Category Archives: Professional outdoor structure builder

Make 2019 The Year to Improve Your Macon or Warner Robins Backyard!

Out of all the questions homeowners ask us in regards to planning and building an anticipated outdoor living space addition, the most frequently asked is “WHEN is the best time to build?” Many factors can fall into play when answering this question, but in essence, if you are ready to pursue your addition then there is no time like the present to get the ball rolling!

Macon-GA-Screened-Porch

With a New Year in full swing — there is no time like the present!

While there is never really a wrong time to begin your outdoor living space project since we build structures year-round,  there are advantages to beginning your process early in the year, and while cooler weather is in the air!

screen porch-outdoor fireplace-macon Ga lr

Advantage — A good reason to begin your outdoor structure in the late fall and winter months is there may be less wait time to begin construction. Gaining approval through HOA’s and permitting will take less time because there is less backlog early in the season and this can often make 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 the arrival of the outdoor living season in the months ahead. Keep in mind, when dealing with a quality builder wait times can be longer, especially during the warmer months. Moving ahead early in the year on your project can greatly reduce those wait times.

rustic-shed-roof-screen porch-Macon-GA

Advantage — If you are considering a structure built from wood, a cooler month project timeline will provide many benefits. Wood requires a time period of acclimation and curing. The laws of expansion and contraction always apply when it comes to working with wood. All wood is hygroscopic, meaning that when exposed to air, it will release or pick up moisture until it is level with the humidity and temperature of the air. Humid conditions, such as those in our humid Georgia summers, will cause more rapid expansion and contraction of wood that is not yet sealed for protection against the elements.

Redeck-Macon-Deck-Pressure Treated

A structure built from wood needs to cure for a period of time before the sealer will properly adhere to the wood and promote beneficial protection qualities. By choosing to build during the least humid times of the year, your new wooden deck, porch or other outdoor structure will have ample time to cure in order to properly accept the sealer you choose.

Advantage — Your lawn and landscape will incur less stress by choosing to build during the cooler months of the year — this is because most turf grasses, trees and shrubs are in their dormant period during the winter. During dormancy, these plantings are less likely to experience permanent damage from having to be trimmed or pruned to accommodate the addition of a backyard space. Aside from the landscape, construction during the winter will cause less of an interruption to your family’s day-to-day activities and lifestyle as the kids are in school and 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 warmer months.

Milledgeville GA Deck Builder

Advantage — Last but not least, planning a new outdoor living space is a great way to curb the post-holiday blues. With a New Year underway, one way to curb the post-holiday blues is to look beyond the winter doldrums to warmer months ahead.  With this in mind, many Central Georgia homeowners may begin planning for the outdoor living season. These plans may involve a new addition to your landscape or outdoor living space.  Whether your aspirations include adding a new outdoor structure, or improving or adding to an existing structure,  winter is a good time to get the ball rolling before spring arrives.

TimberTech-deck-Macon GA

If you are on the fence about moving forward with a new or improved outdoor living space, now is the perfect time to get your project planned and on the schedule! Contact Archadeck of Central GA today at (478) 745-2000 or via email at centralgeorgia@archadeck.net.

Stephen Denton Archadeck Augusta square lr
Stephen Denton, owner Archadeck of Central GA.

 

 

Archadeck of Central GA agrees with these Wesleyan Woods homeowners: Sometimes smaller is better

Macon Deck and Porch In Wesleyan WoodsIf your heart is telling you that you’d prefer a smaller outdoor living space, then by George, it’s time to stop, listen and downsize.  Every now and then we work with homeowners who want to go smaller rather than bigger when it comes to their outdoor living space. As the premier Macon and Warner Robins deck and porch designers/builders, Archadeck of Central Georgia will fully support you in this decision.

At Archadeck of Central GA, we don’t just build, we design and build outdoor living spaces. To design, we first listen to you, the homeowner, as you describe the space you have in mind. We won’t try to talk you into something bigger or fancier than you want.

