Replies

1. 
   Boxduh | May 02, 2002 06:23pm | #1

   It should be screened under, if you leave the open flooring.  Otherwise, those skeeters will have a clear route to your ankles between all those spaced deck boards.  It is not uncommon to do this; just stretch the screen fabric in place, and staple it.  Don't worry about what debris might fall through and accumulate on the screen.  Of course, if your deck is smack on the ground, and there is no clearance or access for doing the screening, you cannot do this, and should consider re-flooring with T&G.

2. 
   agent101 | May 04, 2002 04:44am | #2

   Just for kicks, why don't you try caulking the gaps like an old boat? Do a little investigating, I think they used oakum and tar or rope caulking of some sort. I think it may look kind of cool, and still solve the bug problem, without making a huge project out of it. Just a suggestion.

3. 
   geoffmurray | May 04, 2002 08:48am | #3

   Could you sheet over the deck boards with exterior rated plywood and give it some good deck paint?

   The caulking in boats is pretty technical. The boards have to be tight together at the back (bottom) with a space at the front. The oakum is pounded into the space and than sealed with putty or Sika flex. Traditionally they used read lead putty. Once in the water, the oakum and wood swell and the whole thing is tight and waterproof and flexible. I don't think it is appropriate for your deck.

1. 
   BUCKEYEinVA | May 05, 2002 04:05am | #4

   I was thinking that you could install CDX plywood over the joists and cover it with either indoor/outdoor carpet or paint.  My only concern is if the plywood would hold up over time being exposed to rain that may blow in. 

1. 
   geoffmurray | May 05, 2002 09:18am | #5

   My experience with screen porches is in the Whiteshell cottage country near the Manitoba-Ontario border. Some rain, lotsa snow. The amount of moisture coming in through the screen was not significant, more like mist. Well sealed ie seal all edges with paint or epoxy or TiteBond 2, and painted with a good quality deck paint, the CDX will holds up well.

   Over time??? Depends how long you are thinking. How long can plywood last. If you can prevent water from sitting on the ply and soaking in, it should last as long as anything else, ie joists etc.

   Your big problem may be from moisture underneath. Consider painting the bottom side before you lay it.