Tag Archives: Macon GA screened porch builders

Screened Porch and Deck Combo in Macon GA’s Historic District

May 27, 2020 admin

Archadeck of Central Georgia was called on by these Macon homeowners to upgrade their existing wooden deck to create an attractive and more usable outdoor living space.

These homeowners wished for an outdoor living area, which offered privacy and protection from the elements by way of a screened porch. Their existing wooden deck was aged, and structurally unable to facilitate the weight of a roof and walls for screening, so we replaced the entire structure to suit today’s building codes.

Historic Macon Georgia home – before new screened porch and deck.

Archadeck of Central GA is your tried and trusted screened porch builder

Archadeck can address challenges in building your new porch.

One of the many benefits of hiring Archadeck of Central Georgia to be your outdoor living builder, is that we can identify and correct challenges in building. This home in the historic district of Macon, was built in the 1920’s. There was a challenge in that the brick was separating from the home. After tearing down the old deck, the homeowner fixed the brick, so we could make the proper home connection with the new porch and deck. The home’s existing overhang also required a new post and beam system, which we installed. We also faced a difficult roof connection, which we were able to properly address when adding the new porch roof. The screened porch has a gable roof, which we tied into a flat roof. To accommodate proper connection, we changed the pitch at the back of the porch, and built a hip tie-in.

One space becomes two with a screened porch and deck combination

Traditional wood-framed screened porch and deck in Macon GA.

Many of our porch clients choose to add decks for a number of reasons. It’s not only nice to have a choice to enjoy an enclosed outdoor space, or bask in the sunshine in an open space, but it also creates an open area, where homeowners can place their grills and smokers. This deck and screened porch combination was built with traditional pressure-treated wood. The project also required adding a new gutter system on the porch.

Archadeck of Central GA installed a true exterior door for this screened porch, so the owner could add a doggy door. Full metal exterior doors are more accommodating for adding pet doors!

Even though the new screened porch and deck addition were built on the same footprint of the existing deck, the space is far more accommodating and enjoyable. Outdoor living upgrades do not have to be larger than what is already there – they must be made better.

Historic Macon GA screened porch and deck design.

Look at the lush, natural view from inside the porch. These homeowners can enjoy the outdoors without the threat of pest invasions, inside the confines of the screened porch.

The screened porch offers two points of exit and entry. One goes directly to the backyard. The other goes onto the deck, which also leads to the backyard.

Entrance from the backyard to the deck and porch.

Are you looking to upgrade your outdoor living space for more enjoyment? Archadeck of Central GA is ready to help! Get in touch with us by calling 478-745-2000 or via email @ centralgeorgia@archadeck.net.

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

Outdoor fireplace, Porch builder/contractor, Screened porches

Archadeck Engineering Expertise Creates Safer Screened Porch Design

January 24, 2020 admin

These North Macon homeowners may never know just how fortunate they were when they hired Archadeck of Central Georgia to build their screened porch. Because they chose Archadeck, a professional design-and-build firm with the resources of a full engineering department, they avoided disaster.

We don’t mean to sound overly dramatic, but a less skilled, less experienced builder would not have handled this situation correctly. This home in Jones County, GA, was built with a portion of the second story cantilevered over the first story. That means there is an overhang at the back of the house where the second story protrudes over the first story by 2 ft. In this case, the cantilevered portion of the home stuck out over the back door and the deck.

The clients wanted to convert their deck to a screened porch. Most screened porch contractors would have attached the porch roof to the second-story cantilever. That would have been a huge mistake. The cantilevered edge of the home’s second story was not designed to support any more weight than it was already carrying.

First Contact: Homeowners Add Portico to North Macon Home

Our clients purchased this home in the Tumbling Shoals subdivision of North Macon, GA, two years ago. They wanted to add a portico over the front door, and they consulted with Archadeck of Central Georgia about the project. As it turned out, they also wanted to remodel parts of the home’s interior, and they allowed their remodelers to build the portico on the front of the home.

