Tag Archives: Macon GA screened porches

Archadeck of Central GA, Converting deck to porch, Outdoor rooms builder/contractor, Screened porches

Time makes the heart grow fonder for these Roberta, GA, homeowners

Screened Porch-Roberta GAOur recent project in Roberta, GA, just west of Macon, proves that the Archadeck difference doesn’t have an expiration date. Once you meet with us, even if you’re undecided or not quite ready to proceed with your outdoor living project, we’ll keep your notes and specs on file. Then, when you let us know you’re ready to move forward, we can pick up right where we left off.

These Roberta, GA, homeowners had initially contacted Archadeck of Central Georgia two years ago about redecking their aging wooden deck and converting a portion of the deck into a screened porch. During the period between the time when they first contacted us, to this summer, the homeowner had replaced some of the decking boards on his own. That’s a big job if you don’t have a crew working with you! When we went back to take another look at the existing deck, we could tell that the newer decking boards had not been sealed, so those boards had warped and would need to be replaced as well.

bay shaped porch-Roberta GA

Overall, the deck was well worth redecking; there was no need to demolish it and build a new deck from scratch. The original deck foundation was still sound and would provide good support for the new structure. The deck was large, with two level changes, and it had an interesting design with a bay shape at one end — that semi-octagonal shape you see in a bay window.

The homeowner wanted us to convert the bay-shaped area of the deck into a screened porch while leaving the remainder of the deck as open space. The bay end was perfect for enclosing with screens because that portion of the deck has a door leading to the home’s interior.

Roberta GA-Screened Porch-bay shaped roof
Interior view of the screened porch.

Archadeck of Central Georgia began the work by removing their hot tub, redecking the deck surface with pressure-treated wood, removing one set of stairs and reconfiguring the other set. We added new Chippendale railing panels to the deck railing.

Adding the screened porch was a challenge because a bay-shaped floor requires a bay-shaped ceiling and roof. We designed a hip roof to tie into the existing roof. Looking at this photo of the rafters, you can see what an interesting time we had with it. We even had to customize brackets to accommodate this roof design. We used a king post in the middle with a double LVL (laminated veneer lumber) beam to support.

Open rafters-screened porch-Roberta GA

To complete the screened porch, we added bronze screen inserts and screen door. Now the homeowners have an open, 180-degree view of the outdoors from their new porch in a lush, restful setting. Of course, we can’t take credit for the setting!

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

If you have a redecking project in the Macon or Warner Robins area, or want to convert a deck into a screened or covered porch, contact Archadeck of Central Georgia to talk about your options. If you’ve met with us in the past but were undecided or not yet ready to proceed, please don’t hesitate to call us again. You can reach us by phone at (478) 745 – 2000 or via email at centralgeorgia@archadeck.net.

 

 

 

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

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!

 

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

Screened porch and lower patio in Macon GA
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.

Original deck in Macon
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.

Screened porch Macon GA
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.

Hot tub patio space in Macon GA
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
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.

Porches

Archadeck of Central GA walks you through choosing the right roof for your Macon, Warner Robins porch

3-Season Sunroom in River North Macon GA
This 3-season room in River North features a gable style roof with an open gable to let more sunlight in the space.

Homeowners look to me for guidance in choosing the right roof style for their porch addition. When it comes to the subject of roof styles, sometimes what the homeowner visualizes isn’t a viable option for their porch. Taking the existing home configuration and any second story elements into consideration can eliminate a specific style roof. For example, elements like 2nd story dormers and windows will immediately limit the style of roof you can use. Much of the time the right roof style comes down to the process of elimination.

milledgeville-porch
This open porch in Milledgeville, GA uses a gable style roof with an “open rafter” detail that adds aesthetic appeal.

Gable roofs are by far the most popular choice among homeowners. We often hear the gable roof come up early in the design process as a first preference. We always talk homeowners through the details of each roof style and the variable costs of each style. Even though a gable roof may be possible architecturally, it may cost considerably more than choosing a shed roof for example. The most important aspect is choosing a roof style that will work most easily with your existing house. The next step is to walk you through your options and give you the pros and cons of each option so you make an informed decision.

