Treated-lumber framing
Ask the contractor to specify suitable lumber, connectors and fasteners for each component and exposure. Retaining an existing frame requires an assessment of its actual condition and compatibility with the proposed design.
Engineered steel and aluminum systems
Metal framing systems offer another path, with product-specific members, brackets, connection details and design documentation. Fortress Evolution is one example of a steel deck-framing system; its instructions are not a general design guide for every metal frame.
Coordinate the whole deck
Ask who is responsible for the foundations, span design, lateral support, house connections, stairs and any roof or spa loads. Surface-board instructions do not establish the capacity of an existing deck. Specialized waterfront docks and boardwalks need their own appropriate design and approval review.
Questions worth asking
Is a composite deck’s frame also composite?
Not necessarily. Surface and frame are separate specifications. Composite boards often use a different material for the support structure.
Can I keep old framing under new boards?
Only when it has been assessed as suitable and meets the new product and project requirements.
Go to the source
Official resources and manufacturer guidance used for this guide. Confirm current requirements for your project and exact product.
Fortress Evolution steel framing