Tag Archives: Central GA decks

Make 2019 The Year to Improve Your Macon or Warner Robins Backyard!

Out of all the questions homeowners ask us in regards to planning and building an anticipated outdoor living space addition, the most frequently asked is “WHEN is the best time to build?” Many factors can fall into play when answering this question, but in essence, if you are ready to pursue your addition then there is no time like the present to get the ball rolling!

Macon-GA-Screened-Porch

With a New Year in full swing — there is no time like the present!

While there is never really a wrong time to begin your outdoor living space project since we build structures year-round,  there are advantages to beginning your process early in the year, and while cooler weather is in the air!

screen porch-outdoor fireplace-macon Ga lr

Advantage — A good reason to begin your outdoor structure in the late fall and winter months is there may be less wait time to begin construction. Gaining approval through HOA’s and permitting will take less time because there is less backlog early in the season and this can often make the wait-time minimal in most cases. Making the decision to build now will ensure being able to enjoy the benefits of your new structure sooner and in plenty of time for the arrival of the outdoor living season in the months ahead. Keep in mind, when dealing with a quality builder wait times can be longer, especially during the warmer months. Moving ahead early in the year on your project can greatly reduce those wait times.

rustic-shed-roof-screen porch-Macon-GA

Advantage — If you are considering a structure built from wood, a cooler month project timeline will provide many benefits. Wood requires a time period of acclimation and curing. The laws of expansion and contraction always apply when it comes to working with wood. All wood is hygroscopic, meaning that when exposed to air, it will release or pick up moisture until it is level with the humidity and temperature of the air. Humid conditions, such as those in our humid Georgia summers, will cause more rapid expansion and contraction of wood that is not yet sealed for protection against the elements.

Redeck-Macon-Deck-Pressure Treated

A structure built from wood needs to cure for a period of time before the sealer will properly adhere to the wood and promote beneficial protection qualities. By choosing to build during the least humid times of the year, your new wooden deck, porch or other outdoor structure will have ample time to cure in order to properly accept the sealer you choose.

Advantage — Your lawn and landscape will incur less stress by choosing to build during the cooler months of the year — this is because most turf grasses, trees and shrubs are in their dormant period during the winter. During dormancy, these plantings are less likely to experience permanent damage from having to be trimmed or pruned to accommodate the addition of a backyard space. Aside from the landscape, construction during the winter will cause less of an interruption to your family’s day-to-day activities and lifestyle as the kids are in school and most people use their yards less during these months. This means the noises and materials will be less of an annoyance than they would be when you are using the yard a lot during the warmer months.

Milledgeville GA Deck Builder

Advantage — Last but not least, planning a new outdoor living space is a great way to curb the post-holiday blues. With a New Year underway, one way to curb the post-holiday blues is to look beyond the winter doldrums to warmer months ahead.  With this in mind, many Central Georgia homeowners may begin planning for the outdoor living season. These plans may involve a new addition to your landscape or outdoor living space.  Whether your aspirations include adding a new outdoor structure, or improving or adding to an existing structure,  winter is a good time to get the ball rolling before spring arrives.

TimberTech-deck-Macon GA

If you are on the fence about moving forward with a new or improved outdoor living space, now is the perfect time to get your project planned and on the schedule! Contact Archadeck of Central GA today at (478) 745-2000 or via email at centralgeorgia@archadeck.net.

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

 

 

Transforming A Macon Deck With The Seeds Of Change In Mind

When these Macon, GA, homeowners contacted Archadeck of Central GA about refurbishing their backyard deck, they had a pretty good idea of what they had in mind.

Macon Deck extension with integrated tree

With an existing small deck that only extended about 6 ‘ off the rear of their home, they realized they needed a more spacious deck in order to live the outdoor lifestyle they really wanted.  Such is the case with many Macon and Warner-Robins residents;  a larger deck means more opportunities for outdoor living, more space to entertain, more room to grill, etc.

Here at Archadeck of Central GA, we perform many new deck, redecking and deck extension projects every year — however, this particular project entailed more than the typical deck extension.

