Guest contributor Jessica Bruno is the self-described “ring leader” of the Four Generations One Roof blog. It’s about life in, yes, a four-generation family living in one house in New England. The blog covers many of the DIY projects the extended family does together, and celebrates some of the chaos of having such a lively household.
Here, Jessica shares with us how the family got together for a fabulous makeover of their backyard deck.
Living with so many people can be challenging and personal space is the key to success! Therefore, we are constantly updating, remodeling and organizing/tweaking existing spaces to keep our sanity! 
Most of our home projects are done by myself, my dad and Gramps.
Our latest deck makeover was a challenge simply because of the size. As you can see in the prior picture, the pressure treated wood was old, weathered and was thirsty for some stain! We decided that the color scheme would be bright and warm, so we chose a natural cedar tone and linen/moon tan color.
Isn’t it amazing what some stain will do? This was a water-based stain so the cleanup was so easy! Adding a two-toned stain treatment to a large area can add tremendous depth and texture. “We” decided that “I” would be in charge of the overall color scheme when it came to creating a sitting area that would serve as our outdoor oasis. My dad can build a house, but when it comes to the aesthetics and decorating end of things, he leaves that to the girls in the house!
I chose a pink and orange color scheme with green and blue as additional accent colors. With a couple of cans of spray paint, I added blue touches on the watering can & flower basin. For me, it is easier to find pre-made throw pillows or coordinating fabric and then decide on a third or fourth additional accent color. A can of spray is my go to item for additional color!
How about you? What color schemes have you used this summer in your outside space? Do you have a method that you use when mixing colors and patterns? Please do share!
Thank you so much to the Home Depot crew and the Apron blog for inviting me to be their guest, it was a pleasure!
Thank you, Jessica! The deck looks fabulous.
Check out more home improvement projects and decorating ideas at Four Generations One Roof. And take a look at more of our articles from some of the best bloggers on the Internet here on the Apron.
Beveled spindle question; which end goes up, the bevel or not beveled?
Usually (always?) the square end goes in the floor of the deck, and the beveled end goes into a hand rail. So that would be beveled end up.
Do I win something?
-Craig, from The Home Depot
That looks great! Which specific stain product did you use? I can probably use the same to makeover my gazebo. It needs a major overhaul. I appreciate your response.
I asked Jessica. She says she used Behr Porch and Floor exterior wood stain in natural cedar & moon tan.
-Craig from The Home Depot
To keep that deck from turning gray again, use Fence-Seal from TriCoPolymer.
Its VOC-FREE and NON-Toxic too!
Clear sealer that leaves the original color.
Available on HomeDepot.com
Seriously, are you telling me that some stain took that old grungy looking deck from gray and faded to looking like new??
If that’s true, then there is hope for my deck also…which I had just about given up on.
Please say that’s all it took (probably along with some good power washing first, but still).
Hey Susan, yup just powerwash and some stain
Were there any special chemicals you used in the pressure washer? Or any other preparation steps. I need to clean and treat my deck and I need to know where to start.
Thanks, Jerry.
Hi Jerry! I actually just used water. I didn’t use any chemicals/soap in the washer, although, I know you can purchase specific deck cleaner from Home Depot if your deck is really dirty or moldy. I swept it really good, pressure washed and swept it again (while wet). Let it dry for a day or so. Good luck and happy cleaning
Where is the patio set from? I love the curved arms
Jessica says it came from a store called “Walmart”.
I’ve not heard of it, myself.
-Craig, from The Home Depot (which has some terrific and reasonably priced patio sets)
How much do I love this deck remodel?! Our back deck is in desperate need of being remodeled – well, maybe fixed first, then painted and spiffed up! Love what you did with yours – so inviting and cozy
Thank you Kim!
That’s gorgeous! I love the color scheme! Great job, Jessica!
Thanks Natalie!
Oh My gosh! Loving your area! You did an amazing job!! I Love the pillows and pops of color! Great products– well don!!
-Jen
Thank you, the pillows are one of my favorites
What a GORGEOUS deck! Makes me want to grab a pile of books and a glass of sweet tea and stay all afternoon. Great job!
Thank you! That is just what I do on gorgeous days like today
Thank you so much for inviting me to be your guest today! I’m actually hanging out on our deck as we speak. Have a great rest of the day