Redwood Deck Transformation in Los Angeles: How We Built a Warm, Strong, and Beautiful Outdoor Space

Sometimes a home changes completely thanks to just one well-done project. In this case, it was a new redwood deck — built from the ground up, with the goal of making the backyard feel cozy, safe, and inviting again.

GATESWOODRAILINGSSTAIRSOUTDOOR WORKOUR WORKSFENCESDECKS, PERGOLAS & GAZEBOS

12/7/20253 min read

The homeowner had an old, tired deck. The boards were worn, the railings moved when touched, and the steps had become uneven over the years. The house itself was lovely, the yard green and well-kept — but the old deck didn’t match the charm of the property.

The request was simple:

“We want it to look beautiful, feel solid, and last a long time.”

That’s exactly the kind of challenge we love at ProHands Handyman.

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Where the Project Started

Our first step is always the same: look closely, analyze, and understand the real condition of the structure.

The old deck had reached the end of its life.

Some support posts were still usable, but the framing, flooring, stair structure, and railings needed full replacement.

The plan was clear:

build a completely new redwood deck on a strengthened foundation,

with new stairs, new railings, a new access door underneath, and a clean, warm aesthetic that fits the home.

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Careful Removal and Preparation

We removed all old boards, railings, and steps, working carefully around plants, utilities, and existing structural elements. Once the surface was cleared, we inspected the framing.

As often happens with older Los Angeles homes, the base looked fine from the outside but needed reinforcement once opened up.

We replaced weakened joists, added new supports, reset the levels, and rebuilt the frame so the deck would feel solid and quiet underfoot — no bounce, no creaks.

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Why Redwood Was the Perfect Choice

Redwood is one of the most popular decking materials in California, and for good reason.

It’s naturally resistant to moisture, insects, and decay.

It stays stable in the heat (important for LA summers).

It’s safe and comfortable for bare feet.

It looks stunning — warm colors, natural grain, rich texture.

Each board has its own unique character. When you combine them carefully, the deck gets a natural, elegant look you can’t fake.

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Installing the New Redwood Decking

We hand-selected and positioned the boards to create a clean, visually balanced pattern.

The details that matter:

• consistent spacing between boards,

• smooth edges,

• straight, tight lines across the entire deck,

• hidden or neatly recessed fasteners.

The result is a smooth, warm surface that immediately changes the atmosphere of the backyard.

It’s the kind of place where you walk out in the morning with a cup of coffee and feel good just standing there.

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Building New Stairs and Railings

The old steps were one of the homeowner’s biggest concerns. They were uneven and no longer safe.

We built new solid stair stringers, gave all steps identical height and depth, and secured everything with strong metal hardware so the stairs feel firm and reliable.

The railings became one of the highlights of the project:

• perfectly aligned balusters,

• a smooth, comfortable handrail,

• strong posts that don’t move even under pressure,

• a balanced, elegant look from every angle.

When the homeowner first walked down the new steps, they said:

“Now I don’t have to worry about anyone slipping or tripping.”

That’s exactly the feeling we aim to create.

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The Gate and Under-Deck Access Door

One side of the deck required a secure and good-looking gate.

We built a redwood gate with reinforced framing and high-quality black hardware. It closes smoothly, stays aligned, and matches the rest of the deck perfectly.

We also added a discreet under-deck access door — something the old deck didn’t have.

This makes it easy to:

• inspect the structure in the future,

• reach utilities,

• store seasonal items if needed.

It doesn’t draw attention, but it adds a lot of value.

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Working with the Existing Metal Patio Roof

The metal patio cover above the deck didn’t need replacement, but it needed alignment and reinforcement.

We straightened the support posts, improved the connections, renewed hardware, and ensured everything sits securely.

This is one of those things most people don’t notice — but it contributes greatly to safety and longevity.

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Final Touches

Before completing the project, we:

• sanded rough edges,

• cleaned all surfaces,

• tightened every connection,

• ensured the entire deck is ready for staining or protective coating.

We leave the space not just “finished” — but pleasant, clean, and ready to use immediately.

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The Finished Redwood Deck

When the tools were packed and the dust blown away, the transformation was impressive even to us.

The backyard now has a warm, solid, beautiful centerpiece — a place where the family can relax, host guests, enjoy dinners, or simply unwind at the end of the day.

The homeowner’s reaction:

“This looks better than I imagined.”

And that’s the goal every time.

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Conclusion

A well-built redwood deck doesn’t just sit outside the house — it becomes part of the home.

It changes how you use the space, how you spend time outdoors, and how the place feels overall.

This project shows what happens when experience, good materials, and attention to detail come together.

Strong structure.

Beautiful woodwork.

Safe stairs.

Clean lines.