Aluminum Roof & Railing Upgrade
2025-11-18
Project Overview
This 20' x 16' second-story deck in Langley needed more than just a facelift. The original wood roof, railing, and stairs were deteriorated and unsafe. The homeowner wanted a long-lasting, low-maintenance solution that would feel solid, look modern, and stay worry-free for years.
The final result: a fully rebuilt structure with a white aluminum roof, fascia-mounted Peak RailBlazers aluminum railing, and new stairs – all designed to be durable and virtually maintenance-free.
Before & After – Structural Repair, Stairs, Roof & Railing
The photos below show how the deck looked before and after the work. Rotten wood, aging components, and structural concerns were replaced with a clean, safe, and modern outdoor space.
Stair Rebuild – Before & After
Railing Upgrade – Before & After
Aluminum Roof – Before & After
Materials & Products
For this project, we focused on long-term durability and low maintenance by using high-quality aluminum systems designed for our climate and local building standards.
- Aluminum Roof System: Supplied by Richmond Aluminum Products, designed and fabricated to fit the 20' x 16' deck footprint.
- Aluminum Railing System: Peak RailBlazers Aluminum Railing System, white finish, fascia-mounted with picket infill.
- Fasteners & Hardware: Exterior-rated galvanized nails and stainless screws used throughout exposed locations to maximize durability.
Technical Details & Craftsmanship
The aluminum roof was installed following the manufacturer’s recommendations, including proper slope, attachment, and waterproofing. The roof size matches the deck at 20' x 16', providing full coverage over the second-story space.
- Slope: ½" per foot as required by the manufacturer, with an additional ¼" per foot built in to encourage smooth drainage toward the gutter.
- Attachment: An aluminum ledger was securely mounted to the wood fascia of the house roof, forming a solid base for the panels.
- Waterproofing: Manufacturer-supplied caulking and cap components were used at critical joints for a clean and watertight finish.
- Drainage: Integrated front gutter and downspout carry water away, helping protect the structure and walking surface.
- Railing: Peak RailBlazers fascia-mounted posts provide a modern, clean look along the deck edge and stairs while maximizing usable floor space.
Some details can’t be fully described on a printed instruction sheet. Layout, post heights, and alignment on a sloped, second-story deck were carefully worked out on site to achieve straight lines, solid connections, and a balanced overall look.
Smart Design Choice – Better Outcome with Lower Cost
The original idea was to install aluminum railing on both sides of the stairs. During the project, additional structural repairs were required, which increased the overall work needed. To help keep the project within the homeowner’s budget while still improving the space, we adjusted the design.
One side of the stair was finished in wood instead of aluminum. This change reduced cost, created more space on the stairs, and added a warm contrast to the modern aluminum system. In the end, both the homeowner and I preferred this layout – it feels more open and more practical.
On every project, I start from the customer’s goals, then use my experience on site to suggest better solutions as the work progresses. It’s often easier for homeowners to visualize these ideas once construction has started, and small design changes like this can deliver a better outcome than they originally expected, without increasing the budget.
Installation Process
The work followed a clear sequence to keep the deck safe, functional, and ready for the new aluminum systems:
- Inspect the existing deck, roof, railing, and stairs.
- Repair and rebuild the deck structure where rot and damage were found.
- Rebuild the stairs for a solid, safe approach to the deck.
- Install fascia-mounted Peak RailBlazers aluminum railing on the deck and stairs.
- Lay out aluminum roof posts and determine exact post heights for the proper slope.
- Install the roof posts and front beam.
- Install the aluminum roof panels, gutter, and downspout.
- Complete final fastening, caps, and detail work, followed by a thorough clean-up.
Finished Result & Homeowner Experience
Before the work, the deck felt unsafe, rotten, and dated. After the rebuild, the space is clean, modern, and far more inviting. The homeowner now has a covered second-story deck that can be enjoyed in more seasons, with a solid stair, durable railing, and worry-free aluminum roof overhead.
The homeowner appreciated the hard work, craftsmanship, and the extra thought put into balancing cost, design, and long-term durability.
Finished Project Gallery
Interested in a similar aluminum roof and railing upgrade? I provide design-conscious, low-maintenance solutions throughout the Fraser Valley, including Chilliwack, Abbotsford, Mission, Agassiz, Langley, Surrey, and Hope.