Category Archives: Deck builder

Why build stairs when you can have a garden deck?

July 11, 2014 admin

All joking aside, mother-in-law suites are not really supposed to be inaccessible turrets hidden at the back of a home. This mother-in-law suite is not only not hidden, but the family took the opportunity to add functionality to also add some beauty.

Things were a little tight for the entry to this area into this in-law suite. They could have gotten away with just building a wider stairway, but they saw this as an opportunity to make improvements to the whole area, not just solve a narrow problem. We loved working with them to brainstorm a great solution that adds functionality while adding beauty.

We designed a 10’x10’ octagonal deck made with Fiberon Pro-Tect Advantage decking boards and rail caps in Gray Birch, which is very popular and nicely complements the color of the home. This is a capstock composite product with great durability and a long warranty. Customers love it because it closely mimics the look of wood without the maintenance issues.

We encircled the deck with black baroque iron rails from the Fortress brand Vienna series. The balusters are pre-galvanized, 1”-wide and powder-coated. They have old world charm, are easy to install and are built to last. They are available in two designs: belly and bow; both have an appealing curve.

When we created this access point that cleverly doubles as a scenic garden overlook, we sealed up a storage area that was underneath and accessed through the garage. We used a self-adhered roofing called Grace Ice & Water Shield ® to enable a watertight bond with the roof deck.

Now the entire family can enjoy a view from the deck overlooking the garden any day of the year. A call to Archadeck, the Macon Fiberon deck builder of choice, yields not just the services of professional construction experts, but thoughtful design solutions to just about any outdoor living building problem.

: Stephen DentonOwner, Archadeck of Central GA

If you are considering creating a great new outdoor living space for your Macon/Warner Robins area back yard, or if you want to give a fresh new look to your existing backyard space, give us a call for a free consultation. Together we will work to identify the best structures and materials to create the perfect outdoor living space just for you. Call: (478) 745 – 2000

Email: centralgeorgia@archadeck.net

Visit the pool deck photo gallery on our website for more great design ideas and inspiration.

Deck builder, Decks, TimberTech composite decks

A deck that could have belonged to southern rock royalty

June 9, 2014 admin

Families grow and change over time. The good news is that your outdoor living spaces can do the same. We recently had the opportunity to do a makeover on a multi-level deck which we originally built in 1992. We remembered working on this home because it was previously owned by the Allman Brothers. The framing was still in good shape, but the floor and railings had weathered over the last 22 years and the needs of the family had changed so we came over to consult on an upgrade/makeover.

The original deck had several levels that stylishly connected the home to the swimming pool. The kids were young the first go-around and getting them to and from the pool and having a good view of the water were the top design concerns at the time. This year the clients wanted to create a more relaxed, living room-type space looking out at the pool and surrounding woods. The house has log cabin construction that fits very naturally with the lot and we aimed to keep the refurbished deck consistent with that look. To that end, we will stain the wood areas to match the home.

We built the lowest level up to match the height of the largest existing section. This allows for plenty of space for eating and entertaining. There are now two eating areas with great flow between them for mingling or just moving about. Multiple deck levels are ideal for allowing either for multiple use or for breaking groups into different clusters: think teens at one table and adults at another.

The decks are surrounded by new, solid skirting with doors underneath, garnering the family ample, secure outdoor storage. Composite materials have come a long way in recent years. For this update the family selected TimberTech decking to build the floors and rail caps. The railings are stained wood with black pickets and provide the necessary safety without compromising the view to the water and trees.

Rumor has it the Cher once stayed at this home. We think she would love the new deck! When you are considering deck builders in Juliet, GA, we hope you will give Archadeck a call for a free consultation. We’d love to talk with you about new construction or a refresh project like this one.

Call: (478) 745 – 2000
Email: centralgeorgia@archadeck.net
Visit the composite and PVC deck picture and photo gallery on our website for more great design ideas and inspiration

Archadeck of Central GA, Deck builder, Porch builder/contractor, Professional outdoor structure builder

Avoid the hurry up and wait mentality when it comes to bringing your outdoor living space dreams to life this Spring with Archadeck of Central GA

December 31, 2013 admin

: Are you dreaming of a covered porch or spa deck for the spring?

