Tag Archives: Archadeck of Central GA

: Screened porches as well as hardscape designs such as patios and outdoor fireplaces remain at the top of many homeowner wish lists as we look to 2013.

Each of us starts off the New Year with aspirations and hopes of improving our lives in the upcoming year. These improvements can include freeing ourselves of bad habits and making changes to improve our health and appearance. Many homeowners begin making changes that will improve our lives and our lifestyle. Adding and upgrading areas in and around your home to get more enjoyment out of your home is at the top of many homeowners’ lists. With this in mind, Archadeck of Central Georgia has compiled a summary of what we see for hot building and design trends for 2013.

Building and design trends in outdoor living for 2013

: This beautiful walkway was built usng Belgard hardscapes.

We are continuing to watch the screened porch market grow. This is especially true when the screened porch becomes a room that can be utilized for 9 months out of the year or even longer with the inclusion of an outdoor fireplace. This is an inexpensive way to add a big living space to your backyard and home.
Hardscapes will continue to be a growth area for us in 2013. Patios are becoming more and more popular in the Central GA market. We expect growth in the higher-end patio build and design market which includes outdoor fireplaces and outdoor kitchens. This is an ideal choice for a patio home with a flat yard or those homeowners who already have a concrete patio which is too small or does not provide adequate function.
Among the top choices for hardscapes is Belgard’s Chattahoochee blend. This beautiful blend contains purples and browns. We continue to get requests for this color, in particular because it contains enough brown to hide dirt effectively.
Multi-area outdoor spaces will continue to grow as well. Multi- area spaces and outdoor living combinations provide multiple uses for one space. People will continue to want to build more outdoor kitchens, and fire pits. These areas can be used on patios and decks to increase the length of usable time for the space.
Fire pits continue to grow in popularity within our market. Not only is the fire pit a relatively inexpensive way to add ambiance and rustic beauty to your outdoor setting, but people really love them.
Interest in composite and PVC (synthetic) decks will continue to grow in popularity in the New Year. Adding a synthetic deck make sense for less maintenance and maintaining your deck’s beauty and value over time.

Screened porches continue to be one of the most requested outdoor spaces for 2013.
AZEK PVC trim boards have started to become popular for people who also want a more finished look to their outdoor space. We can use these to wrap the deck, edge band, column posts and risers in white. Most houses have white windows and trim so the white PVC finishes match really nicely.
A great way to add pizzazz to a deck without adding really expensive custom elements is to use a two-tone color design. This can be achieved with an outline, or even parting boards. This kind of design trend adds little additional cost to the homeowner and adds loads of personality to your deck.
One thing we’ve seen is a great deal of repair work that has been put off with homeowner’s existing outdoor spaces because of the recent economy. The economy is improving and if you are thinking of selling your home, the needed repairs will have to be addressed in order to place your home on the market. Personally, I have seen a number of decks that need repair so we foresee a great deal of safety inspection and repair work in 2013.
Beyond minor repairs, we anticipate there will be some re-decking without changing the size and shape of existing decks as well as adding new railing to many decks to improve the salability of homes. Re-decking can be a valuable way to add beauty and longevity to your deck, this is the case whether you are staying in your home or plan to sell in the near future. Deciding to upgrade to a synthetic will add value over time, and will leave you more time to enjoy your outdoor space without the worry of constant maintenance.
With existing screened porches we are seeing the popularity of converting their screens to EZE Breeze windows. This is the case with many porch owners because it extends the amount of time you can enjoy your space. It also offers versatile function that can enable your porch to function as a three-season, or even a four-season room with minimal effort.