This Macon deck included an integrated tree in its original design.  The clients did not want to eliminate the tree, so we had to incorporate it into the extension project.  Part of this meant we had to frame the new deck with future growth of the tree in mind.

Macon Deck extension with integrated tree

Archadeck of Central GA extended the deck using pressure-treated wax-injected wooden decking which comes presealed giving the deck a longer period between installation to the first sealing.  We also added beautiful Fortress metal balusters to compliment the new spacious deck design.  The homeowner’s opted to have no entry or stairway from the backyard to the deck as a safety feature. This type of secure deck design is becoming more popular in the local area.

Along with designing the deck with the future growth of the integrated tree in mind, we also structured it in preparation for a future screened porch. We added screen below the decking so it would be ready if and when the homeowners decided to add a roof –another way we prepared the space for the seeds of change.

In addition to the deck upgrades and renovations, our team also ensure the natural gas lines were run and secured for the client’s gas grill and we moved their Egg smoker from the yard to the deck for convenience.

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

Contact us today to schedule your design consultation and let us show you how we can help you get the outdoor living environment you have in mind!

Call us today at (478) 745 – 2000 or email us at centralgeorgia@archadeck.net.

 

 

 

Central Georgia deck designs can boggle the mind. Let us help you navigate the choices!

Fiberon-Fort Valley-GA railing-lightingLooking for great ideas in deck designs? What’s new? What are the current trends? Here at Archadeck of Central Georgia, we keep up with innovations in deck design. We want to show our clients in the Macon and Warner Robins area the most attractive and well-constructed deck ideas. Clients are often amazed by the number of options available for decks today.

When you first start thinking about adding a deck onto your home, or replacing an older deck, you may think a deck is a deck is a deck. Seen one, seen them all? That’s certainly not true anymore. Among the variety of decks being built these days are different sizes, shapes, colors, materials, railing styles, stairway designs and more. By the time you complete your selections within each of these options, you will have designed a deck that reflects your personal style like no other.

Hawkinsville-GA round deck Archadeck

Archadeck of Central Georgia will not leave you to make these decisions on your own. During our design consultation, we can talk about trends and show you pictures of past projects we have completed. More important though, are your personal preferences. In the end, your own preferences will determine the look of your deck.

The 3 most popular deck design features today in the Macon and Warner Robins, GA, area:

Archadeck Deck-for-future-porch-in-St.-Croix-Macon-GA

Diagonal decking

Decking boards laid in a diagonal pattern serve two purposes. This design not only looks good, it creates a stronger deck.

  • Visually, diagonal decking adds a distinct character to your deck and can be directed intentionally to emphasize a specific view or to affect how people move through the space. The visual appeal of the diagonal pattern is more noticeable on a lower deck.

Fiberon Protect-Deck-Warner Robins 750

  • Technically, in terms of physics, the diagonal pattern creates triangles (which are stronger) as opposed to squares (which are weaker). Triangles help to brace the structure, so diagonal decking increases the strength of the frame by making the entire deck more rigid. This is especially desirable on taller decks.

Garapa and Ipe Brazilian hardwood deck Forsyth GA by Archadeck lrParting boards

If you’re looking for a deck design with even more visual interest, you’ll want to see some designs that incorporate parting boards. A parting board separates sections of a deck where the decking boards are running in different directions. We most often use this device when a deck is large enough to be sectioned off into different functional areas. Perhaps you want to have a lounge area on one part of the deck and a dining area on another section. The best way to visually define these different sections is to change the direction of the decking boards. A parting board serves as a meeting point for the two sections.

Ipe deck in Fortsyth GA with wooden rail and metal pickets with basket motif and Ipe capMetal pickets on railings

There was a time when all deck railings looked alike. If the deck was made of wood, the railings were, too. Wooden deck railings and pickets were somewhat thick and could easily block the view. Today we have a variety of materials available to use for deck railings and pickets. Most of the newer designs are thinner and made of metal. These new railings and pickets, or balusters, are much more stylish and almost seem to disappear when you look through them. Archadeck of Central Georgia uses Fortress™ Railing Products. The black square baluster design is the most popular with our clients, while second in popularity is the basket design (pictured).

