Gregory Harth, President of Harth Builders (solutions@harthbuilders.com, 215-654-0364), designed and constructed this 2nd story Ipe patio deck in the Chestnut Hill neighborhood in Montgomery County, just north of Philadelphia in October 2008. The client had an existing deck that was a covered porch that was too small and needed to be extended another extra few feet. East Teak’s Ipe decking was chosen for its longevity and aesthetics. Harth Builders started the renovation by opening up the exterior wall and adding a 6 ft. sliding door for patio access, as well as a wider set of stairs. The carriage was designed to carry a hot tub in the future. The flooring was made from 1×4 Ipe with concealed fasteners and banding to achieve the look of a “A hardwood floor for the outdoors.” The top rail was made from 1×6 Ipe with a place in mind to set drinks. A tall gap was built into the lower sub rail to more easily be able to sweep under the railing. The deck was finished with a mixture of two colors of Woodwrich Wiping Stain, and copper light fixtures with concealed wiring completed the renovation. The clients loved their new deck and can’t wait for warm weather! View more projects by Harth Builders at www.harthbuilders.com.