: Stephen Denton, owner of Archadeck of Central GA

Whether you are considering a new outdoor structure addition this year, or are looking to upgrade an existing outdoor space to deliver more enjoyment and appeal, Archadeck of Central Georgia can transform your outdoor space into everything you always hoped it could be. Contact us today to learn more. Call today for a free consultation (478) 745 – 2000 centralgeorgia@archadeck.net Visit our deck gallery, our patio and hardscape gallery and our screened porch gallery located on our website to see more examples of trending outdoor structure designs for 2013. learn more. Call today for a free consultation (478) 745 – 2000 centralgeorgia@archadeck.net

Visit our deck gallery, our patio and hardscape gallery and our screened porch gallery located on our website to see more examples of trending outdoor structure designs for 2013.

Archadeck of Central GA

Archadeck of Central Georgia reflects upon a year of blessings and a wonderful holiday season

December 24, 2012 admin

Stephen and Katherine at the Goodwill Gala

As I take a moment to reflect upon the past year, it is filled with blessings. I am fortunate to say my family is healthy, happy and doing great. My better half, Katherine, is doing well personally and in her personal organization business, myfriendkatherine.com. Katherine is in her 17th year and was specializing in professional organizing before it was the “cool” thing to do. She provides home organization, book keeping, office organization and speaks to professional groups about organizing, planning , and motivation.

Our oldest, Kate, is at Tattnall Academy and she plays on the Varsity Tennis Team. She played her first USTA tournament this year and won the consolidation bracket!”

Our younger children, Keely and Tate, are in the gifted program at Howard.

Keely is playing violin and piano and performing in concerts while Tate is into everything that involves electronics. Among building electronic devices, for Christmas he asked for wires, brackets, transistors and soldering units. I even went as far as to build him a lab in the walk-in attic to further his interest in electronics. I am thankful to have three wonderful children that are devoted to their aspirations and hobbies.

My crew here at Archadeck of Central Georgia consists of the same two lead guys I have had since 2001, Mike and Jay. Zeek, Jay’s son, has been working with us since the tool belt he wore was bigger than he was! Zeek is now old enough to run his own crew and we are hoping when the economy turns he will have the opportunity to run his own separate crew. I am really thankful to have all of these guys.. They are honest, hardworking, trustworthy, and are great to work with. Having this kind of camaraderie makes the business run like a well-oiled machine.

Archadeck of Central GA CREWS — The wonderful crew here at Archadeck of Central GA

With Archadeck of Central GA, we are holding our own in this difficult economy and the future continues to look bright. We keep looking into other outdoor living spaces opportunities in an effort to provide our clients more choices such as hardscapes which have been doing great the past few years. We anticipate that when the economy turns we will be inundated with work. We have seen a lot of projects within homeowners’ backyards that have been put on hold, a number of which are safety issues that are going to have to be addressed. This year in particular I have inspected many decks that are not safe. These have been a result of safety issues that should’ve been addressed 2-3 years prior. We foresee an explosive workload when the economy turns around because people (such as the unsafe deck owners) know they need to put money into their home, but have been holding off until things begin to look better in the economy.

In addition to my many blessings and prosperity in my personal and business life, I have to mention my continued involvement with Goodwill industries and Polly’s Hospitality institute. I am on my 5th year as Secretary on the Board of Directors for Goodwill Industries of Middle Georgia and the CSRA. I am in my 3rd year serving as Chairperson on the Education Committee for Helms College, which is the first accredited college of Goodwill. I am also in my 6th year as serving for the Chairperson for the Tuition Assistance Committee for Polly’s Hospitality Institute, which is the culinary program of Helms College which trains chefs and is accredited through the American Culinary Federation. These organizations are dedicated to enriching the lives of those whom otherwise would not have the means. Goodwill believes in a “hand up” approach rather than a “hand out”, I am proud to be involved so closely with the many facets of this evolving organization which holds a special place in my heart.

From our family to yours, I would like to wish you a Merry Christmas and a happy and healthy New Year!

Stephen Denton, owner of Archadeck of Central GA

Contact Archadeck of Central Georgia to learn more about adding an outdoor structure that will help you enrich the special moments spent with the ones you hold dear. (478) 745 – 2000 centralgeorgia@archadeck.net.