Additional design features for today’s decks

There are many, many more elements that make up the infinite array of deck designs. Briefly, here are some of the other choices we will guide you through in the design process:

Macon GA-deck-fiberon-timbertech 750Colors and materials

Do you like bold colors, contrasts, or understated tones? Do you want to build with natural wood or composite decking materials? Wooden decks can be stained or painted, and a lot of the newer composite decking boards come in a variety of colors. If you are willing to perform — or pay for — annual deck maintenance, you can consider building with wood. However, if regular maintenance chores do not fit into your lifestyle, you will probably want to select one of the composite decking options. These new materials are evolving to look more and more like natural wood.

Shapes and levels

Composite deck in Warner Robins

Do you want a simple deck that follows the horizontal line of your home? Maybe you’re thinking about an octagonal deck or one that starts at the house and ventures out into the yard. A multi-level deck has a certain “wow” factor, but it’s not the right choice for everyone. What if you’re not really going to use more than one main level? Finally, if your deck is high off the ground, will you want to use the space under it as a covered patio or as a storage area?

Bottom line: the design decisions are your own

Fiberon ProTect deck in Warner Robins, GA.
Fiberon ProTect deck in Warner Robins, GA.

You may think it will be hard to choose from all of the available designs, materials and accessories, but you’d be surprised. Once you start looking at the many options, certain elements will resonate with you pretty quickly. As you look at examples and sketches, your own preferences will solidify in your mind.

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

Let Archadeck of Central Georgia walk you through the design options for a new or replacement deck at your Macon or Warner Robins area home. Contact us to schedule a design consultation by phone at (478) 745 – 2000 or via email at centralgeorgia@archadeck.net.

 

 

 

Will an above ground pool deck have you swimming in debt?

above ground pool-deck-Macon GAAre you enticed by end-of-summer sale prices for above ground pools? Before you dive into purchasing an above ground pool for your family, Archadeck of Central Georgia recommends you consider all of the potential expense, beyond the cost of the pool itself, before making a purchasing decision. This includes the cost of adding an above ground pool deck.

Here in central Georgia we still have some hot weather on the calendar. You still have a few more weeks of swimming pool weather remaining. Plus, if you buy a pool now, you’ll already be set when temperatures heat up again next spring.

Forsyth Ga-deck-above ground poolKeep in mind that you will need to purchase more than just the pool. The cost of installation is usually not included, and that can run as high as $3,000 according to some sources. While filters, ladders and pumps may come with the pool, you will need to purchase cleaning tools, a pool cover, chemicals and maybe even a pool vacuum.

Does your picture of an above ground pool include a pool deck surrounding it?

This is where you may encounter sticker shock. If you want a sturdy, well-built pool deck made of quality materials, it will cost more than the pool itself.  Sometimes an in-ground pool with concrete decking is actually more cost effective than an above ground pool with the same size pressure treated or composite decking. Then again, sometimes an above ground pool is the only option due to the topography of the yard or septic field lines.

fiberglass above ground pool-deck-Macon GA

Building decks is something Archadeck of Central Georgia does well. We love doing it. We love the creative challenge of designing the perfect deck for your home. While a pool deck is no different, people are often surprised to learn how much a good-quality above ground pool deck can cost. So please do that research before you invest in a pool if you feel like an above ground pool isn’t complete without a nice pool deck around it.

Archadeck of Central Georgia only builds sturdy, good-quality decks — and that includes our pool decks. We will not skimp on materials or workmanship because it’s “just a pool deck.” We want the best for your family, as we know you do. We want your family to be safe around the pool, and we want your investment in a pool deck to last for more than a year or two.

Deck-inground pool-Macon GA
Archadeck of Central GA builds many in ground pool decks and poolside outdoor living structures in Macon and the surrounding areas, too!

Search for images of above ground pool decks on the internet, especially on Pinterest, and you may see some amazing structures. Designs for pool decks can be simple and basic, or they can be as elaborate as you desire.

