Category Archives: Low maintenace decks

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

Westchester Subd. Macon GA porch builders
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.

Home for the holidays with Archadeck of Central GA screened porches
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.

Macon GA Westchester screened porch and deck builders
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.”

Rustic screen porch in Macon GA view from interior
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
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.

How this small outdoor living structure in project in Perry GA evolved into a backyard paradise

View from Perry GA composite deck looking into poolhouse pavilion
View from deck and pergola looking across to the pool house in Perry, GA.

Our focus project this week breathes fresh air into this Perry, GA backyard. When we initially met with the homeowners they had a deck leading to their pool and the deck was in really bad shape. The pressure-treated wood deck had not been maintained and was showing signs of age and exposure to the elements through excessive splintering and warping.

The homeowners conveyed  to us their wish for a composite deck during our initial consultation. Since their tired wood deck was splintering, they did not want to have to deal with splinters ever again.  Our original game plan was to replace the deck in low-maintenance composite decking, but as we started talking with the homeowner the backyard design began to evolve. In addition to the deck, Archadeck of Central GA also added a lovely pergola above the entire area where the existing deck was. We also opened up the area using the existing footprint of the old deck and created a welcoming space where people could sit on the steps, with more seating area where onlookers could face the pool from the deck. The design grew even further into adding another, additional side deck that is not covered under the pergola.

Perry GA low maintenance deck builder
Low maintenance double decks in Perry, GA. Notice the elegant Chippendale style railing.
Chippendale pattern on Perry GA deck rail reflects the homeowners Chippendale-backed swing
Chippendale pattern on Perry, GA deck rail matches the homeowners Chippendale-backed swing!

Both decks were built with gray composite decking that makes maintenance a breeze for the homeowners. We used an elegant Chippendale style railing motif which mimics the motif found on the back of the homeowner’s swing, which we hung for them while we were there as well. By adding benches below the Chippendale portions of the rail, the homeowner innovatively created the look of bench seats facing the pool surround too

Before even nearing half completion of the decks, the homeowner approached us with a vision of adding a pool house directly across from the deck. Archadeck of Central Georgia immediately began designing a pool house to place at the end of the homeowner’s pool, directly across from the new decks. The design encompasses the style of a poolside pavilion with its large roof and functional utility closet and restroom. The pool house is highly functional and adds loads of charm to the entire backyard with the half-enclosed, half-open stucco and brick design.The pool house also includes a small outdoor kitchen area. To balance the new outdoor living space we built columns surrounding  the pool house and around the pool. In addition, we put the homeowner’s in touch with a fence company that could add fencing to the columns surrounding the space for added safety.

Perry GA double deck and pergola combination
Side view of this double deck and pergola combination in Perry, Ga.

This project began as a small outdoor living endeavor and became a backyard paradise due to the union of an experienced, likeable and trustworthy builder with homeowners who had great vision for the way they wanted to live outdoors. Archadeck of Central GA is impressed with the way the project evolved into the outdoor oasis the homeowners now enjoy.

Archadeck of Central Georgia urges you to dream big when it comes to turning your backyard into the space you have always wanted. You can learn more about all of our breathtaking outdoor spaces by contacting Archadeck of Central GA today at (478) 745 – 2000 or email us at centralgeorgia@archadeck.net

Stephen Denton, owner of Archadeck of Central GA
Stephen Denton, owner of Archadeck of Central GA

You can see more examples of outdoor living combinations that deliver maximum function and beauty by visiting our deck photo galleries,  porch photo galleries and our pergola and trellis photo gallery located on our website.

Little things mean a whole lot on this AZEK deck and pergola in Macon GA

pool side deck and pergola-macon GATake a look at this deck and pergola in Macon GA. The stairs that flank either side of the deck previously went across the entire deck. That didn’t provide enough room for the family to fit their furniture and move comfortably around it. By splitting the stairs and extending the deck over that area provided the right amount of space for the eating area. Two feet doesn’t seem like a lot but it makes a huge difference when expanding an outdoor area to better fit the furniture and traffic on the space.

