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Archadeck of Central Georgia perfects the lakehouse deck with this low-maintenance beauty in Beaver Glen

Beaver Glen lakehouse Fiberon decks
This Beaver Glen lake house deck delivers form, beauty and function in one outdoor living space.

Take a look at this picture. Then, close your eyes and imagine the smell of the air, the feeling of the sun, and the sound of the breeze. Now take a look at the picture just below and ask yourself if that is where you had imaged being? You can see how the right design can change the way you perceive the experience. Why squander your backyard experience because of a poorly designed outdoor living space?”

Before Lakehouse deck
Existing deck before we began the project.

The story of this Warner Robins homeowner’s lake house deck began when they contacted Archadeck of Central Georgia to provide a quote for a larger deck. Their existing deck was not only small; it also only provided access to the deck via their bedroom which had become an imposition when entertaining guests outdoors. The Beaver Dam residents wanted a larger deck that would afford them a sitting area as well as an area to grill and dine outside. A top priority for  the homeowners also included a deck that could be accessed from the home’s interior living room for all to easily enjoy.

The old deck had been built with two steps down from the door of the bedroom entrance which needed amending. An important design prerequisite included the homeowners’ wish for no stairs to ascend from the deck onto the ground. This was intended to address two reasons; 1) the sloping ground below would make adding stairs difficult 2) for security reasons.

Archadeck of Central GA proposed Warner Robins lakehouse deck in Beaver Glen
Archadeck of Central GA proposed Warner Robins lake house deck in Beaver Glen

Archadeck of Central GA went to work on designing a plan that would cover all the bases of a deck that provided the living space the homeowner’s yearned for to enjoy their breathtaking view. With some design changes from the homeowners we developed a new plan together. Then we took down the entirety of the existing deck and started afresh in building the new, larger deck of their dreams.

After completing the deck we removed the existing window within the living room/den area of the home and replacing it with a double door which provides easy access to the new deck. The new double doors happen to be perfectly in line with the home’s front door revealing a clear view of the lake from the moment you enter the home. Upon removal of the old deck we noted it had not been flashed properly so we replaced the damage siding for the homeowner as well. We built the new deck using Fiberon Pro-Tect decking which offers all the low-maintenance benefits and quality at an affordable price to keep costs down. The color we used is Gray Birch from the Pro-Tect line which looks elegant paired with the Fortress Iron black metal pickets we used.

Beaver Glen Macon Warner Robins lakehouse deck builder
Tranquil lakefront views abound from this new Warner Robins deck.

The finished project delivers a large, quality built, low-maintenance deck that provides incredible views to the lake. The new deck also guarantees convenient access and traffic flow from the main living area onto the deck making entertaining and everyday use effortless to say the least. These Beaver Glen homeowners are elated with their new deck and the difference it has made to the way they live in their home!

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

To learn more about taking advantage of your property’s special features like a lakefront view or special backyard garden within your outdoor space, contact Archadeck of Central GA today. We can design a deck, porch or patio that is a pleasure to use from every angle.
Call us for a free consultation today (478) 745 – 2000
centralgeorgia@archadeck.net

See more Central GA decks that enhance the view by visiting our decks photo gallery, including our composite and PVC deck photo gallery and our wooden deck photo gallery located on our website.

With outdoor kitchens, it starts with men’s favorite outdoor apparatus – the outdoor grill

North Macon outdoor kitchensOutdoor kitchens really revolve around the grill. The grill is the centerpiece of the outdoor kitchen because all food prep, cooking, and serving are dictated by the primary outdoor kitchen activity which is grilling. Finally mens favorite outdoor tool becomes the center of attention. The size of the bar, design of the bar, and placement of the kitchen revolve around the cooking apparatus. It has to be in a spot where the cook will enjoy cooking. It’s a great idea to have an overhang on the outside of the bar to allow people to congregate and interact with the outdoor chef.

