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A hot tub deck in Centerville, GA quickly becomes the center of attention in this backyard

spa-deck- macon-GA
This spa deck in Macon, GA is a pristine example of a sunken hot tub deck. Note the clean design and dramatic view.

It is always good to hear from past customers especially when they are adding on to their project. One of our “in progress” projects we are working on is for a customer we built a beautiful deck for a few years back. They called us to add a portion to his existing deck in order to accommodate a hot tub. Hot tub decks are the ultimate spot for relaxation and comfort.

This customer needed additional space built onto their existing deck for their new hot tub. Adding a hot tub to an existing deck is not as easy as it seems. Hot tubs can hold in excess of 4,000 pounds of water. Water weighs approximately 8.35 pounds per gallon and an average hot tub can hold 600-700 gallons of water. When you add-on the weight associated with using a hot tub that can push the weight up to over 5,000 pounds depending on the number of people your hot tub can accommodate. Adding a hot tub to your deck requires substantial structural reinforcement underneath in order to safely operate the spa and keep your deck structurally sound. We always build the foundation and platform to bear the weight of the hot tub. We also always build the area to easily take on an 8′ x 8′ spa; this way if you change the hot tub out in the future the platform will still work.

Hot tub deck and outdoor fireplace combo.
This decks design incorporates the elements of water and fire with a spa flanked by a stunning outdoor fireplace located on the adjacent patio.

In this particular project the deck’s location and the home’s low to grade design gave us no other option than to place the hot tub on the top of the deck. We often build hot tub decks with the hot tub sunken which not only delivers a dramatic look, it is also recommended for homeowners using their spa for therapeutic reasons because it is easier to enter and exit the hot tub when it is sunken. Whether you choose to have the hot tub sunken or at bench height both will help address the individual functional issue of your space.

We often use bench height hot tub installations. When we do this we often build a bench directly next to the hot tub so the homeowner can simply swing over the bench and slide into the hot tub easily. We can also add the bench to the edge of the deck so the control panel is easily accessible when the hot tub needs maintenance. One dilemma with under deck installation is the difficulty in getting to the control panel and often times we construct a trap door to take care of this obstacle.

hot tub-deck-macon GA
This bench height hot tub deck in Macon, GA is even a hit with the family dog!

When our customers ask if they should purchase their hot tub before they have the deck built, it is not a prerequisite. Our main concern is that we are aware of the shape of the hot tub you are intending to purchase, and we can begin building to suit that shape. Another heavily requested item for hot tub decks is the addition of a pergola over the hot tub. Pergolas look great when paired with hot tubs and offer added privacy and shade to the homeowners; a winning combination indeed.

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

If you are considering the addition of a hot tub to your deck, whether you intend to build a new deck or add a space large enough to place a hot tub, we can help. Our unique deck designs and expert craftsmanship will have you soaking up in style and safety. Contact Archadeck of Central Georgia today.
Call for a free consultation:
(478) 745 – 2000
Email: centralgeorgia@archadeck.net

See more stylish hot tub and pool decks by visiting our decks photo galleries located on our website.

Bring home an exotic beauty right here in Central Georgia with an outdoor structure built from stunning Ipe Brazilian hardwoods

Central Georgia Ipe Decks
This deck in Forsyth, GA was built using Ipe and features an elegant black metal custom rail.

Out of all the materials available nowadays to use in building your outdoor structure, Ipe is among the strongest and most beautiful. Ipe comes from South America and is classified as an exotic hardwood. Ipe’s, rich, dark tone varies from board to board giving it an exotic look. The real advantage to using Ipe is its density and strength which make it a solid material to use on decks, porches and other outdoor structures.

Ipe is dense enough that it sinks in water. Its density requires that it be pre-drilled in order to be fastened. When fastening an Ipe deck we use stainless steel screws called head coat screws, which are brown to blend seamlessly with the decking itself. The ends of the Ipe boards need to be treated when they are cut during installation to avoid cracking. If you are dealing with a contractor that is not familiar with working with ipe then you usually end up with split ends from not treating the ends of the boards. Ipe is so dense that it doesn’t absorb much water which results in a lack of the normal expansion and contraction that are seen with other wooden decks.