Second Contact: Homeowners Hire Archadeck to Design and Build Screened Porch

The clients also wanted to convert their deck to a screened porch, but not right away. When they were ready to move forward with the screened porch project, this time they didn’t call the remodelers. While they had been relatively satisfied with their portico, they weren’t thrilled enough to hire the remodelers for another outdoor living project. They called screened porch designer and builder Archadeck of Central Georgia instead—and you can bet they’re glad they made that very wise decision.

Archadeck of Central Georgia is a local Macon and Warner Robins, GA, builder with headquarters in Richmond, VA. Archadeck locations across the country rely on the professional engineering and architectural drafting expertise of the Richmond office. They produce our architectural drawings, and we are able to consult with their engineers if we encounter an especially complex design issue. Most local builders will not have access to that level of professional resources.

The Archadeck engineers confirmed our suspicion that this home’s cantilevered second story could not carry the load of a screened porch addition. The typical porch roof tie-in would have created a nightmare for these homeowners.

Screened Porch Designer Archadeck of Central GA Surpasses Expectations

With our engineered drawings for a porch design that would not destroy the home, we got to work. We built the screened porch and deck extension these homeowners had waited two years to enjoy. To distribute the load of the porch properly, we used an LVL beam (laminated veneer lumber) from one end of the porch to the other. The posts supporting the porch’s shed roof go down to the footings on either side. All the load of the porch is transferred to the concrete footings in the ground instead of to the cantilever. Even if the home blew down, the porch would still be standing.

Project details

With a deck to screened porch conversion—or with a deck replacement, for that matter—clients have an opportunity to make significant design changes. For example, these North Macon homeowners could have kept the porch dimensions to the same footprint as their deck. Instead, they decided to extend the footprint to make the area a little longer than the original.

The new extension is not enclosed or screened, and it functions as a landing that leads from the porch to the garage. Garage access from the porch was high on the homeowners’ list of priorities. The open area of the landing has room for the clients’ grill. It also gives the clients an area where they can sit and soak up the sun when it’s not too hot outdoors. Finally, the new stairs open off of the landing, providing easy access from porch to back yard and garage to back yard, too.

fireplace on screened porch

Now the homeowners can enjoy their time outdoors without pesky insects invading their space. The porch roof will provide protection from rain showers, as well. One of the amenities they chose to integrate in to their porch design was an outdoor fireplace with a gas starter. We’re pretty sure they would tell you this screened porch was worth the wait.

Are you ready to discuss a new porch design or replacement deck for your central Georgia home? Archadeck of Central GA is ready to help! Get in touch with us by calling 478-745-2000 or via email at centralgeorgia@archadeck.net.

Archadeck of Central GA, Deck builder, Porch builder/contractor, Professional outdoor structure builder

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

January 16, 2019 admin

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.

Archadeck of Central GA, Converting deck to porch, Deck builder, Porch builder/contractor, Professional outdoor structure builder, Screened porches

Archadeck of Central GA agrees with these Wesleyan Woods homeowners: Sometimes smaller is better

February 23, 2018 admin

Macon Deck and Porch In Wesleyan Woods If your heart is telling you that you’d prefer a smaller outdoor living space, then by George, it’s time to stop, listen and downsize. Every now and then we work with homeowners who want to go smaller rather than bigger when it comes to their outdoor living space. As the premier Macon and Warner Robins deck and porch designers/builders, Archadeck of Central Georgia will fully support you in this decision.

At Archadeck of Central GA, we don’t just build, we design and build outdoor living spaces. To design, we first listen to you, the homeowner, as you describe the space you have in mind. We won’t try to talk you into something bigger or fancier than you want.

In the case of these homeowners in Macon’s Wesleyan Woods neighborhood, they had a large deck that was part of the house when they purchased it, and this deck was too big for them. We have found, as deck designers, that when a deck stretches out too far from the house, the homeowners tend to push their furniture farther and farther out to get closer to the yard. From a design standpoint, that’s not a great use of space.

What’s more, these clients truly wanted a screened porch, not a deck, so this project falls into the category of deck-to-screened-porch conversions. They did, however, request a small (10×12) side deck off the new screened porch as a place for their grill.

A deck-to-screened-porch conversion is similar to a redecking in that once we remove the deck floor, we have to evaluate the existing posts, beams and joists to determine whether we can still use them. In this case, some of the original joists were still in good shape but there were not enough, so we had to add more. However, the posts and beams of the original joists were still in good shape, so we were able to use those. We also replaced the stairs, but we designed them to end on the same path where the original deck stairs ended.

