Post #458803 by MobileTikiBar on Wed, Jun 3, 2009 5:26 PM

On 2009-06-03 10:45, TikiMookie wrote:
Wow, can't wait to see the finished product. Can you come build one in our yard?? I've been bugging my hubby to start the build, we have a raised concrete pad in the back corner next to the pond/waterfall and our tropical plants.

Can you give any pointers to us laymen? Advise to avoid any issues that are unforseen?

Your place is amazing. We have a greenbelt behind our fence but not the view you have, it's great!

I can't wait to see how it finishes up too... I'm definitely no expert at this, that's for sure. We were pretty lucky when home shopping to fall into this place, we originally were to have a house in the same subdivision but not on the water, then had issues with the builder and permits, and almost cancelled out of our contract. They said to go check out this house and that the buyer was unable to complete the sale. It's the same model, a few more upgrades, and they worked the price out pretty well for us. Six years later, still happy (especially since adding the pool/deck).

Some pointers:

Use pressure treated or marine grade wood if the structure will be outside in the elements. It's not worth saving a few dollars to not get it.

If you thatch it with natural material, plan the replacement labor and cost into your decision. The natural material I put on the first bar was pretty much ruined in 3 years, and had lots of critters (ants, spiders, etc) in it, which made it a real joy to tear out. This time I'm going with an artificial thatching from amaZulu http://www.amazuluinc.com/fiber-thatch-regular-fiber-thatch-regular.htm ... I'm really looking forward to seeing how it turns out.

-adrian