Porch builder/contractor, Porches

This North Macon open porch with covered section provides the perfect spot for entertaining and intimacy within the same space

December 22, 2012 admin

North Macon GA Cypress covered porches — This North Macon outdoor oasis has it all. From a convenient outdoor kitchen wing, to a space to cozy up next to the outdoor fireplace.

It is rare that a single outdoor space has the capability of providing different functions on such a varied scale. By listening closely to the needs of these North Macon GA Homeowners that is exactly what we were able to do. This open porch design that also includes a covered section is a perfect example of a chameleon of outdoor living. Just like the chameleon can change colors to match its surroundings, this outdoor oasis can change within itself to suit the outdoor living needs of the homeowners.

North Macon spa decks — The new location of the homeowner's hot tub makes for endless ambiance and evenings under the stars.

When we initially met with these Monroe County homeowners they had a typical square deck which was not in great shape. The homeowners wanted more space to accommodate their entertaining needs. Since they had guests and neighbors over frequently, they needed to expand their outdoor space to be able to host neighborhood functions easily. Their lifestyle covered everything from block parties to play dates with neighbors and their children. They also had an existing hot tub that was on the patio which they wanted moved to a more convenient location in closer proximity to the homeowner’s bedroom. In essence the space we needed to design had to incorporate intimacy which could also serve as functional space for entertaining with family and friends.

Our design includes an open porch with a covered section and two wings that expand the living space off the sides of the porch. Each wing houses specialized areas to suit the very different functions this space had to master. One wing contains an outdoor kitchen which includes a grill, refrigerator and ample counter space for serving and food preparation. The other wing contains the homeowner’s hot tub. This wing is designed where the bedroom door opens out onto the space. We built a platform to ensure the top of the spa was level with the floor of the deck. We also left one side of the deck wing open with no railing to not interfere with the view of the beautiful backyard from the hot tub, this plays upon the same principles as would an endless pool which is so popular in recreational backyard design right now. Being able to exclude a portion of railing in your outdoor space depends upon the code requirements for your given area.

North Macon outdoor kitchens — One wing of the open porch includes a convenient outdoor kitchen with abundant counterspace for serving and food preparation when the homeowners are entertaining.

We took the design of this outdoor oasis a step further with the inclusion of an outdoor ventless gas fireplace within the covered portion. Because the unit is ventless, it also enabled the homeowners to have an enclosed area above the mantel to house their TV. The custom designed area is built from beautiful cypress wood and functions similar to armoire doors, giving the homeowners the capability to open the space when the TV is in use and close it off when it is not.

The decking and railing are completed with pressure treated wood. To add an elegant touch to the railing, we used aluminum baroque balusters which added a defined curve to the railing as well as visual interest. Since the existing home is stucco, we finished the back side of the fireplace in stucco which matches the home perfectly when you look at the house from the backyard. We included plenty of electrical outlets throughout the space, and added low voltage lights next to the hot tub which are flush with the floor. Cypress was also used extensively within the space. We chose cypress not only for its beauty and rustic appeal, but since it is a local material the prices are quite competitive making it less expensive within our market than other traditional materials.

Since the new space included the deck being an elevated space, the homeowners also have the luxury of a dry space area below the deck which they can add outdoor furniture to in order to have additional space for entertaining or whatever their hearts desire. These North Macon homeowners are delighted with their new outdoor living oasis which provides spacious room for a crowd and still offers the flexibility to provide the privacy and ambiance when they want it..

North Macon covered porch builder — Notice how the covered and open portions of this backyard space flow effortlessly into one another.

Contact Archadeck of Central Georgia to learn more about our unique, diverse outdoor living structure designs. We can customize your backyard to suit a crowd, or just a few. The possibilities are endless. Call us today for a free consultation (478) 745 – 2000 or email us at centralgeorgia@archadeck.net

You can see more examples of chameleons of outdoor living where form meets function by visiting our porch photo galleries and our outdoor living photo galleries located on our website.

