Tag Archives: Central GA screened porch 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.

Our Recent Deck and Screened Porch in Wellington Allows Unobstructed View and Unlimited Enjoyment!

Wellington Screened Porch and Deck CombinationOne of our most recent deck and screened porch combination projects demonstrates how Archadeck of Central Georgia is able to perfect our outdoor living space designs despite obstacles.

This project is located in the upscale townhome community of Wellington. One of the obstacles when designing an outdoor living space for a townhome is the number of restrictive covenants often associated with these type of properties.  This project required that all the covenants be strictly abided by which included the materials used in the design match those of the existing home.

Look at the amazing before and after images of this project:
Look at the amazing before and after images of this project:

When we consulted on this project, the property already had an existing pressure treated deck. The homeowner’s wish was to upgrade their existing deck to a screened porch and still retain a deck space for increased outdoor living options.  The main obstacle to address was their desire to retain a clear view of their beautiful backyard while still having privacy, especially since their existing deck design gave them a clear view of the surrounding neighbors.

Wellington Screened Porch Builder

With all the prerequisites in hand, Archadeck of Central Georgia got to work on perfecting the space the homeowner’s had in mind.  We were able to retain the beautiful views into the backyard and still secure privacy through the installation of a vertical lap privacy screen.

Wellington screened porch builder

You will notice that the new screened porch is almost a perfect square design and is longer, taller and deeper, than most traditional screened porches. The reason for this innovative design is two-fold; one was to keep the eaves from coinciding with the transom window located on the back of the home and the depth of the porch helps facilitate more room within the porch while staying in accordance with the restrictive covenants.

Wellington Wooden Deck with Screened Porch

The new deck was built using pressure treated pine on the old deck frame which only needed minimal reinforcement through the addition of a few beams. The new stair direction enhances the open feel of the space and lattice skirting retains the traditional feel of the property. There is even a nifty storage area under the new screened porch perfect for storing garden tools and equipment.

Wellington screened porch interior

The interior of the screened porch features an open gable end and open rafter ceiling. We also installed electrical outlets and a ceiling fan to help keep the space cool during the summer months.

The homeowners are elated with their new porch and deck duo! They are thrilled with the open feel of the space that allows unencumbered views while retaining their backyard privacy — truly the best of both worlds!

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

Let Archadeck of Central Georgia perfect a screened porch and deck combo for your Macon or Warner Robins area home that will bring your outdoor living potential full circle.  Contact us today at (478) 745 – 2000 or via email at centralgeorgia@archadeck.net.

A Warner Robins Sunroom Designed with Comfort at the Forefront

An Archadeck of Central Georgia sunroom is the perfect solution for adding functionality, value and space to your home.

Sunroom Builder in Warner Robins GA

Our sunrooms not only provide numerous sources of enjoyment, but they will also increase the value of your home without putting a big dent in your pocketbook. Sunrooms are affordable and are by far one of the most cost-effective home improvement projects. They are also easier to maintain than a traditional interior room addition and they increase openness and visibility. Our most recent sunroom addition in Warner Robins, GA, exemplifies all of these benefits.

Warner Robins GA Sunroom Builder

We designed and built this sunroom with the homeowner’s comfort in mind. The addition features custom windows from Window Craftsman Inc. built with the same quality as hurricane windows. The windows slide allowing for customizable ventilation and to enjoy the breeze. In addition to the sliding window system,  Archadeck of Central Georgia also installed a 7′ ceiling fan, which will help keep the room cool in the summer. The homeowners are also adding a pellet stove to aid in keeping the space cozy during the winter months.

Beautiful open rafter ceiling in Warner Robins GA sunroom

The sunroom was built not only with comfort at the forefront, but also aesthetics. Notice the detailed open-rafter ceiling and the beautiful ceramic tile floor.

The clients are elated with their new sunroom and are looking forwarding to all the enjoyment opportunities it will provide. From just enjoying an evening outdoors to hosting parties, it promises to be the most versatile space for their home.

