Tag Archives: Central GA screened porch builder

Archadeck of Central Georgia reminds homeowners that all they have to do is dream to enter our Dream Backyard Makeover Contest

Archadeck of Central GA Archadeck 2013 Dream Backyard contest

TimberTech deck Hawkinsville GA Archadeck
This TimberTech in Hawkins, GA is part of a stunning outdoor combination that includes a screened porch.

We are so excited to be offering a $70,000 Dream Backyard Makeover. The contest is already under way! In order to win, you must submit a picture of your yard and an overview of what your dream backyard makeover will include. One grand prize winner will receive an outdoor space valued at up to $70,000 co-sponsored by Archadeck,  TimberTech and  Belgard hardscapes. Here are some ideas to consider when deciding what your dream outdoor space will look like.

Color swatch for TimberTech earthwood evolutions
This color swatch from the TImberTech Earthwood Evolutions line details the many color choices from this particular series, which is just one of TimberTech’s product lines.

One great outdoor space combination includes a porch with an attached deck,  paver patio, and an outdoor kitchen. Imagine being able to grill, dine and enjoy the great outdoors any time you like in your own backyard.

If your dream backyard makeover entry includes a porch, you can include a screened porch or an open porch. Screened porches are great because they keep out bugs and keep out some of the water. Open porches have a roof but are open on the sides. This option is especially popular with an elevated porch since you may not need as much insect protection with an elevated porch.

If your dream backyard makeover space includes a deck, remember a deck is not always just a deck. Decks can include bump out spaces designed especially for a grill or smoker. Our custom deck designs can also incorporate built-in bench seating or planters. Your deck will include TimberTech low maintenance timbers.  TimberTech comes in a wide array of colors and pattern options. TimberTech has decking to suit any taste, from streaking and veining that mimics the look of real wood to sophisticated patterning to give your dream deck a custom look. You can even use a combination of hues by adding a picture frame border or other patterning techniques to give your new space drama.

When you visualize your dream hardscape, here are some hardscape elements to consider including. You may want your hardscape patio to include retaining walls, a fire pit, and even an outdoor kitchen. Belgard is the leader among hardscapes. Their huge selection allows you to create a space that is as rustic, or as modern as you like.

Belgard patio and outdoor kitchen combination
This Belgard patio and outdoor kitchen combination is just taste of what the ideal hardscape space could include. Imagine all the possibilities in a space such as this.
Stephen Denton, owner of Archadeck of Central GA
Stephen Denton, owner of Archadeck of Central GA

Archadeck of Central Georgia urges you to dream big for this amazing one of a kind contest. Your idea of what would make the ideal backyard for you may just win you the ultimate outdoor space. To enter the contest, visit the Archadeck of Central Georgia Facebook page and hit “like”. Then click on the large blue button that says “Win a Backyard…” This brings you one step closer to becoming one of our lucky finalists and one step closer to making your backyard dream a reality!

You can learn more about all of our breathtaking outdoor spaces by contacting Archadeck of Central GA. You can also see more examples of outdoor living combinations that deliver maximum function and beauty by visiting our deck galleries, our porch galleries and our outdoor living galleries located on our website.

Archadeck of Central Georgia is off and running with the Archadeck 2013 Dream Backyard Makeover

Archadeck of Central GA Archadeck 2013 Dream Backyard contestHave you even peered into your backyard and imagined an outdoor oasis – a place that is alive with beauty, function and quality that would enable you to escape from the stresses of each day? Have you wanted a space that you can use to enhance the precious time you spend with family, with enough versatility to be that perfect intimate space to host a candlelit outdoor dinner for date night with your better half?  Archadeck of Central Georgia wants you to know the backyard of your dreams may be closer than your think. Our Dream Backyard Makeover contest can turn your backyard into the outdoor oasis you have envisioned.

We are proud to announce the opening of the Archadeck 2013 Dream Backyard Makeover contest. This is the first national contest in Archadeck’s history. Archadeck which is one of the nation’s largest builder networks specializing in custom-designed and custom-built outdoor living structures, has paired with two of our premium suppliers, TimberTech and Belgard to bring one lucky homeowner their dream backyard makeover worth up to $70,000.

