Tag Archives: Warner Robins porches

Archadeck Takes This Warner Robins Outdoor Living Space Beyond Builder Grade

As the summer of 2021 draws to a gentle close, the approaching fall season is one that many of our clients love. The days of being concerned about high outdoor temperatures and sometimes scorching heat are being replaced with cherished moments of outdoor refreshment with temperatures often in the high 60s and 70s – especially in the early morning with outdoor coffee or after dinner when the kids are finally down for the evening.

warner robins screened porch builders

Priding ourselves in being the preferred and premier deck and porch builder of the Central Georgia area, Archadeck welcomes inquiries from families that want to more truly enjoy their backyards, but need our creative design and planning help to do just that.

Take, for example, this virtually barren backyard with a small builder-grade concrete patio. It barely accommodated a seating area and patio table and chairs – with absolutely no protection from outdoor elements. Not liking that situation, our latest Archadeck of Central Georgia client reached out to us for our outdoor living expertise.

Before

WITH OUTDOOR LIVING SPACES, SIZE DEFINITELY MATTERS – THE BIGGER THE BETTER

“How do you envision using your backyard in the future? What’s your wish list?,’” we asked our Feagin Mill family members. “We’d love a large screened porch, but this concrete pad is just way too small, and that’s just for starters,” they replied.

So putting pen to paper, our outdoor living consultation professional started to map out an idea that would increase the square footage of that existing concrete pad significantly. We showed them how adding more structurally sound concrete behind the house would be the first step in our screened porch builder solution, keeping their original slab as a starting point.

To accommodate their desired screened porch request, shortly thereafter we arrived with a cement truck to generously expand the footprint of what would soon become the foundation of a magnificent screened porch – complete with a stunning fire feature.

Before the concrete pour, we installed the proper footings to support the outdoor living space structure – along with steel rebar and other critical reinforcements.

screened porch patio in warner robins ga

To ensure that the slope of the home rear exterior was taken into consideration for this critical first step of the screened porch build, the cement was poured in both the front and into all sides of the new foundation area to accommodate the grade of the backyard.

After the slab patio and screened porch floor was built out, our next step was to install an aluminum wall system to provide sturdy structural support and integrity.

SCREENED PORCHES GIVE YOU THE BEST OF ALL OUTDOOR WORLDS – FRESH AIR, BEAUTIFUL SIGHT LINES, AND NO PESKY MOSQUITOES OR OTHER ANNOYING INSECTS

To make sure that this new outdoor living space would be all that it could be, next came the installation of the screening material, surrounding the entire front and sides of the exterior structure. In doing so, we eliminated the entrance of insects, pollen and other seasonal debris from violating this new space.

To finish the screened porch, we added vinyl siding inside and out, along with a knee wall all the way around the perimeter of the porch. And to protect from unwanted elements from above, we built a hip roof attachment tying into the home’s existing roof for a seamless transition. By doing so, it now looks like this screened porch was always there – from day one. We even installed new gutters to facilitate the flow of falling rainwater away from the screened porch sides.

outdoor fireplace in warner robins screened porch

To beautify the interior of this new outdoor living room, this screened porch custom builder integrated Dutch quality stacked stone in the color of Arizona to surround and complement the new electric fireplace.

TAKE ADVANTAGE OF OFF-SEASON CONVENIENCE BY SCHEDULING YOUR SCREENED PORCH PROJECT NOW

Another beauty of the coming autumn season is being able to better accommodate our screened porch clients on our build schedule. Now that the summer “I-gotta-have-it-now” rush is over, we can better meet virtually any reasonable timetable you require to design and build the ultimate outdoor living space. And should cash flow be a concern right now, no worries. We offer very reasonable financing should you desire it for qualified clients.

To get this all started, stay right here and click on this link. We will be in touch with you shortly. And thank you for trusting us with your outdoor living needs.

