2014-07-17 Deck Trim

I didn't think I'd add more pages to this photo essay but this seemed appropriate.

We had a lot of short pieces of scrap lumber left over from building the deck.  We still had trim left to do.


The bannister needed to be taller.  Here's the idea we came up with.  We put a 2 X 4 cap rail
on top of the gate post and cut the scrap pieces to fit between the cap and the bannister.  I
originally suggested turning them facing flat.  It was Linda's idea to turn them on the diagonal.


I was surprised that all we had to do was cut them to fit then anchor with two screws through
the top.  At first I thought to toenail the bottoms but we discovered it wasn't necessary.  The
verticals were so short (about 11 inches) the bottoms didn't even need to be anchored.  The
screws in the tops held them quite firmly.


Before, the privacy fence at the end of the deck was unfinished and needed to be taller.


For that, we just added a bit more lattice panel.


Except for all the pool toys in the way of the camera, I thought this turned out nicely.


Now the fence adds a bit more privacy and the bannister's added trim makes it safer around little ones.


The privacy fence on the other end of the deck is as yet unfinished.  I did get the rail up where
the step up is located going to the pool platform.  I only have to add some lattice panel to finish it.


One of the local residents (see below) seemed to enjoy the changes.  Good enough for me!  The lattice
in the foreground is for finishing the other end of the deck's privacy fence.  We will also need to
install some lattice as a skirt around the deck eventually.

The deck lumber was really wet when we laid it down.  My contractor friend saw it and said we need
to wait a couple months and give it a chance to dry well before we stain it.  With all the rain we've
had, we may have to wait even longer.  Once it's finished, I'll try to share photos.

 
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