A Low-Maintenance Dream Deck & Family Friendly Outdoor Space, Part 1

Table of Contents

• What inspired the change from patio to deck?
• How did the choice of materials impact the project?
• What steps were involved in permitting and HOA approval?
• How were safety and code requirements addressed?
• Frequently Asked Questions

Sometimes the best outdoor projects begin with a change in direction. In this project spotlight, Jake Morris sits down with Project Director Malcolm to discuss a deck installation in Canal Place in Fishers, Indiana. What started as a plan for a ground-level paver patio quickly evolved into a custom PVC composite deck designed for durability, safety, and long-term convenience. From navigating HOA guidelines and city permitting to selecting family-friendly materials and adding thoughtful lighting features, this project highlights how expert planning and collaboration can deliver a space that meets both functional and lifestyle needs.

What inspired the change from patio to deck?

Jake Morris:
My name is Jake Morris. I’m the owner of Fine Touch Services, and I’m here today with my Project Director, Malcolm. He helps manage many of our larger projects and estimates. Today, we’re discussing a project completed in Canal Place in Fishers, Indiana, near Fortville and Geist. At this home, we completed a large deck installation. The original plan was to install a patio, but we ultimately converted it into a deck. Today, we’re going to talk through the process, what the client requested, and how the project came together.

Malcolm, the client originally wanted a paver patio installed, and then we shifted to a deck. Can you explain what inspired that change and how elevation and materials played a role?

Malcolm:
The client was already a full-service landscape client of ours. We provided mowing, mulch, aeration, and other maintenance services. During one of our visits, we discussed replacing her existing deck. She didn’t initially realize that was something we offered, but after talking through options, we landed on replacing it.

How did the choice of materials impact the project?

She has younger children, and the existing deck was raised about three feet off the ground. She originally considered a ground-level paver patio because she didn’t want a large set of steps for her kids. However, the wooden deck she had was starting to fall apart after several years. We recommended a PVC composite deck, which is much more durable and resistant to weathering. The final result turned out great.

What steps were involved in permitting and HOA approval?

Jake Morris:
Can you explain the steps involved in taking measurements, working with the City of Fishers on permitting, and coordinating with the Canal Place HOA before construction started?

Malcolm:
The existing deck was already within neighborhood guidelines. However, the home sits on a corner lot, which created some unusual property line restrictions. That limited how far we could extend the new deck. We worked closely with the HOA to gain approval and secured all required permits and inspections through the city.

How were safety and code requirements addressed?

We also discovered that the original deck posts were not installed up to current building code standards. As a result, we redesigned the structural support system and added additional posts to ensure the new deck met safety requirements.