Ipe pool deck in Macon GA by Archadeck of Central GA
See the beautiful rich dark shades in an Ipe deck.

Ipe is real wood, so it does require maintenance. It ages at about 1/10th the rate a normal pressure-treated wood deck does. But since it is wood, it can absorb enough moisture to cause cupping, splitting and warping over a long period of time. In order to maintain the beauty and life of your Ipe outdoor structure, we recommend applying an oil or sealer twice during the first year of installation and repeat this on an annual basis to maintain the deep, rich color. If you do skip a few years, you can pressure wash it and apply sealer which will cause it to revert back to its original color. The cost on an Ipe outdoor structure project is comparable to composite, PVC and synthetic materials.

ipe-deck-warner robins GA by Archadeck of Central GA
Ipe pool deck in Warner Robins GA

You may have noticed Ipe wood used at commercial venues. It was used by some of the Walt Disney Parks as the primary material for many of their bridges and boardwalk constructions. It is also used at the New Jersey boardwalk. Ipe also works great on docks and outdoor structures in close proximity to water features such as pools and spas for its resiliency near water. Because of the life span, strength, and durability of Ipe, it’s a great choice for commercial as well as residential applications.

When we use Ipe on a deck railing, we will often use pressure-treated wood rails with Ipe caps. The combination works very well when the pressure-treated wood is stained with Cabot’s Jarrah brown stain that perfectly mimic the look of Ipe. On the Ipe itself we use natural Australian timber oil to keep it in tip-top shape from the beginning.

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

If you are ready to transform your backyard space by adding the tropical beauty of Ipe Brazilian hardwoods, contact Archadeck of Central Georgia to assist you in your outdoor structure choice that best suits your needs and lifestyle. Call for a free consultation:  (478) 745 – 2000 Email: centralgeorgia@archadeck.net

See more beautiful hardwood decks, including Ipe decks by visiting our wooden deck gallery located on our website.

An AZEK synthetic deck is low maintenance and nice looking to boot

macon-azek-morado-acacia Archadeck Central GA
This deck was built using the beautiful Morado and Acacia colors in the Arbor collection by AZEK, just two of the many stunning colors they offer.

There have been many advances in composite/synthetic decking since it debuted on the market. For one, the category was previously classified as composite decking when the products within the category were all a “composite” of wood and plastic. Since then, the category was reclassified as “synthetic” products were introduced such as decking boards made of solid PVC. Now, the term “synthetics” captures composite and man made materials as well as the a new hybrid board.

Composite decking was the first synthetic material to hit the scene. It consists of a wood pulp blended with plastic for added strength and durability. Composite is readily used today and still provides a stronger and lower maintenance deck than that of pressure treated, and other woods commonly used in decking.

A new product called capstock is composite that is wrapped with a durable layer of vinyl PVC around a composite core. Many in the industry refer to it as a “composite hybrid”.

Chippendale patterned deck in Midgeville, GA
Intricately detailed features such as this Chippendale patterned deck in Milledgeville, GA respond beautifully with the use of capstock synthetic decking.

Synthetic decking has the highest level or performance. While composite provides protection from splitting, splintering, rotting, termites or fungal decay, synthetic PVC decking provides all of these protections and also provides protection from stains and fading.

At the top of the solid PVC list is AZEK decking. AZEK is a solid PVC which is stain and scratch resistant. This includes resistance to scratches made from patio furniture and pets. It will also stand up to the all-American cook out better than any synthetic on the market because it is resistant to spills like grease, ketchup and even red wine. AZEK is highly recommended for use around pools, spas and even on piers and docks because it is impervious to moisture as well as insects because it is constructed of solid PVC. This material is also split resistant and mold and mildew resistant as well. A deck built with AZEK is truly the deck that keeps on giving year after year.

AZEK Acacia from the Arbor Collection
AZEK Acacia from the Arbor Collection

Synthetic decking is not the perfect choice for everyone. One major objection is the initial cost vs. the cost of pressure treated southern yellow pine decking. However, if you are going to live with the deck or porch for more than 5 to 7 years the cost of paying someone to maintain the decking will be recouped. And afterwards you are saving money!