AZEK, PVC and capstock decking, Synthetic decks, TimberTech composite decks

Archadeck of Central Georgia explores the differences and similarities in TimberTech XLM and Earthwood Evolutions decking

December 11, 2012 admin

Archadeck Central GA round deck — This stunning rounded deck in Central Ga., was built with TimberTech decking and adds a worry -free, durable material to the already long list of positives in regards to this deck.

Many of our customers here are Archadeck of Central GA look for low-maintenance materials. Low-maintenance materials are available in decking boards, railing, trim, and many of the other building materials for decks, porches, pergolas and other outdoor structures. Of the low-maintenance materials, many customers are familiar with and request composite or synthetic decking. We work with a couple different brands including AZEK, Fiberon and TimberTech.

This week we are focusing on two of TimberTech’s heavy hitters; Earthwood Evolutions and TimberTech XLM. Each of these lines have a lot to offer when you are looking for a high-quality, low-maintenance decking materials.

TimberTech deck Hawkinsville GA Archadeck — This TimberTech deck by Archadeck of Central GA is located in beautiful Hawkinsville, GA.

TimberTech Earthwood Evolutions is what is referred to as a “capstock”composite decking material. This means that the boards have a composite core which is derived from plastic and wood fibers. This core is then wrapped, or capped, with a fully protected poly shell that protects the plank from everyday accidents endured by most decks. This line comes with a 25-year stain and fade warranty. One drawback to this product is since it is softer than a solid PVC product it can scratch more easily. Over time, these scratches will fade and TimberTech also recommends using a Minwax product on any scratches since capstock is neither harder nor softer than wood. A general rule of thumb to consider when dealing with capstock is if an outside influence is capable of scratching a wood decking board, then it is also capable of scratching your wrapped synthetic product too.

The Earthwood Evolutions line includes realistic looking planks in an array of hues with streaking and shading that mimic the look of exotic hardwoods. The colors include Brick, Brownstone, Slate, Pacific Rosewood, Pacific Teak, and Pacific Walnut. Although all of the colors are available some are easily found in stock and some must be special ordered. The special ordered materials are going to be slightly higher in cost. Be sure to ask

Color swatch for TimberTech earthwood evolutions — Color swatches for TimberTech Earthwood Evolutions

TimberTech XLM is another popular synthetic decking board. It is made of solid PVC, which means it doesn’t contain any natural wood fibers. This makes it harder and denser than regular composites or capped composite. Along with added strength and durability, XLM is also backed by one of the strongest stain and fade warranties in the industry. TimberTech XLM decking has a flat-grain surface which aids in being slip resistant which is a huge plus when used next to pools and spas. XLM colors include Mountain Cedar, River Rock, Sand Ridge, Rustic Bark, Harvest Bronze, Harbor Stone and Walnut Grove. This palette includes colors from white, to gray and many shades of brown offering enough diversity to suit any taste and match any color needs you may have.

Hawkinsville-GA round deck Archadeck — Another view of this stunning TimberTech rounded deck in Hawkinsville, Ga.

From a performance standpoint, the solid PVC attributes of XLM gives it the advantage. From a budgetary standpoint, XLM is heavier and a little more costly to ship from point A to point B than it’s lighter counterparts. To ensure you make the best decision for your individual needs and circumstances it is important to discuss your options with your outdoor structure professional.

If you are looking for a low-maintenance decking plank that delivers on its promises, TimberTech is definitely leading the pack. Contact Archadeck of Central Georgia to learn more about this and other synthetic decking choices that will best suit your lifestyle. We can help you decide which product is the right fit for your outdoor living needs. Call us for a free consultation (478) 745 – 2000.
centralgeorgia@archadeck.net

You can see more example of synthetic decks including TimberTech and many others reputable brands by visiting our composite and PVC decking gallery located on our website.