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

If you are willing to invest in a quality structure, contact us to learn more about adding a pool deck to your above ground pool in Macon, Warner Robins or the surrounding area. You can reach us by phone at (478) 745 – 2000 or via email at centralgeorgia@archadeck.net.

This Macon, GA, redeck delivers function and beauty over, under and beyond

Our recent redecking project provides more than just enhanced beauty and longevity to this Macon 2nd story deck. Archadeck of Central Georgia not only redecked the field of the deck with a high-quality composite, we also added a dry deck system to create a dry space below the deck impervious to weather.

Macon-ReDeck-TimberTech

We began by removing the old decking from the second story deck and redecking with TimberTech Legacy composite decking in the Pecan color.  This decking emulates the natural texture and integrity of authentic wood grain and resists mold, mildew, and moisture damage. Maintenance is also a breeze because this decking requires no annual sealing or staining for protection.

Macon-TimberTech-Deck

Along with the new decking, Archadeck of Central Georgia also installed a dry deck system making the space under the deck functional no matter the weather. Normally, the spaces between deck boards will cause water to drip down below which can keep you from enjoying the space under your deck in wet weather. We added Trex RainEscape to the deck that prevents any water from dripping down through the decking boards. By taking advantage of the area below the deck these Macon homeowners are able to get two outdoor living spaces out of one!

Macon-Trex Rain Escape_Before Ceiling
During installation of RainEscape system.

Trex RainEscape is a unique under-deck drainage system. It is made up of a network of troughs and gutters keeping rain, spills and snow melt from dripping through elevated deck boards, creating a dry patio area on the ground level below. It can even be installed on an existing deck by removing the flooring before installation. Once the Trex RainEscape deck drainage system is installed, utilities can be added then covered with the soffit or ceiling of your choice. This system can be used when creating a under-deck outdoor living area but also when building a porch under a deck.

Macon-Trex Rain Escape-after ceiling instalation
Completed under deck ceiling installation.

Additionally, we added PVC columns wraps to the existing posts to dress them up and add low-maintenance benefits.  The finished project flows beautifully and means the homeowners have more time to spend enjoying their outdoor living space, rather than maintaining it.

If you are thinking of adding a second story deck onto your homes, or if you presently have an existing second story deck we can create an under deck space that will double your outdoor living enjoyment. Our outdoor living combinations make all other “two for one” deals in your life pale by comparison.

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

Contact Archadeck of Central Georgia today to learn more at (478) 745 – 2000 or via email at centralgeorgia@archadeck.net.

 

Our Redecking Project in Stathams Landing Fits This Warner Robins Backyard to a TEE!

Archadeck of Central Georgia designs outdoor living spaces for all types of properties. These include waterfront properties, properties with acreage and properties within neighborhoods, including golf course communities.  Our most recent redecking project takes us to the amazing golf course community of Stathams Landing in Warner Robins.

Completed redecking project in Warner Robins, GA.
Completed redecking project in Warner Robins, GA.

This neighborhood is situated on the public Landings Golf Club, which has an expansive clubhouse, a 27-hole course, and the largest putting green in middle GA. The home where our project took place backs up to the golf course itself.

The homeowners had an existing wooden deck with many boards in bad shape. The style of the deck was also quite dated with built-in seating instead of railing. This was typical of the period in which it was originally built.

Fiberon-deck-Stathams Landing

Our goal was to bring the design of the deck up-to-date, bringing it up to current deck construction codes and open up the view. In addition to modernizing the space, we also utilized low maintenance materials. This will allow the homeowners to focus on enjoying the deck without the constant worry of maintenance.

Archadeck of Central GA was able to keep and use the original deck’s framing on this project. We reworked the beams in order to accommodate for the continued integration of the beautiful trees in the landscape. We removed the bench seating, added wider stairs and added railing to one end according to code.

deck-Watrner Robins-Fiberon

The new decking boards are Fiberon and the railing is Fortress iron panels. We also finished the entire deck to have no wood peeking out with white PVC risers and edge band.

The homeowners are elated with their new and improved backyard deck! The new design opens up the view and makes the space feel larger, airier and an extension of the landscape.  If you are ready to expand the potential of your existing deck, or add a new deck from scratch, contact Archadeck of Central GA today!

