lncoop
Vice Admiral
- Joined
- Apr 18, 2010
- Messages
- 5,147
Our house is a split level ranch with a big second story deck on the back. Under the deck is a patio that never ever gets used, and that's a shame because 1. it's easily accessed via sliding glass door from the very popular downstairs bonus room and 2. it looks out across the big back yard of a house that's hosted many an indoor/outdoor party with kids and adults and will likely continue to do so. I've threatened for years to screw some translucent fiberglass to the bottom of the deck joists so I can at least sit out there when it's raining but never have, mainly because it would be trashy looking and the admiral would rightly be unhappy with it. We've been on the fence regarding whether we should move or stick around and I think we've decided to stick around, so now I'd like to actually do something with that wasted space. My idea:
Stain the existing concrete slab, enclose the space with a classic knee wall and screen configuration, install some kind of waterproof top (need ideas for that) and, here's the kicker, add a wood stove. I know wood stoves aren't supposed to be outdoors, but what I have in mind is an old one salvaged from somewhere, very likely the Ozarks, so I wouldn't have concerns about voiding warranties or anything. We don't have a fireplace or wood stove and I want one some kind of bad. The admiral won't allow one in the house so this would be my only shot. It would also be cool to have hinged windows that could be let down over the screens in cold weather if so desired. Since this project wouldn't require perfection I figure I could do the staining, source and install the wood stove and install the screening. I'd have to hire the carpentry. I'm pretty handy but really terrible at that.
What y'all think? Good idea? Bad idea? Suggestions, comments, concerns?
Stain the existing concrete slab, enclose the space with a classic knee wall and screen configuration, install some kind of waterproof top (need ideas for that) and, here's the kicker, add a wood stove. I know wood stoves aren't supposed to be outdoors, but what I have in mind is an old one salvaged from somewhere, very likely the Ozarks, so I wouldn't have concerns about voiding warranties or anything. We don't have a fireplace or wood stove and I want one some kind of bad. The admiral won't allow one in the house so this would be my only shot. It would also be cool to have hinged windows that could be let down over the screens in cold weather if so desired. Since this project wouldn't require perfection I figure I could do the staining, source and install the wood stove and install the screening. I'd have to hire the carpentry. I'm pretty handy but really terrible at that.
What y'all think? Good idea? Bad idea? Suggestions, comments, concerns?