The next steps in planning an outdoor kitchen are to determine other amenities and to determine materials. First let me say that outdoor kitchens are not for everyone. Although they’re very pretty and very functional; a lot of money can be wasted if the outdoor kitchen. People are often surprised by the cost of the outdoor kitchen. They can run anywhere from $10,000 – $30,000. This sounds like a lot but in comparison, an indoor kitchen remodel can easily be between $50,000 – $100,000. This sounds like a lot but in comparison, a kitchen remodel can easily be between $50 – 100,000. Indeed there are non-permanent grill/sink/refrigerator combos that can be purchased at big box stores. But, these won’t feel like an outdoor kitchen.

outdoor kitchen-warner robinsDetermining the other amenities is the next step in planning your outdoor kitchen. Options include a refrigerator, warming bins, drawer components, griddles or smokers, and possibly a sink. A refrigerator is a no brainer. It can be used to hold refreshments as well as items for cooking.

Next you’ll want to think about powering your outdoor kitchen. Do you want to have a functioning sink for food prep or rinsing? You may need to run water and sewer to the sink. Do you want a grill or other components that run on gas? You may need to run the gas line to the outdoor kitchen unit. Your kitchen will most likely have outlets to plug in blenders, lamps, or even laptops. This requires running electricity from the house. There are some ways to make this less expensive and we work creatively with our customers to create the space that’s right for them.

outdoor kitchen area-warner robinsFinally, decisions need to be made about materials. The kitchen surround can be brick, paver, stone, or even wood.  Then there’s the countertop. Like inside the home, you may use granite or quartz. There are good alternatives for outdoors that are less expensive but customers are often surprised that the countertop can be one of the most expensive elements of the outdoor kitchen.

From a construction perspective, this seemingly relatively small area can take a lot of hands to build. There may be up to 5 crews that are involved in building the outdoor kitchen. These include the framer, mason, plumber, countertop guy, electrician and the appliance guy.

If you’re considering adding an outdoor kitchen to your backyard, it can bring a whole new space to your home allowing hours of family enjoyment and entertaining possibilities. Although the project is certainly a bit more complex than it looks, there are ways we can help keep the price down. Give us a call for a free consultation about building an outdoor kitchen at your home. Call our office at (478) 745 – 2000 or drop us an email at centralgeorgia@archadeck.net.

Stephen Denton, owner of Archadeck of Central GAFor more pictures, please see our outdoor kitchen photo gallery on our website.

 

Archadeck of Central GA answers the question of how low can you go with this low to grade deck and pergola combination project

design for new deck pergola Macon GAOur feature story this week is a  newly completed deck and pergola project in Central Georgia that is anything but ordinary. This particular deck is what we refer to as ultra low grade. This means the deck itself sits less than one foot off the ground. The completed project includes a pressure-treated deck with standard pressure treated railings. The railing also includes a custom gate to ensure the homeowner’s small kids stay on the deck and their dog stays off. We also built a stunning pergola over the top of the deck for shade and beauty. The pergola is built in a traditional style with pressure treated wood as well. The pergola provides shape and dimension to the deck and makes the perfect place for the homeowners to hang a ceiling fan.

In scenarios such as this, we usually prefer to build a paver patio in lieu of a deck because of the close proximity of the structure to the ground. Sometimes building a deck this low to grade can present issues because the lack of required space below the decking boards required for ventilation. Many times this absence of space will cause the decking planks to cup. Often, moisture that occurs naturally in every landscape will cause the deck to stay wet on the bottom. This moisture is usually not an issue because there is generally enough space under the deck to allow adequate ventilation and air flow ensuring the decking boards dry out appropriately. In the case of ultra low-to-grade decks, the bottom is more likely to remain wet and swollen for long periods while the top of the same board will dry and shrink. This opposite action on the same board will cause it to cup.