 

In the case of these homeowners in Macon’s Wesleyan Woods neighborhood, they had a large deck that was part of the house when they purchased it, and this deck was too big for them. We have found, as deck designers, that when a deck stretches out too far from the house, the homeowners tend to push their furniture farther and farther out to get closer to the yard. From a design standpoint, that’s not a great use of space.

Before we began the project:
Before we began the project:

What’s more, these clients truly wanted a screened porch, not a deck, so this project falls into the category of deck-to-screened-porch conversions. They did, however, request a small (10×12) side deck off the new screened porch as a place for their grill.

A deck-to-screened-porch conversion is similar to a redecking in that once we remove the deck floor, we have to evaluate the existing posts, beams and joists to determine whether we can still use them. In this case, some of the original joists were still in good shape but there were not enough, so we had to add more. However, the posts and beams of the original joists were still in good shape, so we were able to use those. We also replaced the stairs, but we designed them to end on the same path where the original deck stairs ended.

Wesleyan Woods Deck and Porch Builders

The Wesleyan Woods homeowners selected pressure-treated wood as the building material for their screened porch and side deck. We installed white screened panels for the screened porch because the clients plan to use a solid white stain for the porch, inside and out. In keeping with the porch and side deck, the pickets and railings are built with wood. We also built special Chippendale panels for the side deck; that was one aspect of the original deck the homeowners wanted to recreate.

Wesleyan Woods Screened Porch BuilderWesleyan Woods Screened Porch Builder

As with all porches Archadeck of Central GA builds, we installed screening under the porch floor between the joists and the floor boards. This is important as a barrier to keep insects and other debris from coming up through the porch floor. Many of our clients are surprised to learn we do this.

Wesleyan Woods Screened Porches

One last detail — we worked with the homeowners’ electrician for all of the electrical work needed on the new porch. We are always willing to work with the clients’ electrician if they prefer that.

Is your deck too big or too small? Would you rather have a porch? Contact Archadeck of Central Georgia to learn more about our custom outdoor living designs. You can reach us by phone at (478) 745 – 2000 or via email at centralgeorgia@archadeck.net

Stephen Denton Archadeck Augusta square lr
Stephen Denton, owner Archadeck of Central GA.

Planning a New Outdoor Living Space is A Great Way to Curb The Post Holiday Blues

Planning a New Outdoor Living Space is A Great Way to Curb The Post Holiday BluesThe holiday season is filled with excitement and fun. It is a time when families and friends come together to celebrate and festive decorations change our homes and landscapes.  The days and weeks leading up to the big day are often just as exciting as the day itself.  Once the holiday is over, however, the lack of excitement can leave you feeling down.

As the New Year quickly approaches, one way to curb the post-holiday blues is to look beyond the winter doldrums to warmer months ahead.  With this in mind, many Central Georgia homeowners may begin planning for the outdoor living season. These plans may involve a new addition to your landscape or outdoor living space.  Whether your aspirations include adding a new outdoor structure, or improving or adding to an existing structure,  winter is a good time to get the ball rolling before spring arrives.

Macon Open Porch Barrington Hall lr

Because of our mild Georgia climate, construction can begin as soon as your design is finalized and the contract is signed. In fact, the sooner we can start building, the more enjoyment you will get from your new outdoor living space. Once spring has arrived, the demand will increase and building timelines will become longer, this is why we recommend starting the design and building process with us as soon as possible. Using these winter months perfecting the design of your new space, ordering materials, and filing for permits is a perfect use of time.

Macon GA-sceen porch-metal Balusters

In fact, there are quite a few reasons why winter is the best time to begin a new Macon or Warner Robins-area outdoor living space  project:

  • Our custom deck, porch and outdoor room designs require close collaboration with you. This process can take a few rounds of going back and forth, making adjustments and getting the project just right.

Macon open porch design plan Archadeck

  • Securing building permits can take a long time as we are at the mercy of the building department. Starting this process now, means you don’t have to let the good spring weather pass you by while we are waiting for building permits to come in.