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

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

 

 

 

A deck that could have belonged to southern rock royalty

Juliette-TimberTech deck stone skirtingFamilies grow and change over time.  The good news is that your outdoor living spaces can do the same.  We recently had the opportunity to do a makeover on a multi-level deck which we originally built in 1992.  We remembered working on this home because it was previously owned by the Allman Brothers.  The framing was still in good shape, but the floor and railings had weathered over the last 22 years and the needs of the family had changed so we came over to consult on an upgrade/makeover.

The original deck had several levels that stylishly connected the home to the swimming pool.  The kids were young the first go-around and getting them to and from the pool and having a good view of the water were the top design concerns at the time.  This year the clients wanted to create a more relaxed, living room-type space looking out at the pool and surrounding woods.  The house has log cabin construction that fits very naturally with the lot and we aimed to keep the refurbished deck consistent with that look.  To that end, we will stain the wood areas to match the home.

Juliet GA composite TimberTech deckWe built the lowest level up to match the height of the largest existing section.  This allows for plenty of space for eating and entertaining.  There are now two eating areas with great flow between them for mingling or just moving about.  Multiple deck levels are ideal for allowing either for multiple use or for breaking groups into different clusters: think teens at one table and adults at another.

The decks are surrounded by new, solid skirting with doors underneath, garnering the family ample, secure outdoor storage.  Composite materials have come a long way in recent years.  For this update the family selected TimberTech decking to build the floors and rail caps.  The railings are stained wood with black pickets and provide the necessary safety without compromising the view to the water and trees.

stunning TimberTech Pacific Teak deck Juliet GARumor has it the Cher once stayed at this home. We think she would love the new deck! When you are considering deck builders in Juliet, GA, we hope you will give Archadeck a call for a free consultation.  We’d love to talk with you about new construction or a refresh project like this one.

Stephen Denton, owner of Archadeck of Central GA

Call: (478) 745 – 2000
Email: centralgeorgia@archadeck.net
Visit the composite and PVC deck picture and photo gallery on our website for more great design ideas and inspiration

For your Macon and Warner Robins area pool deck, what material should you use? Wood? Ipe? Composite? Pavers?

macon GA-fiberglass pool-with deckAre you looking at adding a pool to your Macon Warner Robins area home this summer? Or, do you have an existing pool and you’re thinking of updating the surround? There are several choices available when it comes to pool surrounds and these have varying prices, pros and cons. Here are a couple of the top options available.

  1. Wood
  2. Concrete
  3. Pavers

Wood

If you have an above-ground pool or a pool where the grade differs significantly from one end of the pool to the other, then your only viable option is a wood deck. That being said, there are many different wood deck options for pools. These can be as simple as a surround for walking or can include attached structures such as a deck, pergola, or even pool-specific structures. Pool-specific structures can include an enclosed area for pool equipment, a changing area, or even an outdoor shower.

Ipe pool deck Warner Robins GA
Ipe Brazilian hardwood pool deck in Warner Robins

If you’re wondering whether it’s wide to use wood in a wet environment, it’s a great material for a wet environment. We all remember the pool decks of our childhood. But while those old wooden decks held the constant risk of splinters and other signs of aging wood, today’s wood decks are built using treated wood that better seals the wood to keep it from splintering. In addition to pressure-treated wood, exotic wood such as Ipe Brazilian hardwood makes for a great decking material as you see in the picture to the left. Ipe is a very dense exotic hardwood. It’s so dense that screw holes need to be pre-drilled. The upside is that Ipe lasts anywhere from 40 to 100 years). The more dense material makes it even more impervious to signs of wood aging such as cupping, warping, cracking, and splitting.

macon-GA above ground pool-deckSynthetic, composite, and PVC for pool surrounds

Whether you have an above-ground pool or an in-ground pool, synthetic materials are a great choice for your pool deck and adjoining pool structures. Both composite and PVC fall in the category of synthetics. This decking can be warrantied for 25 years or longer thus giving you the ultimate peace of mind. Not only are they low maintenance (not requiring annual painting or staining) but they also have strong warranties on their performance characteristics. These warranties protect against things like blistering, peeling, flaking, cracking, splitting, cupping, rotting and more.

