Spring 1999

Finally A Deck...And So Much More

“Maybe someday we’ll build a deck back here.”...a common thought shared by many new homeowners working on a budget.

This was the case for the Gerenscers who, for budgetary reasons, had their original home built with a sliding glass door to the rear yard, but without a patio or deck.

When the time finally came to go ahead and build their deck, the Gerenscers consulted Rauser Professional Contracting (RPC), on the recommendation of good friend and architect Andre Fontaine.

The initial meeting took place and the couple explained that they envisioned a screened porch to provide a bug-free environment and a spacious deck, since they regularly entertain large groups. In addition, the Gerenscers needed an area to provide an easily supervised play space for their two children.

Since both of them love to cook, a built-in grill was a must. Also high on the list was easy access to the large back yard, the play set and driveway.

“One challenge that we had to face was making the addition match the existing structure, which had been in place for five years,” said Bill Rauser. “The design criteria, material selection and the required high degree of workmanship all combined to make this project far more interesting than the norm.”

Once again, architect Andre Fontaine stepped in and designed the soon-to-be “award winning” patio and deck, and RPC was set to get to work.

“We made some changes and requests along the way,” explained Mrs. Gerenscer. “The Rausers were very accommodating.”

Specifically, the Gerenscers made a late request to have an extra gas line run into the grill so they could steam crabs. RPC was able to fulfill the request without a hitch.

By the end of the ‘97 summer, RPC had completed the job and the Gerenscers were left to enjoy their new addition—an amazing feat for such a highly detailed project. But this is not the end of the story...

One year later, pleased with the work that RPC had done, the Gerenscers put in another call and soon had the company finishing the room above their garage, including the addition of a bathroom and a play room with heated floors.

“We worked with John Rauser on this job,” said Mrs. Gerenscer. “He showed us different options for heating our new rooms and explained the pros and cons of each-from base-board heating to heated floors.”

Since their first meeting in early ‘97, the Gerenscers have had RPC build their patio, deck, and grill, create living space above their garage, install French doors, and make structural bathroom repairs. But once again, this was not the end of their story...

On November 12, 1998, RPC was honored by the Remodelers Council of the Home Builders Association of Maryland for its work on the Gerenscer home. Specifically, the award was presented to RPC for its construction of the Gerencser “Screen Porch Addition & Deck for Outdoor Living.”

When the Gerenscers learned about this they weren’t surprised.

“We are thrilled that they received this award—they really deserve it,” said Mrs. Gerenscer. “I would highly recommend RPC. Their work speaks for itself.”

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