Hot tub-deck-Perry GA-design drawing 750

  • At Archadeck of Central GA, our spring and summer construction schedule fills fast. In fact, spring is our busiest time of year. If you start the process now, you beat the rush and are on the schedule for construction, or your project may even be completed,  when others are just starting their process.

Deck-composite-koi pond-warner robins

Despite the fact that all the pomp and circumstance has ended, all the presents have been opened and loved ones have headed home,  Archadeck of Central GA can ensure the weeks ahead are overflowing with excitement and anticipation.

Stephen Denton Archadeck Augusta square lr
Stephen Denton, owner Archadeck of Central GA.

Contact us today to schedule your design consultation to begin making the 2018 outdoor living season the best on record! Call us today at (478) 745 – 2000 or email us at centralgeorgia@archadeck.net.

 

 

This Macon, GA, Wheelchair Ramp Proves Functional CAN be Beautiful!

If necessity is the Mother of invention then why does it seem most wheelchair accessibility ramps are an eyesore?

ramp-deck-Macon GARealizing the purpose of a wheelchair ramp is to provide a safe, functional transition from one space to another for wheelchair users, doesn’t necessarily mean sacrificing the aesthetics of your home. At Archadeck of Central Georgia, we know the importance in maintaining the curb appeal of your home and retaining your home’s value.  One of our most recent wheelchair ramp projects in Macon, GA, serves as the perfect example of addressing necessity while maintaining beauty.

ramp-Fiberon-fortress iron-Macon GA

This homeowner is a valued return customer of ours as we have completed two different outdoor living projects for her in the past. As her circumstances have changed over time, she needed a wheelchair ramp added to the front of her home. The temporary ramp she was using had become an eyesore and we were contacted to come up with a more permanent and complimentary solution.

wheelchair ramp-Macon GA

Archadeck of Central GA came up with an elegant permanent wheelchair ramp using the same shape as the temporary ramp. We used Fiberon low maintenance decking in Rosewood for the floor and black Fortress powder-coated railing. We also installed composite cladding to hide the framing. The cladding matches the red brick facade of the existing home for a seamless appearance.

If you are in search of a wheelchair ramp that looks and functions the part for the front, side or back entry of your home, contact us. Our timeless outdoor living designs increase the beauty and function of your home. We can customize your design based on your specific needs.

Call for a free consultation: (478) 745 – 2000 Email: centralgeorgia@archadeck.net.

Stephen Denton Archadeck Augusta square lr
Stephen Denton, owner Archadeck of Central GA.

 

 

 

 

A long awaited pool pavilion comes to fruition for these Macon GA homeowners

When Macon area residents call about adding a new outdoor space to their yard, sometimes they know exactly what they want and sometimes they have an idea but look forward to the process of seeing that idea translated to the perfect outdoor space.

pool pavilion Macon GA lrThese Macon homeowners not only knew what they wanted but they knew several years ago. In fact, they even secured approval from the HOA several years prior. Now they were ready to have their pool pavilion built. Many pool owners want a shaded area near their pool. But, they wouldn’t be pool owners if they didn’t enjoy a huge splash of direct sunlight. That’s why an open pavilion or open porch is the perfect space for them. The roof allows for sun protection but the open gable still allows plenty of light under their covered space.

When we originally met with the homeowners, there was only one thing we suggested changing about their original building plan. The plan called for the open gable end facing away from the pool. Based on the sun’s direction and the beauty of the open gable, it made the most sense to have the open gable addressing the pool. Note the Macon GA pool pavilion open porch lradditional braces on the open gable. These were not required structurally but really gave that added design detail the homeowners were looking for.

From an aesthetic standpoint, we encased the footers of each of the columns with paver stones to create pedestals for each post. For the posts, we used Cox laminated timber columns. These wide columns allow plenty of space to thread wire through bringing electricity to the structure for lighting, ceiling fans, and to create electrical outlets as desired.

This Macon family couldn’t be happier with their new pavilion. It took a few years to be ready to build but it was well worth it.