Free deck safety inspection, Professional outdoor structure builder

Archadeck of Central Georgia urges homeowners to use cooler months to have your deck inspected

December 3, 2012 admin

Central GA deck safety — Inconsistencies such as rail and post connections can create a safety hazard on your deck.

The cooler months provide the perfect opportunity to run a check on the safety and stability of your outdoor spaces. Since the late fall and winter are times when most of us are staying warm indoors, now is the perfect time to have a licensed professional perform a deck safety inspection. Making certain your deck is safe and in proper working order will mean you will be ready for the outdoor living season that will be here sooner than you think.

Within the last six years there were 179 nationwide reported deck failures that resulted in 33 deaths and 1,122 people being injured. These accidents are unfortunate because when it comes to deck safety, an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. This is the reason we offer a free deck safety inspection. This program not only enables us to catch a problem before it worsens and puts the safety of your family at risk, it also provides peace of mind.

The North American Deck and Railing Association, (NADRA) urges homeowners to have their deck inspected by a licensed professional to ensure deck safety. “According to NADRA A professional inspection will examine every inch of your deck, provide information on your deck’s capacity limits, identify any dangerous problem areas and give you a map of what to keep your eye on in the future. If your deck is older, this might include a regular deck inspection schedule.” Some of the crucial areas a deck safety inspection should check for are ledger connections, posts and footings, post-to-beam connections, joists and joist connections, stairs, deck boards, handrail assemblies and guards and other miscellaneous aspects of your deck’s construction. It is also important to inspect structural supports and connections, such as post sizes, fastener types and specific design aspects as well as any visible indications of corrosion or weakness. Any inconsistencies in these areas can cause an unsafe deck that could lead to an accident or in a worst case scenario, a deck collapse.

Archadeck of Central GA is dedicated to deck safety. Even if your deck doesn’t look great that doesn’t mean you’re going to fall through the floor. If your deck is aged, or looking a little worse for wear, it is a good idea to have it checked. In many cases you may actually find that even if your deck is cosmetically lacking it can still be structurally sound. When we inspect it, we will inform you of what needs to be done in order to keep any problems from worsening and we can also make a list of anything that we find that needs to be fixed.

Contact Archadeck of Central Georgia today to schedule your free deck safety inspection and get the peace of mind in knowing your deck is safe and ready for the outdoor living season ahead. Call today (478) 745 – 2000
centralgeorgia@archadeck.net

If you do not currently have a deck and are thinking of adding one in advance of the outdoor living season, you can view some of our beautiful deck designs by visiting our composite and vinyl deck gallery, wooden deck gallery and Ipe deck gallery located on our website. All of our outdoor structures are built beyond quality and structural standards.

Archadeck of Central GA, Free deck safety inspection, Professional outdoor structure builder, the Archadeck Difference

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

November 26, 2012 admin

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

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

5 reasons to not be your own general contractor

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Composite, Deck builder, Synthetic decks

Archadeck of Central Georgia urges buyers beware and don’t fall prey to decks gone bad

November 14, 2012 admin

bad composite decking — This photo is a good example of GeoDeck composite decking that has gone bad.

The term “decks gone bad” sounds like one of those crazy videos that you see advertised late at night when everyone but you is already asleep. Sadly, being in the business of outdoor living we can attest to the truth behind the term. Shoddy workmanship and inferior products can cause any well-meant deck to go bad. This is even true when it comes to composite decking. Many homeowners think that just because they are getting a composite deck that nothing can go awry. Unfortunately all composites are not created equal.

Manufacturing defects composite decking — In this photo the manufacturer defects and inconsistencies are evident in this piece of composite decking.