Learning roof styles

  • Gable Roof – a gable roof resembles a triangle with two sides sloping down from a center line. Gable roofs are the most popular roofs in outdoor structure design.  The most requested roof is a gable roof with an open gable that allows sunlight to fill the room. A gable roof can sometimes be the easiest one to attach to the house, especially with a sidewall porch connection.
  • Hip Roof – a hip roof has 3 or more sides that all slope downward from a common point. Hip roofs are generally chosen to match the roof of an existing hip roof home. If your porch is facing south then a hip roof will provide more shade to the space. This roof style will cut down on some of the sun that enters the porch and make it more comfortable to use in the summer months. roof-styles
  • Shed Roof – a shed roof is a flat roof that slopes in one direction from the home.  If your porch will have a house connection, a shed roof is usually the easiest choice from a cost and construction standpoint. In order for a shed roof to work with a roof connection, the roof of the house has to be higher than the shed.  Tying a shed roof into the existing roof of your home is not economical.
  • Flat Roof – a flat roof is built from the same principles as the shed roof. A flat roof usually has less slope and is horizontal or nearly horizontal.This roof is sometimes used as a last resort when a gable or shed roof is too difficult or too expensive. We suggest a flat roof when there are windows or dormers on the 2nd story you don’t want to cover. Flat roofs are not completely flat as their name would have you think. Flat roofs contain a slight incline that is usually 2 inches for every 12 feet to make sure water will not pool and cause damage. The biggest reason we steer away from flat roofs is the debris that can accumulate on a flat roof. This is especially a problem if your porch is located in a location with a lot of trees. Debris on a flat roof can act as a dam and prevent water from running off properly. Flat roofs can “bog” up with leaves, sticks and other debris which can lead to moisture problems and eventually leaking. Flat roofs require maintenance twice a year to prevent debris accumulation. Maintaining a flat roof requires someone climbing onto the roof and blowing off the debris. If you are not prepared to do this, or hire someone to do it for you, then we recommend not considering a flat roof as an option for your porch.
    Porch - Westchester - Macon GA
    This stunning open porch in Westchester was built with a flat roof.

Archadeck of Central GA always goes over which roof style will work best from a construction standpoint. You need to always consider what the roof is going to look like from underneath. We always ask the homeowner if they are building the porch for themselves, or for their neighbors to look at. The visual appeal of the roof style you choose is an important consideration when looking at the space from all angles. Here is a checklist of other determinations to consider before you begin designing your new porch.

  • Shape of existing house’s roof or wall we’re attaching to
  • The shape of porch itself
  • Distance out from house or distance across the house
  • Whether you’re going to attach to roof or house
  • Cost
  • Direction of sun
Screen Porch Warner Robins with hip roof
This screened porch in Warner Robins was built using a hip roof.

All these factors will influence the roof style you choose. It is always important to seek the professional advice of your outdoor structure professional to consider which roof style will work best. Archadeck of Central GA is an expert in porch design. We can consult with you and prepare a 3-dimensional rendering of your porch before any soil is disturbed to begin construction. This visual will give you the insight of what your porch will look like. Our rendering service also makes it easy to amend or change any portion of your design before we break ground.

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

If you are considering a porch addition and need guidance in choosing the best architectural elements for your desired space, we can help. Contact Archadeck of Central GA to help you choose the best roof style for your new porch today. Call for a free consultation (478) 745 – 2000
centralgeorgia@archadeck.net

To see more example of various roof styles please visit our porches photo gallery and our outdoor rooms photo gallery located on our website.

Deck builder, Porch builder/contractor

This Macon GA deck has both functionality and style

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Macon GA deck with screen porch
Screened porch and new deck, in Macon, GA., has everything the homeowners wanted in an outdoor living structure and more.

When these Macon, GA., homeowners contacted us they were looking for a way to add functional outdoor space to their home. Their first choice was to add a full sunroom, but after careful consideration and weighing all the options, they decided that adding a screened porch and extend their existing deck by adding another side. In most cases a screened porch addition is more economical than that of a sunroom.

A screen porch addition can add at least 3 seasons of enjoyment to your outdoor living enjoyment especially here in the south where our warm days can sometimes extend into the latter months of autumn. These Macon residents will be able to watch the seasons change from spring through fall from their new screened outdoor room. With a screened porch you are protected from the elements as well as from insects. This type of outdoor living structure gives you all the benefits of being outdoors. It also gives you the feeling of extended living space – sort of a backyard living room.

Deck Builder Macon GA Porch Builder Macon GA - Archadeck
Painstaking care was taken to match the existing home. Note the brick deck skirt and white railings to match the home.

When we installed the screen porch and the re-decking we added some structural support and added the new deck area. We were able to match the brick for the  screen porch to the existing brick used on the home, we even had the brick manufacturer come to the home to ensure a proper blend that would match. This is an example of the painstaking lengths and care we take in each of our projects. The roof for the screen porch is situated between two gables on the back of the home. This was a challenge, which  we were able to make fit beautifully in spite of the obstacle.

The homeowners chose to use TimberTech composite decking material throughout the entire design. The color is similar to the rich tropical hardwood look of  Ipe. Because composite companies often change their colors every year or two, we always leave at least two boards under the deck to safeguard in case there is ever a problem. We used Cabot white stain to match the trim on the home and on the home’s siding. The railing is 6 x 6 posts also painted with the white Cabot sealer with composite rail caps to match the composite used on the floor of the re-decking, new deck area and the screen porch. We finished it up with pyramid post caps which add a little panache to the whole design.

To top it off  we installed a dog friendly  gate onto the deck which swings out to keep those muddy puppy paws off the deck. We also added a hatch underneath the deck on the brick for a storage area.

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

This design solution is an example of how Archadeck of Central Georgia was able to translate the customer’s intended functions into an outdoor living area design full of form, and style. Contact us for a free consultation. (478) 745 – 2000 centralgeorgia@archadeck.net

View more stunning imagery of inspiring screened porches and decks by visiting our screen porches gallery, as well as our deck galleries, located on our website.