Archadeck of Central Georgia is proud to be involved in this endeavor and we want to tell you about how the contest works…

The prizes for the contest are at three levels. The grand prize is a custom outdoor space with a value of up to $70,000! The 2nd prize is a deck renovation with a value up to $7,000, and the 3rd prize is a outdoor lighting package with a value of $3,000. Each of these will provide a lovely improvement to your backyard and further years of outdoor living enjoyment. Homeowners can enter the contest via Facebook by liking the Archadeck of Central Georgia Facebook page and clicking on the icon that reads “promotions”. Once inside the entry portion of the contest you will need to provide a photo of your existing outdoor space and supply a description in a maximum of 200 words to describe the ideal of your dream outdoor space.

The contest began on February 1st and submissions will be accepted through April 23 of this year, 2013. At that time, two finalists will be chosen for the months of February, March and April. From these six finalists Facebook users can then vote on their favorite to help us determine the winners. Voting will open on 4/23/13 and end on 4/30/13. In May the winners of all three levels will be announced.

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

You can learn more about this backyard dream come true that could happen to you by visiting our Archadeck of Central Georgia Facebook page today. To learn more about the beautiful, functional spaces we can design and build for you to set your dreams in motion, contact Archadeck of Central Georgia for a free consultation (478) 745 – 2000 or email us at centralgeorgia@archadeck.net.

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.

Top 5 reasons not to be your own contractor by Archadeck of Central GA

Macon GA screened porch with fireplace
It is important to let a professional take the reins and see to it that your outdoor dreams are brought to life in a timely manner with quality workmanship and materials.

When it comes to adding an outdoor living space to your home, there are certain things that should not be undertaken or decided upon without the help of an expert. These things are quality, structural expertise, cost, and safety. These are the aspects that may be lost when deciding to be your own general contractor for your structural outdoor project. I like to compare the pitfalls that homeowners experience when choosing to be their own general contractor to representing yourself in a trial with no prior experience of how the judicial system operates. A novice taking on their own defense would not be familiar with the judge, the district attorneys, or even how to present a case. All good intentions aside in order to represent yourself you need the guidance of an experienced professional with knowledge of the courtroom. The same can be said about an experienced contractor. A seasoned builder or contractor knows the business and how it operates, how to get the best values on the highest quality materials and how to avoid being pushed onto the back burner of the schedule.

5 reasons to not be your own general contractor

Archadeck of Central GA quality sub contractors
Archadeck of Central GA only uses sub-contractors that are experts in the quality and workmanship of their given trade.

1) Risk – if you are acting as your own contractor there will be substantial risks involved. These can range from the design, the construction and the people you hire to work for you. Being a homeowner and taking on these risks means there is no recourse for holding subcontractors accountable if something goes wrong. Since you are not licensed as a contractor you are accepting all the risk. In addition to the liability and danger involved if an accident such as a fire happens, your homeowner’s insurance does not cover the risk associated with deciding to take on the role of a general contractor. Reputable sub-contractors you seek to complete the work will require an up-to-date certificate of insurance showing you are covered in the event of an accident.

2) Expertise– the sub-contractors hired will have to be supervised and instructed. Questions like “how deep are the footings supposed to be”, and “how many nails should go in the joist” commonly arise. Knowledge of code requirements is also crucial when managing a building project. In order to play the role of a general contractor you must have knowledge and be well-versed in conveying the proper structural requirements to the subs when needed. Without the skill, experience and expertise; you will be left in the dark. This means when the inspections are completed and something doesn’t meet code, or is done incorrectly, you as the general contractor will have to fix it.

Archadeck
Our customers our priority one and we uphold the highest expectations of each contractor, safety and the highest quality materials.

3) Costs– licensed contractors have relationships with their suppliers. They deal with them on a regular basis and are repeat customers. This relationship between the contractor, the supplier and the sub-contractors helps facilitate honesty between the groups. Suppliers want good relationships with their contractors and sub-contractors because they want repeat business. This rapport means that they are more apt to be treated fairly on price and delivery versus doing business with a one-time customer. You are not likely to get the same discounts or prompt delivery as that of one their regular contractors.

4) Timing – suppliers will make sure the deliveries for the contractors they deal with as repeat customers on a regular basis are top priority. Deliveries for one time clients are generally placed last. The same can be said about the scheduling importance of your sub-contractors. Since yours is a one time job they will likely not have the same incentive to get the work completed in a timely manner as the jobs of their repeat contractors. They will prioritize their better relationships over your job of someone they are not familiar with and will likely never work for again. Building is a realm where contractors, subs and suppliers take care of their “own” before any others, much like a family would.