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

If you’re interested in learning more about sunrooms and the benefits they can offer, contact Archadeck of Central Georgia today! Call for a free consultation: (478) 745 – 2000 Email: centralgeorgia@archadeck.net.

 

 

 

 

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

Archadeck of Central GA provides information to make the best interior ceiling choice for your anticipated porch addition

Macon GA screened porch with gable roof
Macon GA screened porch with exposed rafter detail.

Choosing the right ceiling to fit your own individual tastes and in keeping with the look you want to achieve within your porch is an important decision. There are many choices available when it comes to styles and finishes. As a customer of Archadeck of Central GA, we want you to be an informed customer. We want to provide the information to help you make the best decision for your specific needs and wants. In this article, we will explore the various interior porch ceiling options in an effort to educate homeowners providing information to make the best decision.

Your porch ceiling is the perfect spot to add style and flair. There are a many choices, styles, accoutrements, details and materials that can be used to finish your interior ceiling. Each one can be used to convey a feeling and a mood within your porch.

Rustic Shed Roof Screen Porch
Rustic shed roof screened porch by Archadeck of Central GA.

The first decision to make when it comes to an interior porch ceiling is whether you want a vaulted/cathedral or flat ceiling. Flat ceilings are generally standard 8′ or 9′ foot height, the same as that of an interior room in your home. Flat finished ceilings give your porch or screened porch an interior room feel. Flat ceilings are often used to create a more formal space. They can be enhanced by using hardwood finishes to achieve a rustic elegance. From a budgetary perspective, it is less expensive to do a sloped or cathedral ceiling. Installing a flat ceiling under a sloped roof requires more lumber and will add to the cost of your porch.

The height of a vaulted ceiling is dependent on how steep your roof pitch is. For example, vaulting a 20-by-20-foot room can create a vaulted or cathedral ceiling that’s 11 to 12 feet high at its peak. A porch that has a higher ceiling will appear and feel larger than it actually is. Cathedral ceilings give the room a sense of lightness and airiness. They also allow more room to use trim, moldings and architectural detailing.  An elevated ceiling also provides “architectural reveals.” which are effects caused by shadowing lines that can be induced through extra architectural details and lighting.

Beautiful rustic interior shot of open porch in Warner Robins GA
Open porch with dramatic cathedral ceiling in Warner Robins, GA.

If choosing a vaulted or cathedral ceiling, the question arises of whether to choose an exposed rafter or an enclosed rafter design. Enclosed rafters often communicate a more formal look. Certain amenities, such as recessed can lights require the use of closed rafters. The decision to leave the rafter exposed or to enclosed is a personal preference. When enclosing the rafters, the expense comes in when painting everything. There are ways to give the space a finished look without having to paint everything in the process. Exposed rafters are very popular among outdoor structures. This conveys a rustic earthy elegance to the structure and is actually less expensive than choosing to enclose the rafters. When leaving the rafters exposed the size of the rafter itself will greatly impact the look of your space. It is also a consideration as  larger rafters with more girth and presence reflect a  more masculine feel and also leave a bigger cavity within the ceiling itself.

Chippendale pattern on Perry GA deck rail reflects the homeowners Chippendale-backed swing
This lovely porch in Perry, GA feature an open rafter ceiling which is painted white.

Finishing out the interior ceiling is the next step. We are seeing a trend of finishing the space out using the same lumber as the rest of the structure. For an informal look we generally recommend using T-111, which is rough- sawn, grooved plywood. This option cost the same a bead board. Many homeowners like the rustic look of T-111 and choose a clear seal to keep the natural look intact. Bead board is also popular and gives a more formal look and is less expensive than using grooved planks.

Other amenities for porch interiors are only limited to the imagination, and your budget. These include wiring for speakers, ceiling fans, and various lighting elements. Our goal at Archadeck of Central GA is to provide you with a porch built with quality and beauty at the best value.

Archadeck blue ceiling
True blue Southern porch ceiling?

With our location here in GA, we cannot put together a post on interior ceiling finishes for porches and not mention the Southern tradition of painted blue porch ceilings. There are numerous theories as to why this practice started – from fooling spiders and wasps into thinking the ceiling is the sky, to blue being a harbinger of good luck, to the color extending daylight, to scaring away evil spirits and as an effort to discourage birds and bees from building their nests in the ceiling.

