Tag Archives: Archadeck of Central GA

The charm of this front of house deck picks up right where the dirt road ends!

August 19, 2013 admin

: Take a peek at this Macon, GA entrance deck which we are currently working on.

Today we revisit these former clients in Macon, GA. Archadeck of Central GA completed a backyard deck addition for these homeowners when they lived at a previous home. Since moving, the homeowners are ready to build a front-of-house entrance deck addition. Since the homeowners enjoy entertaining a lot, they had found themselves using the front yard often. Since their traditional ranch style home is located on a charming country gravel road, and exudes a country charm, the front yard seems a natural spot to linger while friends, family and neighbors would drop by to visit. With this in mind, Archadeck of Central GA set out to build a front-of-house deck that mimics the same “slow down and stay awhile” approach to outdoor living so prevalent in this area of Macon.

: This is the front of the house before we started the deck addition.

Adding to the charm of the new deck, the home already has a little covered area that is just wide enough to serve as a hallway to the front door of the home. They also have a door that comes out at the opposite end of the home. With the home’s unique features and existing traffic flow in mind, we designed the deck to run from the covered walkway area to the other side of the home where the door is located. The classic ranch style dimensions of this home make the perfect candidate for a front of house deck, as the design of a ranch home lends itself to longer dimensions than other house styles.

Since the house is built with a slab foundation, the existing walkway is still present under the deck. The new deck addition is built with pressure treated pine and features steps on the front that are built all the way across so they can be used as bench seating. We installed the decking on an angle to add visual interest. The deck also steps down to gain access to the door located at the opposite end of the entrance.

: Notice how the new deck addition changes the whole look of this residence into a welcoming outdoor oasis.

This deck is still an in-progress project, but the homeowners were so excited with the deck they have already began moving their outdoor furnishings onto the completed portion of the new space. They are ecstatic about being able to use the new deck in the coming weeks as they have company coming into town to visit.

Archadeck of Central GA wants to remind you to think outside the box when it comes to inspiration for your new outdoor living space. Promoting your individual taste and ideals is often the key to the success and enjoyment of your new space. There are no stringent rules of design when it comes to an outdoor living space addition. If you have a specific style or placement location in mind for your anticipated deck or porch, don’t be afraid to go with it. Remember that your individual living space needs and taste is what makes your new space original.

: Stephen Denton, owner of Archadeck of Central GA

To learn more about our unique custom outdoor living space designs, contact Archadeck of Central GA today, the consultation is free, but the results are priceless – (478) 745 – 2000
centralgeorgia@archadeck.net

Porch builder/contractor, Porches, Screened porches

Archadeck of Central Georgia puts porch perfection to the test as one of Macon and Warner Robins area best porch builders

August 12, 2013 admin

: Screen porch in Milledgeville, GA by Archadeck of Central GA

The role of the porch in outdoor structure design has evolved. Whether the porch is being used as a singular outdoor living space or as the base of an outdoor living combination series of structures, the popularity of the porch is growing by leaps and bounds. We are seeing more open porch, screened porch and deck to porch upgrade requests throughout the Macon and Warner Robins area. With this in mind, it is important to remember that a proper porch construction includes many more components than just building a roof over a deck. The groundwork and substructure that are used to build a porch are much more involved and in order to have a space that is structurally sound, it is important to seek the expertise of a professional porch builder.

Just because a contractor claims they can build you the perfect porch doesn’t mean they can deliver. We put together a checklist of the important points of porch building and why you need to be wary if the only communication you are getting from your contractor is “yeah, I can build it”.

Buyer Beware Porch Checklist – what are the 6 things to be most cognizant about when interviewing a porch contractor?

As with any porch addition, roof tie-in is the first consideration. You need to become familiar with your tie-in options and which area of your home makes the best candidate(s) for the job. Whether the porch is tied into an existing roof or wall, there’s almost always one optimal solution. You don’t want someone to just take your gutters down and attach a fascia board, this is rarely if ever the best way to tie-in your porch addition.
When Archadeck of Central GA builds a porch roof we use traditional framing methods and we always match the shingles to the existing shingles of your home. We never use aluminum pre-fab roof panels and as a homeowner you need to make sure the structural and aesthetic qualities of your existing home will be adhered to during your porch addition. A well-designed and built porch should appear original to your existing home once completed, as with any quality outdoor living addition.
If your project involves transforming an existing deck into a porch your builder needs to ensure that the structure for the existing deck is strong enough, or even capable of supporting a roof. Decks are rarely built to hold up structurally to the weight of porch walls and a porch roof. Beware of a builder that tells you your deck doesn’t need any additional support to facilitate a porch addition. Almost every circumstance of skipping out on installing additional strongholds will result in posts and footings that are typically not strong enough to do the job.

