BEST PRACTICES FOR CREATING A SCREENED IN DECK
Whether a place of respite, an extension of space, or a safer way to gather, the backyard deck is a must-have more than ever before. Alongside that trend is a growing need for outdoor living spaces to function well into the cooler seasons and even throughout colder, rainier winters.
Overhangs and outdoor heaters offer some relief from the weather, but a more permanent and robust solution for year-round outdoor living is a screened-in deck.
Unlike an outdoor room, which might have traditional flooring and solid walls with expanses of windows, a screened-in deck looks and functions the same underfoot as the rest of the deck, but with the added protection of a roof overhead. Screened walls or half walls provide protection from insects and some precipitation while still providing ventilation.
A screened-in deck also is typically less expensive than an outdoor room.
We checked in with Joe Rogers, owner and lead carpenter of Advanced Carpentry and Remodeling LLC in St. Louis, Mo., for a few tips to make the most of your screened-in deck.
Leverage Deck Design Tricks
Just like other areas of the deck, use picture framing techniques or other variances in plank direction or color to outline the screened-in area. This not only provides visual separation, it can create a smoother surface upon which to set the screen walls.
Pre-Plan Framing
Screen walls should not be fastened only into the deck boards. Plan your deck frame, and additional framing if needed, to ensure there is a place to anchor the screen walls. And always follow instructions from your screen wall manufacturer for proper anchoring requirements.
Keep It Low Maintenance
One of the reasons for choosing composite decking is to avoid the maintenance associated with wood. Consider the same when choosing other finishes inside the screened-in deck, as the area will still be somewhat vulnerable to moisture and UV exposure.
Don’t Neglect the Details
Just like the home itself, the roof of the screened-in deck will need to be designed and framed to ensure rainfall drains away and flashed to ensure it is water tight.
One of the benefits of using Envision composite decking is that the authentic wood look and colors provide a desired appearance for a semi-interior space without adding additional maintenance. “I like Envision because a lot of planks are different—it makes it look more natural when you mix them up,” Rogers says. “That’s what my clients want: the low maintenance but with that real wood look.”
For more deck inspiration, visit our Idea Gallery.