If you have a great new outdoor space in mind, give us a call. We’re glad to provide a free consultation to determine the best structures and design to meet your outdoor living needs and desires. Call us at (478) 745 – 2000, email us at  centralgeorgia@archadeck.net or visit our website at central-georgia.archadeck.com.

Archadeck of Central GA discusses how using hardscapes can increase poolside pleasure!

macon-above ground pool-deckWarmer days are just around the corner and now is the time of year when many Central Georgia homeowners are starting to plan the addition of a new pool or planning to update their pool area. Archadeck of Central GA explores some of the choices for turning your poolside area into pure paradise!

The first element to consider is whether you have or will have an in ground or above ground pool. Above ground pools are generally less expensive to install, but they are not nearly as big as an in ground pool. If you decide to build a deck space to encompass the entire area around an above-ground pool, the costs can rapidly increase  making the combined cost of pool and deck more expensive than an in ground pool.

Forsyth-pool-deck lr

The topography of your backyard may determine the type of pool you have as well. If the yard is sloped and grading is not financially feasible, then an above ground fiberglass pool may be the answer. A deck is typically the only way to provide usable space here.

macon-fiberglass pool-deckThese are important considerations when looking at the “big picture” with your anticipated outdoor living pool area.

When choosing an in ground pool, the most common construction for the space around is concrete. Usually a pool contractor will recommend using a product like Kool Deck. This is a thin coating that goes over the top of the surface of the concrete to keep it cool on your feet. The problem is that it doesn’t adhere to the cement well and will eventually come off. There are two problems with all concrete: it cracks and it cracks! When water  gets in these cracks it then gets underneath the Kool Deck. All it takes is a freeze to cause the Kool Deck to pop loose. Archadeck of Central GA offers a better alternative that will increase the beauty and function of your poolside area for years to come.

Take a look at this paver patio we built in Warner Robins. This poolside area also includes a custom-built fire pit to match the pavers, an open porch, and a full outdoor kitchen.

We recommend adding concrete pavers around your pool. They are frequently used for pool decks and are durable, versatile, affordable and tough. Pavers have many qualities making them the perfect choice around a pool. They are salt resistant, slip resistant, and chlorine will not affect their colors. The joints between pavers will take on moisture and leave the pavement cooler under foot.  However, like any colored material, the darker colors tend to retain more heat than lighter colors. Another advantage of using pavers is that even in the event of a paver breaking, it’s easily replaceable. There are tons of styles and colors of pavers to choose from expanding the choices of the look you wish to achieve. Adding pavers is easy to do when your pool is under construction. If you already have a concrete pool surround, we can install pavers atop the concrete. We can use thin pavers which cost less or the standard 2-3/4 inch paver.

paver patio pool patio hardscape  warner robinsHere are some options to increase your pool-side enjoyment. If you already have a space that’s just too small, you can add a patio or expand the space around your pool to add more outdoor living enjoyment. This may include adding a pergola or a porch roof for use as a poolside shade structure. An open porch is a great poolside option, and pergolas can be built to include sun screens or canopies atop. We can also build structures to mask the areas you don’t want people to see and keep those areas  “incognito” such as pool pumps and other mechanics that aid in operating your pool. Archadeck of Central GA can also design and build versatile benches or retaining walls using paver walls that are made to match your paver flooring so your finished space is cohesive. In addition to the many amenities that we offer to create your perfect poolside paradise, we can also design a tranquil outdoor shower, outdoor fire feature or even a custom pool house– the possibilities are as endless as your imagination!

perry-ga-pool house lrIf you are planning a new backyard pool addition or improving and existing pool area contact us to help design a poolside space that will make the most out of your outdoor living space! We can work and coordinate with your pool contractor.

Call Archadeck of Central GA today for a free quote • (478) 745 – 2000 •

email: centralgeorgia@archadeck.net

See more poolside ideas by visiting our patio and hardscape photo gallery, our porches photo gallery and our pergola and trellis photo gallery located on our website.

Stephen Denton, owner of Archadeck of Central GA

A happy ending for these homeowners in Warner Robins, GA thanks to our low-maintenance aluminum sunrooms!

