Sewickley Covered Deck

When the homeowners of this Alaqua Drive property began planning a renovation, their goal was clear: replace their aging, unstable deck with a larger covered outdoor living space that could be enjoyed beyond the spring and summer months. The existing deck was weather-worn, undersized, and no longer structurally sound. They wanted something more functional — a covered deck that could serve as an extension of their home and a comfortable space for relaxing and entertaining.

However, after speaking with multiple contractors, they were repeatedly let down by the feedback provided that weren’t willing to explore their full vision.

Some contractors said a new deck could not be attached to their brick home due to modern building codes, while others insisted they weren’t able to install a fireplace and the customers would have to find their own contractor for that. Frustrated but determined, the homeowners came to us hoping there might still be a way to achieve the outdoor space they envisioned.

A Deck Project Other Contractors Said Was Too Complicated

One of the first challenges of the Alaqua project involved attaching the new deck to the home’s brick exterior to meet current building code that has changed since the original deck was built. Many contractors avoid this type of construction because fastening a deck directly to brick requires careful structural planning and code-compliant installation methods.

As a workaround, many builders construct freestanding decks that are not fastened to the house. While this approach simplifies construction, it often introduces additional structural posts and supports that can make the space below the deck less functional — something the homeowners specifically wanted to avoid because the lower level of their home was finished and actively used.

Instead of defaulting to the easier option, our team engineered a solution that allowed the deck to be securely attached to the home while maintaining a clean, functional space below.

Designing a Covered Deck With a Fireplace

The second major challenge involved the centerpiece of the homeowners’ vision: a fireplace integrated into the covered deck.

Adding a fireplace to an outdoor structure introduces additional structural, ventilation, and safety considerations. Several contractors had told the homeowners that the fireplace they wanted could not be installed within the deck design or would require the customers to find a contractor to handle this work.

Through careful planning and engineering, we were able to integrate an Evolve stone fireplace <<add external link>> and entertainment wall that serves as the focal point of the space. The result is a warm, inviting outdoor living area complete with a mounted television, comfortable seating space, and protection from the elements provided by the covered roof structure.

While incorporating the fireplace required additional time and coordination during construction, it ultimately created the exact outdoor environment the homeowners had envisioned.

Solving Structural and Window Challenges

Another complication involved the roof structure for the covered deck. To properly tie the new roof into the home, two existing windows had to be modified.

Matching brickwork and installing custom-sized windows can be challenging, which is why several contractors had chosen not to pursue the project. Our team carefully resized the window openings and matched the surrounding brick to ensure the finished result blended seamlessly with the existing home.

This attention to detail ensured that the deck structure felt like a natural extension of the house rather than an addition that was added later.

Creating a Functional Outdoor Living Space

With the structural challenges resolved, the focus turned to creating an outdoor living space that would feel comfortable, cohesive, and highly functional.

The finished deck now features:

• A spacious covered seating area
• A custom stone fireplace with integrated television
• A dedicated dining area
• Durable decking and modern railing systems
• Stairs connecting the deck to the backyard

Together, these elements create a multi-functional outdoor environment where the homeowners can relax with family, entertain guests, and enjoy their backyard throughout much of the year.

Listening to the Client and Finding the Right Solution

The Alaqua Deck Project is a great example of how thoughtful design and creative problem-solving can transform a project that initially seemed impossible.

Rather than telling the homeowners their ideas couldn’t be done, we took the time to understand their goals and explore solutions that would make their vision achievable. From structural engineering to electrical planning and detailed masonry work, each challenge was addressed with careful planning and collaboration.

Over the course of eight weeks, the project transformed an aging deck into a striking covered outdoor living space that adds both beauty and functionality to the home.

For the homeowners, what began as a frustrating search for a contractor ultimately became the outdoor space they had envisioned all along.

Thinking about a project that other contractors have said isn’t possible? Our team specializes in creative solutions for complex renovations. Contact Evergreen General Contracting to start planning your project.