The next thing the family wanted was some shade on the area. Pergolas are unique in that their designs can vary to allow a small amount of sun protection to providing a good deal of sun protection. The orientation of the pergola to the sun is one way to provide sun protection. In addition, the orientation of the joists and the distance of the lathes helps determine the amount of sun protection.

Pergola with sun shade screen-macon GAThis family decided to use a product called SunScreen by Phifer. This screen provides visibility while providing UV protection at the same time. The area covered with SunScreen can truly feel 5-10 degrees cooler. In addition, we installed a fan under the pergola to keep the air moving.

The surface of the project was re-decked using AZEK low-maintenance decking. AZEK is a solid PVC that provides ultra low maintenance. Since the existing deck was structurally sound, we were able to re-surface or re-deck the existing deck.

With this Macon-area deck, 2 extra feet of deck space and a thin cover over the pergola made a huge difference.

Stephen Denton, owner of Archadeck of Central GAIf you are considering adding a new deck, porch, pergola, patio or other outdoor living structure to your Macon-area home, give us a call for a free consultation at (478) 745 – 2000 or send us an email at centralgeorgia@archadeck.net. Please take a look at our website for more pictures and to fill out a contact form. To see more Macon area pergolas, take a look at the photo gallery on our website.

AZEK vs. Fiberon vs. TimberTech for your Macon Warner Robins deck or porch?

Composite deck in Warner Robins
Avoiding splinters and low maintenance were the two major requirements in picking composite for this deck in Warner Robins.

Which line is the best? AZEK? Fiberon? TimberTech? You probably guessed that the answer starts with… it depends. When synthetic woods first came out, they only had composite materials which combined wood fibers with plastic – hence the word composite. Some of the composite woods had problems based on the formulation and the materials that were used. Since then, the composites on the market today have the benefit of many years out on the market, product improvement, and enhanced designs.

Not only do low-maintenance composite products last longer but they are easier to clean. And, they provide a great warranty. TimberTech composite products are guaranteed against termites, checking, splitting, decay, rot and splintering for 25 years. Most synthetics are installed with a hidden fastener system to provide an outdoor space with a flawless finish.

TimberTech Earthwood Evolutions line of Capstock decking
TimberTech Earthwood Evolutions line of Capstock decking.

Fiberon’s Horizon line’s warranty indicates it will not check, splinter, de-laminate, rot or suffer structural damage from fungal decay when installed and maintained correctly. Fiberon also comes in a wide range of colors and various realistic wood finishes complete with graining and undulation which rivals the look of real wood!

Since then, the synthetic wood products have evolved to include a higher end solid PVC and then a composite with a PVC coating. Solid PVC products are a bit more expensive than traditional composite. Many synthetic manufacturers offer solid PVC products, but the first to do solid PVC was AZEK.  Solid PVC’s are stain, scratch and split resistant and are impervious to mold, mildew and damage associated with insects.

The greatest benefit is having the PVC on the outside. So, a capped product which consists of a composite core which is wrapped in a PVC coating, can really give you the best of composite and PVC all in one. TimberTech has an excellent capped product called TimberTech Earthwood Evolutions which comes in three distinct product colors; Tropical, Natural and Terrain.

macon-azek-morado-acacia Archadeck Central GA
This stunning pool deck in Macon GA, was built using a combination of AZEK Morado and AZEK Acacia.

When it comes to choosing the best material for your anticipated deck or porch addition, what is best for you is dependent on your needs, your personal taste and your budget. Traditional composites work great in a myriad of applications and provide low maintenance qualities with less investment. Higher end, solid PVC materials deliver optimum results in a low maintenance material and perform especially well around backyard locales exposed to constant moisture, such as pool decks, and even docks.

Keep in mind that all synthetic materials are in it for the “long haul” as they are going to last 25 – 30 years or more – warrantied. So making an informed decision is crucial, and that is where Archadeck of Central GA can help. We can meet with you to discuss the benefits of choosing TimberTech, Fiberon or AZEK for your intended outdoor living space needs. I will provide samples for you to see and feel to help narrow down your choices to make the daunting task of choosing a synthetic an enjoyable experience. I can help you with deciding what type of outdoor living structure is the best fit for you and your family. I can give you guidance for making your choice on the materials, and Archadeck of Central GA stands behind what we do with our own warranty.