Lots of things in life come with a “hurry up and wait mentality”, but designing and building your outdoor structure should not be one of them. Here at Archadeck of Central Georgia, we cannot stress the importance of not waiting until the arrival of spring to think about planning and building your anticipated outdoor space. This is especially important if you want to enjoy your space in time for the outdoor living season ahead. Homeowners often ask us when is the optimum time to plan on having us build their outdoor structure? the answer is, there is never really a wrong time to begin your outdoor living space project, but there are advantages to building during the winter months.

: Pool side deck and pergola in Macon, GA.

Unlike being at the fever pitch of the outdoor living season, when the climate and timing is more conducive to utilize your space, winter construction has a shorter wait time. Gaining approval through HOA’s and permitting will take less time. The backlog for materials and labor is also smaller which makes the wait-time minimal in most cases. Making the decision to build now will ensure being able to enjoy the benefits of your new structure sooner and in plenty of time for warm weather. Keep in mind, when dealing with a quality builder wait times can be longer, especially during the busy Spring season. Deciding to begin your project now can reduce those wait times by half or more.

In some cases building your structure in the colder months can save you money too. You may see a decrease in the price of materials during the winter, a good example of this is lumber which is generally less during the winter because of supply and demand. In addition, if you intend to finance your new outdoor structure, the interest rates are extremely low right now. Our current standing in the economy can mean a lower payment each month on your new structure. Lower interest rates can save you a tremendous amount of money in the long run.

Choosing to build now will also impact your lawn, landscape and lifestyle less than if you chose to build during the spring and summer months. Wet turf damages more easily, as does turf that is under heat stress from temperatures and higher humidity. Building in the colder season will ensure you avoid both of these obstacles. It is also important to note that along with perennial grasses, most shrubs and plants are in their dormant stages during the fall and winter. During dormancy, these plantings are less likely to experience damage from having to be trimmed, pruned or altered to accommodate the addition of a backyard space. Construction during the winter, when plants are in dormancy, will cause less of an interruption in your life since most people use their yards less during these months. This means the noises and materials will be less of an annoyance than they would be when you are using the yard a lot during the spring and summer months. Out of sight means out of mind.

: We prepare a detailed design rendering as part of our design process.

When considering getting your outdoor structure project underway, timing can make a huge difference in the outcome. Our timeline on starting new construction has a quicker turn-around time during the winter than many would think.

From the time Archadeck of Central GA initially schedules your consultation you can expect to wait only one week to meet with us in person to discuss your ideas, and another week to put together your proposal. Once we have agreed upon your design, the backlog to break ground is about two weeks right now. The backlog will begin to grow the closer we get to spring. If you want your outdoor structure completed in April for example, it is imperative to start planning your project in January or February to ensure that goal is reached. These estimates are based on the type of outdoor structure you have in mind as well, as decks take approximately two weeks to complete, and porches can take up to four weeks.

: Have your outdoor space up and running in time to enjoy the first signs of spring!

Keep in mind that we can also build your outdoor structure combination in stages. With this in mind, winter is the perfect time to start the first stage of your desired outdoor living project. If you are considering a deck and patio combination for example, you can take advantage of our staged building option and begin your deck this winter, then we can add the patio during the spring or summer. With our staged building program the choice is yours. Contact Archadeck of Central GA today to learn more.(478) 745 – 2000
centralgeorgia@archadeck.net

: Stephen Denton, owner of Archadeck of Central GA

Take a look at more inspiring outdoor living spaces sure to give you spring fever by visiting our decks, porches and outdoor room photo galleries located on our website!

Deck builder, Low maintenace decks, Porch builder/contractor, Screened porches

Our recent screened porch and deck combination in Westchester is farmhouse fabulous, and functional!

December 30, 2013 admin

: This screened porch and deck combination located within the Westchester subdivision of Macon is farmhouse fabulous, and functional!

These Macon homeowners heard about Archadeck of Central GA from one of their friends who was also a former client of ours. They had seen our work and were impressed so they contacted us to consult about a screened porch addition they had in mind. Following the completion of some interior remodeling, they contacted us to clarify the design and begin the addition.

: These Westchester homeowners are ready to enjoy their new screened porch for the holidays!