Once upon a time, synthetic decking had limited color choice options which was a drawback for homeowners. That is not the case with modern synthetics. In our area the two most popular colors are Acacia and Morado, which are both part of AZEK’s Arbor Collection. Each one of the AZEK colors has graining and undulation that mimics the look of real hardwoods beautifully. Acacia is a stunning, rich dark brown and Morado is a mid-tone that is similar to the look of antique walnut. We are also starting to see their new color Cobre come into the spotlight with its tan-brown appearance that we anticipate will be the next most requested AZEK color.

AZEK deck with white railing
AZEK deck with white railing

Choose a beautiful deck with longevity to give you more time to enjoy outdoor living at its best. Contact Archadeck of Central Georgia to learn more about AZEK, and the many other high-quality synthetic decking choices we offer. We can ensure you will be enjoying your new deck rather than maintaining it.
Call 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 stunning synthetic decks and view the many options we have available to suit your lifestyle and your wallet by visiting our composite and Vinyl (PVC) deck photo gallery located on our website.

Building the perfect paver patio is more than just child’s play

Paver patio in Macon, GA
This paver patio in North Macon, GA is built to last for many years to come.

Nowadays, it seems that anything to do with improving your home or landscape can be done by being a do-it-yourselfer. Home improvement projects are idealized all over the media to make projects look easy, even for a novice. The truth is there are certain projects that need to be done by a professional in order to get the best result. One of those projects that are best left to a pro is installing a paver patio. To an amateur, at first glance, it may appear to be a simple task laying out pavers right? Properly installing a paver or hardscape patio is much more complicated than it seems. There is a great deal more to building one than laying some sand and pushing pavers into the ground.

Central GA patio builder macon warner robins
We pay close attention to every important construction detail of our paver patios.

Taking on a task of this magnitude requires knowledge and experience because each patio requires different measures to ensure it lasts and lives up to your expectations. The area you are considering for placement of your patio may need amending to build it up, or in some cases even removing a portion of the soil to make certain the patio is positioned and constructed properly. One common misconception about installing pavers is all you have to do is lay the pavers down on the ground and tamp them down and all is fine. The reality is it may be fine for a short period of time but the ground will move and shift causing the pavers to sink and rise resulting in uneven spaces, trip hazards, and a giant mess. Paver patios require a solid foundation just like building a home or other building requires.

pool paver patio-warner robins
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.

 

There is an art of precision in properly installing pavers. The Dutch perfected and modernized the art in the 1940 s with the Holland Stone Paver. If pavers are installed properly then they can last a lifetime. Take for example the renowned hardscape expertise and craftsmanship used in creating the Great Wall of China. Archadeck of Central Georgia uses the same process and principles used in one of the greatest wonders of the world, in our paver patio construction today.

Our first step is to begin with a solid base, or foundation, to work from. We achieve this by applying a 4 inch aggregate base with an additional inch of sand for the pavers to sit in on top of our foundation. These are compacted with a sled tamper to ensure no movement or settlement in the future. The solid base will ensure the patio will remain flat indefinitely and will keep it from being subjected to freezing, thawing and other soil conditions caused by the rain. The ICPI (Interlocking Concrete Pavement Institute) sets the standards by which paver patios and walkways are constructed. Normally paver patios include a slight slope in order for water to run off. We can also use permeable pavers which allow the water to travel through the pavers. Many times permeable pavers are the perfect answer for yards that cannot be covered in concrete for rainwater runoff by building codes of that area. If you have an area where drainage is not possible, such as a pool or close proximity to a neighbor then these pavers are the perfect answer.

See our paver patio construction pictures below for what is involved in building a professional patio.

Preparing the site for a paver patio
Preparing the site for a paver patio
pouring the aggregate base
Pouring the aggregate base
Placement of pavers
Placement of pavers
Final compaction
Final compaction
Stephen Denton, owner of Archadeck of Central GA
Stephen Denton, owner of Archadeck of Central GA

With all the important basics and nuances that go into constructing a paver patio that will stand the test of time and deliver you years of outdoor living enjoyment, it makes sense to hire a professional paver builder to handle this type of project. Contact Archadeck of Central Georgia to take care of the hard stuff, all you have to consider is the many different ways you will be able to enjoy your structure upon completion.
Call for a free consultation: (478) 745 – 2000
centralgeorgia@archadeck.net

See more beautifully constructed paver patios by visiting our patio and hardscape gallery located on our website.