Stephen Denton, owner of Archadeck of Central GA
Stephen Denton, owner of Archadeck of Central GA

Contact Archadeck of Central Georgia today to learn more about the many low maintenance outdoor living space material options available for your upcoming project. Call today for a free consultation (478) 745 – 2000
centralgeorgia@archadeck.net

To see more examples of the versatility and beauty of owning your own Central GA low maintenance deck or porch, visit our composite and PVC deck photo gallery and our porches photo gallery located on our website.

A little forward thinking on behalf of this Rivoli Rd., homeowner proves smooth sailing towards a new sunroom and deck addition by Archadeck of Central GA

Macon GA sunroom and deck
A design rendering to the left details the project while in the planning stages, as the image to the right shows the completed project.
Before project
This image depicts the existing deck and lanai before we broke ground on the new sunroom and deck addition.

Archadeck of Central Georgia just finished this beautiful deck and sunroom in the Rivoli Road area of Macon. These homeowners had been thinking of adding a sunroom to their deck for a number of years. They even planned to the extent that when upgrading their home’s existing HVAC, they built in the capacity for the new room they would be adding This decision made the sunroom addition run smoother because of the planning on the part of the homeowner.

The homeowners had a deck with a screened lanai over the top. The space was 10 years old and had met their outdoor living needs for awhile. But, they envisioned a space they could utilize year round. With their lanai, they were subjected to the weather at all times including the humidity and the pollen that go along with Macon summers! We demolished the existing deck and lanai to start from scratch.

The new space includes a sunroom with a brick wall around the bottom to match the original home’s skirting. The sunroom includes huge glass windows that use a four track system allowing the homeowners to take advantage of the view and the breeze. The 10 foot windows can be easily opened to expose 3/4 of the screen. The entire space is insulated including the two large insulated glass triangles which were placed in the gable end of the sunroom to maximize the sunlight that comes into the space.

Rivoli Rd in Macon GA sunroom interior
The sunroom’s interior features large easily functional windows and charming beadboard.

In the sunroom’s interior we finished the space using charming bead board on the interior walls and on the closed rafter ceiling. We also designed the door to swing out so as to not take up space within the sunroom. The homeowners are going to paint the interior walls the same color as their vinyl siding and they are also going to install a tile floor.

In addition to the stunning sunroom, we built a low maintenance deck attached to the space. We used Fiberon Pro-Tect decking  in gray on the new deck  which provides the perfect spot for the homeowners to grill. The existing home did not have gutters, nor did it need them in the past. In order to keep water from splashing on the new deck after it rains we installed gutters above the new deck space.

These Macon, GA homeowners are elated with their new space. This project proved the ease of transition that is possible when the homeowner plans ahead to factor in the vision of future outdoor space amendments. Much like our staged building program, certain structural amenities can be designed and engineered into your outdoor space ahead of time for future additions.

Sunroom and deck combination in Macon GA by Archadeck of Central GA
An outdoor living dream come true for these Macon, Ga., homeowners.
Stephen Denton, owner of Archadeck of Central GA
Stephen Denton, owner of Archadeck of Central GA

If you are looking for the perfect outdoor living space, or outdoor room to deliver years of enjoyment for you and your family contact Archadeck of Central GA. We can design an outdoor living space master plan that you can build in stages to accommodate your lifestyle and your budget. Call us for a free consultation today (478) 745 – 2000
centralgeorgia@archadeck.net

You can see more examples of our beautiful low maintenance decks and our stunning sunrooms by visiting our composite and PVC deck gallery and our sunroom gallery, both are located on our website.

Give your home a facelift for 2013 with a new or upgraded front porch or portico from Archadeck of Central Georgia

Central GA front porches and porticos
This front porches is heavy on rustic influences by combining hardscape and wood mediums that give this space old world charm.

Adding a small structure to the front of your home can make your house look completely different. This could not be more evident than when adding a front porch or portico to your home. The door to your home welcomes not only you in but also welcomes in your guests. Adding to or updating your home’s entrance can make a huge impact on the aesthetic appeal of your home’s facade. In addition, a portico or front porch also serve the practical purpose of keeping you dry on rainy days and, depending on the structure, providing a great place to hang out and enjoy your front yard.

