Deck and Trellis in Galena (March, 2025)

This project focused on revitalizing an outdoor living area by restoring the existing screened room, renovating the cedar trellis structure, and upgrading key exterior elements. The goal was to refresh the appearance of the space while preserving its original character, using natural cedar materials and durable architectural components to create a cohesive backyard retreat.

The renovation began with the replacement of the exterior cedar trim surrounding the screened porch. The original trim was carefully removed and hauled away before installing new cedar trim around the screened panels and gable sections. The project also included the replacement of the stapled gable-end screens, restoring the screened room’s functionality and improving the appearance of the upper gable areas.

New cedar trim was installed using galvanized fasteners, ensuring long-term durability and resistance to corrosion in outdoor conditions. While staining was not included as part of the project, the cedar trim was installed ready for finishing so the homeowner could stain the wood to match their preferred aesthetic.

To improve access to the screened porch, the original entry door was replaced with a ProVia Deluxe Series white screened door. The new door features antique brass contemporary curved hardware, providing a stylish upgrade that complements both the cedar accents and the home’s exterior architecture while improving airflow and ease of use.

A major highlight of the project was the renovation of the backyard trellis structure, which enhances the patio seating area and connects visually with the screened room.

The upgraded trellis now features four new 2x10 rough-sawn cedar beams along with eleven 2x8 rough-sawn cedar rafters, creating a strong architectural framework that provides shade and visual structure to the outdoor space. Each of the four existing columns was enhanced with custom ¾-inch cedar trim, including decorative bases and caps, giving the pergola-style structure a finished and balanced appearance.

Together, these updates restore the natural warmth of cedar throughout the outdoor living area, tying together the screened porch, pergola, and surrounding landscape.

The deck itself maintains a warm wood-toned appearance with Tigerwood composite decking, installed parallel to the screened room for a clean, cohesive layout. Matching Tigerwood fascia, stair treads, risers, and borders provide visual continuity across the deck surface and staircase.

Safety and durability are reinforced with Westbury Tuscany aluminum railing in Fine Textured Black, installed along the deck perimeter using 37-inch posts and 36-inch rail sections. The sleek aluminum railing contrasts nicely with the warm wood tones while providing secure boundaries without obstructing backyard views.

The finished space now blends natural cedar architecture, modern composite decking, and durable aluminum railing, creating a refreshed outdoor environment that feels both warm and inviting while remaining built for long-term performance.

Why this renovation works

• Restores and refreshes the existing screened porch without a full rebuild
• Natural cedar trim enhances the architectural character of the home
• Pergola renovation creates a stronger, more visually appealing outdoor structure
• Screen door upgrade improves accessibility and airflow
• Tigerwood composite decking delivers a rich wood look with minimal maintenance
• Aluminum railing provides safety while maintaining open backyard views

Materials and selections used

• Cedar exterior trim around screened porch and gable sections
• Replacement gable-end screens
• ProVia Deluxe Series screened door – White
• Antique brass contemporary curved hardware
• Rough-sawn cedar trellis structure with:
  • (4) 2x10 cedar beams
  • (11) 2x8 cedar rafters
  • ¾" cedar trim with column bases and caps
• Tigerwood composite decking, fascia, stair treads, risers, and borders
• Existing apron retained
• Westbury Tuscany aluminum railing – Fine Textured Black
• 37" railing posts with 36" rail sections

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