Idea Book

Historic Luster

David Cavagnaro of Classic Restorations in North Carolina has spent more than four decades specializing in the renovation and restoration of older, pre-Victorian homes, but having built only a handful of decks through the years, he needed a little help with the design and build of an outdoor space for an 1850s millhouse in upstate New York.

“We’re known as a quaint, quiet upstate community where people come to enjoy antiquing, horseback riding, our scenic history, shops and wildlife. This is a place that deeply respects history and the architecture it inspired,” said Cavagnaro. He noted that it was important to not just build a space that refl ected the home’s design, but a space that was durable, and more importantly, catered to its elderly owners.

So, when it came time to remove the existing cedar deck, Cavagnaro turned to Ron Sauer of Excelsior Wood Products based in Kingston, N.Y., who recommended he replace the old deck with a 300-sq. ft. batu deck that extended seamlessly from the home’s lower level to accommodate the easy scooter operation.

“The hardness and density really caught my eye and made me confi dent in its long-term aesthetics. I was also looking for an older feel that refl ected the home’s historic design,” said Cavagnaro.

Taking fi ve weeks to build on his own, Cavagnaro completed the decking project with two coats of Nova USA Wood’s ExoShield Wood Stain after a light sanding of the red batu deck boards. The staining involved a simple brush and roller application and then the wiping off the access with a clean rag after about 30 minutes.

UPPER: Cavagnaro used Nova USA Wood Products red Batu deck boards and ExoShield Wood Stain. LOWER: It was important for Cavagnaro to design an outdoor space that efl ected the home’s 1800s design.

(Photos courtesy Nova USA)

“My clients only built the deck as an afterthought. They never really thought they’d use it. Since its installation, they’re out there every night. The deck is now a showpiece and favored spot for entertaining,” said Cavagnaro. “The renovation not only doubled the home’s size, but added a master bedroom, bath and laundry room so its owners could live comfortably on the ground fl oor.”

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