Post #316100 by DJ Terence Gunn on Sun, Jul 1, 2007 1:47 PM

My backyard deck is going through a transformation, but what was once a rather rickety thatch and bamboo lean-to over half the deck, is now a blue PVC corrugated roof with 2 by 4 beams (which are slowly being partially concealed by bamboo and bamboo/woodgrain blinds). The beams are supported by untreated wood poles attached to the original deck railing, and the poles make it all look fantastic! I was going to use square posts originally, but then opted for the poles; and I'm glad I did. I'm afraid I don't have photos (I don't even have a camera!), but I would say go for the poles. The poles add a primitive look that, when accessorised by thatch, bamboo, wood masks, tropical plants, etc., really bring out that island look. Besides which, wood poles are just as much (or, at least, were) a staple of South Seas architecture as bamboo is.