Composite decking materials have been evolving since their introduction onto the scene. Since their inception, every few years another composite product will come out that looks better, requires less maintenance, and holds up longer than the last. However, all composites aren’t the same. Composites as a whole are a manufactured product and there have been issues where the product was not made properly. In some cases the formulation for the composite was composed incorrectly. We have seen this happen with the recycled products in particular. In each instance where we have dealt with a composite deck that has gone bad, it was attributed to incorrect manufacturing and production issues. Although it is easy to identify bad product as soon as it begins to be used in the field, it is difficult to track down the people that have purchased and used the product in order to communicate the problems with the product to the customer.

crumbling composite decking — The GeoDeck composite used on this deck is crumbling.

When material is ordered it is not improbable to receive material coming from different lots. When this happens sometimes just a few boards out of a particular order can be deemed bad. When this happens it can become a nightmare. The good thing about working with Archadeck of Central Georgia is if the unfortunate happens, we not only warranty our product, we are going to replace it. Although the manufacturer will not reimburse the contractor for the labor involved in replacement, we will always make things right. A good contractor will always stand behind their products and their work and will make whatever goes wrong on your project right as rain at all costs.

defective synthetic decking — This photo illustrates defective Epoch synthetic decking by Tamco.

The vast majority of inferior composite materials come from smaller, lesser known and new composite companies. A good rule of thumb is to talk with your contractor about which companies he/she has found to be the most reputable from their experience. We have worked with many composite companies and will only do business with those that have a long track record of positive results. Archadeck also has a good relationship with all the reputable composite companies which is very important in delivering peace of mind to our customers through the products we offer.

If you are planning a new composite deck addition, or maybe you are thinking of refurbishing an existing deck, contact Archadeck of Central Georgia. We can ensure a quality composite and the quality ethics and workmanship that go beyond your everyday contractor. We go the extra mile, for your safety, satisfaction and to protect your outdoor living investment. Call us today for a free consultation (478) 745 – 2000
centralgeorgia@archadeck.net

Visit our composite and PVC deck gallery located on our website to see examples of quality composite paired with quality design and workmanship.

TimberTech composite decks

This well-rounded deck in Hawkinsville, GA is curved for all the right reasons

November 5, 2012 admin

There are many factors that go into choosing the best design for your new deck. The design of your home, slope of your landscape and any natural assets that are present within your yard should inform the design you choose. One of the most important aspects of your deck will be its shape and how it serves to unify your backyard. Our featured project this week is a rounded deck in Hawkinsville, GA that takes its cues from the unique features of this historical property. We showed you the design rendering for this Hawkinsville rounded deck in a previous blog post. Now it’s time to see it completed.

round deck design drawing - hawkinsville - georgia — This artist rendering shows the beautiful curves of this rounded deck in Hawkinsville, GA.

This home was built in the 1800’s and has a unique area near the back door where an old well is located. The old well is now filled with soil and serves as a flower bed but still conveys a unique characteristic that is a distinct feature of the backyard. The well keeps the history of this home intact as a constant reminder of the home’s past. We came up with a rounded deck design to compliment the shape of the old well. The terrain also allowed us to make the deck low-to-grade which helps emphasize the curves of the deck. The deck sits less than 30″ off the ground and the low height means no railings were required. This feature also aids in opening up the view that would otherwise be obstructed by railing. The minimal use of rails allows maximum aesthetic appeal and also saves money on the deck. When you build a curved or rounded deck, the expense comes from putting the rails on it. Curved railing is quite expensive but is a necessity because you can’t bend wood or rail caps and make it look right when building a rounded deck.

A versatile trellis was also added to the deck to serve as the perfect spot to plant vines and plants. The trellis will also provide privacy blocking the view from neighbors and even while using the existing attached screened porch. The deck was also designed with ease of maintenance in mind with the use of composite materials. The TimberTech pacific walnut composite decking we used in the design will only require soap and water cleanup from time to time to stay looking like new. The new deck will never have to be stained or painted. TimberTech composite decking also resists mildew, insects, and warping which means never worrying about replacing decking boards due to rotting wood.