Wesleyan Woods Deck and Porch Builders

The Wesleyan Woods homeowners selected pressure-treated wood as the building material for their screened porch and side deck. We installed white screened panels for the screened porch because the clients plan to use a solid white stain for the porch, inside and out. In keeping with the porch and side deck, the pickets and railings are built with wood. We also built special Chippendale panels for the side deck; that was one aspect of the original deck the homeowners wanted to recreate.

Wesleyan Woods Screened Porch Builder

As with all porches Archadeck of Central GA builds, we installed screening under the porch floor between the joists and the floor boards. This is important as a barrier to keep insects and other debris from coming up through the porch floor. Many of our clients are surprised to learn we do this.

Wesleyan Woods Screened Porches

One last detail — we worked with the homeowners’ electrician for all of the electrical work needed on the new porch. We are always willing to work with the clients’ electrician if they prefer that.

Is your deck too big or too small? Would you rather have a porch? Contact Archadeck of Central Georgia to learn more about our custom outdoor living designs. You can reach us by phone at (478) 745 – 2000 or via email at centralgeorgia@archadeck.net

Archadeck of Central GA, Deck builder, Deck engineer and construction, Outdoor rooms builder/contractor, Porch builder/contractor, Professional outdoor structure builder

Planning a New Outdoor Living Space is A Great Way to Curb The Post Holiday Blues

December 29, 2017 admin

Planning a New Outdoor Living Space is A Great Way to Curb The Post Holiday Blues The holiday season is filled with excitement and fun. It is a time when families and friends come together to celebrate and festive decorations change our homes and landscapes. The days and weeks leading up to the big day are often just as exciting as the day itself. Once the holiday is over, however, the lack of excitement can leave you feeling down.

As the New Year quickly approaches, 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.

Macon Open Porch Barrington Hall lr

Because of our mild Georgia climate, construction can begin as soon as your design is finalized and the contract is signed. In fact, the sooner we can start building, the more enjoyment you will get from your new outdoor living space. Once spring has arrived, the demand will increase and building timelines will become longer, this is why we recommend starting the design and building process with us as soon as possible. Using these winter months perfecting the design of your new space, ordering materials, and filing for permits is a perfect use of time.

Macon GA-sceen porch-metal Balusters

In fact, there are quite a few reasons why winter is the best time to begin a new Macon or Warner Robins-area outdoor living space project:

Our custom deck, porch and outdoor room designs require close collaboration with you. This process can take a few rounds of going back and forth, making adjustments and getting the project just right.

Macon open porch design plan Archadeck

Securing building permits can take a long time as we are at the mercy of the building department. Starting this process now, means you don’t have to let the good spring weather pass you by while we are waiting for building permits to come in.

Hot tub-deck-Perry GA-design drawing 750

At Archadeck of Central GA, our spring and summer construction schedule fills fast. In fact, spring is our busiest time of year. If you start the process now, you beat the rush and are on the schedule for construction, or your project may even be completed, when others are just starting their process.

Deck-composite-koi pond-warner robins

Despite the fact that all the pomp and circumstance has ended, all the presents have been opened and loved ones have headed home, Archadeck of Central GA can ensure the weeks ahead are overflowing with excitement and anticipation.

Contact us today to schedule your design consultation to begin making the 2018 outdoor living season the best on record! Call us today at (478) 745 – 2000 or email us at centralgeorgia@archadeck.net.

Paver patios & hardscapes, Poolside outdoor spaces, Professional outdoor structure builder

Archadeck of Central GA discusses how using hardscapes can increase poolside pleasure!

February 13, 2014 admin

macon-above ground pool-deck Warmer days are just around the corner and now is the time of year when many Central Georgia homeowners are starting to plan the addition of a new pool or planning to update their pool area. Archadeck of Central GA explores some of the choices for turning your poolside area into pure paradise!

