Framing Lumber
We use kiln-dried Western Red Cedar for most aesthetic-grade builds. Cedar resists rot and insects naturally, weathers gracefully, and looks beautiful unstained. For budget-conscious projects we use pressure-treated Douglas fir, which costs less but requires a sealing finish.
Mesh
This is where most DIY catios fail. We use 16-gauge welded galvanized wire mesh with 1/2" by 1" openings. Avoid:
- Chicken wire — raccoons tear right through it
- Plastic deer netting — UV degrades it within a year
- Hardware cloth — fine for small spans but can sag on large openings
Fasteners
Use stainless steel or hot-dipped galvanized screws and staples. Regular bright-finish screws will rust through within a season of Bay Area weather.
Roofing
Options range from open-mesh roofs (full sun and weather) to corrugated polycarbonate (light + rain protection) to full cedar shingles (premium finish). We help match the roof to your sun, rain, and aesthetic priorities.
Finishes
For cedar, we recommend a clear UV-protective sealer reapplied every 3 to 5 years. For painted finishes, use a 100% acrylic exterior paint over a stain-blocking primer.
For a deeper look at how we apply these materials, see our build process.