Interior of Aluminum Sunroom in Warner Robins GA
Interior of aluminum sunroom in Warner Robins, GA.

This story doesn’t begin so happily. These Warner Robins, GA homeowners have a home that was originally built with aluminum screened porch, which is very common. Since the homeowners really desired more of a protected closed-in space than the screened porch provided, they hired an independent contractor to enclose the space. The kind of room the homeowner had in mind would include a ceiling fan. It would also keep out wind, insects and wildlife and still allow the same functionality of a screened porch. The room would also enable them to close it up during the winter.

before 2 (2)
The sunroom before we began demolition. Notice the rot around the seals.

The independent contractor that the homeowners hired to build the room didn’t have a contractor’s license, nor did the contractor obtain a permit to complete the project. The end result left the homeowners with a space that wasn’t constructed properly including not using the appropriate pressure-treated material and the lack of a proper vapor barrier. Panes of glass were also used instead of real windows in some areas. The structure rotted away and the quality of the workmanship was inferior, the room began to fall apart at the seams in less than a year. The homeowners tried to contact the contractor that had built the room, but unfortunately found themselves at a dead end as the phone number he provided no longer worked and he was nowhere to be found.

proposed design rendering in Warner Robins
Proposed design rendering for new aluminum sunroom in Warner Robins.

The homeowner decided to have the space re-done, and have a legitimate company do the work and that’s when they contact us. After the initial consultation to go over their individual needs and concerns for the space, we came up with two proposed ways to build the sunroom for them. One way was rebuilding the room with the proper wooden and pressure-treated materials and the other rebuilding it out of aluminum. The aluminum was very attractive and meant the homeowner would never need to paint the space. Since the room also entailed a lot of glass, the aluminum made more sense economically and from a functional perspective.

Warner Robins GA aluminum sunroom
Newly completed aluminum sunroom.

We began by providing a design rendering that showed what the project would look like once completed. The sunroom is built with aluminum framing and aluminum windows that slide left to right for added ease and functionality. The minimal space that is left over we filled with aluminum wall panels, also referred to as rigid insulation, with aluminum sheets on both sides. The progression of the project flowed quickly and easily. The project timeline consisted of framing the structure, framing out the windows, ordering the windows and awaiting their arrival. In order to maximize the amount of glass present in the space we opted to order custom windows. In total the project included one day of demolition of the previous space, one day to frame, and one day to install the windows. The end result is a seamless, quality-built structure that ran smoothly and encompasses everything the homeowner wanted.

Central GA low maintenance sunrooms
Another look at the finished interior of the new sunroom.

We receive a lot of requests for aluminum sunrooms here in the Central Georgia area but we choose to only install the aluminum wall portion as you see in this picture. This is because we have found too many problems with pre-fabricated aluminum roofs and choose not to include these.

Aluminum is a great material as it takes less time to build with, which means you will begin enjoying the benefits associated with your addition sooner. These outdoor rooms allow you to enjoy the benefits of the outdoors without the undesirable insects, dangerous UV rays and inclement weather.

The moral of this story is to make sure you hire a licensed professional when embarking on any outdoor room or outdoor structure project. At Archadeck of Central GA, we are the company that provides you with top notch craftsmanship and quality. We want happy, satisfied  lifetime customers. Each of our projects is built to Archadeck’s stringent quality control standards to ensure it is everything you ever imagined it could be, and more!

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

If you would like to learn more about these versatile, low- maintenance aluminum outdoor rooms contact Archadeck of Central GA today for a free consultation (478) 745 – 2000
centralgeorgia@archadeck.net

You can see more of our quality outdoor room designs by visiting our sunroom photo gallery and our 3 and 4-season photo gallery located on our website.

 

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

North Macon covered porch builder
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-macon GA
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.

Design rendering for Rivoli Rd sunroom and deck
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.

Pressure treated deck Central GA
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
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!

 

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

Deck for future porch in St. Croix Macon GA
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.

Deck project in St. Croix Macon GA
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.

Proposed future design for Macon GA homeowners
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
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.