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

If you like it then you better put a roof on it…

Archadeck of Central Georgia just completed this stunning covered porch addition in Warner Robins, just off Hwy. 96 in the Brantley Subdivision.  In their quest to add more shade and function to their existing raised concrete patio, the homeowners reached out to us for the best advice.

Open Porch-Warner Robins

Initially, they were considering the notion of adding a pergola over top the patio. However, since the footings were already poured, we offered the second option of a porch cover, since it would be more advantageous for delivering shade and protection from inclement weather.

Archadeck of Central Georgia used beefy columns for the addition to complement the architecture of the existing home. To compensate for the two 2nd story windows just above the addition, we designed an almost flat, shed roof. The roof is built using a modified bitumen rolled roof which we carefully matched to the home’s existing color shingle.  The result is a porch cover that appears to have always been part of the original home.

Warner Robins-Porch-Patio

Patio covers, such as this one, might just be the greatest thing to happen to outdoor living since patio furniture or the advent of the backyard grill! This addition is perfect for porch parties and backyard barbecues. By opting for a roof cover instead of a pergola, this family now can enjoy their patio safe from the elements and impervious to the changing seasons. Like the title says; if you like it then you better put a roof on it…

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

Contact us to learn more about all the ways we can improve your existing outdoor space, or create a new one from scratch. You can reach us by phone at (478) 745 – 2000 or via email at centralgeorgia@archadeck.net.

 

 

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.

Archadeck of Central Georgia builds an open porch in Warner Robins GA that opens up a world of outdoor living possibilities for these homeowners

Poolside open porch in Warner Robins GA
Here is a peek at this lovely poolside open porch addition in Warner Robins!

Take a look at our recently completed project in Warner Robins GA. Our assignment was to come up with a roofed outdoor design to convert a patio into a covered patio/open porch. The homeowners had a raised concrete patio with brick skirting. The homeowners shared their need for relief from the hot sun that constantly beat down on the patio. They wanted a refuge from the heat and a place to cool off and relax after a swim in their backyard pool which is a few short steps away. They wanted a shaded area on the patio so they could utilize the space for what it was meant for.

Beautiful rustic interior shot of open porch in Warner Robins GA
Overcoming the obstacle of the home’s interior cathedral ceiling made for a stunning finished porch interior– breathtaking!

Several other builders looked at the project and each informed the homeowner that the design they had in mind just wasn’t possible. The biggest issue was the way the design and structure would attach to the back of the house. The home’s interior had a 2-story cathedral ceiling so there were no floor joists to connect to. In order to accommodate their desire for a covered porch space, we had to design a dual roof tie-in to make the structure fit. We used a combination shed and gable roof. We had to do some really unique things to make the structure sound. These included adding collar ties and using some innovative corner posts to support the roof. We then shared the drawings with the local inspector to have the design blessed before we began. We also contacted the county to make sure the footings were inspected properly. Many contractors would not have gone the extra mile to ensure approval of the design. Archadeck of Central GA always takes extra measures to ensure our projects will be approved by inspectors when we’re finished.

The guttering feeds down into two rain barrels enabling the homeowners to use the water collected for other purposes within the landscape — the new addition is built with an eye on recycling natural resources with less of an impact on the environment!

Before open porch
Before
Lovely view of open porch from across pool by Archadeck of Central GA
After.

The project integrates the wrought iron railing and large columns that were already part of the existing patio. The completed structure is very large and quite dramatic. It adds loads of beauty and appeal to the home, the pool and the landscape. These Warner Robins homeowners are elated with their new outdoor oasis and cannot wait to test it out once the hot Georgia afternoon sun reaches its fevered pitch. The new covered patio/porch has opened up a host of outdoor living possibilities.

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

If you have an outdoor oasis in mind for your backyard and have been told the design you have in mind is not possible, contact Archadeck of Central Georgia. Our innovative backyard living designs go the extra mile in terms of beauty, enjoyment and possibilities. (478) 745 – 2000
centralgeorgia@archadeck.net

Please visit our porches photo gallery and our patio and hardscapes photo gallery located on our website  for more unique examples of our unique outdoor room designs.