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.
Make sure your builder goes over all your porch flooring options with you including adding screening under the deck boards to keep bugs from coming into your porch from the underneath. Make sure you are consulted with about the best flooring options including tongue and groove, cement, pavers, and pressure treated decking. Having a complete list of choices available at your fingertips will enable you to make a more informed choice and will make you happier with your space.
Your builder should also discuss the importance of traffic patterns within your porch. Traffic pattern will minimize surprises in how your outdoor furnishings will fit realistically within your porch and also how doors will impact your flow to and from your porch. Consider the door(s) that lead from your house into the porch, and also the door that leads you from the porch into the yard. Your builder should go over how each will affect your space and placement needs. Making sure your doors are in the right place to minimize the impact of traffic flow within the living area of your porch will ensure your porch is dedicated to outdoor living rather than just a way to access your yard from your house.
Additional space may be needed outside your porch, grill, smoker or even an outdoor kitchen. This is especially important with screened porch additions. An experienced builder will ask questions regarding your individual desires and needs to help your consider spaces to place these items.

You know the old rule regarding a one-way conversation, questions indicate interest. Make sure your builder is listening to your specific needs and is interested in providing you the best porch addition he/she can. When selecting a contractor, pay close attention at the questions they ask you which will quickly help indicate the amount of experience they have and if they are even qualified to build your porch.

Archadeck of Central GA has been specializing in quality, upscale outdoor additions since 1991, including many, many open porch and screened porch projects in the Macon and Warner Robins area. When we meet with you to discuss a porch addition for you and your family we actually listen to your wants and needs in order to provide a porch that will not only meet, but exceed your expectations. Contact Archadeck of Central GA today to learn more about building your perfect porch (478) 745 – 2000
centralgeorgia@archadeck.net

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.

Deck builder, Professional outdoor structure builder

Archadeck of Central GA explores the reason you might not want to embark on doing your own deck expansion

July 23, 2013 admin

: Archadeck of Central GA has restructured the deck so the screened porch they anticipate can be easily added in the future.

I recently had the opportunity to meet with some Macon homeowners who lived in the lovely St. Croix subdivision right here in Macon. When the homeowners initially called me to inquire about adding an outdoor living space to their backyard, they were looking to add a pergola and then a screened porch addition a little later. The pergola was to be built on their existing deck. They wanted the pergola added after making some alterations to their existing deck which included having the deck flooring re-done, some steps moved and a new updated railing.

When I arrived to inspect the homeowner’s existing deck, the deck was actually two decks. The 1st deck was built on cement columns and was built really well structurally. The 2nd deck was another story; the previous homeowner had completed a deck expansion himself. He had added three feet onto the side of the 2nd deck which was out of level and leaning. The structural issues had to first be fixed for the safety and integrity of the entire space before the pergola addition and other reparations completed.

: These Macon homeowners now have a safe deck to enjoy complete with a new floor and rails.

In order to proceed with their anticipated project, we had to first do a lot of repairs. Unfortunately, repairing the existing deck ate up the budget for the next phase. This instance is a good example of why choosing to embark on a backyard project of this magnitude as a do-it-yourself backyard project is not a wise idea.

Deck safety is not to be taken lightly. In a six year period in the US there were over 179 deck failures and 1,122 people were injured as a result of deck failures, of which 33 people were killed. To ensure your deck is safe we recommend using an experienced outdoor structure builder to inspect, design and install your deck. This will allow for carefree function of your outdoor living space, and confidence in knowing your family and friends are safe enjoying the space!

Some of the amendments that were necessary to ensure the deck was safe and sound for the homeowners to use included adding a beam, adding new posts underneath the deck, doubling up on joists and installing a new deck band. We also had to rebuild the stairs because they were ready to fall off the structure. There was a large seam where the two decks met that had to be repaired. The homeowners had hoped that this installation would be the first phase of a two-part outdoor living project, which unfortunately turned into a three-part project to get everything up to speed. Archadeck of Central GA was not able to complete the pergola addition because the budget was exhausted to fix the deck so it would be ready to accommodate both the pergola and screened porch.