The homeowners had been anticipating the porch addition for a long time. As part of their long-term planning, they had compiled many pictures and lots of ideas about how they wanted the design to look. Archadeck of Central GA used these valuable tools to not only give them the porch of their dreams, but we were able to show the homeowners ways to accomplish their goals less expensively. The homeowners also had an interior designer which we worked with closely on this project.

When we began the porch addition, there was an existing deck we really wanted to utilize for the new porch. We were able to utilize the existing deck space and make it even better — by adding to the deck and making it one foot larger out from the house. In addition to expanding their existing deck, we also added a deck off the side of the screened porch that is the ideal amount of space for the homeowner’s grill. The floor and stairs of the deck were built using low-maintenance TimberTech Earthwood Evolutions Tropical in Pacific Rosewood.

: Here is a view of the screened porch & deck combination in it’s entirety.

There are quite a few unique elements involved in this particular project. One is the farmhouse inspired, cross bunk design chosen for the railing. These are evident as the large cross X’s. In order to achieve the look intended, we had to make sure the panels were evenly spaced to ensure the X’s are all evenly sized. The Macon homeowners also had special wooden doors made to mimic the cross bunk design used in the panels.

The home owners originally wanted a flat ceiling on the porch. However, we showed how a closed rafter ceiling would be less expensive and provide more height with a sloped ceiling. Making the choice of the sloped closed rafter ceiling also ensured no encroachment into second story windows and made it possible to mimic the high ceilings found inside the house. They also wanted plank ceilings used on the interior of the screened porch to give the space a more rustic, old-time look. Again we were able to help the homeowners choose a more cost effective alternative by using beadboard which comes in a large sheets rather than individual pieces.”

: Notice the unique, farmhouse inspired, cross bunk design used on the screened porch railing and door.

We used various columns on the screened porch to give the space more character. The pressure treated square columns were hollowed out on the inside so we could run electrical wiring inconspicuously. We used large 8 x 8 columns on the exterior and 6 x 6 columns on the interior. Although we placed composite flooring on the deck, we used standard pressure-treated wood flooring for the screened porch. Since the porch floor dwells within a protected space that doesn’t encounter sun or rain, we agreed composite was not necessary inside the porch. The homeowner plans to stain the wood in the spring to match the Rosewood color of the composite. We cannot wait to see the completed space.

These Westchester homeowners couldn’t be happier with their new screened porch and deck space. It serves as a perfect place for enjoying nature. They’ve even assembled their holiday tree within the space to enjoy during the holidays!

Archadeck of Central GA has been specializing in quality, upscale outdoor additions since 1991, including many, many open porch and screened porch projects in the Macon and Warner Robins areas. When we meet with you to discuss a porch addition for you and your family we actually listen to your wants and needs in order to provide a porch that will not only meet, but exceed your expectations. Contact Archadeck of Central GA today to learn more about building your perfect porch (478) 745 – 2000
centralgeorgia@archadeck.net

: Stephen Denton, owner of Archadeck of Central GA.

You can see more examples of past porch projects by Archadeck of Central GA by visiting our screened porch photo gallery and our three and four-season room photo gallery located on our website.

Deck builder, Decks, Pergola builder/contractor

This East Macon deck and pergola addition is nothing short of an outdoor oasis from every angle!

November 12, 2013 admin

: Our recent deck and pergola addition in east Macon is built with a keen eye towards preserving the holistic nature of this home’s architecture.

This deck and pergola project takes us to the Nottingham community located on the East side of Macon. This area of Central GA lends itself to the very roots of Macon, and carries an air of nostalgia amid the mature landscapes and prominence of the homes located there. This particular home was built in the Frank Lloyd Wright style architecture which is based on designing structures in harmony with humanity and their environment. This is a philosophy Wright called organic architecture. This home is a prime example of combining the home with the outdoors as the surrounding property and the residence unite elegantly as one.

: This bi-level deck design allows the decks to flow harmoniously into one another and also provides space for separate living and dining areas.

Our goal was to emphasize this union with a new deck and pergola addition for this home. The homeowner’s existing deck was showing signs of age and exposure to the weather. We began the project by tearing down the old deck so as to have a blank canvas to build a new outdoor living masterpiece. We built the new deck from pressure treated pine and later the homeowners applied a solid sealer. The homeowner also wanted the new deck design to emphasize varied angles and shapes as they did not want a typical square-shaped deck. The design we decided upon includes two decks built at two different levels. This bi-level design allows the decks to flow harmoniously into one another and also provides ample space for separate living and dining areas. The living area of the deck provides convenient access to the interior of the home to make entertaining on the new deck a breeze.

