DocD, I do the same thing as you. I pick up all my ladder stands around this time of year for pretty cheap. I can find some 16" with shooting rail/safety rail with large foot platforms for $60. For my ones out in the open I do the same thing with the burlap. I attach it to one side and along the rail and have a black bungee cord attach it to the other side so once I am in the stand or leave I bungee it tight and gives me plenty of cover. They take me about 40 minutes to build and once they are up I trust them for year. I'll admit, I'm not a great carpenter so these ladder stands really are great for me. With some camo Burlap and a few branches zip tied to the ladder, you cant beat it.

Black Locust is pretty strong, and won't rot. Make sure its fully dried before you work with it. Should last for years. Often compared to pressure treated lumber for durability.