: This design rendering shows what the space will look like once the porch and pergola are completed.

These Macon homeowners now have a safe deck to enjoy complete with a new floor and rails. We re-decked the area with pressure treated pine with a matching rail. Archadeck of Central GA has restructured the deck so the screened porch they anticipate can be easily added in the future. We even installed screen under the floor of the future porch area to ensure no bugs will enter the future screened porch.

The lesson learned here is that in order to reinforce an outdoor living space you really cannot afford to cut corners because it will end up costing more in the long run – in time and money. When considering a deck or other outdoor living space expansion it is crucial to have it completed by a licensed outdoor structure builder to ensure the safety and welfare of you, your family and all who plan to utilize your outdoor space.

: Stephen Denton, owner of Archadeck of Central GA

If you are thinking of taking on the task of amending or expanding your existing outdoor space on your own, we urge you to leave it to the pros at Archadeck of Central GA. Remember that a deck is only as strong as its weakest point and we build all of our structures with strength, safety and longevity in mind. Call us today for a free consultation (478) 745 – 2000
centralgeorgia@archadeck.net

See more examples of out craftsmanship and quality by visiting our wooden deck photo gallery and our porches photo gallery located on our website.

Paver patios & hardscapes, Porch builder/contractor, Screened porches

A revised design plan that includes a patio and screened porch opens up a world of outdoor living possibilities for these Macon, GA homeowners

July 23, 2013 admin

: Our recently completed screened porch and patio addtion in Macon, GA gives this family the backyard space of their dreams.

I always love to watch the homeowner’s reaction when they realize that Archadeck of Central GA is able to make their vision of the backyard they dream about a reality. This aspect of my job is part of what makes it all worthwhile. In the case of these Macon, GA homeowners that is exactly what happened. They had an existing small deck which sat about 12′ above a raised patio that was about 3′ off the ground. The existing outdoor living space was too small to use it the way they wanted to because the sun beat down into all the time, making it cramped and unbearable under the Georgia sun. Their present deck was also in close proximity to a creek that ran through their backyard. Although soothing to listen to, the creek brought an exorbitant amount of mosquitoes into the backyard. When the homeowners contacted us they were ready for a change for the better. Since their previous home had a porch, and they really missed it, they made the decision to add one, they called us to make it happen.

: Here is the original deck before we began the project.

In order to put together a design that would give the homeowners the most benefit, we had some specific lifestyle needs to consider. The homeowner’s share their home with their children’s family who frequent the home on a regular basis and stay for extended periods of time in the lower level of the home. With this in mind, we needed to design a space that provided separation as well providing a space that could be shared.

Archadeck of Central Georgia designed a space that made all parties involved happy. The project consisted of building a screened porch on the upper level that was much larger than their original space. We designed the porch with ample room for a seating area that would comfortably facilitate a table and 6 chairs, and is still roomy enough for both families to gather in harmony. The screen porch provides a shaded area to escape from the heat and gives the homeowners relief from the mosquitoes coming up from the creek. We installed tongue and groove flooring in the floor of the porch so when you are in the lower level of the updated space you will see the charming flooring used on the porch when you look up. The porch floor serves as the ceiling for the patio below.

: View of the new upper level screened porch addition from the backyard – majestic.

The lower portion of the space includes a patio with railing since it sits 3′ off the ground. We also poured a secondary patio adjacent to the initial patio space that leads out into the entry stair to the porch above. This patio is 16″ lower than the other patio which makes the perfect spot to hold the homeowner’s hot tub now located at the lowest end of this patio. The placement of the hot tub makes it easier to get in and out of. We placed the stairs up to the screened porch between the patios which connect to a landing large enough to hold a grill both families can utilize. Archadeck of Central GA only screened in the upper porch but built the patio screen ready if the homeowners ever decide they want to add it. We also added ceiling fans, electrical outlets and flood lighting to both level of the project for added security and comfort.

: The new lower patio makes the perfect spot for the family’s hot tub.

The finished space fulfilled the homeowner’s vision of what they had in mind and they are elated with their new outdoor living areas. Their extended family were up visiting just this past week and were just as excited about getting a chance to try out the new space for the very first time. Another job well done!