: The day we photographed the space, the pergola had just been painted with red to make the pergola stand out among the lush landscape.

Within the living area of the deck, we also built a stunning wooden pergola. The pergola design is influenced by the same cues set forth by the home’s architecture and the free-flowing nature of the deck. The day we photographed the space, the pergola had just been painted with red to make the pergola stand out among the lush landscape and in keeping with the red hue used on the French doors that provide access between the deck and house.

: Notice how the bi-level design allows ample space for both dining and relaxing.

These Nottingham homeowners are elated with their new outdoor living space and are looking forward to many years of organically inspired outdoor living enjoyment on their new deck. In fact, they were so happy with the outcome of the design that upon completion they referred their daughter to us for an outdoor living project she had in mind. We recently finished her project and will feature it here soon.

Archadeck of Central GA wants to remind you to think outside the box when it comes to inspiration for your new outdoor living space. Building on your style and individual taste is often the key to the success and enjoyment of your new area. There are no strict rules of design when it comes to an outdoor living space addition. If you have a specific style or placement location in mind for your anticipated deck or pergola, don’t be afraid to go with it. We are happy to give ideas and suggestions from what we’ve seen that works with our other clients.

: Stephen Denton, owner of Archadeck of Central GA

To learn more about our unique custom outdoor living space designs, contact Archadeck of Central GA today, the consultation is free, but the rewards are priceless – (478) 745 – 2000
centralgeorgia@archadeck.net

Please visit our wood decks photo gallery and our pergola and trellis photo gallery located on our website for more unique examples of deck and pergola combination designs.

Deck builder, Decks

The charm of this front of house deck picks up right where the dirt road ends!

August 19, 2013 admin

: Take a peek at this Macon, GA entrance deck which we are currently working on.

Today we revisit these former clients in Macon, GA. Archadeck of Central GA completed a backyard deck addition for these homeowners when they lived at a previous home. Since moving, the homeowners are ready to build a front-of-house entrance deck addition. Since the homeowners enjoy entertaining a lot, they had found themselves using the front yard often. Since their traditional ranch style home is located on a charming country gravel road, and exudes a country charm, the front yard seems a natural spot to linger while friends, family and neighbors would drop by to visit. With this in mind, Archadeck of Central GA set out to build a front-of-house deck that mimics the same “slow down and stay awhile” approach to outdoor living so prevalent in this area of Macon.

: This is the front of the house before we started the deck addition.

Adding to the charm of the new deck, the home already has a little covered area that is just wide enough to serve as a hallway to the front door of the home. They also have a door that comes out at the opposite end of the home. With the home’s unique features and existing traffic flow in mind, we designed the deck to run from the covered walkway area to the other side of the home where the door is located. The classic ranch style dimensions of this home make the perfect candidate for a front of house deck, as the design of a ranch home lends itself to longer dimensions than other house styles.

Since the house is built with a slab foundation, the existing walkway is still present under the deck. The new deck addition is built with pressure treated pine and features steps on the front that are built all the way across so they can be used as bench seating. We installed the decking on an angle to add visual interest. The deck also steps down to gain access to the door located at the opposite end of the entrance.

: Notice how the new deck addition changes the whole look of this residence into a welcoming outdoor oasis.

This deck is still an in-progress project, but the homeowners were so excited with the deck they have already began moving their outdoor furnishings onto the completed portion of the new space. They are ecstatic about being able to use the new deck in the coming weeks as they have company coming into town to visit.

Archadeck of Central GA wants to remind you to think outside the box when it comes to inspiration for your new outdoor living space. Promoting your individual taste and ideals is often the key to the success and enjoyment of your new space. There are no stringent rules of design when it comes to an outdoor living space addition. If you have a specific style or placement location in mind for your anticipated deck or porch, don’t be afraid to go with it. Remember that your individual living space needs and taste is what makes your new space original.