For this particular deck we specifically designed it so it would not have any splices in it. There are no boards butting into each other. It is not always possible to do this on each deck we build, but in the case of this deck we were able to. We finished out the deck with minimal railing interference. The railing is located right off the screened porch and leads down into the stairway. The railing is built using pressure treated pine with a TimberTech rail cap and features a convenient built-in bench seat for convenient added seating.

These Hawkinsville, GA homeowners are ecstatic with their new rounded deck. The new outdoor space has added more function to their backyard, and has even increased the time they spend on their screened porch. By choosing a well- rounded (no pun intended) design they were able to keep the integrity of the features that make their home one-of-a-kind intact.

If you are looking for an outdoor space that will enhance the distinct features of your home and still provide plenty of outdoor enjoyment, contact Archadeck of Central Georgia today. Call for your free consultation (478) 745 – 2000 or email centralgeorgia@archadeck.net

Visit our composite and vinyl (PVC) deck gallery located on our website to see more beautiful low-maintenance decks

Archadeck of Central GA

Now is the time to invest in your Central Georgia outdoor space

November 1, 2012 admin

Forsyth GA screen porch design rendering Archadeck

If there is any point in the year where a homeowner can reap the most benefit from building their outdoor structure, it is now. Choosing to go ahead in the fall or winter with the outdoor living project you’ve been dreaming of ensures you can enjoy it on those “Indian Summer Days” during the cooler months as well as the very minute that spring begins. Whether early or late, your outdoor room will not only be enjoyable during the winter but it will also be ready to enjoy the Spring whenever it arrives.

A heaping helping of value

Avoiding any price increases in the new calendar year is an important consideration when thinking about the timing of your project. Labor prices are really low in this economy and are only predicted to go up as the economy improves. The same is true of raw materials that are used in building such as wood, concrete and even sand. Typically the market experiences an increase in the price of materials in the spring. This increase is driven up by the simple theory of supply and demand at the lumber yard. A good example of this is evident with the use of pressure treated lumber. The majority of outdoor living structures are built using pressure treated lumber and it is kept in inventory at the lumber yards only enough to meet demand. Lumber prices fluctuate and the price of pressure treated wood products won’t go down because they simply don’t make as much.

ipe deck - macon GA by Archadeck — Fall and winter is a time when prices for raw materials, such as wood are at their lowest prices of the year.

Crews that work in the cooler months are often more productive as well. The blistering temperatures of the Central Georgia summers can be dangerous and require more hydration breaks for carpenters and contractors. If you ask a carpenter which season he or she prefers to build in, they will always tell you the winter simply because of the milder temperatures and lack of humidity. There are no restrictions in our area from working in the cold because it never really gets too cold here in Georgia.

Another plus to fall and winter construction is it causes less trauma to your turf and landscape. It is actually better for your yard to build during the cooler months. This is in part due to turf grass and plant dormancy that naturally occurs in the winter. Although we take a lot of precautions to not cause damage to the yard while digging footings, delivery and foot traffic, a certain amount of damage is inevitable. Having the luxury of time to let your landscape heal over the winter will help it bounce back in the spring good as new.

Out of all the projects Archadeck of Central Georgia has built over the years not one single customer has ever said “I wish I had waited to build my outdoor structure”. A recent study conducted by Harvard Business School indicates the median waiting period of a homeowner thinking about building and actually getting started on a project is generally two years. The study also indicates that there is no advantage to waiting for two years to break ground on your project. The factor to remember is that a professionally built outdoor space adds value to your home. It is not like a car which depreciates significantly the minute you drive it off the lot. Outdoor living projects are an honest and tangible investment to your home which is like moving money from the bank to your backyard. And how often do you get to enjoy that money in the bank. Would you not rather be enjoying the sunset with your spouse while sitting on your new Archadeck outdoor living room. You can put your money back in the bank after you sell the house.