The first element to consider is whether you have or will have an in ground or above ground pool. Above ground pools are generally less expensive to install, but they are not nearly as big as an in ground pool. If you decide to build a deck space to encompass the entire area around an above-ground pool, the costs can rapidly increase making the combined cost of pool and deck more expensive than an in ground pool.

Forsyth-pool-deck lr

The topography of your backyard may determine the type of pool you have as well. If the yard is sloped and grading is not financially feasible, then an above ground fiberglass pool may be the answer. A deck is typically the only way to provide usable space here.

macon-fiberglass pool-deck These are important considerations when looking at the “big picture” with your anticipated outdoor living pool area.

When choosing an in ground pool, the most common construction for the space around is concrete. Usually a pool contractor will recommend using a product like Kool Deck. This is a thin coating that goes over the top of the surface of the concrete to keep it cool on your feet. The problem is that it doesn’t adhere to the cement well and will eventually come off. There are two problems with all concrete: it cracks and it cracks! When water gets in these cracks it then gets underneath the Kool Deck. All it takes is a freeze to cause the Kool Deck to pop loose. Archadeck of Central GA offers a better alternative that will increase the beauty and function of your poolside area for years to come.

: Take a look at this paver patio we built in Warner Robins. This poolside area also includes a custom-built fire pit to match the pavers, an open porch, and a full outdoor kitchen.

We recommend adding concrete pavers around your pool. They are frequently used for pool decks and are durable, versatile, affordable and tough. Pavers have many qualities making them the perfect choice around a pool. They are salt resistant, slip resistant, and chlorine will not affect their colors. The joints between pavers will take on moisture and leave the pavement cooler under foot. However, like any colored material, the darker colors tend to retain more heat than lighter colors. Another advantage of using pavers is that even in the event of a paver breaking, it’s easily replaceable. There are tons of styles and colors of pavers to choose from expanding the choices of the look you wish to achieve. Adding pavers is easy to do when your pool is under construction. If you already have a concrete pool surround, we can install pavers atop the concrete. We can use thin pavers which cost less or the standard 2-3/4 inch paver.

paver patio pool patio hardscape warner robins Here are some options to increase your pool-side enjoyment. If you already have a space that’s just too small, you can add a patio or expand the space around your pool to add more outdoor living enjoyment. This may include adding a pergola or a porch roof for use as a poolside shade structure. An open porch is a great poolside option, and pergolas can be built to include sun screens or canopies atop. We can also build structures to mask the areas you don’t want people to see and keep those areas “incognito” such as pool pumps and other mechanics that aid in operating your pool. Archadeck of Central GA can also design and build versatile benches or retaining walls using paver walls that are made to match your paver flooring so your finished space is cohesive. In addition to the many amenities that we offer to create your perfect poolside paradise, we can also design a tranquil outdoor shower, outdoor fire feature or even a custom pool house– the possibilities are as endless as your imagination!

perry-ga-pool house lr If you are planning a new backyard pool addition or improving and existing pool area contact us to help design a poolside space that will make the most out of your outdoor living space! We can work and coordinate with your pool contractor.

Call Archadeck of Central GA today for a free quote • (478) 745 – 2000 •

email: centralgeorgia@archadeck.net

See more poolside ideas by visiting our patio and hardscape photo gallery, our porches photo gallery and our pergola and trellis photo gallery located on our website.

Stephen Denton, owner of Archadeck of Central GA

Deck builder, Professional outdoor structure builder

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

July 23, 2013 admin

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

: Stephen Denton, owner of Archadeck of Central GA

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

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

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

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

July 23, 2013 admin

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

: Stephen Denton, owner of Archadeck of Central GA

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

Dock Builder, Lakehouse decks, Screened porches

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

May 17, 2013 admin

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

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

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

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

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

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

: Stephen Denton, owner of Archadeck of Central GA

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

To learn more about taking advantage of your property’s special features like a lakefront view or special backyard garden within your outdoor space, contact Archadeck of Central GA today. We can design a deck, porch or patio that is a pleasure to use from every angle at your primary residence, summer home or weekend getaway home.
Call us for a free consultation today(478) 745 – 2000
centralgeorgia@archadeck.net

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

Paver patios & hardscapes

Archadeck of Central Georgia reveals the top 3 ways to perfect your patio

March 25, 2013 admin

: This paver patio and pergola addition is a great example of extending an inset rear patio and cultivating it into an outdoor oasis.