: Stephen Denton, owner of Archadeck of Central GA

To learn more about our unique custom outdoor living space designs, contact Archadeck of Central GA today, the consultation is free, but the results are priceless – (478) 745 – 2000
centralgeorgia@archadeck.net

Deck builder, Professional outdoor structure builder

Archadeck of Central GA explores the reason you might not want to embark on doing your own deck expansion

July 23, 2013 admin

: Archadeck of Central GA has restructured the deck so the screened porch they anticipate can be easily added in the future.

I recently had the opportunity to meet with some Macon homeowners who lived in the lovely St. Croix subdivision right here in Macon. When the homeowners initially called me to inquire about adding an outdoor living space to their backyard, they were looking to add a pergola and then a screened porch addition a little later. The pergola was to be built on their existing deck. They wanted the pergola added after making some alterations to their existing deck which included having the deck flooring re-done, some steps moved and a new updated railing.

When I arrived to inspect the homeowner’s existing deck, the deck was actually two decks. The 1st deck was built on cement columns and was built really well structurally. The 2nd deck was another story; the previous homeowner had completed a deck expansion himself. He had added three feet onto the side of the 2nd deck which was out of level and leaning. The structural issues had to first be fixed for the safety and integrity of the entire space before the pergola addition and other reparations completed.

: These Macon homeowners now have a safe deck to enjoy complete with a new floor and rails.

In order to proceed with their anticipated project, we had to first do a lot of repairs. Unfortunately, repairing the existing deck ate up the budget for the next phase. This instance is a good example of why choosing to embark on a backyard project of this magnitude as a do-it-yourself backyard project is not a wise idea.

Deck safety is not to be taken lightly. In a six year period in the US there were over 179 deck failures and 1,122 people were injured as a result of deck failures, of which 33 people were killed. To ensure your deck is safe we recommend using an experienced outdoor structure builder to inspect, design and install your deck. This will allow for carefree function of your outdoor living space, and confidence in knowing your family and friends are safe enjoying the space!

Some of the amendments that were necessary to ensure the deck was safe and sound for the homeowners to use included adding a beam, adding new posts underneath the deck, doubling up on joists and installing a new deck band. We also had to rebuild the stairs because they were ready to fall off the structure. There was a large seam where the two decks met that had to be repaired. The homeowners had hoped that this installation would be the first phase of a two-part outdoor living project, which unfortunately turned into a three-part project to get everything up to speed. Archadeck of Central GA was not able to complete the pergola addition because the budget was exhausted to fix the deck so it would be ready to accommodate both the pergola and screened porch.

: This design rendering shows what the space will look like once the porch and pergola are completed.

These Macon homeowners now have a safe deck to enjoy complete with a new floor and rails. We re-decked the area with pressure treated pine with a matching rail. Archadeck of Central GA has restructured the deck so the screened porch they anticipate can be easily added in the future. We even installed screen under the floor of the future porch area to ensure no bugs will enter the future screened porch.

The lesson learned here is that in order to reinforce an outdoor living space you really cannot afford to cut corners because it will end up costing more in the long run – in time and money. When considering a deck or other outdoor living space expansion it is crucial to have it completed by a licensed outdoor structure builder to ensure the safety and welfare of you, your family and all who plan to utilize your outdoor space.

: Stephen Denton, owner of Archadeck of Central GA

If you are thinking of taking on the task of amending or expanding your existing outdoor space on your own, we urge you to leave it to the pros at Archadeck of Central GA. Remember that a deck is only as strong as its weakest point and we build all of our structures with strength, safety and longevity in mind. Call us today for a free consultation (478) 745 – 2000
centralgeorgia@archadeck.net

See more examples of out craftsmanship and quality by visiting our wooden deck photo gallery and our porches photo gallery located on our website.

Deck builder, Pergola builder/contractor

Archadeck of Central GA answers the question of how low can you go with this low to grade deck and pergola combination project

April 22, 2013 admin

Our feature story this week is a newly completed deck and pergola project in Central Georgia that is anything but ordinary. This particular deck is what we refer to as ultra low grade. This means the deck itself sits less than one foot off the ground. The completed project includes a pressure-treated deck with standard pressure treated railings. The railing also includes a custom gate to ensure the homeowner’s small kids stay on the deck and their dog stays off. We also built a stunning pergola over the top of the deck for shade and beauty. The pergola is built in a traditional style with pressure treated wood as well. The pergola provides shape and dimension to the deck and makes the perfect place for the homeowners to hang a ceiling fan.