If you have a master plan for your backyard Archadeck of Central GA can design and build the backyard of your dreams sooner than you ever imagined. Contact us today for a free consultation (478) 745 – 2000
centralgeorgia@archadeck.net

: Stephen Denton, owner of Archadeck of Central GA

You can see more backyard transformations by visiting our porches photo gallery and our patio and hardscapes gallery located on our website.

Vinyl window for porches

Archadeck of Central GA takes the screen porch through the looking glass with a more versatile enclosure system – vinyl windows!

July 8, 2013 admin

: This 3-season room in Forsyth, GA was enahnced with the addition of Eze-Breeze vinyl windows.

Screened porches are a wonderful asset to your backyard enjoyment. They offer protection from nuisance insects like mosquitoes. Screened porches also offer protection from the sun’s harsh rays, and can be used during times of inclement weather where other outdoor spaces cannot. Just when you thought the benefits of screened porch living couldn’t get any better along comes another way to extend and enhance your screen porch experience – vinyl window enclosures!

The vinyl window enclosure system we use the most often here at Archadeck of Central GA is the Eze-Breeze vinyl window porch enclosure system. This system provides floor to ceiling visibility for panoramic viewing. The windows are safe when installed in dimensions of over 10 ft. and provide shatterproof enjoyment because they bounce back from backyard collisions such as the occasional pop fly ball when playing backyard baseball. These vinyl windows are extremely durable and rugged 10-mil vinyl glaze panels. This flexible material is transparent but is not breakable and will not shatter like glass. If distorted in some way, the vinyl returns to its original shape in minutes. If the vinyl is cut or severely damaged it can be easily replaced, unlike glass which is more difficult and costly to replace.

: Eze-Breeze is strong and durable.

The panels come in two versions, vertical four-track that glide up and down for that screen porch feel and horizontal for full view. This system is easy to use; with just a touch of your finger they will open from the side and gently roll on corrosion free nylon rollers. They can be used on almost any size opening making them one of the most versatile vinyl windows for screen porch makeover products on the market. Maintaining your porch using these windows is also a breeze, with powder coated aluminum framing they are lightweight, durable and nearly maintenance free. Just simply clean with mild dishwashing detergent and clear water rinse and the panels tilt in for easy cleaning.

Eze-Breeze vinyl window enclosures can be used on almost any size opening giving your screen porch makeover a customized look. The system consists of special designed panels that allow for 75% air flow versus standard window which allows for only 50%.If you choose to use horizontal panels, these will provide full air flow.

: Archadeck three season room with Eze-Breeze windows.

Another benefit all Central Georgia homeowners can relate to is the amount dirt, debris and especially pollen that enters your screen porch space each season. Having to deal with the constant chore of cleaning your porch in order to use it can become a headache. With an Eze-Breeze vinyl window enclosure system, these issues become a thing of the past because these particles cannot penetrate the window system. An added bonus is that they offer some protection against high allergy pollen counts to allow you to enjoy the outdoors. Even if you sometimes suffer from allergies caused by oak pollen, pine tree pollen, cedar pollen, or others, these screen porch windows may help to reduce the pollen count so you can breathe easier enjoying a pollen free porch!

Contact Archadeck of Central GA to learn more about our screen porch makeovers, it doesn’t get any easier than adding vinyl windows such as the Eze-Breeze enclosure system to create your own versatile screened porch or three season room. Call today for a free consultation (478) 745 – 2000
centralgeorgia@archadeck.net

: Stephen Denton, owner of Archadeck of Central GA

See more vinyl window screen porch makeovers by visiting our screened porch photo gallery and our three and four season room photo gallery located on our website.

Outdoor rooms builder/contractor, Professional outdoor structure builder

Archadeck of Central GA points out that you don’t need a home builder to do a remodeling project nor do you want one

June 21, 2013 admin

If 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

: 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.

: 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

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.net

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

The Archadeck dream makeover contest is over but you can still live the dream in your Central GA backyard!

June 12, 2013 admin

: This elegant entry pergola was built as part of phased building project we completed which encompassed multiple outdoor living structure additions over an extended period of time.

