a slope, wider corners and a tree-friendly design. Our contractor recommended Thermory as a durable alternative to pine. So far, we haven't experienced any rot or slippery surfaces. The brushed texture in the Thermory board provides excellent traction, especially in rainy conditions." 

By choosing Thermory products, Actual Size Builders found a sustainable alternative to traditional pine and other decking products. Thermory's Thermally Modified Wood is known for its durability and resistance to rot. The selected Thermory decking boards featured a brushed texture that improved traction, addressing the slippery surface issue of the previous deck.

Led by Chase Pickett, the CFO and co-owner, Actual Size Builders specializes in various projects, including indoor remodels and outdoor constructions such as rooftops, balconies, porches and patios. With a commitment to preserving the environment, the company undertook a unique project for homeowners situated on a steep slope within a dense forest area. The clients, impressed by a previous collaboration with Chase on a rooftop balcony, desired a similar improvement for the front of their home on a larger scale. Their vision included an entertainment area for guests and an improved walkway to the front door.

"The front deck was originally just four inches wide, with loose railings on both sides. It felt like walking a plank or crossing a bridge during a mountain adventure like a zipline. They truly needed more space," recalls Chase. The steep slope presented challenges, making it difficult to navigate and transport items, especially in slippery conditions. Additionally, the abundance of trees contributed to leaf litter, further complicating movement up and down the grade. The homeowners required a safe and accessible solution.”

To address these challenges, the Actual Size Builders team designed and constructed a multi-tiered deck with separated levels and steps. Extending well beyond the house, the deck provided ample entertainment space and incorporated railings for enhanced maneuverability. Strategically positioned stairs ensured safe access to the driveway and front door. Custom-made railings, crafted from 3/4-inch galvanized electrical conduit and trimmed with pressure-treated pine, were chosen. For the deck's flooring, the team selected Kodiak Spruce by Thermory, renowned for its thermally treated wood with specialized grooves that enhance traction and prevent leaf litter accumulation. Careful consideration was given to working around existing trees and vegetation, utilizing large cutouts in the wood and a foundation that avoided disturbing root systems. Concrete bases secured the 6x6 posts, replacing those that did not meet building codes. Additional features included a concealed containment unit for trashcans behind a rolling door made of recycled Thermory Pine. Rope lights were installed for evening illumination, adding ambiance.

The project encountered unique challenges due to strict zoning regulations imposed by the surrounding forested area and a nearby creek. By constructing the deck instead of altering the landscape, the construction crew ensured compliance with zoning requirements while minimizing disruption to the ecosystem. The installation involved minimal digging for the structural base, further reducing the environmental impact.

The new deck, built by Actual Size Builders, not only offered a wider space for entertaining, but also incorporated stairs for easy and safe access. The tight corners were widened, eliminating previous difficulties in maneuvering large furniture or objects. The construction process carefully worked around the existing trees, ensuring their protection and growth. By building the deck around the trees, Actual Size Builders successfully preserved the natural elements while providing an improved outdoor experience for the homeowners.

Chase reflects on his commitment to sustainable building practices: "We love to build around trees and do that often. A few years ago, the trend was to place decks on top of finished spaces. However, a few buddies and I decided to move away from that approach due to its environmental impact. Nowadays, there is a growing emphasis on sustainably grown lumber, particularly."

With their dedication to sustainable building practices and the use of Thermory products, Actual Size Builders exemplifies the growing trend of environmentally conscious construction. By prioritizing the longevity of materials and minimizing the environmental impact, these professionals create outdoor spaces that seamlessly blend with nature, while enhancing the functionality and aesthetics of the property.

Get in Touch With...

Chase Pickett
CFO of Actual Size Builders, Inc.
www.new.actualsizebuilders.com