Low to grade Deck Macon GAIn most situations we prefer a distance of 16″ below the deck. There are some PVC decking boards on the market that don’t require this However, in our experience the best way to prevent cupping is to use a pressure treated wax injected wooden decking boards. This wax is the same as pre-treating your deck so the deck will not require sealing  for a few years. However, the sun will degrade the wax over time and the deck will have to be sealed annually after that.”  In this project, as with many of our low-to grade-deck designs, the bottom of the deck will be protected because this area will never have contact with the sun and the wax will never be burnt off. The only other instance when Archadeck of Central GA recommends using this product is when the customer is interested in selling their home in the new few years. This product ensures the homeowner’s will not have to perform any additional maintenance prior to moving.

The homeowners are very happy with their finished deck and pergola. The low-to-grade design adds a unique character to the rear of the home. These clients are looking forward to the outdoor living season and the opportunity to spend cherished family time on their new deck in the years to follow.

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

If you have a unique deck design in mind and are uncertain of how your idea will look or function in your landscape, contact Archadeck of Central Georgia. Our expert design experience and realistic renderings can help you determine if the outdoor space you have in mind is the best fit for your existing home and landscape. Call us today for a free design consultation at (478) 745 – 2000 or email us at centralgeorgia@archadeck.net

Please visit our wood decks photo gallery and our composite and PVC decks photo gallery for more examples of our deck designs.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

A Central Georgia pergola adds just the right amount of personality and panache to any outdoor space

Paver patio in Macon GA
This paver patio and pergola combination in Macon, GA is a good example of the shade a pergola can provide in a sunny spot.

Whether you call it a pergola, a trellis or even an arbor; this outdoor structure is so much more than just another pretty face. No one can deny the beauty and presence a pergola can add to a backyard space. A pergola addition can add definition to an area but can also provide much needed shade.  A well-designed and well-placed pergola addition can add just the right amount of shade to an adjacent interior space. One of the benefits of a pergola is a reduction in cooling costs to an adjacent room based on the degree of sun protection your pergola provides. Although it can reduce the direct sun, it often still allows light to the adjacent room.

Statham's landing pergola in Warner Robins GA
This pergola design in Statham’s Landing shows a fiberglass column and wood combination construction.

Typically the most common material used for pergola construction is wood. But, there are also a wide range of different materials that can be used including low maintenance materials. Our customers often prefer real wooden pergola construction either opting for pressure treated pine or rough hewn Cypress. One popular request is a cypress pergola with a wide spacing between the joists and lathes. This gives the pergola a more rustic appeal. If formal is more your taste, we can combine fiberglass columns along with wood for the top of your pergola.

In terms of coatings, if you use wood, we can use a solid sealer for a more formal look or a clear sealer to allow the natural graining of the wood to show through.  Another viable option, especially in commercial pergola construction, is the use of vinyl and aluminum. The only drawbacks to using these materials are the price point and certain size limitations.

Central GA side entrance pergola
This stunning Cypress pergola gives the side entrance to this Central GA tons of personality.

Typical pergola construction consists of beams, joists and lathes which comprise a three layered design. In some cases we install a second layer of joists to deliver a four layer design. We may also install a denser layer of lathe to give the pergola a more masculine look. The distance between the joists and lathe can make a huge difference in the design of your pergola and the shade value and the aesthetic you are seeking to achieve. In pressure treated pergola designs we always advise installing the lathes closer together because over time pressure treated wood can warp. Closer lathe placement will help overcome this problem. Rounding out your pergola design can include decorative cuts such as ogee ends, or a 45 degree cut. These details may seem small but they influence your completed pergola aesthetics immensely.

Never forget the direction of the sun in conjunction with your home and placement of your anticipated pergola design. The back of your house may receive too much sun making it unbearable to enjoy during certain times of the day. With this in mind, we can design a pergola to block a percentage of the sun. For more sun protection, we can add an extra layer atop your pergola to add more shade. One such option is using a sun screen. We’ve had tremendous success with sun shades by Phifer. We work in conjunction with Encore design and construction on all of our sun shade installations. One of the biggest benefits of having a pergola is being able to mount an outdoor-rated ceiling fan. Not only does the addition of the ceiling fan aid in air circulation within your pergola it also helps cool the space on those hot Georgia afternoons!