 A better design for structural integrity

Sometimes we are called in to replace an existing front porch. The front porch may be structurally deteriorating, may not be functional, or may be in need of an aesthetic overhaul.

We recently updated two front porches for our customers in the Macon Warner Robins area. These spaces were built with railing atop that gave the appearance of a second level. Many times this design has a tendency to leak. Builders typically don’t spend as much time being careful about water leakage in this type of area because the space underneath is not enclosed. With flat roofs,  if the area is not cleaned off on a regular basis, it will harbor moisture and take on weight to make the area weak and susceptible to rot and decay. On both of these two projects we came up with a design that better suited the existing home and decreased the chance of future rot and decay with a hip roof, and a gable roof respectively.

forsyth-front-porch-azek-trim-board
These before and after images show the difference adding a front porch or portico can make in the overall look and feel of your home and landscape.

We also have two other projects that consist of building new front porches from scratch. These homeowners wanted to improve for the aesthetics of the front of their homes. The first home had nothing above the front door which is typical in Williamsburg and Saltbox home facades. In many cases homes they have no barrier above the front door and thus no capacity to preventing wear and tear to your front door. Front doors can take a beating from the elements such as wind, rain and sun. This is especially true if there is a wooden frame atop the door. The panels on the door will buckle and warp over time and exposure. In both of these projects building the front porches also required replacement of the front door because the existing front doors had taken such a beating from ole’ Mother Nature.

Who doesn’t love a front porch?

portico-macon-entrance
This portico in Macon, GA provides a welcoming entry to this classic home

It is true that making a good first impression is important. Much the same can be said about how others initially visually perceive your home for the first time.  Having an aesthetically appealing front porch or portico not only provides a welcoming entrance to your home but adds curb appeal as well. Many times we install custom hardscape paths, sidewalks and even pergolas to add even more pizazz to the entrance to your home. We can upgrade side entrances and back doors too.

If you are ready to upgrade an existing front porch or portico, or even start from scratch, Archadeck of Central Georgia can ensure that all who enter will be treated to a beautiful first impression. Contact us today for a free consultation (478) 745 – 2000 centralgeorgia@archadeck.net

Stephen Denton, owner of Archadeck of Central GA
Stephen Denton, owner of Archadeck of Central GA

See more beautiful custom entrances by visiting our Macon Warner Robins front porches and portico photo gallery located on our website.

Top 11 building and design trends, as well as upgrades, for your outdoor space in 2013

hardscape builder macon GA warner robins
Screened porches as well as hardscape designs such as patios and outdoor fireplaces remain at the top of many homeowner wish lists as we look to 2013.

Each of us starts off the New Year with aspirations and hopes of improving our lives in the upcoming year. These improvements can include freeing ourselves of bad habits and making changes to improve our health and appearance. Many homeowners begin making changes that will improve our lives and our lifestyle. Adding and upgrading areas in and around your home to get more enjoyment out of your home is at the top of many homeowners’ lists. With this in mind, Archadeck of Central Georgia has compiled a summary of what we see for hot building and design trends for 2013.