Archadeck recently completed its Dream Home Makeover contest and some lucky Iowa homeowners took the prize. Just because the contest is over doesn’t mean you can’t still have your own dream backyard! Many of our clients plan their dream backyard and build it slowly over the course of a 2, 3 or even 4 year period. Being able to build the backyard of your dreams in phases as your lifestyle and budget permit is all part of our phased building program here at Archadeck of Central Georgia. Many times, our customers will come to us with a master plan in mind for their backyard. Other times, we will work together with the homeowners to create a master plan. No matter what type of outdoor living space we discuss building for our clients; we always ask them about their future building plans because if they have hopes for expanding their backyard space in the future we can incorporate the structural requirements for future additions into the outdoor space we are building for them. The cost to build scalable foundations to expand upon in the future is very minimal and it is only a small additional cost to build a deck with the footings to support a future roof or porch. Here are some of the stories and happy endings from multi-year phased building projects we have completed for our customers.

: This screened porch overlooks the tranquil Koi pond, just as the vision these homeowners had imagined.

Our first story involves a backyard dream come true that involves four outdoor living projects within a 6 year period. The homeowners came to us with an elaborate idea of what they had in mind for their backyard. Their vision included a deck, screened porch, koi pond with an adjoining creek with an entrance into the backyard that featured a pergola. Archadeck of Central Georgia went over their master plan and knew we would be able to complete their backyard vision over an extended period of time. We began the project by building the deck first, which down the road was converted easily into a screened porch because of the structural components we built into the deck from the beginning. The following year we completed a secondary portion to the deck and shortly thereafter we completed the remainder of the second deck. The screened porch was designed as a freestanding structure which sits above the lovely koi pond.

: This is the lovely deck Archadeck of Central GA built as one of the phases of this outdoor living dream come true!

: This greenhouse was also part of the master plan.

Our second focus project involves many different projects in one backyard and was built over a 3 year period. To add to the complexity of this project the homeowners were working on remodeling their house as well. We started this project with a rain deck built from aluminum LockDry. We then went onto build a greenhouse, and garden garage for them. Archadeck of Central Georgia also constructed a chicken coop pergola for these homeowners. The chicken coop pergola was designed with a closed in poured concrete area for the homeowner’s chickens and is probably the nicest chicken coop in the entire state of Georgia! The final stage of this project was to build an additional deck onto the side of the house for these customers.

: This custom chicken coop has to be the finest chicken abode in the state of GA!

: Notice how the deck is incorporated into the Koi pond- the ultimate relaxation spot.

These projects will give new insight into just a few of the benefits our phased building program can provide. Sometimes homeowners know they want a phased project, other times they know what they want but don’t know how they are going to bring their outdoor vision to life. Archadeck of Central GA can assist you in coming up with a master plan to obtaining the backyard of your dreams so it can evolve over time. The most important part of gaining direction over your backyard is to decide on the spaces you want it to include. We build a lot of decks for customers who intend to build a porch onto it afterwards. If there’s is even an idea of adding a porch, such as a screened porch later, keep in mind it is a minimal cost to build a stronger support system into the deck with that in mind up front. Waiting until later to add these supports will actually cost more. Another key item to keep in mind if you intend to add a hot tub to your outdoor space in the future is that they will require special footings for safety and structural integrity and often these cannot be added later on down the road. In the case of hot tubs the amendments must be added at the time of construction. Another space upgrade worth mentioning to us is the probability of adding an outdoor kitchen in the future, this way we can plan the necessary fundamentals into your outdoor space up front to save you a lot of headaches, and money in the future.

: Stephen Denton, owner of Archadeck of Central GA

If you are ready to begin working towards fulfilling your outdoor dream backyard makeover, contact Archadeck of Central GA today to learn more about our phased building program that will make each outdoor transition easy and budget friendly.Call us today for a free consultation (478) 745 – 2000
centralgeorgia@archadeck.net

You can see more examples of successful backyard dream spaces completed via our phased building program by visiting our deck photo galleries and our outdoor living photo galleries located on our website.

Decks, Free deck safety inspection

Is your Central GA deck an accident waiting to happen?

May 30, 2013 admin

: There is no place like a home with a quality built deck.

Decks are a staple of outdoor living. It’s important to ensure your deck is structurally sound in order to take advantage of all the ways it can benefit your home and lifestyle. In a six-year period there were an estimated 179 deck failures which resulted in 1,122 injuries and 33 deaths. These grim statistics may come as a surprise to many Central GA homeowners, but deck safety is no accident. In observance of May being Deck Safety Awareness month, Archadeck of Central Georgia wants to ensure you or a member of your family doesn’t become a casualty as a result of an unsafe deck.

