How to install balustrade screen for veranda?

[ecoaviatrix]

Hello,

I've just finished laying my new ekodeck and also installed post and wire balustrade. This last section to the side I want to screen it off using a few of the 1200mm high decorative panels.

How should I install this so 1. It still safely functions as a balustrade, and 2. It looks good?

I have made the balustrade 1100mm high. The decorative panel section though I'd like to be a bit higher for privacy and incorporate merbau, it's 2.4 metres in length. Coastal area. 

Thanks!

[MitchellMc]

Welcome to the Bunnings Workshop community @ecoaviatrix. It's wonderful to have you join us, and many thanks for your screening question.

If you were to use one of the 2410 x 1205mm Matrix Decor Screen panels, you could achieve what you’re after with a single panel. The key is ensuring it’s well supported on all edges so it functions safely as part of your balustrade.

I’d suggest installing a lower timber rail onto the Ekodeck surface so you can fix the bottom of the panel to it. You’ll also want to install at least two vertical uprights between the lower timber and the upper handrail to support the mid-section of the panel. From there, you can secure the screen around its perimeter and into those uprights with screws.

If you can share a bit more detail about how you’d like to incorporate the Merbau into the design, I’m sure our members can offer some great ideas on how to blend it in nicely.

I've created the rendering below to help illustrate.

Please let me know if you have any questions.

Mitchell
 

[ecoaviatrix]

Excellent, thank you! 

For the merbau I was thinking I could use it to frame/ support the one panel or 3 smaller with some merbau edge showing for contrast, but I also don't mind if it's flush to the panel.

For the timber screen supports both vertical and the foot, what size merbau would you suggest? Assuming I would run the handrail as per normal but at the increased height to account for the top of the screen panel? 

[MitchellMc]

Oh, so are you planning on removing the existing handrail @ecoaviatrix? My rendering uses it to mount your panel. 

For the vertical supports and the foot section, you could just use 70 x 35mm Pine and paint it. Alternatively, if you want to use Merbau I'd suggest 42 x 42mm 2.7m Pre-Oiled Merbau Solid Screening.

Mitchell

[ecoaviatrix]

Yes, replacing it to match the new merbau handrail to the right. (I've just left in in for safety) sorry for not being clearer.

Thanks again, this is so helpful, I appreciate the advice!