5) Quality – this is especially a concern where sub-contractors are concerned. Many quality subs already have specific contractors which they will only work for. It is difficult to find a good sub that will work for you as a one-time deal. The inability to hire quality sub-contractors will set the stage for inferior or sub-standard work, because all the quality workers are already scheduled on jobs for licensed contractors. This is a major pitfall for homeowners acting as their own general contractor because it can lead to problems in the future as a result of shoddy workmanship.

The best way to avoid these dilemmas is to hire a licensed general contractor to oversee your outdoor structure project. Archadeck of Central Georgia specializes in taking the pressure off of the homeowner and ensuring a safe and trained work environment with skilled sub-contractors, turn-key pricing and quality workmanship in a timely manner. If you are looking for an answer to “all of the above”, we can provide it for a lot less than you may expect. Contact Archadeck of Central Georgia to learn more and to discuss how we can bring your outdoor living dreams to life. Call for a free consultation (478) 745 – 2000
centralgeorgia@archadeck.net

See more of our award-winning outdoor living projects by visiting our deck gallery and  our outdoor living gallery located on our website. Quality you can see and feel in every project we build!

This project in Macon, GA proves that a few changes can make a huge impact for homeowners facing mobility challenges

As an outdoor structure builder I meet with homeowners that are searching for outdoor spaces to fit their individual needs. These needs may encompass adding more space to a patio for dining, or making changes to their existing space to accommodate lifestyle and health changes. Many times I meet homeowners that have more specific needs, such as mobility challenges. My goal is to create the solution that provides the best for each individual customer. Many builders look at projects that involve accommodating mobility challenges as architectural or technical challenges. Archadeck of Central Georgia looks at finding solutions from a caring point of view in order make the form fit the function instead of the other way around.

macon - deck stairs
Design rendering for upcoming deck stair project in Macon, GA.

This particular project in Macon, GA initially began as a ramp construction. The codes regarding ramp construction are very strict when it comes to the required length and elevation changes. After discussing the options with the homeowner we came up with a plan that was a nicer alternative to a ramp. A gentle set of stairs that gently ascend and descend turned out to be the perfect option for this homeowner. We were able to achieve the three key aspects that were crucial to this project. The design functions just as it needs to, looks the way the homeowners want it to and is in the right price range.

abaco decking - macon GA
Abaco decking features a grooved side which is perfect for added stability and traction.

When you are building with the specific needs of mobility challenges in mind, often times functional doesn’t mean it will look the part or be affordable. We were able to do use stairs with a shallower rise, longer tread and wider pass to take care of this homeowner’s needs. Seven to 7-1/2 inches is the standard vertical distance on the rise of most stairs. We were able to move that down to 4 inches to make the step easier for a homeowner to travel. By adding an additional board for the tread area of the stair you can increase the depth of the area from a traditional tread length of 10 inches up to 15.5 inches to add a roomier and safer tread. Our standard 4 foot wide stairs allow for easy traffic flow and are also a great benefit for mobility. With a nice 4 foot stair if you stumble you can still easily reach both sides of the rail. We can also add a grab rail on the railing that is specifically designed to steady you. This inclusion is required by code on commercial projects, but not on residential projects in our area.

Another added safeguard to our stair design is the area where the landing begins. This is typically 4 feet which allows space at the top of the stairs to be able to open and close the door. In many projects this is not always possible, but in special circumstances it can make a huge impact on the design. If a smaller landing presents issues, we can sometimes reverse the door swing to swing in rather than out to compensate for the lack of space available at the landing area.

When keeping mobility in mind, we always use decking which meets or exceeds the code for slip resistance. Some materials work better than others when choosing a stair that will aid in mobility. For this project we chose Abaco hardwood decking which is grooved on one side for less slippage and better traction. Abaco is a beautiful tropical hardwood decking that resists splintering, twisting and cracking. It is not only readily used for added traction is also a natural hardwood that requires less maintenance than standard pressure treated pine.

