This project started 3 years ago, after buying a “wet paint” sign and 2 gallons of floor paint. One thing led to another, and after a hip replacement followed by lumbar fusion surgery last February, I eventually got back to a point where I was physically able to get it done this summer. It had been re-stained and painted 3 times since 2003 to around 2012, the last time. The railing was flimsy and partially blocked the pond view, so I decided that had to go.
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The steel frame brackets took an average of around 8 hours@ to fab. I used the existing railing as a jig to line up the angles, but it was still pretty tricky getting it straight, and a little warpage made it imperfect to a small degree, but I think it looks good. Steps were the big change. They too were a flimsy, 3ft-wide builder’s grade piece needing replaced. This design makes for a more efficient patio space and easier access.