First things first, don't do this project at the peak of summertime. Choose spring or late summer or just about any other time during the year when extreme heat isn't a factor. For me, this project has been much more difficult because of the extreme heat. That and mosquitos. But in any case, I was initially asked by a friend to replace a few screens and weathered trim, and once the new screen was in, the homeowner asked for an entire replacement of all the trim and screens for a complete refresh. Let's talk about everything I did and wish that I did to make this project happen.
Step 1: Demolition
Pulling out and disposing of all the old wood and screens. Ultimately, we filled about 4 demolition bags. You'll want work gloves for this and protective eyewear because of the dust, nails, staples, and more. I used a flat bar to remove the wood and my favorite staple remover for nails and staples that needed to come out as well. I also had to remove 2 screen doors. This work was made faster by having my impact drill with a phillips bit.
Step 2: Measure and Purchase New Materials
Don't skip measuring! It will take time, but having more materials available is better than having not enough. You'll need new screen which comes in different lengths and widths. And if your patio is like this one, you'll need new trim as well. Purchase the special tool to cut the screen because it is very handy and efficient. You'll also want to grab a staple gun. If you have a larger patio, go ahead and buy the powered staple gun to save yourself time and energy. I for one did not buy the cordless power stapler and I wish I did. Make sure you have the proper tool to cut your trim. That may be a miter saw, or a miter box. Do what's best for your budget and time. Also, some hardware stores rent tools. That could be an option for you as well. Determine if you will need a ladder to reach everything. Also consider any obstacles like doors or other things that may need to be adjusted or worked around while you work.
**Note: Step 1 and 2 can be reversed based on how you feel. But doing demo first will light a fire under you to get things back in order.
Step 3: Paint your Trim
This step I wish I had done myself instead of second-guessing and not going with what my "first mind told me." Not sure if that is a southern saying, but basically, i regret not taking this step before hanging the trim. Ideally, a paint sprayer will get this job done fast and you can paint outside with a tarp. If you don't have or need a paint sprayer, grab a paint brush and a roller and go at it. Be sure to know where this all will dry because outside may not be the best option due to dust and debris that can get in your wet paint work.
Step 4: Hang Screen and Trim
This is the tedious part of the process. If you've ever worked with fabric and pulled that while stapling, this process is very much like that. If you've never worked with upholstering, you'll want to pull the screen taught while you work, but not too tight so that the fabric doesn't cover where it should. I started stapling at the top and worked my way clockwise around the rectangle to get the best result in hanging the screen. I used staples to secure the screen in place. Once all of the screen is up, you can hang the trim to cover the exposed staples. Measure and make careful cuts as you go. Angled cuts at 45 degree angles look better at the joints than cutting straight. For hanging the trim, I used a nail gun.
Step 5: Enjoy!
Hopefully, you've gotten this project done and you've gotten a beautiful refresh to your patio that you can enjoy for at least a few summers. Are you redecorating with new furniture outside? Let me know in the comments! And let me know if you are ready to try this project out at your place!
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Congratulations on tackling this mammoth project during the summer!!!!