Our caring and personalized solutions to the homeowner’s needs are one of the things that makes Archadeck of Central GA unique. These Macon, GA homeowners are looking forward to their completed stairs and the way in which they will add greater freedom to their outdoor lifestyle and safety as well.Stephen Denton, owner of Archadeck of Central GA

If you or someone in your family is facing special circumstances or mobility issues we can help. Archadeck of Central Georgia can design an outdoor space with their special needs in mind that will enable continued outdoor enjoyment for everyone in the family. Contact for a free consultation (478) 745 – 2000
centralgeorgia@archadeck.net

To see more examples of outdoor spaces that utilize specific needs and function visit our Wooden deck gallery and composite and vinyl deck gallery located on our website, many of our designs use slip resistant decking that can aid in improving traction and safety in your outdoor space.

 

If insects and pollen are a problem, Archadeck of Central Georgia has you “covered” with an open porch

Macon porch builder Archadeck Central GA
There is nothing quite like the feeling of a covered porch on a summer afternoon.

 

macon-porch
This covered porch in Macon, GA is built at a height that is too difficult for many insects to travel. This means less mosquitoes and other insects when enjoying your covered porch.

There are many reasons why an open porch is a great choice as an outdoor living structure, but with all of its benefits, the open porch has one significant drawback – it does not offer insect protection. The level of insect protection you are seeking on your porch may end up being your deciding factor as to whether to go with an open porch or screened porch. However, if your heart is set on an open porch and your porch will be elevated at the second story level, the height serves as insect protection and that may be enough protection for you.

Companies are coming up with new and existing mosquito curtains to give open porch lovers more options. Mosquito Curtains of Atlanta is fairly new company that our customers seem to really like.  Each curtain is custom-made to your specifications and Mosquito curtains are highly effective in controlling mosquitoes. Another way to discourage insects on your open porch is by installing ceiling fans, the circulation of air that the fans provide prevent the insect the ability to land, and if they cannot land-they cannot bite.

Here in Georgia we are known for our beautiful trees and plants. Unfortunately, those trees and plants produce an inordinate amount of pollen which ends up covering every surface around. Our cars, windows, and yes, outdoor areas are covered with a film of yellowish-green at intervals throughout the spring and summer. Cleaning up the pollen can be a real headache. Open porches are one of the easiest outdoor structures to have when you are dealing with pollen because there are no screens to worry about cleaning and you can just use a leaf blower or hose to clean it off.

The aesthetics of an open porch offer a more formal look to your backyard because of the open columns that are readily used in their design. Architecturally, screen porches look more rustic while open porches look more elegant. Design elements such as bead board ceilings, open rafters and exposed beams look great in open porches. You can also still take advantage of features like recessed canned lighting, ceiling fans and electrical outlets on your covered porch.

milledgeville-porch
This open porch in Milledgeville, GA uses an "open rafter" detail that adds aesthetic appeal.

Whether you choose an open/covered porch or a screened porch, Archadeck of Central Georgia can create a space especially for you and your family that is sure to become your favorite room” in the house”.

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

To see more open porch and covered porch designs visit our porch gallery located on our website.

The right vinyl window can make turning your screened porch into a 3- or 4-season room a breeze

A 2-season room before decorating in Forsyth GA
A 2-season room before decorating in Forsyth GA

Using the right vinyl windows can turn your screened porch into a 3- or 4-season room. Archadeck of Central Georgia installs vinyl window systems for new and existing screen porch transformations. A vinyl window system enables you to be better protected from the elements thus giving you the ability to use the room for more months during the year.

Vinyl window systems offer more protection from inclement weather, wind, rain, and even the cold with the addition of a space heater on your screened porch. But be careful, all vinyl window systems are not created equal. For a vinyl window system to function properly it needs to contain a window frame that is built to support the vinyl windows. We have found that the Eze-Breeze window system is the best, and we use this system exclusively.

Screened porch to sunroom conversion in N. Macon Ga
Screened porch to sunroom conversion in N. Macon GA

If you are considering a window system in your outdoor room it is crucial that you hire someone to professionally install the windows and  that the windows themselves are good quality. In a vinyl window system the frame system is going to carry all the weight. If you are thinking of just using vinyl windows without a framing system it will lead to a multitude of headaches and problems on down the road. The Eze-Breeze window systems that we use include a supportive frame system that can carry the strength of the windows without putting stress on your outdoor structure itself.

Not only are Eze-Breeze systems strong, they come with a plethora of functional options to make your life easier. One of the options they offer is the sliding track system that allows you to operate the windows easily and engage the windows according to how much or how little you want to use at your leisure. This tracking system for the Eze-Breeze porch enclosures gives you the freedom of horizontal or vertical sliders that offer up to 75% ventilation.