 

 

Archadeck of Central GA points out that you don’t need a home builder to do a remodeling project nor do you want one

Choosing the right contractorIf you are considering remodeling, and especially if the remodel you have in mind includes the addition of an outdoor space, calling a home builder is probably not the best idea. Home builders are just that; home builders. They specialize in the aspects that go into building a home and the specialized components involved in getting the house to closing. Yes, builders do take care of the electrical work, HVAC system, interior finishing and other elements that make a new home complete. But the specialized details and spaces are completed by the builders’ subcontractors. A good comparative example of how this works is when you visit your general practitioner (family doctor) complaining of joint pain. Your doctor will run generalized tests in an effort to determine what is causing your pain. Once the doctor feels he is looking in the right direction, he or she may then refer you to a specialist. The world of construction works much like the referral network of a doctor’s office; once the project reaches a point beyond the specialty of the builder, the builder then uses his network of subs to complete the next phase. What this means is that even though a home builder has knowledge of remodeling doesn’t make them the best choice for the job. Choosing a professional that specializes in remodeling is the wisest decision.

Living a nightmare in your own home

Dirty jobsite
This job site is typical of many new home constructions

The type of crew that you typically see on the site of new home construction is another reason for turning the other cheek when considering a home builder for your remodel. The crews that work for the subcontractors of home builders are totally different than those that work for remodelers and outdoor structure specialists. Your run of the mill new construction crew is used to working with no homeowners around. This means they frequently play loud music to pass the time & cussing and yelling is not uncommon on new home construction sites. The worst case scenario involves spent soda cans being tossed from second story windows and cigarette butts extinguished all over the yard. This is not exactly the type of ambiance you want to expose yourself or your children to for even a short period of time. This type of behavior can quickly turn your outdoor living dreams into a daily nightmare waiting for the completion of your new outdoor space.

pouring the aggregate base
Our crew keeps the workspace clean, organized and are respectful of you and your family.

Home building crews also often have their eye on the bottom line, which means if another job pays quicker or better and they are already knee-deep into your project, they will pull off of your job for days or even weeks to reach a deadline. Inconsistencies in scheduling are commonplace among crews that cater to new home construction. How would you like to stare at your unfinished remodel left for days, and even weeks with no progress and possible damage from the elements if the space is not properly “dried in” prior to their unexpected departure?

Along with a lack of consideration for homeowners, and timely delays, home building crews are notorious for letting the work site get really dirty. A remodeling crew cleans up at the end of each work day to ensure the safety of you and your family as well as consideration for your home. This means there is no danger of your child stepping on a nail or your family dog trying to ingest a spent hamburger wrapper leftover from lunchtime. An outdoor living remodeling contractor keeps the safety and sanctity of your home and family in mind during each phase of your remodeling project. Here is a testimonial from one of the many Archadeck of Central GA customers we have that is just one example of how we place professionalism first on all of our projects.

It has been a little over a month since my Archadeck project was completed. I have lost count of how many times I have walked out on it, around it and perused the various angles. I think it is one of the most outstanding, beautiful, attractive, and well-built decks I have had the pleasure of observing. To say I am thrilled and pleased is an understatement! There are not enough words to describe how professional and efficient the whole crew and process were. The whole project was on time and on budget. How refreshing! I have personally told many of my friends, “If you ever want a deck added onto your home or anything else that Archadeck does… here’s the phone number.” Thank you, Archadeck!

De Fluker from Macon, GA

Pavilion Next to Pool in Macon GA

Archadeck of Central Georgia feels remodeling should be an effortless experience for you from start to finish. We stay on each of our jobs until they are finished with no exceptions. We provide you with a level of professionalism that reflects respect for all parties involved. If you are poised to remodel your home or add an outdoor living space, contact us today. Call for a free consultation today (478) 745 – 2000 Email : centralgeorgia@archadeck.netStephen Denton, owner of Archadeck of Central GA

You can see many examples of our quality craftsmanship and high standards by visiting our deck photo galleries and our outdoor room photo galleries located on our website.