This Wauwatosa home has a design feature that surely must be the envy of all the neighbors: a veranda that wraps around the sides of the house. Unfortunately, age and other factors have taken their toll of this fine structure, to the point where its structural integrity and the safety of those who use it has been compromised. Our task in this project is to remove the old structure and replace it with a new one.

As we begin tearing down the old structure, it becomes much easier to see where it shows its age. Aside from the obvious chipping paint on the outside, a look underneath the deck at the actual supporting members reveals the most crucial reason to replace the structure. As the detail illustrates, the wood is become soft and rotten, making both structural integrity and safety a concern. Thus as we begin, all portions of the old structure will be dismantled and safely removed.

Once the old structure has been safely removed, work can begin on the new veranda. The new structure will be constructed of high quality pressure treated wood to help extend its longevity. The support posts are driven several feet into the ground and encased in a cement mixture for stability. A layer of sheathing is laid out underneath where the structure will be built as a barrier from the ground and all which comes from under it. As we progress, the frame of our new veranda begins to take shape.

We're also working above the structure. Again to increase the longevity of the construction, we have installed custom formed aluminum trim, along with aluminum panels for the "ceiling". Additionally, we've installed a pair of adjustable lamps to make the veranda more useful at night, with homeowners able to adjust the positioning of the lamps in whatever manner is most useful for the evening.

Here we see our new veranda really taking shape. As stated before, our new structure has been built with pressure treated materials to increase its lifespan. The slats used for the deck have been given just enough space to allow the structure to expand and contract naturally with the weather while still being close together for safety. The skirt has been similarly spaced to allow for natural expansion while discouraging "critters" from taking residence beneath the structure. We've also added rails for safety.

And here's our finished veranda. Mint Juleps, anyone?