A Family-Friendly Backyard Transformation in Swedesboro, New Jersey

The Challenge

After moving into their newly constructed home in Swedesboro, New Jersey, this family wanted to turn their unfinished backyard into a safe, private, and functional outdoor space.

With two young children and a dog, their immediate concern was securing the property so the dog could be let outside safely. They also wanted an inviting area where the family could relax, play, and entertain—without exceeding their budget.

The project required a coordinated plan that combined a new deck, patio, privacy fence, and wide backyard access. PCT Outdoor Living also managed the complete drawing and permit process, giving the homeowners one point of contact from planning through construction.

The Solution

PCT Outdoor Living designed and built a complete backyard environment consisting of a 12-by-16-foot composite deck, a 14-by-16-foot concrete patio, and a six-foot-tall white vinyl privacy fence around the perimeter of the property.

The design focused on durability, safety, easy maintenance, and everyday usability for a growing family.

Composite Deck Construction

The 12-by-16-foot deck was built on helical-pile footings, providing a strong and stable foundation without relying on conventional poured-concrete footings.

The deck’s structural framing included:

• 6-by-6 support posts

• A triple 2-by-10 beam

• 2-by-8 joists spaced 12 inches on center

• A six-foot-wide staircase, also framed 12 inches on center

The closer joist spacing created a solid framing system for the composite decking and helped minimize movement underfoot.

For the deck surface, the homeowners selected Deckorators decking in the Sandbar color. CAMO hidden fasteners created a clean surface with no visible face fasteners across the main deck boards. Color-matched plugs were used with the required screws in areas where hidden fastening was not practical, maintaining a consistent finished appearance.

The family chose white RDI T-top railing with black aluminum balusters. This combination complemented the home while creating a bright, modern contrast around the deck.

To complete the structure, the deck’s box beams were wrapped in white PVC trim board. White PVC was also installed on the staircase risers and along the sides of the steps, producing a clean, finished appearance while reducing future maintenance.

Concrete Patio Installation

A 14-by-16-foot concrete patio was installed beneath and alongside the deck to create additional space for seating, grilling, entertaining, and family activities.

Our team removed the existing soil, compacted the subgrade, and installed a layer of three-quarter-inch clean stone to create a stable base. We then poured a four-inch-thick concrete slab and applied a brushed finish for a practical, slip-resistant surface.

The patio expanded the usable footprint of the backyard while providing a durable and budget-conscious alternative to more expensive paving materials.

Privacy Fence Installation

To secure the yard and give the family greater privacy, PCT Outdoor Living installed a six-foot-tall white Nexus vinyl privacy fence around the perimeter of the property.

The completed fence allows the homeowners to let their dog outside with confidence while creating a defined and protected play area for their children. Its white, low-maintenance finish also coordinates with the deck railing and PVC trim, tying the entire backyard design together.

The Result

The finished project transformed an open, unfinished backyard into a secure and versatile outdoor living space designed around the family’s everyday needs.

The homeowners now have:

• A durable composite deck for relaxing and entertaining

• Wide staircase access between the deck and yard

• A spacious concrete patio for additional seating and activities

• A private, enclosed yard for their children and dog

• Low-maintenance materials selected for long-term value

• A coordinated design that complements their new home

By combining thoughtful planning, durable construction, and budget-conscious material selections, PCT Outdoor Living created a backyard this young family can enjoy immediately—and for many years to come.