Pergola Macon
This pergola in North Macon makes a grand entrance complete with Roman columns and Corinthian caps. The structure above and around the columns is cypress.

 

Contact Archadeck of Central Georgia to learn more about the perfect outdoor space and companion – the pergola. Call 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

You can see more inspiring images of pergolas in many backyard settings by visiting our pergola and trellis photo gallery and our patio and hardscapes photo gallery located on our website.

Archadeck of Central Georgia reveals the top 3 ways to perfect your patio

Paver patio in Macon GA
This paver patio and pergola addition is a great example of extending an inset rear patio and cultivating it into an outdoor oasis.

Many new or previously owned homes are built with a small concrete inset patio on the back. These consist of a rudimentary concrete floor that extends out six to eight feet and in some cases they may be covered. The dynamics of one of these boringly basic patios is they are not big enough to enable function. They are not large enough for a formal eating area or a formal seating area making them an area that lacks function or direction. In these situations Archadeck of Central Georgia can extend your patio insert out to make it more functional. Extending a “builder grade” generic patio like this can also open up a world of possibilities to further enhance this living space making outdoor living more advantageous and making the space more aesthetically appealing.

In general, homes that have this type of patio inset are usually built on a slab foundation. To make your patio more open to extension and enhancement we suggest pouring additional concrete to this area or adding a paver patio. We can make the area more spacious by adding more floor space of even adding a roof. Another option is to screen in the existing area as is and add more additional floor space outside the bounds of the patio. Once you make the decision to improve upon your inset patio, there are many options available to enhance the area and nurture it into the patio space of your dreams. Archadeck of Central GA has three suggestions to make your patio the perfect patio.

Creating a safe haven 

Screen Porch Warner Robins with hip roof
Adding a protected structure such as a screened patio is a perfect way to enhance your backyard patio.

Protected outdoor spaces such as screened patios and 3-season rooms offer a refuge from bothersome insects such as mosquitoes and the dangerous UVA and UVB rays from the sun. Central GA summers can be humid and hot to say the least. Turning your boring patio into a protected area can easily be accomplished with aluminum or traditional wooden structural reinforcements. One consideration is to choose a roof style that will work well with your existing home. Roof lines are important when adding a roofed structure because you want your roof line to work well with any existing windows, doors, dormers or other bump out features of your home. Adding another level of convenience is an option by choosing the addition of an Eze-Breeze window system. These systems turn your screened porch into a 3-season room with sliding vinyl window panels that give you the option of choosing how much or how little window to utilize. If you want to keep the feel of an open space and still gain protection from mosquitoes, then adding mosquito curtains to your covered patio design is also a viable option.

Is it a porch or is it a patio?

milledgeville-porch
This covered patio in Milledgeville, GA delivers aesthetics and function under one roof.

If you have a patio and you want to build it up to include a porch we can inspect your footings to ensure they are sound enough to hold a porch. If your home is built on a slab the thickness is generally 3.5″ to 4″ thick and footing would have to be built on top of the slab to create a porch. Many times with patio porches, homeowners choose to leave the floor concrete and use indoor/outdoor rugs to cover the floor. This is a great idea and can also be a means to pull color and texture into the space. If you aren’t really into that look then we can cover the concrete with pavers. We have access to the thinner pavers that are used to cover concrete patios for this very reason. We have had great results from this product.  The biggest difference in choosing a concrete or paver patio versus a traditional wooden structure is the price point. Another factor is the distance of your front yard (or your driveway) to your back yard. Easy access to the rear of your home with a truck full of materials is a big deal. Having a way to easily get them where they need to be is a huge consideration.