If you have an in-ground pool or a pool that is very low to the ground, you can still use composites such as TimberTech, Fiberon or AZEK. Fiberon and TimberTech composites only require 6 inches of space below for ventilation and airflow. AZEK’s PVC board is only required to not be touching the ground.

Concrete

is a very viable solution but will create a greater need for maintenance more quickly than other materials.” to “It is a very viable solution, but concrete coatings will create a greater need for maintenance quicker than other materials. See our blog at https://maconwarnerrobinsdecksandpatios.com/archives/2544 for details.

Paver patio

“We will be talking more about paver patios in our story for next week. Paver patios are a great option for a pool surround. They look great. They’re low maintenance. When properly installed, paver structures can last centuries even around a pool. Don’t believe me? Take a trip to Venice Italy? Look for next week’s story for more details on pavers patios verses concrete patios.”

Stephen Denton, owner of Archadeck of Central GAIf you are considering creating a great new outdoor living space for your Macon/Warner Robins area back yard, or if you want to give a fresh new look to your existing backyard space, give us a call for a free consultation. Together we will work to identify the best structures and materials to create the perfect outdoor living space just for you.

Call: (478) 745 – 2000
Email: centralgeorgia@archadeck.net
Visit the pool deck photo gallery on our website for more great design ideas and inspiration

 

 

Do you have that structural pillar that keeps the roof up but brings you down?

Fort Valley GA-deck-steel beamSometimes we look at particular architectural features of a space and wonder just what the designer/architect/builder was thinking. If you’ve ever had a great space with a structural beam stuck right smack dab in the middle of it, you know what we’re talking about. When these Fort Valley GA homeowners originally called us, they had an existing elevated second-story deck. The space under a deck over 8 feet off the ground can potentially become a covered patio. But in their case, their existing structure had a large column standing in the middle of the space. In addition, their deck which was made of pressure-treated wood was in really bad shape.

Archadeck deck beam construction Central GAWe were able to come up with a design plan that utilized the existing structure and accomplished all of their goals. The existing deck was 24′ wide which is why it needed more structural support than standard corner posts could provide. This can be accomplished in one of two ways. The first option is a center support column. This was the direction their builder originally took causing there to be an eyesore in the middle of their patio below. But, the innovative engineering option that Archadeck of Central GA designed had a long steel beam under the deck portion. Archadeck is part of a national franchise organization and employs an engineering/design team that is second to none. Our engineers created a solution utilizing a steel beam to support the wide deck.

In addition to the deck being wide, these homeowners also wanted AZEK on their new deck. We were able to resurface the existing structural components with their choice of AZEK PVC. The steel beam support was also engineered to support the increased weight of the new synthetic decking material which is a good bit heavier than pressure-treated wood.

Fiberon-Fort Valley-GA railing-lightingThe next challenge was aesthetics. The deck resurfacing with AZEK was stunning. But, from below, we didn’t want the steel support beam to be an eyesore. To accomplish this, we wrapped all the beams in low maintenance PVC. This included white PVC on the posts/columns and the trim board. The white color created a beautiful contrast to the dark decking material and dark colored railing spindles. The homeowners had done their research and knew that they wanted a lighting package that would encompass lights both on the posts and integrated into the rail caps. The picture to the right shows the Fiberon lighting package and railing we used on this Fort Valley deck.

One of the things you’ll notice through reading this blog is that our proposed solution is not the one that’s designed to cost the most money. While we could have recommended demolishing this deck and starting from scratch, we were able to re-engineer the fully functional existing structural parts. Our goal is to create the best solution for you, your family, and for how you want to live.

Stephen Denton, owner of Archadeck of Central GAIf you are considering creating a great new outdoor living space for your Macon/Warner Robins area back yard, or if you want to give a fresh new look to your existing backyard space, give us a call for a free consultation. Together we will work to identify the best structures and materials to create the perfect outdoor living space just for you.