 

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.

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.

 

Archadeck of Central GA walks you through choosing the right roof for your Macon, Warner Robins porch

3-Season Sunroom in River North Macon GA
This 3-season room in River North features a gable style roof with an open gable to let more sunlight in the space.

Homeowners look to me for guidance in choosing the right roof style for their porch addition. When it comes to the subject of roof styles, sometimes what the homeowner visualizes isn’t a viable option for their porch. Taking the existing home configuration and any second story elements into consideration can eliminate a specific style roof. For example, elements like 2nd story dormers and windows will immediately limit the style of roof you can use. Much of the time the right roof style comes down to the process of elimination.

milledgeville-porch
This open porch in Milledgeville, GA uses a gable style roof with an “open rafter” detail that adds aesthetic appeal.

Gable roofs are by far the most popular choice among homeowners. We often hear the gable roof come up early in the design process as a first preference. We always talk homeowners through the details of each roof style and the variable costs of each style. Even though a gable roof may be possible architecturally, it may cost considerably more than choosing a shed roof for example. The most important aspect is choosing a roof style that will work most easily with your existing house. The next step is to walk you through your options and give you the pros and cons of each option so you make an informed decision.

Learning roof styles

  • Gable Roof – a gable roof resembles a triangle with two sides sloping down from a center line. Gable roofs are the most popular roofs in outdoor structure design.  The most requested roof is a gable roof with an open gable that allows sunlight to fill the room. A gable roof can sometimes be the easiest one to attach to the house, especially with a sidewall porch connection.
  • Hip Roof – a hip roof has 3 or more sides that all slope downward from a common point. Hip roofs are generally chosen to match the roof of an existing hip roof home. If your porch is facing south then a hip roof will provide more shade to the space. This roof style will cut down on some of the sun that enters the porch and make it more comfortable to use in the summer months. roof-styles
  • Shed Roof – a shed roof is a flat roof that slopes in one direction from the home.  If your porch will have a house connection, a shed roof is usually the easiest choice from a cost and construction standpoint. In order for a shed roof to work with a roof connection, the roof of the house has to be higher than the shed.  Tying a shed roof into the existing roof of your home is not economical.
  • Flat Roof – a flat roof is built from the same principles as the shed roof. A flat roof usually has less slope and is horizontal or nearly horizontal.This roof is sometimes used as a last resort when a gable or shed roof is too difficult or too expensive. We suggest a flat roof when there are windows or dormers on the 2nd story you don’t want to cover. Flat roofs are not completely flat as their name would have you think. Flat roofs contain a slight incline that is usually 2 inches for every 12 feet to make sure water will not pool and cause damage. The biggest reason we steer away from flat roofs is the debris that can accumulate on a flat roof. This is especially a problem if your porch is located in a location with a lot of trees. Debris on a flat roof can act as a dam and prevent water from running off properly. Flat roofs can “bog” up with leaves, sticks and other debris which can lead to moisture problems and eventually leaking. Flat roofs require maintenance twice a year to prevent debris accumulation. Maintaining a flat roof requires someone climbing onto the roof and blowing off the debris. If you are not prepared to do this, or hire someone to do it for you, then we recommend not considering a flat roof as an option for your porch.
    Porch - Westchester - Macon GA
    This stunning open porch in Westchester was built with a flat roof.

Archadeck of Central GA always goes over which roof style will work best from a construction standpoint. You need to always consider what the roof is going to look like from underneath. We always ask the homeowner if they are building the porch for themselves, or for their neighbors to look at. The visual appeal of the roof style you choose is an important consideration when looking at the space from all angles. Here is a checklist of other determinations to consider before you begin designing your new porch.

