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Commission approves cellular PVC porch decking at 1914 Seventh Street
Summary
The HPC approved replacement of existing wooden porch boards with AZEK cellular PVC porch boards at 1914 Seventh Street, noting the material mimics wood and has been approved previously in similar cases.
The Tuscaloosa Historic Preservation Commission approved a certificate of appropriateness on Aug. 13, 2025, allowing replacement of the existing wooden porch decking at 1914 Seventh Street with cellular PVC (AZEK) porch boards that mimic wood and come in an embedded color.
Applicant Scott Seawright told the commission he selected AZEK decking because modern treated wood has wider growth rings and deteriorates faster than historic lumber; he said the PVC product is tongue-and-groove, matches porch-board dimensions and will reduce the need for repeated repairs. Staff showed product literature and a color match; the applicant said the boards are not painted but are manufactured with the color embedded in the material.
Commissioners said the commission has approved similar porch materials in the past and noted the product addresses durability concerns. The commission recorded one public comment in support of the project. The item passed by unanimous roll-call vote among commissioners present; votes recorded in the transcript were all yes.
The commission approved the material change with the standard reminder that if anything changes from the approved plan the applicant should consult city staff.
