There are two obvious choices to enclose the joists & add soffits. (approx 350 sqft soffit area)
First is simple white planking running perpendicular to the house. Lots of material options but probably something similar in width to the 6″ decking – 1x6s or even 1×6 from exterior ply with small v notch. White keeps it bright.
Second is wood-stained planking similar in shade to the decking. Again, many wood spices to choose from but none are inexpensive.
Any thoughts, additional ideas, etc?
Replies
For a bright and clean look, white planking would complement the space well, especially with its simplicity and brightness. However, if you're aiming for a warmer and more cohesive aesthetic with the decking, wood-stained planking could offer a harmonious and natural feel, albeit at a potentially higher cost. Consider your desired atmosphere and budget before making a decis
Personally I love wood, solid hardwood. I also like easy maintenance and poly doesn’t fit the bill for the long term IMHO because it often requires sanding and refinishing. Ceilings are back and neck breaking jobs. I’d go with one of these https://buy.advantagelumber.com/search?q=ceiling&options%5Bprefix%5D=last. Properly oiled all six sides, end grain in any species will decay faster than faces so special attention to those. Oil may be a yearly maintenance depending where you reside but not as difficult. Make sure if you choose an exotic wood to wear a good mask, the silica is extremely bad for eyes and lungs.
No doubt about that - back and neck-breaking job!! Thanks for the link to Advantage - lots of selection!
If it was my house I'd add a little more blocking and run the soffit parallel to the house not perpendicular for cleaner lines. I'd do something like a tongue and grooved 1x6 with a V notch on the edge. I would not stain because it is too much work to maintain that. Whatever color you do choose just remember with all those windows it will effect the color of the light that filters into the room. Personally I'd paint it gold and add a little spice to your very beige home, and because it will reflect a warm light inside. Maybe something like this BM color sunny afternoon:
https://www.benjaminmoore.com/en-us/paint-colors/color/356/sunny-afternoon
As an aside once I had a client ask me to paint a window well that was right up against a neighbors white house. We painted her house a dark pastel green which she could not see, however the reflection of the light off it changed the neighbors house from white to a light pastel green. It taught me a great lesson about reflecting color and light.
Wow, two great comments I either didn't consider or overlooked. You are correct, parallel to the soffit is the way to go. It would be way too busy if I matched the perpendicular layout on the deck. And I didn't even think of the reflect - so important as you noted the windows!! You have a great eye for detail. Thanks!
Best of luck on your project.
Whether you choose white plank or stained plank for your ceiling design depends on your aesthetic and your budget. White floorboards offer a timeless, bright look and require less maintenance. Conversely, stained wood planks are warmer and can compliment your deck, but they can be more costly and maintenance-intensive. Consider durability, aesthetic appeal, and long-term maintenance when making your decision.
Woulda, shoulda, coulda, T&G starter board instead of the exposed plywood would have eliminated this issue entirely. Next time.
Match your deck