Fiberon composite decks in Central GA

Fiberon Horizon deck in Macon GA
The realistic beauty of Fiberon is apparent in this close-up of a Fiberon deck we built in Macon, GA.

Using composite or engineered wood for decks is becoming more and more popular. Composites, unlike many wood mediums used in deck and outdoor structure construction, is impervious to many of the hazards that befall decks due to weather, wear, and tear. Composite decking is manufactured by many companies, and many offer a superior product. The front-runners of the industry include TimberTech, AZEK and Fiberon.

Today’s focus is on Fiberon composite decking. The Fiberon Horizon line of decking offers a 25-year stain and fade warranty. Fiberon decking boards use the newest technology called Perma-tech which means the composite is wrapped all the way around each board to make it impenetrable for insects including termites, mold and issues caused by inclement weather.

Macon Ga fiberon deck and pergola
This Fiberon deck in Macon, GA also includes a stunning pergola.

A deck built with Fiberon means less maintenance with only the need for soap and water cleanup. You’ll also never have to worry about staining or painting your Fiberon deck because the color will stay fresh and vivid.

Not only will Fiberon composites look new for years to come, they come in five beautiful colors which have natural wood grain patterns that mimic the real thing. The boards are available in 12-, 16- and 20-foot lengths and come in Ipe, Rosewood, Tudor Brown, Castle Gray and Greystone colors.  The most popular among Central Georgia homeowners are Ipe and Rosewood.  Another popular color choice is Tudor Brown, but is not currently stocked by our supplier but can possibly be special ordered.

Fiberon Horizon color choices
Fiberon Horizon color choices

No matter what color you choose for you composite deck you will get peace of mind knowing you have a quality product that uses the most cutting-edge technology to add to your outdoor living enjoyment. Contact Archadeck of Central Georgia to learn more about Fiberon composite decking and the many other brands we offer to make your backyard the favorite room in the house.
Call for a free consultation:(478) 745 – 2000 or email us at:centralgeorgia@archadeck.net

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

See more beautiful composite decks by visiting our composite and vinyl deck gallery located on our website.

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

pool paver patio-warner robins
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.
screen porch-warner robins
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.

hardscape firepit-warner robins
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.

Warmer Robins hardscape Archadeck of Central GA
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.

outdoor kitchen-warner robins
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.

hardscapes fire pit warner robins GA
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.

What is involved in building a dock at my lakeside Central GA home?

Dock on Houston Lake in Warrner Robins, GA by Archadeck of Central GA
This custom dock on Lake Houston, features a heavenly descending staircase from the backyard onto the dock.

Here in Central Georgia we are fortunate enough to have some of the most beautiful natural settings in the south. Adding to that beauty is the large number of Lakes we have access to in the area. Several lake communities call Central GA home including Eagle Springs Lake, Lake Oconee, Lake Sinclair, Lake Houston and Lake Tobesofkee. Many residents opt to make one of the lakes their home, whether as a primary residence or a weekend home. We have been commissioned to build several docks at lake-home communities here in Central GA.

Perry, GA Dock built by Archadeck of Central GA
The dock we built in Perry, GA features a unique octagonal shape for optimum views of the lake.

Right now Archadeck of Central GA is building a dock for some Eagle Springs residents in Warner Robins, GA.  By building a number of docks in the area we are familiar with the codes and requirements for constructing a dock in Georgia. The most important aspect of building a dock is the fact that in order to properly set the posts the water level of the lake needs to be down. This fluctuates with the varying amounts of rainfall. Since most lakes in the area are governed by Georgia Power, the amount of water that passes through the dam needed for the generation of electricity also influences the water levels. During certain times the water levels may be lowered when drawdowns are scheduled for maintenance of the dams and government mandated flow limits. You can find out the lake levels for those governed by GP by visiting http://lakes.southernco.com/. We also monitor the lake levels so that we can find an opportune time to begin construction on your dock, and schedule your project accordingly.