Many new or previously owned homes are built with a small concrete inset patio on the back. These consist of a rudimentary concrete floor that extends out six to eight feet and in some cases they may be covered. The dynamics of one of these boringly basic patios is they are not big enough to enable function. They are not large enough for a formal eating area or a formal seating area making them an area that lacks function or direction. In these situations Archadeck of Central Georgia can extend your patio insert out to make it more functional. Extending a “builder grade” generic patio like this can also open up a world of possibilities to further enhance this living space making outdoor living more advantageous and making the space more aesthetically appealing.

In general, homes that have this type of patio inset are usually built on a slab foundation. To make your patio more open to extension and enhancement we suggest pouring additional concrete to this area or adding a paver patio. We can make the area more spacious by adding more floor space of even adding a roof. Another option is to screen in the existing area as is and add more additional floor space outside the bounds of the patio. Once you make the decision to improve upon your inset patio, there are many options available to enhance the area and nurture it into the patio space of your dreams. Archadeck of Central GA has three suggestions to make your patio the perfect patio.

Creating a safe haven

: Adding a protected structure such as a screened patio is a perfect way to enhance your backyard patio.

Protected outdoor spaces such as screened patios and 3-season rooms offer a refuge from bothersome insects such as mosquitoes and the dangerous UVA and UVB rays from the sun. Central GA summers can be humid and hot to say the least. Turning your boring patio into a protected area can easily be accomplished with aluminum or traditional wooden structural reinforcements. One consideration is to choose a roof style that will work well with your existing home. Roof lines are important when adding a roofed structure because you want your roof line to work well with any existing windows, doors, dormers or other bump out features of your home. Adding another level of convenience is an option by choosing the addition of an Eze-Breeze window system. These systems turn your screened porch into a 3-season room with sliding vinyl window panels that give you the option of choosing how much or how little window to utilize. If you want to keep the feel of an open space and still gain protection from mosquitoes, then adding mosquito curtains to your covered patio design is also a viable option.

Is it a porch or is it a patio?

: This covered patio in Milledgeville, GA delivers aesthetics and function under one roof.

If you have a patio and you want to build it up to include a porch we can inspect your footings to ensure they are sound enough to hold a porch. If your home is built on a slab the thickness is generally 3.5″ to 4″ thick and footing would have to be built on top of the slab to create a porch. Many times with patio porches, homeowners choose to leave the floor concrete and use indoor/outdoor rugs to cover the floor. This is a great idea and can also be a means to pull color and texture into the space. If you aren’t really into that look then we can cover the concrete with pavers. We have access to the thinner pavers that are used to cover concrete patios for this very reason. We have had great results from this product. The biggest difference in choosing a concrete or paver patio versus a traditional wooden structure is the price point. Another factor is the distance of your front yard (or your driveway) to your back yard. Easy access to the rear of your home with a truck full of materials is a big deal. Having a way to easily get them where they need to be is a huge consideration.

A pergola will add panache to your patio

: This fan pergola in Jones County serves as much for shade as beauty atop this patio setting.

Pergolas are hands-down one of the most stylish outdoor structures on the market today. There is a lot more to a pergola than just a pretty face. Pergolas add shade and intimacy to your outdoor space. Archadeck of Central Georgia offers a host of unique pergola designs in a myriad of materials from rustic wood to ultra-low-maintenance vinyl. Flanking your patio with a triangular or fan pergola will add depth and personality to your patio. Adding a traditional four corner pergola will add elegance and timeless appeal to your patio. Using a pergola to partially cover your patio is a great way to put a new spin on your backyard by thinking out of the box while not breaking the bank.

If your patio needs a facelift to improve its form and function, contact Archadeck of Central Georgia today. Our expert design and quality construction can help make the improvements that will make a huge difference in how your family lives in your outdoor space! Call us today for a free consultation (478) 745 – 2000

: Stephen Denton, owner of Archadeck of Central GA

See more patio transformation ideas by visiting our patio and hardscape photo gallery, our screened porches photo gallery and our pergola and trellis photo gallery located on our website.