A pergola will add panache to your patio

Fan pergola in  Jones County Macon GA
This fan pergola in Jones County serves as much for shade as beauty atop this patio setting.

Pergolas are hands-down one of the most stylish outdoor structures on the market today. There is a lot more to a pergola than just a pretty face. Pergolas add shade and intimacy to your outdoor space. Archadeck of Central Georgia offers a host of unique pergola designs in a myriad of materials from rustic wood to ultra-low-maintenance vinyl. Flanking your patio with a triangular or fan pergola will add depth and personality to your patio. Adding a traditional four corner pergola will add elegance and timeless appeal to your patio. Using a pergola to partially cover your patio is a great way to put a new spin on your backyard by thinking out of the box while not breaking the bank.

If your patio needs a facelift to improve its form and function, contact Archadeck of Central Georgia today. Our expert design and quality construction can help make the improvements that will make a huge difference in how your family lives in your outdoor space! Call us today for a free consultation (478) 745 – 2000

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

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

Archadeck of Central GA is now offering Fiberon Pro-Tect

Fiberon Deck in Macon GA
Fiberon is one of our top picks for low maintenance decking options,

As an outdoor structure expert we are dedicated to ensuring the products we use on all our outdoor structures meet or exceed our quality standards. In the low-maintenance decking options, there have been a couple of generations of growth and enhancements. When these products first came out, they generally included a combination of plastic and wood fibers – thus the composite name. The next generation of synthetic outdoor building products were solid plastic products which provided greater performance and stronger warranties. In an effort to offer customers the best of both worlds, synthetic companies now offer what is called capstock or wrapped product. This product has a composite core but is wrapped with PVC. This lowers the cost while maintaining the performance of a PVC product.

We are now offering Fiberon Pro -Tect decking to our central GA Archadeck customers. Pro-Tect is a capstock composite made by Fiberon. Fiberon’s Pro-Tect is different because it uses a unique manufacturing process which produces a great looking product that mimics the look of real wood. Pro-Tect is wrapped on 3 sides (traditionally 4 sides are wrapped) and provides superior low-maintenance attributes at a competitive price.

Pro Tect color swatches
These are the color swatches for Fiberon’s new Pro-Tect line of decking.

When you are comparing the price difference between composite and capstock there is not a huge price difference. When you move from capstock decking to PVC there is a significant price difference. The only drawback to solid PVC is the aesthetic. Many homeowners feel that solid PVC decking looks too artificial to suit their tastes. capstock takes the best of both worlds from composite and PVC and mingles them together.

Pro-Tect looks great. Many happy customers have concluded that Pro-Tect doesn’t look like plastic. This new line comes in five rich, fade resistant colors that require no staining or painting. Pro-Tect has 3 colors that we offer here in Central GA – Chestnut, Gray Birch and Western Cedar. The color choice works well with a wide range of settings and complements a myriad of color schemes in your outdoor space. Pro-Tect’s product line also includes rail caps and steps. Pro-Tect is backed by a 20-year, limited warranty for stain and fade protection. Pro-Tect also resists mold and mildew. The quality and price point of Pro-Tect means more homeowners can enjoy the benefits of real, low-maintenance decking.

Western Cedar Fiberon Pro Tect
Here is a photo from the Fiberon website showing a deck finished with Pro-Tect in Western Cedar.
Stephen Denton, owner of Archadeck of Central GA
Stephen Denton, owner of Archadeck of Central GA

If you are considering adding a deck, porch or other outdoor space to your home this year, please contact Archadeck of Central Georgia. We can help you decide which type of material is the best choice for your anticipated outdoor space. Call us for a free consultation today (478) 745 – 2000 or email centralgeorgia@archadeck.net

See more fabulous low maintenance decks including Fiberon, by visiting our deck photo gallery and our composite and PVC  deck photo gallery 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.