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

When considering any outdoor structure project including a new porch addition, you want to make sure you are using an experienced, licensed builder who has the knowledge, integrity and the design expertise to provide you with a porch that has your best interest in mind. Archadeck of Central Georgia has years of experience in perfecting the porch, and other outdoor structures, here in Central GA.  To learn more contact us at (478) 745 – 2000 Email: centralgeorgia@archadeck.net

Please visit our extensive porch galleries, including our open porch, screened porch and front porch galleries located on our website for more examples of ceiling finishes for porches.

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!

 

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.

This Warner Robins sunroom turns out being more than these homeowners had ever hoped for in terms of value and design

Warner Robin GA sunroom builders
This project in Warner Robins includes a sunroom, patio and pergola.

These Warner Robins homeowners have a zest for outdoor living. Their large beautiful lot includes a serene backyard pond. The only downfall to having the pond is the number of mosquitoes it brings into the yard. With this in mind, these Warner Robins homeowners decided to add a screened porch overlooking the pond. The family decided that maybe they would benefit more from a sunroom because they wanted air conditioning and the other amenities that a screen porch could not provide. Once they confirmed their decision to add a sunroom addition, they began the contractor search. They reviewed the project with different builders for almost two years before contacting us for a consultation.

View from inside Warner Robin GA sunroom
The sunroom was built using large insulated sliding glass windows for comfort and convenience within the space. Notice the scenic view of the backyard pond visible through the large windows.

When contacting us, they shared the quote they were given to build the project. During our consultation I realized that the quote was way out of line being almost twice what we thought it would be. After we began discussing what they wanted, which was actually quite modest in comparison, we were able to quote a sunroom and pergola addition with an adjoining concrete patio for less than half of what the other guy quoted for the sunroom alone.

The sunroom was built using large insulated sliding glass windows for comfort and convenience within the space. The homeowner has the ability to slide the panels where the windows are 75% open so the space can function as a porch. They can also close the panels and run the A/C and heat at their discretion. There is a wall unit A/C unit and a radiator to provide constant comfort control within the space year round.

One thing is important to know about heating and air. People sometimes assume they can just tie a sunroom or interior room addition into their existing unit with no repercussions. This rarely bodes well as A/C units are designed for the square footage of the area they are serving. If the A/C unit is too large for the square footage it will cycle on and off too often causing wear on the unit leading to damage to the compressor. On the flip side if the A/C unit is not large enough it will run all the time in an effort to “keep up” and most likely just quit working way before its’ expected lifespan. So unless the HVAC unit is designed to take on another room, it is best to use a freestanding unit or alternate heating and cooling source for a new sunroom or room addition.

Warner Robins sunroom interior ceiling details
The bead board ceiling of the sunroom has since been stained.

The sunroom interior features a bead board ceiling and walls. Bead board does not dramatically expand and contract as it doesn’t hold moisture like drywall and other interior finish mediums so there is no worry of damage from temperature changes. The homeowner is planning on painting the bead board walls and staining the ceiling of the sunroom. They also plan on installing a ceramic tile floor. It’s not uncommon for us to leave painting and flooring to the homeowner. The price we would would get from a subcontractor would likely be the same that the homeowner would get. We let our clients know that so they can contract the finish painting and tiling themselves if they desire.

In designing the new sunroom, patio and pergola space Archadeck of Central GA introduced fun shapes into the design to break up the monotony of everything being linear and square. This adds to the harmony of the space and adds tons of visual interest too!

Macon Warner sunroom by Archadeck of Central GA
Finishing up the new sunroom, patio and pergola space Archadeck of Central GA introduced fun shapes into the design to break up the monotony of everything being linear and square.

