Replies

1. 
   Ralph_Wicklund | Jun 06, 2001 01:52am | #1

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   I think you are going to be stuck with a deeply shadowed lower deck. The spacing you would need to get any usable light through the deck boards would be a real safety hazard to anyone on the second level.

   Not being able to see your site hampers constructive input, but have you considered offsetting the upper level, taking into account the orientation to the sun? Or perhaps splitting the upper deck area so that you would have a two story atrium effect? A light well, with railings of course, in or near the center? A smaller upper level?

   How about some pics of your site or at least a diagram (with the big NORTH arrow).

1. 
   Art_Whalen | Jun 06, 2001 06:51pm | #2

   *The area in question faces southwest, so it is in sunlight most of the day. It won't be a problem in winter, but with the sun high in the sky and many trees, it's a bit of a problem this time of year. I thought of a light well or even a removable portion. Right now I have the un-nailed decking about an inch apart as a test. Sure wish we'd get some sun so I could tell if it was OK. Other than getting deck furniture with wide legs, would there be any other concerns with this width or larger spacing? Thanks for answering.

1. 
   Dave_Richeson | Jun 07, 2001 01:34am | #3

   *Broken toes among many other. Ralph's advice is good.1" is much to wide.

1. 
   nathan_wegemer | Jun 07, 2001 06:59am | #4

   *Have you considered something like this?http://www.mcnichols.com/bar_closemesh.aspMany other materials there as well.

1. 
   Ralph_Wicklund | Jun 07, 2001 11:32pm | #5

   *This summer when he says we're grilling steaks on the deck....... he won't be kidding.I like mine medium rare.

2. 
   STEVE_B. | Jun 13, 2001 06:01am | #6

   *ARTS REPLY WITH REGARD TO THE SUN IS THE MOST RELEVANT TO THE PROBLEM THAT WILL ARISE AFTER THE DECK IS CONSTRUCTED. THE LIGHT YOU LOSE WILL NOT BE GAINED BACK IN ANY MEASURABLE OR APPRECIATED FORM BY SPACING THE DECKING FARTHER APART . YOU WILL ONLY CREATE A HAZARDOUS BUT EASY TO CLEAN OUTDOOR LIVING AREA. YOU HAVE TO WEIGH THE GAINS AGAINST YOUR LOSSES. ADDITION OF LIGHT WELLS MAY HELP YOUR SITUATION IF THE DECK IS FAIRLY LARGE AS SUGGESTED BY RALPH HOWEVER THEY WOULD TAKE UP VALUABLE DECK REAL ESTATE AND ONLY BE PARTIALLY EFFECTIVE DUE TO THE SUN LOCATION THROUGH THE DAY AND THE HOMES EXPOSURE.

2. 
   Art_Whalen | Jun 13, 2001 06:01am | #7

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   The second floor of a deck will block a good portion of sunlight from the main floor area if the deck boards are butted. Any suggestions on maximum spacing to let some light filter through? I am using pressure treated southern pine. Thanks.