If uncertainty about how long you are planning on staying in your home is holding you back, don’t let that factor enter into your decision. If you are going to be in your house for at least two years, you will reap the return on your investment. This means that you will get your money back out of your investment and get the luxury of enjoying the space while you are still in your home. It is a win/win situation.

Now lets say your current deck or porch is in disrepair. Are you going to be able to sell your house without addressing the issue or discounting the price of your home? Why not upgrade or repair now and enjoy the space until you sell?

If you are ready to ensure your outdoor space is ready right on time for the outdoor living season, contact Archadeck of Central Georgia today. You will be glad you did. Call us for a free consultation (478) 745 – 2000
centralgeorgia@archadeck.net

Don’t forget an outdoor structure also makes the perfect way to make that special someone’s holiday dreams come true. A gift that keeps giving year after year! Check out our outdoor fireplace and fire pit gallery, or our screened porch gallery located on our website for inspiration.

Screened porches, Vinyl window for porches

Archadeck of Central Georgia gives the lowdown on the Eze-Breeze window system

October 22, 2012 admin

With the onset of cooler weather, we continue to receive more calls with questions regarding the Eze-Breeze window system. This system is the perfect answer to turning your screened porch space into a 3 or 4 season room space by providing more protection from the elements and insects. By installing an Eze-Breeze system you can decide how much, or how little window you use at any given time.

Room to breathe

Unlike traditional windows, the Eze-Breeze system does not require a traditional window frame. The window panels are custom-sized to fit your existing openings without expensive re-framing. So you can keep out the chilly wind in the fall without having to build a Sunroom! In addition the vertical 4-track unit gives you the capability of opening the windows up to 75% of the window area, which is well over the 50% offered by traditional glass products. This feature allows you to maintain the features and view you love about your screened porch by simply opening the windows when you like. This option also gives homeowners added air circulation to help keep the area cool on those balmy Georgia afternoons.

Keeping it clean

clean with soft cloth — Make sure to use a soft cloth when cleaning your Eze-Breeze windows.

Cleaning your Eze-Breeze windows is a breeze. The window vents tilt in for easy cleaning and they can be ordered in clear, bronze and gray tints to reduce the sun’s glare as well. Cleaning the windows only requires using a solution of Woolite or Murphy’s oil soap, a soft cloth, and water. It is recommended that you remove your rings, watches and bracelets before cleaning the windows because the vinyl can be punctured by sharp objects. We also recommend a final cleaning with a moderate amount of our Vinyl Cleaner available from your PGT distributor. It will prolong the life of your Eze-Breeze Sliding Panels and reduce static electric charges that attract dust. Never use ammonia, ammonia based cleaners or dishwashing detergents and soaps, as they can harm vinyl. It is recommended to clean the windows twice a year for optimum results. For a detailed diagram of how to care for your Eze-Breeze system you can visit the website care and cleaning page here.

Georgia on my mind

Archadeck 3-season room with Eze-Breeze windows

Our mild climate allows homeowners to use their porches year round. Many times your screened porch can be utilized even when old man winter comes to call by adding a space heater to your space. The same rings true for our humid summer days by adding a ceiling fan or oscillating fan to your porch can help keep you cool when using your Eze-Breeze window system as a valued part of your porch design. They can be raised or lowered or if desired, the vents can be taken out completely in the summer and stored for use when the weather starts to get colder. The choice is yours.

The benefits the addition of these windows can bring to your porch environment are endless. Once you have made the decision to install the system, you will wonder how you ever got along without it. Contact Archadeck of Central Georgia to learn more about this wonderful product and how we can transform your screened porch into a room for all seasons with these economical and versatile windows. Call us for a free consultation today (478) 745 – 2000
centralgeorgia@archadeck.net

See more examples of the Eze-Breeze system in action please visit our screened porch gallery located on our website.

Archadeck of Central GA

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