: This local deck collapse made headlines.

When you look at the big picture of deck safety, there are no deck… accidents. An accident is something that occurs unexpectedly. Deck failures are a result of shoddy workmanship or creating a deck that will not hold the capacity which it will be subjected. Archadeck of Central Georgia feels that deck failures are very preventable occurrences and not accidents at all. A good example of placing your safety on the line is hiring a cut rate builder to construct your deck. If you choose this route to save a few bucks, you are taking a chance that really isn’t worth the savings you gained. If a deck is built by a seasoned, reputable builder, it is built correctly meeting or exceeding building codes. Unfortunately, in the world of outdoor structures there are no police force for bad builders.

As part of Archadeck’s “Be Safer” deck safety program, Archadeck of Central GA was featured on NBC 41 WMGT to talk about the importance of making sure your Central GA deck is safe in time for the debut of the outdoor living season.

As a recap of this informative interview, here is a handy checklist of things homeowners can do to prevent having a deck safety issue:

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

1) Get your deck inspected by a professional. Archadeck of Central GA offers a free deck safety inspection for those who contact us. We also urge homeowners to be an active participant in the safety of their deck. Gain a sense of the basic components of your deck’s construction.

2) If you are adding-on or re-doing, make sure you use a qualified builder. If you choose Archadeck, remember that the builder will always have Archadeck clearly visible on their shirt. If you choose another builder make sure they have a contractor’s license. You can verify this by visiting the Georgia Professional Licensing website at https://secure.sos.state.ga.us/myverification/. It is also important to make sure your builder pulls all the necessary permits to build your deck. Check their references thoroughly! If a builder does not provide this up-front, ask for them. In many cases a cut rate builder will not offer references to avoid the homeowner learning the truth. That may be proof they have something to hide.

There is no better deck for safety than one built by Archadeck. We don’t believe in cutting any corners, especially where our clients are concerned. Let Archadeck of Central Georgia build your dream deck with maximum safety in mind. That’s what we do. Contact us today to schedule your deck safety inspection, and to schedule a free consultation (478) 745 – 2000 • email: centralgeorgia@archadeck.net

: Stephen Denton, owner of Archadeck of Central GA

Please visit our website to view our wide selection of quality deck designs, including our wooden deck photo gallery, and our composite and PVC deck photo gallery.

Decks

Archadeck of Central Georgia emphasizes the power of choosing the right railing for your Macon, Warner-Robins deck

May 27, 2013 admin

: Wooden deck railing on multi level deck in Macon, GA.

There is a large variety of deck railing options available to homeowners nowadays. Choosing the right railing for your deck can make it stand out from the crowd of average decks. A unique style, material, pattern or color is a great way to add character and give your space an extra heaping of style. With so many choices it can be difficult to choose the railing that will work best in your deck setting. There are no design rules you have to abide by when choosing your railing, but you can use other variables of your deck’s design to help make deciding a little easier. You can choose to match your railing to the floor of your deck, match the window trim color present on your home, or even match your deck’s railing to the color of the home itself. All of these options are aesthetically correct and making the right choice all comes down to your personal tastes and your budget.

: Ipe deck in Fortsyth, GA with wooden rail and metal pickets with basket motif and Ipe rail cap.

In terms of choosing the railing material for your deck space, there are a lot of different options from a picket standpoint. With wood, for instance, you can choose a classic Chippendale pattern to spice things up a bit, which consists of pickets designed in a distinct pattern where one picket is square and the other is elongated. Archadeck of Central Georgia typically mixes a Chippendale pattern along with some straight railing so it is not overwhelming to the eye. There is also a baroque style railing that is lovely. There are many arched style railings as well as straights with basket and without. Most of the metal railing pickets come in either black or white, which can add drama to your deck space through the contrast of your decking color and the trim on your home. Glass pickets are another option and are highly desired in locales that include scenic views such as lakehouse decks, and decks that overlook other outdoor living spaces such as pools. Glass railings can be used to deliver an unobstructed view, and to add contemporary modern style to your deck space.

: Chippendale patterned wood railings mixed with straights on composite deck in Macon, GA.

