Hello, I built a deck last year and did not incorporate any type of roof or pergola for shade. My deck is approximately 18 feet deep and 20 feet wide. I have been looking at EVERYTHING that makes shade. I can't figure out way I want though. I've looked at shade sails but don't want to stretch them to the railing because they would be too low to walk under then. I don't want posts added to the railing because I feel like it would strain my railing over time and also would look like a poorly planned afterthought of a roof. Next, there Is only about 3 inches between the top of my door and the soffit. Not much room for the door to swing open and have a shade sail right above that. Umbrellas don't cover enough for my liking. And I have to keep moving it to stay in the shade. I don't see room for a retractable awning because I have a vent pipe on my roof close to the edge. Can anyone picture any shade cover idea that would look attractive and also be possible without re-engineering my deck or anything? I've been brainstorming for a year and can't figure this out. Thanks for your time. David [attach]104532[/attach] [attach]104533[/attach] [attach]104534[/attach] [attach]104535[/attach][attach]104536[/attach]

My deck railing is 30 years old, clear cedar and stained at least 5 times. Over the years cracks (bottom rail) have appeared in the paint. The top rail has cracks in the wood which I've sanded and put one coat of stain. I'm using a solid stain, what is a quick or easy way to remedy the problem? I know the best way but can't spend the time. Thanks in advance. [attach]105332[/attach] [attach]105333[/attach]