One important secret to our success is having crew members steeped with talent, trust and teamwork

Archadeck-of-Central-GA-CREWS-Copy
Archadeck of Central GA crew members from left to right, Jay on left, Zeke next to him, other son Jacob, Mike, and myself.

At Archadeck of Central GA, many factors go into the quality of our work and the way we do business. These include experience, training, knowledge and a great track record for customer satisfaction. Another factor that determines the quality of our work is our crew. Archadeck of Central Georgia employs only experienced crews that come with trust and work quality from working together as a team for many years. Our two lead carpenters have been working with us for over 12 years.

pouring the aggregate base
It is all about teamwork. Here two of our crew members work together pouring the aggregate base for a paver patio.

Combining trust and teamwork adds a lot of value for Archadeck of Central GA customers. The team enjoys working with each other, trusts each other, and has chosen to work together year after year after year. This speaks volumes about the way we do business. Our ethic and commitment to quality is evident in everything we do. Our crews operate as well-oiled machines.

Archadeck of Central GA and our crews

When I bought the business in 1999, three crews came along with the business. One of these crews did not work out immediately. They were taking too long to get the projects completed.
The remaining crews went on to do their own thing shortly after I purchased the business. So I was looking at being without a crew. I asked our bookkeeper (who had dealt with every construction crew in the area)  whom she felt the best two crews in town were. I was able to hire those two crews (Jay & Mike) and they have been with me for over twelve years now.

Our 1st crew consists of a father/son team that have worked together since the son was 9 years old. His son, Zeke would come out and help Jay, his Dad and learn valuable knowledge of the trade. That same son is all grown up now and will soon be starting his own crew. Jay’s other son Jason is also part of this crew. Jay can build practically anything in the back yard. He specializes in decks and porches and also builds our paver patios. Jay is very organized, keeps his work site super clean and is very fast.

Archadeck building a paver patio
Each of our crew members brings a special talent to the job site.

Our 2nd crew is managed by Mike who is excellent at building decks and porches. Mike is also talented with aluminum porches and aluminum work. For aluminum porches, pergolas, and anything that needs fabrication like welding, Mike is the man. Mike is also very people oriented and our customers love him.

The reality of being an outdoor structure builder is when you are trying to put together an experienced crew, the nature of the trade attracts people who can only work well in temporary type basis. Since construction is a temporary type work, finding the right people can be a hit or miss situation. There is a reason why people look for short time employment and it typically is because they have challenges in their lives. Many times in this trade you can hire someone who has some experience and you may get lucky and get them when they’re doing well. But you might also get unlucky and get them when they’re not doing well. Finding the right individuals to make up a good crew can become like playing a game of Russian roulette. Archadeck of Central GA is fortunate to have two fine-tuned crews. When you decide to use us to create your outdoor living space, you get the peace of mind in knowing you are getting a knowledgeable, experienced team that resembles a family unit.

Having this unified team is a benefit to our customers for several reasons.

Warner Robins GA composite deck
Results like this are achieved through a team that works together and trusts one another.
  •  We know each other and how each of us work. Lines of communication are open so the projects work very smoothly. There’s no learning curve
  •  These guys specialize in doing Archadeck construction and they know things like span charts, footing sizes, etc. so they don’t need to look them up.
  •  Because they’re used to working in people’s back yards, they understand they are not working on a work site where nobody’s living. They are clean cut, they clean up when done, and don’t throw trash.
  • Our crews have a proven track record because they’ve been doing this so long
  • Our crews are stable since they’ve been with us a long time. They’re not going to end up in jail and will not come to work under any influence.
Stephen Denton, owner of Archadeck of Central GA
Stephen Denton, owner of Archadeck of Central GA

If you foresee an outdoor living project in your future, we can ensure your project is completed with the utmost professionalism and quality. Our outdoor spaces embody quality and expert designs. Contact Archadeck of Central GA for a free consultation.

You can see more examples of our quality workmanship and professionalism by visiting our deck galleries, porch galleries and our hardscape and patio 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.