Hudson Valley

Handrail details for a classic period Deck House #DeckHouse

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The photographs below give a glimpse of handrail details for a classic period Deck House worked out by the Third Floor Corporation carpentry crew over the course of a series of restorations and reconstructions of these archetypal mid-century houses and their signature raised decks. The overall design is by Benjamin Fiering.

The lead carpenter on the Pepper Pond Deck House restoration featured is Eli Weiner. Materials choices, colors and aspects of the design featured in these photographs were in developed in concert with artist and homeowner Barbara Eyler.

In this project the tapered stanchions (verticals) are of white oak. These were made onsite using a taper jig as part of prototyping this project. Similar stanchions of Mahogany are available by order from Deck/Acorn Company in Acton MA.

The infill baluster panels are made of cold steel flat bar and 1/2″ rod. They are shop primed grey and then oiled with Penetrol.

The cap rails are made of reclaimed Mahogany decking from other projects.

The lower horizontal rails are white oak.

All photography on this page by Ben Fiering, reproduction by permission only.

As Spring approaches It’s time to check the condition of stains and varnish on exterior woodwork.

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“How To Maintain Your Deck House Exterior Wood Surfaces“

Originally Posted on March 27, 2014 by Steve Kay on the Deck/Acorn Blog

Reblogged by Doctor Structure Feb 27, 2015

Conservatory Remodel

The application of exterior and interior finishes is crucial to the appearance and durability of your Deck House. On going maintenance will protect and lengthen the life of your home.
Exterior wood surfaces, including window frames and doors, must be treated on a regular basis. If your doors and windows have not been sealed or sealed improperly, the wood can expand and contract allowing water and air into your home. This can cause premature failure of the component and possible structural damage to your home. Examine your house annually and recoat all exposed wood as required, before any deterioration occurs. In extreme conditions, where materials are exposed to excessive sunlight or salt air and spray, wood may need to be treated more often than is suggested in this blog. Many times stains may look to be in good condition even after they have stopped protecting the wood. Water should bead and run off, not soak into a stain that is in good condition.

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