Waterfront Trex Dock Rebuild on Oahu

Project Story & Overview

Set along the waterfront in Kailua, this project involved rebuilding a deteriorating wood dock into a modern, low-maintenance outdoor space. Our in-house crew designed and constructed the new structure using Trex composite decking, chosen for its ability to withstand Hawaii’s salt air, moisture, and intense sun. The result is a sleek, durable dock that complements its surroundings and provides long-term performance with minimal upkeep.

“The dock was unsafe and unusable.”

Frequently Asked Questions About Trex Waterfront Decks in Hawaii

What Trex decking materials were used for this project?

For this Kailua waterfront project, we installed Trex Enhance composite decking — a low-maintenance, coastal-ready product built to handle moisture, salt air, and year-round sun exposure in Hawaii. The homeowner selected:

Main deck surface: Trex Enhance Foggy Wharf
Picture-frame border: Trex Enhance Pebble Gray

These two colors create a clean, modern contrast while preserving the natural tones of a waterfront setting. Trex’s composite technology helps prevent fading, splintering, or warping — giving the homeowner a beautiful outdoor space that’s easy to maintain.

How long did the project take to complete?

From demolition to final completion, this waterfront Trex deck rebuild took approximately 3 weeks. That timeline included:

Safe removal and disposal of the deteriorated wood deck
Full reconstruction of the dock structure
Installation of Trex Enhance® Foggy Wharf decking and Pebble Gray picture-frame border
Final detail work and quality checks

Every project timeline can vary depending on permitting, the scope of structural repairs, and site access — but most Trex deck replacements in similar conditions are completed within a 3–5 week timeframe.

Why choose Trex composite decking instead of traditional wood for a waterfront deck?

Trex composite decking is engineered for high-moisture and salt-air environments, making it ideal for waterfront use. It resists rot, moisture intrusion, splintering, and fading—common problems with lumber in coastal settings. This means less maintenance and more lasting aesthetic appeal.

What design enhancements were included in the project to elevate the look and function?

In this project, a picture-frame border in a contrasting Trex color was used around the deck perimeter, drawing clear visual lines and distinction. Additionally, custom-built steps and transitions were integrated to enhance both function and form, reflecting high-end workmanship and thoughtful design.

Does a Trex deck still require regular upkeep?

While Trex significantly reduces maintenance compared to wood (no annual staining or sealing needed), regular rinsing, occasional cleaning, and keeping drainage clear are recommended to preserve its appearance and performance—especially in waterfront climates.

Learn more about Trex Maintenance.

Client Needs and Our Solutions

Homeowner Priorities

Safety & Longevity

The homeowner’s original wood dock in Kailua had begun to deteriorate from constant moisture, humidity, and salt exposure, making it unsafe and difficult to maintain. They wanted a long-lasting solution that would restore their outdoor space without requiring ongoing sanding, staining, or repairs. By rebuilding the deck with Trex composite decking, we delivered a durable, low-maintenance upgrade designed for Hawaii’s coastal climate, ensuring the homeowner can enjoy their outdoor space with confidence and minimal upkeep.

Before photo of a rotted waterfront deck in Kailua, Oahu with vegetation growing through deteriorated boards — reviewed for replacement by Hawaii Deck Builders. — Kailua Waterfront Deck Replacement – Before Rotted Boards (Hawaii Deck Builders)

Before photo of a deteriorating waterfront dock in Kailua, Oahu with rotted wood, unstable boards, and aging structure — reviewed for professional deck replacement in Hawaii. — Kailua Waterfront Dock Replacement – Before Photo (Hawaii Deck Builders)

Before photo showing full view of a deteriorated waterfront deck and dock in Kailua, Oahu with extensive wood rot and aging structure — evaluated by Hawaii Deck Builders, deck safety specialists in Hawaii. — Kailua Dock Replacement Project – Full Waterfront Deck Before Repairs (Hawaii Deck Builders)

Wide-angle before photo of an old waterfront dock in Kailua, Oahu showing severe wood rot, weathered boards, and coastal damage — reviewed by Hawaii Deck Builders, certified deck safety specialists. — Waterfront Deck in Kailua – Severely Aged Dock Before Replacement (Hawaii Deck Builders)

Our Process

Consultation & Planning

Our team met with the homeowner to review goals, layout, and long-term durability needs. We discussed material options and together selected Trex composite decking for low maintenance and strong performance in Kailua’s climate — choosing Foggy Wharf for the main surface with a Pebble Gray picture-frame border.

Demo & Inspection

We removed the previous dock decking and inspected the condition of the existing structure. Once the framing was fully exposed, we walked the homeowner through the areas impacted by moisture and agreed on a plan to rebuild and strengthen the support system for long-term safety.

Substructure Reinforcement

Using best practices for coastal environments, we rebuilt the substructure with precise spacing and secure attachment points for composite decking. All hardware was updated to stainless steel to resist salt-air corrosion and ensure reliability in a waterfront location.

Deck Installation

With the structure ready, our in-house carpentry crew installed the Trex Enhance boards using hidden fasteners for a smooth, barefoot-friendly finish. The Pebble Gray perimeter was aligned carefully around edges and transitions for a crisp, finished look.

Custom Features & Finishing Touches

We completed trim details, cleaned all surfaces, and checked every fastener for safety — ensuring the dock was ready for everyday use. The homeowner now enjoys a refreshed outdoor space designed to perform for years with minimal upkeep.

Materials & Features

Side angle view of a two-level deck in Kailua, featuring Trex Foggy Wharf deck boards with Pebble Gray picture frame border. The top deck steps down to a lower level that overlooks a lake, showcasing exceptional craftsmanship in working near water. Lush greenery surrounds the area, enhancing the serene outdoor space.

This waterfront deck rebuild features Trex composite materials chosen for long-term durability in Hawaii’s coastal climate:

Decking: Trex Enhance – Foggy Wharf (main boards)
Border Detail: Trex Enhance – Pebble Gray (picture-frame perimeter)
Substructure: Rebuilt framing for strength and stability in high-moisture areas
Fasteners: Stainless-steel hardware throughout to resist salt-air corrosion
Install System: Hidden fasteners for a clean, barefoot-friendly surface
Custom Carpentry: Detailed picture-frame alignment and seamless transitions at step entry

Together, these material selections give the homeowner a refreshed outdoor space designed to perform beautifully with minimal maintenance.

Final Oahu Pool Deck Transformation

“Chad did an oustanding job and it was a flawless project from start to finish. ”

Real Reviews. Stories. Testimonials. Real Clients.

Our dock looks amazing! Chad did an oustanding job and it was a flawless project from start to finish. Planned, organized and orchestrated to perfection with great attention to detail. Highly recommend Hilweh Builders. Thank you Chad and Team.

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.

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