In scenarios such as this, we usually prefer to build a paver patio in lieu of a deck because of the close proximity of the structure to the ground. Sometimes building a deck this low to grade can present issues because the lack of required space below the decking boards required for ventilation. Many times this absence of space will cause the decking planks to cup. Often, moisture that occurs naturally in every landscape will cause the deck to stay wet on the bottom. This moisture is usually not an issue because there is generally enough space under the deck to allow adequate ventilation and air flow ensuring the decking boards dry out appropriately. In the case of ultra low-to-grade decks, the bottom is more likely to remain wet and swollen for long periods while the top of the same board will dry and shrink. This opposite action on the same board will cause it to cup.

In most situations we prefer a distance of 16″ below the deck. There are some PVC decking boards on the market that don’t require this However, in our experience the best way to prevent cupping is to use a pressure treated wax injected wooden decking boards. This wax is the same as pre-treating your deck so the deck will not require sealing for a few years. However, the sun will degrade the wax over time and the deck will have to be sealed annually after that.” In this project, as with many of our low-to grade-deck designs, the bottom of the deck will be protected because this area will never have contact with the sun and the wax will never be burnt off. The only other instance when Archadeck of Central GA recommends using this product is when the customer is interested in selling their home in the new few years. This product ensures the homeowner’s will not have to perform any additional maintenance prior to moving.

The homeowners are very happy with their finished deck and pergola. The low-to-grade design adds a unique character to the rear of the home. These clients are looking forward to the outdoor living season and the opportunity to spend cherished family time on their new deck in the years to follow.

: Stephen Denton, owner of Archadeck of Central GA

If you have a unique deck design in mind and are uncertain of how your idea will look or function in your landscape, contact Archadeck of Central Georgia. Our expert design experience and realistic renderings can help you determine if the outdoor space you have in mind is the best fit for your existing home and landscape. Call us today for a free design consultation at (478) 745 – 2000 or email us at centralgeorgia@archadeck.net

Please visit our wood decks photo gallery and our composite and PVC decks photo gallery for more examples of our deck designs.

Composite, Deck builder, Synthetic decks

Archadeck of Central Georgia urges buyers beware and don’t fall prey to decks gone bad

November 14, 2012 admin

bad composite decking — This photo is a good example of GeoDeck composite decking that has gone bad.

The term “decks gone bad” sounds like one of those crazy videos that you see advertised late at night when everyone but you is already asleep. Sadly, being in the business of outdoor living we can attest to the truth behind the term. Shoddy workmanship and inferior products can cause any well-meant deck to go bad. This is even true when it comes to composite decking. Many homeowners think that just because they are getting a composite deck that nothing can go awry. Unfortunately all composites are not created equal.

Manufacturing defects composite decking — In this photo the manufacturer defects and inconsistencies are evident in this piece of composite decking.

Composite decking materials have been evolving since their introduction onto the scene. Since their inception, every few years another composite product will come out that looks better, requires less maintenance, and holds up longer than the last. However, all composites aren’t the same. Composites as a whole are a manufactured product and there have been issues where the product was not made properly. In some cases the formulation for the composite was composed incorrectly. We have seen this happen with the recycled products in particular. In each instance where we have dealt with a composite deck that has gone bad, it was attributed to incorrect manufacturing and production issues. Although it is easy to identify bad product as soon as it begins to be used in the field, it is difficult to track down the people that have purchased and used the product in order to communicate the problems with the product to the customer.

crumbling composite decking — The GeoDeck composite used on this deck is crumbling.

When material is ordered it is not improbable to receive material coming from different lots. When this happens sometimes just a few boards out of a particular order can be deemed bad. When this happens it can become a nightmare. The good thing about working with Archadeck of Central Georgia is if the unfortunate happens, we not only warranty our product, we are going to replace it. Although the manufacturer will not reimburse the contractor for the labor involved in replacement, we will always make things right. A good contractor will always stand behind their products and their work and will make whatever goes wrong on your project right as rain at all costs.

defective synthetic decking — This photo illustrates defective Epoch synthetic decking by Tamco.

