Tag Archives: Macon porch builder

Eze-Breeze Windows, Outdoor rooms builder/contractor, Three Season Rooms

Macon GA 3-Season Room and Deck Combo Space!

June 16, 2021 admin

Nestled in the Wellington neighborhood of Macon, Archadeck, the area’s premier deck and porch builder has really done it this time. And the story goes something like this.

three season porch macon ga eze breeze outdoor room

Two years ago a prospective Macon sunroom client met with Archadeck of Central GA to explore ideas and options about adding an outdoor living space to their home. Then some 24 months later the prospective client became a 3-season room client … and then some.

It all started with the design and construction of a screened porch … which then evolved into an Eze Breeze project. If you’re not familiar with it, Eze Breeze is a system of custom fabricated floor to ceiling panes of acrylic see-through material, channeled with cascading, retractable screens.

Existing area before Archadeck of Central GA began the project.

Completed three-season room and deck after project completion.

Better than just a screened porch, the Eze Breeze panels keep annoying seasonal pollen and pesky bugs out of the outdoor living space and can open up to protected fresh air circulation when desired.

Incredibly durable and strong, the “window” material is virtually indestructible with regular seasonal use.

Now with an enclosed outdoor living space, the 3-season design took on more permanence with the addition of a portable heating system and an air conditioning unit.

To complement this new build, a new deck was also added, yielding a new landing, new stairs and a new direction stemming from the new Macon 3-season room/Eze Breeze porch.

As you can tell, the project was truly a work-in-process as features and functionality were added as construction progressed. In addition to the Macon Eze Breeze porch conversion, the final footprint of the space now measures 12-feet by 17-feet. Other embellishments included the space being plumbed for gas (outdoor grilling), and the addition of water lines at two strategic locations on the deck and at one of the posts.

To accent this array of outdoor living convenience and functionality, this “farmhouse” style new build features white board and batten interior walls with a tongue and groove pressure treated pine floor to match the home’s interior flooring.

macon ga eze breeze 3-season room builder

As the final decorative accent, this open gable end porch features tempered glass in the transom above the entry door and insets on the open gable end. On the exterior of the space, Archadeck used pressure treated skirting which was also painted white to complete the contemporary farmhouse vibe.

As the Broadway tune goes, with this Macon deck builder project, it’s not where you start it’s where you finish. And we definitely finished on top.

So whether it be a Macon deck, 3-season room, or Eze Breeze outdoor living oasis, be sure to connect with this Macon deck builder. In fact, you can start right here.

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

Macon deck builder, Porch builder/contractor

This Macon GA Porch Builder Pays Homage To The Term “Idle Hour” In Magnificent Style!

June 2, 2021 admin

Let’s start this tale by acknowledging the fact that it’s hard to top “Idle Hour” for a southern neighborhood that embraces outdoor living. Within this Macon residential area lives a family that finally came to terms that their aging, elevated pressure treated wooden deck was ready to be permanently retired.

macon deck and porch builder idle hour neighborhood

After the family’s free, no-obligation outdoor living design consultation, the consensus was not to replace the faltering deck by building another deck in its place, but rather to create a dramatic transformation.

Existing deck before Archadeck began the project.

Archadeck of Central GA masterminded this dramatic change by converting the space into a majestic, covered porch with a cozy outdoor fireplace integrated right into the heart of the design.

Keeping true to the former deck’s original essence, new contemporary pressure treated lumber was used to create the porch deck floor. At the very top, real wood was again used with the installation of a stunning pine tongue and groove ceiling.

The beauty of natural material aesthetics aside, strength and structure were just as important in the design and construction plan. The underneath area of the deck along with its footings were replaced to ensure excellent structural shape and long-term functionality. A swing door protected storage area was added below the porch to safely put away those outdoor seasonal items while not in use.

This Macon deck builder turned porch builder continued to go above and beyond by creating a beautiful shed roof – complete with gutters – to complete the protected installation.

The custom designed stacked stone fireplace with its all-weather television installation was highlighted with recessed can lighting and ceiling fans for added enjoyment.

Proud to be acknowledged as the area’s premier deck and porch builder, Archadeck of Central GA looks forward to being of assistance to you as you consider what new outdoor living space would be best for the future of your family. To reach out and start that conversation, just click right here.

Front Porch Upgrades, Porches

Front Porch Upgrade Delivers Dramatic Results for These Lizella Homeowners

March 24, 2021 admin

When it comes to first impressions, your home’s front entry is the area that sets the tone. A properly designed and built front porch can enhance your home’s façade and improve curb appeal immensely. The right porch can also add value to your home. Aside from aesthetics, a front porch also protects guests from inclement weather while welcoming them into your home.