Building and design trends in outdoor living for 2013

Central Georgia Belgard hardscapes
This beautiful walkway was built usng Belgard hardscapes.
  1. We are continuing to watch the screened porch market grow. This is especially true when the screened porch becomes a room that can be utilized for 9 months out of the year or even longer with the inclusion of an outdoor fireplace. This is an inexpensive way to add a big living space to your backyard and home.
  2. Hardscapes will continue to be a growth area for us in 2013. Patios are becoming more and more popular in the Central GA market. We expect growth in the higher-end patio build and design market which includes outdoor fireplaces and outdoor kitchens. This is an ideal choice for a patio home with a flat yard or those homeowners who already have a concrete patio which is too small or does not provide adequate function.
  3. Among the top choices for hardscapes is Belgard’s Chattahoochee blend. This beautiful blend contains purples and browns. We continue to get requests for this color, in particular because it contains enough brown to hide dirt effectively.
  4. Multi-area outdoor spaces will continue to grow as well. Multi- area spaces and outdoor living combinations provide multiple uses for one space. People will continue to want to build more outdoor kitchens, and fire pits. These areas can be used on patios and decks to increase the length of usable time for the space.
  5. Fire pits continue to grow in popularity within our market. Not only is the fire pit a relatively inexpensive way to add ambiance and rustic beauty to your outdoor setting, but people really love them.
  6. Interest in composite and PVC (synthetic) decks will continue to grow in popularity in the New Year. Adding a synthetic deck make sense for less maintenance and maintaining your deck’s beauty and value over time.
    Screen Porch - Macon GA
    Screened porches continue to be one of the most requested outdoor spaces for 2013.
  7. AZEK PVC trim boards have started to become popular for people who also want a more finished look to their outdoor space. We can use these to wrap the deck, edge band, column posts and risers in white. Most houses have white windows and trim so the white PVC finishes match really nicely.
  8. A great way to add pizzazz to a deck without adding really expensive custom elements is to use a two-tone color design. This can be achieved with an outline, or even parting boards. This kind of design trend adds little additional cost to the homeowner and adds loads of personality to your deck.
  9. One thing we’ve seen is a great deal of repair work that has been put off with homeowner’s existing outdoor spaces because of the recent economy. The economy is improving and if you are thinking of selling your home, the needed repairs will have to be addressed in order to place your home on the market. Personally, I have seen a number of decks that need repair so we foresee a great deal of safety inspection and repair work in 2013.
  10. Beyond minor repairs, we anticipate there will be some re-decking without changing the size and shape of existing decks as well as adding new railing to many decks to improve the salability of homes. Re-decking can be a valuable way to add beauty and longevity to your deck, this is the case whether you are staying in your home or plan to sell in the near future. Deciding to upgrade to a synthetic will add value over time, and will leave you more time to enjoy your outdoor space without the worry of constant maintenance.
  11. With existing screened porches we are seeing the popularity of converting their screens to EZE Breeze windows. This is the case with many porch owners because it extends the amount of time you can enjoy your space. It also offers versatile function that can enable your porch to function as a three-season, or even a four-season room with minimal effort.
Stephen Denton, owner of Archadeck of Central GA
Stephen Denton, owner of Archadeck of Central GA

Whether you are considering a new outdoor structure addition this year, or are looking to upgrade an existing outdoor space to deliver more enjoyment and appeal, Archadeck of Central Georgia can transform your outdoor space into everything you always hoped it could be. Contact us today to learn more. Call today for a free consultation (478) 745 – 2000 centralgeorgia@archadeck.net Visit our deck gallery, our patio and hardscape gallery and our screened porch gallery located on our website to see more examples of trending outdoor structure designs for 2013. learn more. Call today for a free consultation (478) 745 – 2000 centralgeorgia@archadeck.net

Visit our deck gallery, our patio and hardscape gallery and our screened porch gallery located on our website to see more examples of trending outdoor structure designs for 2013.

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

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.netStephen Denton, owner of Archadeck of Central GA.

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

An AZEK synthetic deck is low maintenance and nice looking to boot

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.

There have been many advances in composite/synthetic decking since it debuted on the market. For one, the category was previously classified as composite decking when the products within the category were all a “composite” of wood and plastic. Since then, the category was reclassified as “synthetic” products were introduced such as decking boards made of solid PVC. Now, the term “synthetics” captures composite and man made materials as well as the a new hybrid board.

Composite decking was the first synthetic material to hit the scene. It consists of a wood pulp blended with plastic for added strength and durability. Composite is readily used today and still provides a stronger and lower maintenance deck than that of pressure treated, and other woods commonly used in decking.

A new product called capstock is composite that is wrapped with a durable layer of vinyl PVC around a composite core. Many in the industry refer to it as a “composite hybrid”.

Chippendale patterned deck in Midgeville, GA
Intricately detailed features such as this Chippendale patterned deck in Milledgeville, GA respond beautifully with the use of capstock synthetic decking.

Synthetic decking has the highest level or performance. While composite provides protection from splitting, splintering, rotting, termites or fungal decay, synthetic PVC decking provides all of these protections and also provides protection from stains and fading.