If you are looking to carry the versatility of low maintenance into your deck railing, there are actually more composite railing choices than there are composite decking materials. All the reputable composite manufacturers offer composite railing options to match their flooring, as well as in traditional black and white colors. Even if you have a composite deck, it’s not necessary to also have a composite rail. Even wood railing will not hold water like that of a flat surface, so mixing mediums within your deck space when it comes to railing and decking material is alright. Composite railing with metal balusters is very popular right now, and is also a viable railing option.

: Glass Railing on Lake Oconee lake deck by Archadeck of Central GA.

When you consider the railing color options the sky is the limit! Wooden railings can have a sealer and stain applied in a rainbow of colors. There is also the option of using a solid white stain; we recommend the ones made by Cabot. If this is applied correctly stain and sealer can last up to seven years before your need to reapply. We can also leave your wooden pickets natural, this is a popular choice when homeowner’s have wooden decks. This option enables the matching of floor to railing. We generally seal the rail cap in this situation.

Archadeck of Central Georgia keeps a close eye on design trends in gauging what is hot and what’s not in deck design. Black metal pickets in two different sizes used in unison with wooden railing are a trend we are seeing a lot of right now. This also helps keep costs down without sacrificing style. Chippendale pattern deck railing is always a best seller. Glass pickets are really hot around lakes and pools and are actually not as expensive as you may think. Composites are the dark horse of what customers are requesting in this region simply because they are more costly than other railing options.

If you are in the market for a new deck, or are interesting in learning more about redecking we can help. Choosing the right railing for your deck can make or break the aesthetics of your outdoor living space, contact Archadeck of Central Georgia today to learn more.
Call us for a free consultation (478) 745 – 2000
centralgeorgia@archadeck.net

: Stephen Denton, owner of Archadeck of Central GA

You can view many more railing options to serve as inspiration for your deck space by visiting our composite and vinyl deck photo gallery, our wooden deck photo gallery and our Ipe deck photo gallery located on our website.

Dock Builder, Lakehouse decks, Screened porches

These Macon residents are lovin’ their Lake Sinclair outdoor living space additions

May 17, 2013 admin

: This Lake Sinclair has become even more treasured by these Macon, GA residents since Archadeck of Central GA added a new screened porch and lakeside deck.

Many times, when you have a summer home, cabin, or lake house; the majority of the time you spend there is focused on the outdoors. The beauty and tranquility of the outdoors is what draws homeowners to owning this type of residence. That is exactly the case with the lakehouse on Lake Sinclair these Macon, GA residents own. The lakehouse is the family’s escape from work, schedules and obligations. It serves as a relaxing getaway spot from the fast pace of the everyday and a great location to spend quality time with their family.

The homeowner’s called Archadeck of Central Georgia to have us extend the outdoor living space at their Lake Sinclair lakehouse. The sun had become brutal on their lakeside enjoyment and nuisance insects like mosquitoes which were eating them alive. Their existing space included a deck that was in bad shape and needed to be torn down to start afresh. This situation was remedied with a new screened porch addition along with a new deck addition.

: The new screen porch provides a protected space free of insects and the hot summer sun.

The deck and porch are really large compared to the cabin style house. The lakehouse is small because this Macon family spends most of their time outside while there. We designed the screened porch to overlook the homeowner’s existing dock which provides a panoramic view of serene Lake Sinclair. The screened porch provides a protected outdoor space where the family can enjoy the benefits of the outdoors without the hot sun and pesky insects. The new deck was built using low-maintenance composite which will look and function like new for years to come.

The gable roof design on the elevated screen porch ties it into the existing home and looks original to the space. The gable also allows for a higher pitch that gives the airy feel of being outside on a porch rather than inside an enclosed area. The new deck adds extended space for grilling and outdoor living and is connected to the screened porch for ease of access in case the mosquitoes make an appearance.

: Stephen Denton, owner of Archadeck of Central GA

This Macon, GA family couldn’t be more elated with their new lakehouse deck and screened porch combination.

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 at your primary residence, summer home or weekend getaway home.
Call us for a free consultation today(478) 745 – 2000
centralgeorgia@archadeck.net

See more examples of summer and weekend home outdoor living space additions by visiting our decks photo gallery and our screened porches photo gallery located on our website.

Macon Warner Robins Decks, Patios, Porches, Pergolas, Gazebos and more