Tag Archives: Macon GA deck builder

Archadeck of Central GA discusses the complexity of the answer to the million dollar question of “just tell me how much it is going to be” when it comes to outdoor space designs

September 5, 2013 admin

Deck project in St. Croix Macon GA — Archadeck of Central GA explores the complexity of throwing out a “ballpark” figure before we have carefully considered all the elements that go into a custom outdoor space design

One of the most common questions I get from homeowners is “how much will it be?” This usually occurs during the first few minutes of my initial consultation with a prospective client and I have even been asked the same type of question over the phone when setting up the appointment for the initial consultation. I’m asked questions like “what is the square foot price” or “can I have just a ballpark figure?” I have to say, it still surprises me that so many homeowners assume coming up with an accurate quote for their anticipated project is as cut and dry as determining a price before we have even had a chance to factor in many important elements. After all, you would never dream of going to see a real estate agent and telling them you want a 3 bedroom, 2 bath home without first discussing your budget or the amenities you want the home to include, i.e.: neighborhood, one story, two-story, brick, or siding (just for starters). Asking what the price is before taking all details into consideration is nothing short of driving to the car lot and asking how much the car you have in mind costs per pound!

Proposed future design for Macon GA homeowners — As part of our design process, customers will get a 3D rendering of their intended outdoor space. This rendering helps customers better visualize how their space will look and function before construction even begins.

Archadeck of Central GA understands most homeowners want some idea of what they are getting into before getting too involved with the process, which is a reasonable request. The main thing to remember is, in most cases, the bottom line number for your quote usually comes in lower once we have input all the relevant information. There are many factors that come into play when putting together an accurate quote for a custom outdoor living space including materials, elevation, and the size of your space just to name a few.

Remodeling magazine puts out a cost/value report every year which covers a number of different remodeling projects. The report covers projects ranging from re-roofing your home to updating your kitchen and everything in between. The reports are specific to major metro areas. The Atlanta report is relevant to the Central GA region. The report describes a typical 16 x 20 deck addition with standard construction of a simple style with a built-in bench and planter and assuming 3 steps to grade. The 2022 report indicates an average job of this status in Atlanta, GA will cost $16,558. The same report also contains pricing based on composite (low-maintenance) decking options at a cost of $23,259.

While you might expect that an experienced reputable custom builder might cost more, in both cases our price would likely beat the ones specified.

Ipe deck in Fortsyth GA with wooden rail and metal pickets with basket motif and Ipe cap — It is important to take all the factors of your project into consideration before throwing out a number, these factors include materials, elevation and size.

The design itself is what controls the price point. If you dramatically change the size of your intended space, that will influence the cost. However, project changes don’t always cause an increased price. Dimensional changes like making up some of the size in length rather than width can actually drive the price down instead of up. We cannot emphasize enough the importance of consulting with a professional outdoor structure builder. Here at Archadeck of Central GA we understand all the construction, design and material costs involved in a project. Taking advantage of our free design consultation will give you, and us, a better grasp of the space that meets your needs and wants. It is always better to have a custom design that takes your functional needs, aesthetic needs and budget into account rather than opting for a “cookie cutter” outdoor design that could actually end up costing you more.

Remember that no two outdoor living spaces are created equal. Having an outdoor structure specialist designing your space can actually help keep the prices lower enabling a more suitable design for your individual needs. If you are ready to learn more about how we can enhance your outdoor living experience and stay within your budget, contact Archadeck of Central GA today (478) 745 – 2000
centralgeorgia@archadeck.net

You can see more examples of our versatile, high quality outdoor living spaces by visiting our decks photo gallery and our porches photo gallery located on our website.

Deck builder, Decks

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

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.

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.

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.

Stephen Denton, owner of Archadeck of Central GA

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.

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.

AZEK, Composite, Deck builder, Free deck safety inspection, PVC and capstock decking, Synthetic decks

Archadeck of Central Georgia looks at the many faces of synthetic decking

April 23, 2012 admin Leave a comment

Warner Robins GA composite deck — This composite deck in Warner Robins, GA exemplifies the beauty of composites.

Among the many options available when choosing the materials for your new deck or re-deck, synthetic decking is often one of the top choices. Within synthetic decking, there are quite a range of choices and all are not the same. Synthetic decking comes in many colors, finishes, dimensional designs and brands. Synthetic decking includes composite decking, solid PVC and capstock decking, each one of which has certain similarities as well as differences. We have outlined each of of the three below.

Composite decking

Your traditional wood/plastic composite material, such as TimberTech, Trex , and Fiberon composites, have a combination of wood fiber and resin. This pairing of wood and plastic sets the stage for durability that wood has never been able to provide. TimberTech’s Reliaboard for example, resists splintering and rotting and never requires staining or painting. These 1st generation composites are very economical as well. The downside is that since there is the presence of wood, stains can occur. Wine, oil and grease can stain the deck because of the wood, the board is porous. High traffic areas are also a concern and are prone to mark over time . Making sure your deck builder uses a high-quality composite decking material, such as the ones mentioned above is critical. These products are covered by warranties that exceed those of any wooden deck on the market, so rest assured composite itself is a solid choice for decking.

Fiberon deck in Macon GA — This Fiberon deck in Macon, GA includes a custom pergola in the design.

Solid PVC decking

Solid PVC decking such as AZEK is impervious to just about anything you can dish out. From red wine, to grease from your grill and even the kid’s fruit punch. This cellular PVC product offers superior stain resistance, scratch resistance, fade resistance, and split resistance. It is also insect, and mold/mildew resistant. There is never a worry from your patio furniture or your pet scratching your deck with solid PVC. The only downfall is that since it is solid PVC (plastic) it may not look as authentic as natural wood. We use a large amount of AZEK decking and our customers love it. AZEK even offers a line of railing to compliment their large color selection.

Capstock decking

Capstock is what we also refer to as a wrapped or covered product. This takes the benefits of composite as the core and wraps it with a PVC covering. This product can be seen in the Fiberon Horizon line. Capstock uses the best of both worlds through superior stain, fade, scratch, and insect resistance and still giving you the beauty of real wood. The veining and colorations used in the Trex Transcends line are so realistic and beautiful it will leave you having to lean in a little closer to see whether or not the product is real wood with hues that even mimic the look of exotic Ipe, and other tropical hardwoods.

Composite deck Chippendale pattern Milledgeville GA — We installed this Milledgeville, GA composite deck using a unique Chippendale pattern.

No matter which of these synthetics you choose to build your dream deck, each one is packed with versatility and beauty. Choosing a synthetic doesn’t need to be incredibly expensive. Archadeck of Central Georgia is a trusted and respected leader in the community. We have the experience to consult effectively with our customers on material selections. We are well-versed and really know the business of synthetics top to bottom. We can help you select and choose the right material to suit your needs, your lifestyle and your budget.

Contact us today to learn more about synthetic and other outdoor living material options. Call for a free consultation: (478) 745 – 2000 centralgeorgia@archadeck.net

See more beautiful images of synthetic decks by visiting our composite and PVC deck gallery located on our website.

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