PGT Fist shot for web
The Eze-Breeze window will revert back to its original shape within minutes of any mishap.

The vinyl used in the Eze-Breeze system is an innovative product that is strong, nearly invisible in its clarity, and isn’t susceptible to cracking or breaking. If the unforeseen happens, such as a baseball pop-fly that hits one of the windows the window actually takes the blow and pops back into place! If the vinyl is accidentally misshapen or distorted it will revert back to its original shape within minutes.

If you are ready to create a versatile room by bringing all the beauty of the outdoors in the room and leaving all the undesirables out, contact Archadeck of Central Georgia to learn more about our screened porches, outdoor rooms and vinyl windows systems for use in your porch enclosure.  Contact us 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

You can see more stunning transformations of screened porches into sunrooms  and 3 & 4 season rooms by visiting our screened porch photo gallery and our sunroom gallery located on our website.

From sunny to screened may be less investment than you may think

Covered porch in Macon GA
This covered porch in Macon, GA leaves plenty of opportunity for shady days and relaxing evenings.
Screen porch transformation in Warner Robins
We transformed this patio into a screened porch in Warner Robins, GA.

Are you tired of the hot Georgia sun beating down on you every time you go out to use your deck or patio? Many homeowners turn to us to help them convert their sunny deck or patio into a covered deck, screened porch or  covered patio. We help turn lots of decks and patios into screen porches or covered porches which can represent a substantial savings.

Macon GA deck and screened porch combination
These Macon, GA residents opted for a combination of both a deck and a screen porch.

If you have a deck, often at least 50% of your structure can be re-usable in terms of converting it to a porch. In order to accommodate a roof though, most scenarios may require additional footings and larger posts. Even if you are looking to change the size of your area, we can typically use the existing structure and enlarge it which will save you at least 15-30% of the cost.

In using your existing deck, bug control is the key factor in determining if we need to replace the decking boards or install a layer of screen beneath the boards to keep the bugs out of your screened porch. If your existing deck is still in good shape we may only need the screen installed as long as there enough room under your deck for us to install it.

Patios are also sometimes ready to convert to a screened porch. If you have a patio that you are looking to convert and the patio is raised, then in most cases it has the appropriate footings necessary to accommodate the added weight of a roofed structure and therefore we can place the posts on the top edge which will allow you a 30% savings. If your patio is on the ground, it typically doesn’t have turn down footings and cannot accommodate the added weight of columns. Based on your patio’s condition and age this may be cause for an exception. If your patio is 15 years old and doesn’t have a crack , the building inspector may allow us to build atop that. When we construct a flat patio, we typically build in the cost of installing footings underneath it. Depending on the county and city you reside in depends on the individual restrictions.

Screen porch in Macon GA
The ultimate outdoor living structure is the screen porch. This one in Macon, GA allows insect free enjoyment on those hot summer days.

Other considerations to keep in mind are whether or not your structure has any constraints such as a deck or patiothat has a  restricted tie into your existing home in a certain spot. This creates a challenge and may require a start over to allocate a more desirable tie in area. We are very good at figuring out creative roof tie-ins and many of our customers have told us when they sought the advice of other contractors who told them it couldn’t be done, we have made it work beautifully. It just takes an eye and the desire to overcome obstacles that other builders won’t put the care and thought into. Another key consideration is your accessibility from your porch into the yard. Sometimes move stairs because having stairs leading to a door is awkward at best and could be dangerous so typically we suggest adding a landing for the door of the porch. The width of your stairs also needs to match the width of your screen porch door.

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

Contact Archadeck of Central Georgia to find out more about turning your deck or patio into a screen porch this season. We offer a free consultation: (478) 745 – 2000
centralgeorgia@archadeck.net

For more cool ideas to escape the heat of your deck or patio, visit our screened porch gallery as well as our patio gallery located on our website.

 

 

This large Lake Oconee screened porch doubles as a college retreat space

Lake Oconee Screened porch
This lakeside screened porch on Lake Oconee, is an asset and heirloom to this entire family and many friends that are considered extended family.