Waterside porch
A unique take on the typical waterside porch and dock, by Archadeck.

When homeowners decide they want a dock we try to work the construction around fluctuating lake levels, this is important in order to properly set the footings on a new dock. We typically use pressure treated framing materials and posts to build the dock, but you can use a composite material or Ipe as well. PVC is the composite we would recommend if considering using one because it withstands exposure to the water really well. Pressure treated wood will take a beating with the constant exposure to water and will need to be treated annually. Ipe is beautiful but is prone to cup, warp and split even though it ages 10 times slower than pressure treated pine. Inevitably in 10 years the Ipe will look the same as pressure treated does after one year. If you use wood in this close proximity to the water, it will require maintenance more frequently than a normal deck or porch would. When we build a dock we often build stairs descending down to the dock and we also make sure your dock is set at the right point off the water.

Dock and Gazebo in Fortsyth, GA
This dock in Forsyth, GA includes a gazebo, which gives the dock elegance along with a functional shade structure to cast a line on those hot GA days.

If time is of the essence and the lake levels are not where they need to be to ensure proper post installation you may choose to build a floating dock. These are constructed atop plastic pontoons which float on the water’s surface and are always at the same height. This would also make an easy project that you could enjoy while awaiting proper water levels to build a full-on dock. No matter what type of dock you choose to build, lakes that are controlled by Georgia Power have code requirements for building docks, boathouses, or any structure that is built on the lake itself. It is important to know what your county or individual governing body allows. If you know that GA power governs the lake you are on, you can consult your Shoreline Management Guidelines provided by Georgia Power Lakes to view the rules and regulations that could affect your dock construction. All docks require a permit, and we take care of that for you as part of your building package.

If you have a lakefront or lakeside home that would benefit from a dock , contact Archadeck of Central Georgia. We can plan, design, build and schedule your dock in accordance with water level shifts and give you a dock that is sound, and beautiful. What better way to enjoy living by one of Georgia’s most relaxing and beautiful assets. We can make everyday like a vacation for you and your family with a dock.

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

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

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.

BE SAFER with a free deck safety inspection from Archadeck of Central GA

Don’t become a grim statistic. In a six-year period there were

179 deck failures
1,122 people were injured
33 were killed

Deck safety is no accident

Ensure that your deck is safe by following these tips and suggestions from Archadeck Outdoor Living.

Be safer with a deck inspection by Archadeck of Central GA
Be safer with a deck inspection by Archadeck of Central GA

Boards
Look at the condition of your deck boards. Most wood will show some cracks and splits over time, but is the general condition of the boards good, or are the boards splintering and unsafe to walk on?

Every Connection
A deck should be built using a variety of fasteners and metal hardware connectors to create a continuous pathway to ensure deck stability and safety. Check to see if the appropriate fasteners and connectors were used when constructing the deck. The condition of the hardware used and if any of it need to be replaced?

Structure
If visible, look at the posts, beams and joists that provide the structural framework of the deck. What is their condition? Is there any noticeable sagging between supports?

Attachment
The attachment of the deck to the house (at an area called the house band) is the area where most deck failures occur. Pay special attention to this area and check to make sure that the deck is properly attached to the house band with appropriate screws or bolts and that it is properly flashed for water protection. Nails should never be used for this type of attachment.

Foundation / Footings
The foundation / footings receive and support the weight (also known as the load) on a deck and the columns that bear on them. A footing that is sinking may cause a noticeable sag in an area or a column separating from a beam.

Exits
Check the areas where people exit from the deck. These exits usually involve stairs so be sure to check the condition of the material used on the stair stringers, stair treads and risers.

Rails
Look at the condition of the rail posts and sections of railing on the deck to make sure that the railing is secure. Check to make sure that the pickets/balusters are fastened securely and spaced no more than four inches apart.

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

Call us today for a free deck safety inspection at (478) 745 – 2000 or email us at centralgeorgia@archadeck.net. We look forward to your call.