The design of an outdoor space is what controls the price point. If you dramatically change the size of your intended space, that will influence the cost. However, project changes don’t always cause an increased price. Dimensional changes like making up some of the size in length rather than width can actually drive the price down instead of up. We cannot emphasize enough the importance of consulting with a professional outdoor structure builder. Here at Archadeck of Central GA we understand all the construction, design and material costs involved in a project. Taking advantage of our free design consultation will give you, and us, a better grasp of the space that meets your needs and wants. It is always better to have a custom design that takes your functional needs, aesthetic needs and budget into account rather than opting for a “cookie cutter” outdoor design that could actually end up costing you more.

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

Remember that no two outdoor living spaces are created equal. Hiring a specialist can actually help keep the prices lower enabling a more suitable design for your individual needs. If you are ready to learn more about how we can enhance your outdoor living experience and stay within your budget, contact Archadeck of Central GA today (478) 745 – 2000, Email: centralgeorgia@archadeck.net

You can see more examples of our versatile, high quality outdoor rooms and pergolas by visiting our sunrooms photo gallery and our pergolas photo gallery located on our website.

 

 

This Warner Robins screened porch takes poolside enjoyment from fun to functional for these homeowners

Poolside outdoor structure design and builder Central GA
This poolside screened porch in Warner Robins adds more fun and functionality to this backyard!

When Archadeck of Central GA met with these Warner Robins, GA homeowners they were in the process of planning for a backyard pool. With their new backyard addition in mind, the homeowners realized that the existing deck adjoining their home was not going to be adequate in providing a spot to aid in utilizing the new pool. The family realized they were missing a shaded area near the house where they could cool off on those balmy Georgia afternoons while enjoying the pool. As discussed during our initial consultation, the homeowners were on the fence about choosing a pergola, for its shade and aesthetic benefits, or a screened porch. This family soon realized a screened porch addition would make the most sense for their particular situation. The homeowners also realized they desired an area that was bug free where they could dine outdoors in comfort and watch the kids playing in the pool without burning up.

Cozy inviting interior of poolside screened porch by Archadeck of Central GA
The screened porch interior provides a cozy and inviting spot for the homeowners to observe their kids playing, and endless outdoor living possibilities.

Once the homeowners made the decision to move forward with a screened porch addition, we then began to scrutinize how big the porch should be. The final dimensions of the space come out 14 foot which allows plenty of space to hide the pool pump behind the porch. Since we were at the residence the same time as the pool company, we were able to coordinate our project with that of the pool addition. Archadeck of Central GA ended up finishing the screened porch at nearly the same time as the pool was completed. This resulted in the family only having to endure one construction, minimally disrupting the turf and their lifestyle. We always strive to work in unison with your landscaper and your pool or spa installer to ensure every detail is accounted for and to help better facilitate each phase of your project to minimize the impact of having two separate projects at various times.

Interior of screened porch by Archadeck of Central GA
Beautiful interior ceiling detailing adds a rustic touch to this Warner Robins screen porch.

The screened porch is built from pressure-treated pine and features a diagonal floor which adds visual interest. Archadeck of Central GA decided a roof tie-in design would work best since the addition had to be tied into the fireplace. The ridge beam flows into the existing chimney which required special engineering. Most builders would not have taken on this project because of the structural engineering and planning required to make the design cohesive- for us it is just another day at the office!  The porch interior features a rustic open rafter design that adds loads of charm. We also installed two ceiling fans on the interior of the porch instead of one to ensure proper ventilation.

In addition to the porch addition, these Warner Robins homeowners also wanted a gravel stepping stone pathway that led from the pool to the door. They also wanted to avoid a landing which would block the view from inside the kitchen. So we designed the stairs to lead into the porch without a landing and special ordered an in swing door to add more space and provide better traffic flow in and out of the porch. Very few companies make in swing doors, being a rarity; they are custom made as a special order item.

Central GA poolside screened porch
The screened porch will provide these homeowners much enjoyment for many years to come!

The homeowners are elated with their new poolside outdoor living space. Not only do they have the perfect spot to add enjoyment to their new backyard pool, they also have a space that will keep providing enjoyment far after the pool is closed! Contact Archadeck of Central Georgia to find out more about how an outdoor living space addition can extend the enjoyment of your pool. We offer 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

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.