Project Story & Overview
This is a favorite project of ours. It took place at the historic grounds of Central Union Church in Honolulu, where a protected, century-old exceptional monkeypod tree sits at the heart of the outdoor venue. Faced with a crumbling 100-year-old concrete platform, our team designed a custom Trex composite deck that preserved the tree’s roots, honored the legacy of the site, and created an elegant, low-maintenance event space suitable for weddings and gatherings.
“The roots were cracking the concrete”
Featured in Deck Specialist Magazine
Our custom-built wedding platform was proudly featured in Deck Specialist magazine, recognized for its thoughtful design and craftsmanship tailored specifically for island conditions. Built for the unique setting of Hawaii, this project showcased our team’s ability to blend structural precision with natural beauty—creating a durable, elegant space that celebrates both functionality and the spirit of the islands.
Read Digital Edition of Buit for the Islands in Deck Specialist Magazine, a national publication
Frequently Asked Questions About Trex Built Under Tree
Why was Trex chosen for this unique deck project?
Trex Transcend composite decking was selected for its durable, weather-resistant performance and ability to provide a refined finish in a high-traffic outdoor event setting.
How did you build a new deck without damaging the exceptional tree?
This project was completed around a protected monkeypod tree in Honolulu, designated as an “exceptional tree.” Our team developed a custom Tree Protection Plan that included hand demolition, shallow footings, and careful excavation to protect the roots. Every step was reviewed with the property owner and aligned with arborist recommendations to preserve the tree’s health for generations to come.
What was the biggest challenge in rebuilding this deck?
The main challenge was removing a 100-year-old concrete structure without harming the exceptional tree. We used hand tools and strategic sequencing instead of heavy equipment, coordinated with the church’s schedule, and reinforced the new deck to maintain stability while accommodating the tree’s natural growth over time.
Can you design custom decks around trees or unique landscapes?
Yes — we love custom projects that involve beautiful outdoor settings with landscaping and trees. Our team specializes in custom deck designs that integrate with natural landscapes, including trees, slopes, and waterfronts. Whether it’s a backyard lanai, dock, or garden deck, we combine precision carpentry and local expertise to create spaces that enhance both form and function
How do you maintain a Trex deck built under a large tree?
Decks built beneath trees—like this one surrounding a protected exceptional tree in Honolulu—require a little extra care to prevent staining from leaves, blossoms, or sap. As part of our close-out process, we provide homeowners with detailed Trex care and maintenance instructions to help keep their deck looking its best year-round.
For decks shaded by trees:
Rinse regularly with a garden hose to remove organic debris.
Clean spills or droppings promptly using warm, soapy water or a composite deck cleaner approved by Trex.
Avoid letting debris sit—long exposure can cause surface discoloration or mold in shaded, humid areas.
Use gentle cleaning tools (no metal brushes) to protect the composite surface texture.
Trex offers excellent online maintenance resources at trex.com — and our team walks every client through proper care at project completion to ensure long-term performance and appearance.
Client Needs and Our Solutions
Homeowner Priorities
Client Needs
Replace aging concrete platform while preserving the historic tree and creating an event-ready deck with minimal maintenance.
Our Solutions
Crafted a deck layout that circled the tree and avoided root damage.
Specified Trex Transcend boards (Tiki Torch) and Lava Rock picture-frame border for premium aesthetics and durability.
Installed Trex Signature railing in black, with custom gate for controlled access and clean visual lines.
Hand-demolished old concrete to avoid machinery around sensitive roots and canopy.
Our Process
Consultation & Planning
Our team met with the client to review the project goals and design challenges of rebuilding a deck around a protected exceptional tree in Honolulu. We discussed layout options, tree protection measures, and material performance in Hawaii’s humid climate. Together, we selected Trex Transcend composite decking for its strength, longevity, and low maintenance — choosing Tiki Torch for the main surface with a Lava Rock picture-frame border for contrast.
Demo & Inspection
We carefully removed the existing 100-year-old concrete platform by hand to prevent damage to the tree’s root system. After full demolition, we reviewed site conditions and coordinated with the property owner to confirm the deck’s new alignment and support layout to ensure both stability and root protection.
Substructure Reinforcement
Using best practices for tree protection and long-term performance, we rebuilt the substructure with engineered framing designed to float above root zones. The substructure was painted for longetivity.
Deck Installation
With the framing complete, our in-house carpentry crew installed the Trex Transcend decking using hidden fasteners for a smooth, barefoot-friendly surface. The Lava Rock picture frame border created a clean, finished edge, enhancing both appearance and durability in this high-traffic event space.
Custom Features & Finishing Touches
We fabricated a custom gate and Trex Signature black aluminum railing to match the deck design and provide safe access for events. Every board and fastener was checked for precision and stability. The completed deck honors the historic setting while offering long-term protection and beauty — built to perform in Hawaii’s demanding climate.
Materials & Features
Trex Transcend Tiki Torch
Warm, tropical amber tone
Durable, fade-resistant composite
Low-maintenance surface ideal for Hawaii’s climate
Honolulu, Oahu
Built around a protected exceptional tree
Located on historic church grounds
Designed for Hawaii’s warm, humid climate
Trex Transcend Lava Rock
Deep red-brown contrast border
Highlights deck edges with a clean picture-frame look
Adds visual depth and protection at high-traffic areas
Trex Signature Black Aluminum Railing
Sleek, modern profile with minimal visual obstruction
Corrosion-resistant finish for Hawaii’s coastal air
This deck rebuild in Honolulu features Trex Transcend composite materials selected for long-term durability and beauty in Hawaii’s tropical climate:
Decking: Trex Transcend – Tiki Torch (main boards)
Border Detail: Trex Transcend – Lava Rock (picture-frame perimeter)
Substructure: Reinforced framing designed to protect the exceptional tree and provide long-term stability
Fasteners: Corrosive resistant fasteners were used.
Installation System: Hidden fasteners for a smooth, barefoot-safe finish
Custom Carpentry: Precision-built perimeter and gate details to complement the historic site
Together, these premium Trex materials deliver a low-maintenance, high-performance outdoor space that will remain strong and beautiful for years, even in Hawaii’s demanding environment.
Final Results: Trex Transcend Deck Rebuild Around Exceptional Tree in Honolulu
“the project was completed on time and the results far exceeded our expectations”
Real Real Clients.
TrexPro Gold Certified Installer in Oahu
As a TrexPro Gold Installer, Hawaii Deck Builders is recognized by Trex for our proven experience and high-quality craftsmanship installing Trex composite decking across Oahu. This certification means:
✅ We meet Trex’s standards for precision installation
✅ We have completed multiple verified Trex projects
✅ We can offer enhanced labor warranties backed by Trex*
✅ We are trained in best practices for Hawaii’s coastal environments
Choosing a TrexPro Gold contractor gives homeowners confidence that their deck is built correctly and will perform for years in Kailua’s warm, humid, salt-air climate.
*Warranty eligibility varies by product line and installation conditions — ask us for full details.