The vast majority of inferior composite materials come from smaller, lesser known and new composite companies. A good rule of thumb is to talk with your contractor about which companies he/she has found to be the most reputable from their experience. We have worked with many composite companies and will only do business with those that have a long track record of positive results. Archadeck also has a good relationship with all the reputable composite companies which is very important in delivering peace of mind to our customers through the products we offer.

Stephen Denton, owner of Archadeck of Central GA

If you are planning a new composite deck addition, or maybe you are thinking of refurbishing an existing deck, contact Archadeck of Central Georgia. We can ensure a quality composite and the quality ethics and workmanship that go beyond your everyday contractor. We go the extra mile, for your safety, satisfaction and to protect your outdoor living investment. Call us today for a free consultation (478) 745 – 2000
centralgeorgia@archadeck.net

Visit our composite and PVC deck gallery located on our website to see examples of quality composite paired with quality design and workmanship.

AZEK, Composite, Deck builder, Fiberon, Low maintenace decks, PVC and capstock decking, Synthetic decks

AZEK vs. Fiberon, who will come out the winner?

October 1, 2012 admin

fiberon-deck-river north-macon GA Warner Robins — This Fiberon deck in River North mimics the color of Ipe without the maintenance and it is easier to clean than other composites.

This Fiberon deck in River North mimics the color of Ipe without the maintenance and it is easier to clean than other composites. As an outdoor structure builder I use many synthetic decking brands. My customers always ask me which brand is best. Each brand has its pro’s and con’s. Below is some information about 2 of the top brands we use.

AZEK vs. Fiberon

I drew a comparison on these brands because they’re both strong high-performance, low-maintenance brands that are attractive to boot. Here are some of the differences. Fiberon is a composite with a PVC wrap which means the thermal density is higher so it may retain more heat than AZEK does. In the hottest part of the day, both brands will retain heat, but AZEK cools off faster. AZEK is a full PVC product that does not contain any wood fibers. Wood fibers can cause a product to retain moisture and swell causing expansion and contraction. A good example of a structure that would be best suited to build from AZEK is a dock. Since Fiberon is a capped product it has exposed ends where the water from a dock or other structure can penetrate the ends and cause the decking boards to expand. This is only a concern if the material is going to be submerged or will be heavily exposed to water for long periods of time.

macon-azek-morado-acacia Archadeck Central GA — This deck was built using the beautiful Morado and Acacia colors in the Arbor collection by AZEK, just two of the many stunning colors they offer.

Each manufacturer has a wide variety of colors and patterns. Our local distributor carries the most popular color options. Fiberon popular colors include Ipe, Rosewood and Gray Birch. Among the most popular AZEK colors are Morado, Acacia, Cobre, and Tahoe (which is a gray). AZEK also comes in a white that is often used on rail caps.

Beauty is in the eye of the beholder

All of today’s composites simulate the undulation, streaking and graining of natural wood to some degree. The methodology behind achieving this true-to-life look of wood is different with each brand. The wood grain pattern apparent on AZEK is indented. The Fiberon pattern uses a raised pattern to achieve undulation and graining. Fiberon contains more streaking, which mimics the look of tropical hardwoods such as Ipe.

Though both AZEK and Fiberon are low-maintenance and stain resistant, Fiberon is often easier to keep clean. Cleaning AZEK requires more work to get down into the grooves where the dirt can gather. Fiberon also offers an economy-grade composite that is PVC on only one side and offers some of the same benefits of traditional Fiberon. This makes a great alternative to homeowners that are on a set budget but still want a quality low-maintenance decking product.

AZEK Morado deck — This deck was built using the Morado color in the Arbor collection by AZEK.

In closing, keep in mind there is no perfect decking that will be all things to all homeowners. Individual opinions and needs will determine which decking choice is right for you. Since most of the low-maintenance brands have very similar features and benefits, aesthetics are often the determining factor.

Contact Archadeck of Central Georgia to learn more about Fiberon and AZEK and which choice is right for your new outdoor living structure. We offer many other decking choices such as hardwood and traditional pressure treated wood as well. Call us for a free consultation today (478) 745 – 2000 or email us at
centralgeorgia@archadeck.net.

See more examples of low-maintenance decks by visiting our composite, vinyl and PVC deck gallery located on our website.

Macon Warner Robins Decks, Patios, Porches, Pergolas, Gazebos and more