  • Shape of existing house’s roof or wall we’re attaching to
  • The shape of porch itself
  • Distance out from house or distance across the house
  • Whether you’re going to attach to roof or house
  • Cost
  • Direction of sun
Screen Porch Warner Robins with hip roof
This screened porch in Warner Robins was built using a hip roof.

All these factors will influence the roof style you choose. It is always important to seek the professional advice of your outdoor structure professional to consider which roof style will work best. Archadeck of Central GA is an expert in porch design. We can consult with you and prepare a 3-dimensional rendering of your porch before any soil is disturbed to begin construction. This visual will give you the insight of what your porch will look like. Our rendering service also makes it easy to amend or change any portion of your design before we break ground.

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

If you are considering a porch addition and need guidance in choosing the best architectural elements for your desired space, we can help. Contact Archadeck of Central GA to help you choose the best roof style for your new porch today. Call for a free consultation (478) 745 – 2000
centralgeorgia@archadeck.net

To see more example of various roof styles please visit our porches photo gallery and our outdoor rooms photo gallery located on our website.

Read this before you finish your plans for your new Macon Warner Robins backyard pool addition

Ipe Deck at the pool in Warner Robins GA
This stunning Ipe deck in Warner Robins, GA makes the perfect spot to soak up the sun by the pool.

If you are considering a big enhancement to your backyard this year, planning properly can save you time and money. Adding a large scale backyard enhancement such as a pool or a pool with a patio/deck can be a daunting task. The key to the successful completion of each phase of your backyard endeavor depends heavily on good planning. I am often approached by homeowners and asked at which stage of their pool addition they should contact us to begin planning the deck, porch, or patio they anticipate adding in the near or distant future.. The answer is to contact us immediately upon making your decision to go ahead with a large-scale backyard enhancement. Many contractors don’t stress the importance of planning and having a detailed finished backyard vision going into a project.

Central GA poolside gazebo in Macon
This Central GA gazebo serves as a shady spot and impromptu covered porch with a custom bridge that leads to the homeowner’s backyard pool.

For example, what would a pool be without an accompanying outdoor space? This space could be a pool house, a cabana or covered porch. Even a waterfall or koi pond can benefit from an adjoining space such as a paver patio surround or retaining wall to place plants and flowers.

Contacting Archadeck of Central Georgia prior to breaking ground for your next outdoor project will ensure you have a master plan to guide you through the stages of enhancing your outdoor area.  A master guide is especially important if your addition involves something like relocating sprinkler heads. A little foresight into your anticipated project will save time and money later. Important considerations like electrical and plumbing can be planned or hidden. Hiding the pool pump/filter system and wiring as well as masking the noise that is generated by these pool pumps can be designed into your project early on so you won’t have headaches or surprises later.

outdoor kitchen-warner robins
This outdoor kitchen and hardscape patio opens the door for abundant poolside entertaining opportunities.

We can work along with your pool contractor to make sure the digging and needed utility lines are ready for future growth. We can build your deck, patio or cabana before, during or even after your pool is installed. Doing this planning prior beginning your project will mean a smoother construction with less turf or lifestyle distraction later.

Archadeck of Central GA can also help you plan for the backyard of your dreams on a budget. Our planning and project scope precision will enable you to build your project in stages over a period of months, or even years to give you the benefits of improving your backyard over a span that makes sense for you financially.

Pavilion Next to Pool in Macon GA
A poolside pavilion provides shade and room for a myriad of outdoor activities.
Stephen Denton, owner of Archadeck of Central GA
Stephen Denton, owner of Archadeck of Central GA

If you are planning the addition of a water feature and outdoor structure combination, such as a pool and pool house, contact Archadeck of Central GA today. We can sit down and map out the order and importance of each stage of your project to ensure your project runs smooth as silk. Call us for a free consultation today (478) 745 – 2000
centralgeorgia@archadeck.net

You can get more visual ideas about poolside outdoor spaces by visiting our deck galleries and our shade structure galleries located on our website.