At the top of the solid PVC list is AZEK decking. AZEK is a solid PVC which is stain and scratch resistant. This includes resistance to scratches made from patio furniture and pets. It will also stand up to the all-American cook out better than any synthetic on the market because it is resistant to spills like grease, ketchup and even red wine. AZEK is highly recommended for use around pools, spas and even on piers and docks because it is impervious to moisture as well as insects because it is constructed of solid PVC. This material is also split resistant and mold and mildew resistant as well. A deck built with AZEK is truly the deck that keeps on giving year after year.

AZEK Acacia from the Arbor Collection
AZEK Acacia from the Arbor Collection

Synthetic decking is not the perfect choice for everyone. One major objection is the initial cost vs. the cost of pressure treated southern yellow pine decking. However, if you are going to live with the deck or porch for more than 5 to 7 years the cost of paying someone to maintain the decking will be recouped. And afterwards you are saving money!

Once upon a time, synthetic decking had limited color choice options which was a drawback for homeowners. That is not the case with modern synthetics. In our area the two most popular colors are Acacia and Morado, which are both part of AZEK’s Arbor Collection. Each one of the AZEK colors has graining and undulation that mimics the look of real hardwoods beautifully. Acacia is a stunning, rich dark brown and Morado is a mid-tone that is similar to the look of antique walnut. We are also starting to see their new color Cobre come into the spotlight with its tan-brown appearance that we anticipate will be the next most requested AZEK color.

AZEK deck with white railing
AZEK deck with white railing

Choose a beautiful deck with longevity to give you more time to enjoy outdoor living at its best. Contact Archadeck of Central Georgia to learn more about AZEK, and the many other high-quality synthetic decking choices we offer. We can ensure you will be enjoying your new deck rather than maintaining it.
Call for a free consultation: (478) 745 – 2000
centralgeorgia@archadeck.net

Stephen Denton, owner of Archadeck of Central GA
Stephen Denton, owner of Archadeck of Central GA

 

See more stunning synthetic decks and view the many options we have available to suit your lifestyle and your wallet by visiting our composite and Vinyl (PVC) deck photo gallery located on our website.

Fiberon composite decks in Central GA

Fiberon Horizon deck in Macon GA
The realistic beauty of Fiberon is apparent in this close-up of a Fiberon deck we built in Macon, GA.

Using composite or engineered wood for decks is becoming more and more popular. Composites, unlike many wood mediums used in deck and outdoor structure construction, is impervious to many of the hazards that befall decks due to weather, wear, and tear. Composite decking is manufactured by many companies, and many offer a superior product. The front-runners of the industry include TimberTech, AZEK and Fiberon.

Today’s focus is on Fiberon composite decking. The Fiberon Horizon line of decking offers a 25-year stain and fade warranty. Fiberon decking boards use the newest technology called Perma-tech which means the composite is wrapped all the way around each board to make it impenetrable for insects including termites, mold and issues caused by inclement weather.

Macon Ga fiberon deck and pergola
This Fiberon deck in Macon, GA also includes a stunning pergola.

A deck built with Fiberon means less maintenance with only the need for soap and water cleanup. You’ll also never have to worry about staining or painting your Fiberon deck because the color will stay fresh and vivid.

Not only will Fiberon composites look new for years to come, they come in five beautiful colors which have natural wood grain patterns that mimic the real thing. The boards are available in 12-, 16- and 20-foot lengths and come in Ipe, Rosewood, Tudor Brown, Castle Gray and Greystone colors.  The most popular among Central Georgia homeowners are Ipe and Rosewood.  Another popular color choice is Tudor Brown, but is not currently stocked by our supplier but can possibly be special ordered.

Fiberon Horizon color choices
Fiberon Horizon color choices

No matter what color you choose for you composite deck you will get peace of mind knowing you have a quality product that uses the most cutting-edge technology to add to your outdoor living enjoyment. Contact Archadeck of Central Georgia to learn more about Fiberon composite decking and the many other brands we offer to make your backyard the favorite room in the house.
Call for a free consultation:(478) 745 – 2000 or email us at:centralgeorgia@archadeck.net

Stephen Denton, owner of Archadeck of Central GA
Stephen Denton, owner of Archadeck of Central GA

See more beautiful composite decks by visiting our composite and vinyl deck gallery located on our website.