It is not often that a home impacts as many members of a given family and their friends as this one on Lake Oconee does. This family not only uses their lake home as a family retreat but also opens it up to their children’s college friends to access throughout the year. It is no wonder this family wanted a very large lakefront screened porch that spans the entire width of the back of this lake home. The screened porch we constructed doubles as a seating and eating area and in general is a great place to  just hang out. The floors of this porch can often be found littered with sleeping bags as happy college kids abound the perimeter getting a much-needed rest from school.

When we began the project the home already had a lake house deck to take in the views of serene Lake Oconee, but the family said the deck was too hot and “buggy”. The family wanted a large screened porch so they could cool off,  and still enjoy the views of the lake without the bugs. We designed this spacious 14′ x 30’+ porch with just that in mind.

Lake Oconee screen porch
Plenty of room for rest, relaxation and meals make this screened porch a winner for the collegians that frequent the lake house often.

To accommodate the span for structural strength and to add character to the appeal of the lake house we used a metal standing seamed roof. On the interior of the screened porch we continued the use of rustic materials by using Pressure Treated wood throughout the room. The materials compliment the lake view perfectly.

Archadeck of Central Georgia also added a deck off the guest bedroom with stairs on the other end that spill into the yard. Within the screened porch we installed multiple ceiling fans to keep the family and hardworking collegians cool. This family’s kids attend college in Milledgeville and meet at the lake house with their friends and family often even choosing this lake house as their ultimate destination on Spring break over the sandy beaches of some far away place. The finished porch pays homage to the lively amount of loved ones that will have the opportunity to enjoy the structure. Now when the guests arrive they go straight to the porch. This porch has increased the size, and enjoyment, of the whole house.

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

If you are looking for an outdoor structure that can extend your outdoor and indoor living enjoyment, contact Archadeck of Central Georgia to learn more about our multi-functional designs. Call now for a free consultation today (478) 745 – 2000 centralgeorgia@archadeck.net

 

This Macon GA deck has both functionality and style

Macon GA deck with screen porch
Screened porch and new deck, in Macon, GA., has everything the homeowners wanted in an outdoor living structure and more.

When these Macon, GA., homeowners contacted us they were looking for a way to add functional outdoor space to their home. Their first choice was to add a full sunroom, but after careful consideration and weighing all the options, they decided that adding a screened porch and extend their existing deck by adding another side. In most cases a screened porch addition is more economical than that of a sunroom.

A screen porch addition can add at least 3 seasons of enjoyment to your outdoor living enjoyment especially here in the south where our warm days can sometimes extend into the latter months of autumn. These Macon residents will be able to watch the seasons change from spring through fall from their new screened outdoor room. With a screened porch you are protected from the elements as well as from insects. This type of outdoor living structure gives you all the benefits of being outdoors. It also gives you the feeling of extended living space – sort of a backyard living room.

Deck Builder Macon GA Porch Builder Macon GA - Archadeck
Painstaking care was taken to match the existing home. Note the brick deck skirt and white railings to match the home.

When we installed the screen porch and the re-decking we added some structural support and added the new deck area. We were able to match the brick for the  screen porch to the existing brick used on the home, we even had the brick manufacturer come to the home to ensure a proper blend that would match. This is an example of the painstaking lengths and care we take in each of our projects. The roof for the screen porch is situated between two gables on the back of the home. This was a challenge, which  we were able to make fit beautifully in spite of the obstacle.

The homeowners chose to use TimberTech composite decking material throughout the entire design. The color is similar to the rich tropical hardwood look of  Ipe. Because composite companies often change their colors every year or two, we always leave at least two boards under the deck to safeguard in case there is ever a problem. We used Cabot white stain to match the trim on the home and on the home’s siding. The railing is 6 x 6 posts also painted with the white Cabot sealer with composite rail caps to match the composite used on the floor of the re-decking, new deck area and the screen porch. We finished it up with pyramid post caps which add a little panache to the whole design.

To top it off  we installed a dog friendly  gate onto the deck which swings out to keep those muddy puppy paws off the deck. We also added a hatch underneath the deck on the brick for a storage area.

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

This design solution is an example of how Archadeck of Central Georgia was able to translate the customer’s intended functions into an outdoor living area design full of form, and style. Contact us for a free consultation. (478) 745 – 2000 centralgeorgia@archadeck.net

View more stunning imagery of inspiring screened porches and decks by visiting our screen porches gallery, as well as our deck galleries, located on our website.