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

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

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

 A better design for structural integrity

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

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

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

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

Who doesn’t love a front porch?

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

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

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

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

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

These Warner Robins Quail Run residents’ backyard goes from plain to perfect

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The Belgard patio that surrounds the pool also includes a special paver made especially for the edges of pools. It delivers a smooth, eased edge to ease into the pool painlessly.

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The improved porch which overlooks the pool in this Quail Run backyard includes mosquito curtains that provide function and airy beauty as they flank the porch corners when not in use.

Have you ever been thumbing through one of those dreamy home and garden magazines and found that perfect picture that represents exactly what you are looking for in your dream backyard? These residents in the Quail Run community of Warner Robins, Georgia had a great backyard pool with a concrete apron surround but it didn’t have the character and outdoor living appeal they were looking for. Archadeck of Central Georgia took their cues from the homeowner’s desires to turn their backyard into a haven of style and function that looks like it rolled right off the pages of Southern Living magazine.

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This view from the rear backyard shows the patio, outdoor kitchen and fire pit area and how it "gels" together perfectly.

The existing area around the homeowner’s pool was a concrete apron with no special features. It only served the purpose of having somewhere solid to enter and exit the pool, and a level place to put outdoor furniture. They wanted an area for entertaining with lots of open space, which would also have close access to the pool especially since the homeowners really enjoy entertaining friends and family. The home also had an existing porch which overlooked the pool and the porch had some drainage issues. To solve the drainage issue, we installed a drain between the pool area and the porch/kitchen area. The drain is very subtle aesthetically and completely does the job functionally.

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The custom wood burning fire pit sits atop the beautiful hardscape patio in hues that blend perfectly.

They wanted to complete the perfectly picturesque project in stages, the first of which was to improve upon the area around their pool and add a new drain for the porch. They also wanted a fire pit and an outdoor kitchen. The outdoor kitchen was to be part of the second stage of the project, but we were able to modify the plan to better accommodate their needs and include during the first stage.

The area around the pool was transformed with a custom hardscape patio using Belgard Holland Stone in the spice blend color and installed using a dramatic herringbone pattern. We then used an alternate Belgard patterned stone called Urbana stone that incorporates a special paver that goes around the pool that has an eased edge. We also drilled anchor holes into this edge for the pool cover. We worked around the pool’s diving board because the pavers changed the elevation of the pool surround.

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The outdoor kitchen includes many amenities, including a Primo Grill and Kegerator.

We carried the elegant hardscape design into the outdoor kitchen area as well using Belgard’s Weston stone wall pavers. We used soldier course on the light posts and within the kitchen between the cabinets and the top of the kitchen island. The outdoor kitchen has many amenities for the homeowner’s convenience including a burner, grill, Kegerator and a Primo Grill egg shaped smoker. Any guests’ fortunate enough to be invited to this Warner Robins residence will benefit from the tasty treasures cooked up in this complete outdoor kitchen area.

The custom fire pit area contains a wood burning fire pit with a drain which is important to keep moisture out and away from the pit to prevent rain from damaging the fire pit components. We finished out the design with four light posts on the corners which match the fire pit and kitchen. All wiring is hidden from view under the hardscape pavers. For added convenience we also installed mosquito curtains on the porch that overlooks the pool to keep the homeowners and their guests concentrating on their menu and not worrying about being on the mosquitoes’ menu on those wonderful evenings when they entertain.

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Picture perfect and ready for outdoor living this season.

This finished project exudes elegance, function and harmony as one area flows effortlessly into another. In the case of this project the basics were already here, the design of this backyard just needed direction and expert design to bring it to life.

Contact Archadeck of Central Georgia to learn how we can take your everyday backyard area into something beyond the usual, something extraordinary. We can take the potential your outdoor living area already has and improve upon it, or even build your dream backyard starting from scratch.

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

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

See more images that could challenge the pages of your favorite magazine by visiting our patio and hardscape gallery located on our website.