Call: (478) 745 – 2000
Email: centralgeorgia@archadeck.net
Visit the composite and PVC deck picture and photo gallery on our website for more great design ideas and inspiration

Avoid the hurry up and wait mentality when it comes to bringing your outdoor living space dreams to life this Spring with Archadeck of Central GA

North Macon covered porch builder
Are you dreaming of a covered porch or spa deck for the spring?

Lots of things in life come with a “hurry up and wait mentality”, but designing and building your outdoor structure should not be one of them. Here at Archadeck of Central Georgia, we cannot stress the importance of not waiting until the arrival of spring to think about planning and building your anticipated outdoor space. This is especially important if you want  to enjoy your space in time for the outdoor living season ahead. Homeowners often ask us when is the optimum time to plan on having us build their outdoor structure? the answer is, there is never really a wrong time to begin your outdoor living space project, but there are advantages to building during the winter months.

pool side deck and pergola-macon GA
Pool side deck and pergola in Macon, GA.

Unlike being at the fever pitch of the outdoor living season, when the climate and timing is more conducive to utilize your space, winter construction has a shorter wait time. Gaining approval through HOA’s and permitting will take less time. The backlog for materials and labor is also smaller which makes the wait-time minimal in most cases. Making the decision to build now will ensure being able to enjoy the benefits of your new structure sooner and in plenty of time for warm weather. Keep in mind, when dealing with a quality builder wait times can be longer, especially during the busy Spring season. Deciding to begin your project now can reduce those wait times by half or more.

In some cases building your structure in the colder months can save you money too. You may see a decrease in the price of materials during the winter, a good example of this is lumber which is generally less during the winter because of supply and demand. In addition, if you intend to finance your new outdoor structure, the interest rates are extremely low right now. Our current standing in the economy can mean a lower payment each month on your new structure. Lower interest rates can save you a tremendous amount of money in the long run.

Choosing to build now will  also impact your lawn, landscape and lifestyle less than if you chose to build during the spring and summer months. Wet turf damages more easily, as does turf that is under heat stress from temperatures and higher humidity. Building in the colder season will ensure you avoid both of these obstacles. It is also important to note that along with perennial grasses, most shrubs and plants are in their dormant stages during the fall and winter. During dormancy, these plantings are less likely to experience damage from having to be trimmed, pruned or altered to accommodate the addition of a backyard space. Construction during the winter, when plants are in dormancy, will cause less of an interruption in your life since most people use their yards less during these months. This means the noises and materials will be less of an annoyance than they would be when you are using the yard a lot during the spring and summer months. Out of sight means out of mind.

Design rendering for Rivoli Rd sunroom and deck
We prepare a detailed design rendering as part of our design process.

When considering getting your outdoor structure project underway, timing can make a huge difference in the outcome. Our timeline on starting new construction has a quicker turn-around time during the winter than many would think.

From the time Archadeck of Central GA initially schedules your consultation you can expect to wait only one week to meet with us in person to discuss your ideas, and another week to put together your proposal. Once we have agreed upon your design, the backlog to break ground is about two weeks right now. The backlog will begin to grow the closer we get to spring. If you want your outdoor structure completed in April for example, it is imperative to start planning your project in January or February to ensure that goal is reached. These estimates are based on the type of outdoor structure you have in mind as well, as decks take approximately two weeks to complete, and porches can take up to four weeks.

Pressure treated deck Central GA
Have your outdoor space up and running in time to enjoy the first signs of spring!

Keep in mind that we can also build your outdoor structure combination in stages. With this in mind, winter is the perfect time to start the first stage of your desired outdoor living project. If you are considering a deck and patio combination for example, you can take advantage of our staged building option and begin your deck this winter, then we can add the patio during the spring or summer. With our staged building program the choice is yours. Contact Archadeck of Central GA today to learn more.(478) 745 – 2000
centralgeorgia@archadeck.net

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

Take a look at more inspiring outdoor living spaces sure to give you spring fever by visiting our decks, porches and outdoor room photo galleries located on our website!