Completed front porch upgrades by Archadeck of Central GA — Completed front porch upgrade by Archadeck of Central GA.

What do you do when the front porch have is not exactly the front porch you want?

Answer: You call the local porch experts, Archadeck of Central GA, of course — which is exactly what these Lizella homeowners did. The front porch of their beautiful cape cod home was in need of an upgrade in order to get it looking, and functioning, the way they had in mind. And, let’s face it, is there anything better than a wrap-around porch for your Central GA home? All the more reason to upgrade the space.

If you look closely at the image below of the porch before we began the project, you will see that the design is void of any railing. Adding a rail to the porch was on the “to do” list for these clients, along with a gate to ensure their beloved dog could enjoy the porch safely as well.

What is not so visible in the “before” image is the degradation along the bottom of the wooden porch columns after sitting atop the concrete floor of the porch for 20+ years.

Front porch before Archadeck of Central GA began the project.

Your Macon-Area Porch Expert to the Rescue!

Our first order of business was to replace the existing columns on this stately porch. Instead of replacing the columns with wooden ones, the clients opted for low-maintenance fiberglass columns. By using fiberglass instead of wood, they avoid future rot from contact with the concrete porch floor below, since concrete is porous.

Archadeck of Central GA then doubled the low-maintenance benefits by adding a TimberTech Rail Impressions Express rail system in white aluminum. This railing profile is sleek, clean and doesn’t impede the views while still providing beauty and safety. Taking the safety factor a step farther, we also installed the safety gate the homeowners wanted. We used a double-gate profile. In order to achieve the look they had in mind we used two gate kits and used special order white bolts to secure the area..

The homeowners are elated with the upgrade. They are pleased with way their porch looks, and functions. The entire family can now enjoy the many benefits of this rocking chair front porch – the only thing missing is a glass of iced tea!

If you are ready to upgrade your existing front porch or front entry, or even start from scratch, we can ensure that all who enter will be treated to a beautiful first impression. Contact us today to schedule a design consultation.

You can also read more about how to give your home a facelift with a new or upgraded front porch from 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.

Converting deck to porch, Deck builder, Porches

Our Recent Deck and Screened Porch in Wellington Allows Unobstructed View and Unlimited Enjoyment!

December 1, 2017 admin

One of our most recent deck and screened porch combination projects demonstrates how Archadeck of Central Georgia is able to perfect our outdoor living space designs despite obstacles.

This project is located in the upscale townhome community of Wellington. One of the obstacles when designing an outdoor living space for a townhome is the number of restrictive covenants often associated with these type of properties. This project required that all the covenants be strictly abided by which included the materials used in the design match those of the existing home.

Look at the amazing before and after images of this project:

When we consulted on this project, the property already had an existing pressure treated deck. The homeowner’s wish was to upgrade their existing deck to a screened porch and still retain a deck space for increased outdoor living options. The main obstacle to address was their desire to retain a clear view of their beautiful backyard while still having privacy, especially since their existing deck design gave them a clear view of the surrounding neighbors.

With all the prerequisites in hand, Archadeck of Central Georgia got to work on perfecting the space the homeowner’s had in mind. We were able to retain the beautiful views into the backyard and still secure privacy through the installation of a vertical lap privacy screen.

You will notice that the new screened porch is almost a perfect square design and is longer, taller and deeper, than most traditional screened porches. The reason for this innovative design is two-fold; one was to keep the eaves from coinciding with the transom window located on the back of the home and the depth of the porch helps facilitate more room within the porch while staying in accordance with the restrictive covenants.

The new deck was built using pressure treated pine on the old deck frame which only needed minimal reinforcement through the addition of a few beams. The new stair direction enhances the open feel of the space and lattice skirting retains the traditional feel of the property. There is even a nifty storage area under the new screened porch perfect for storing garden tools and equipment.

The interior of the screened porch features an open gable end and open rafter ceiling. We also installed electrical outlets and a ceiling fan to help keep the space cool during the summer months.

The homeowners are elated with their new porch and deck duo! They are thrilled with the open feel of the space that allows unencumbered views while retaining their backyard privacy — truly the best of both worlds!

Let Archadeck of Central Georgia perfect a screened porch and deck combo for your Macon or Warner Robins area home that will bring your outdoor living potential full circle. Contact us today at (478) 745 – 2000 or via email at centralgeorgia@archadeck.net.

Porch builder/contractor, Porches, Screened porches

Sometimes adding a porch feels like putting a square peg in a round hole

June 27, 2016 admin

At Archadeck of Central GA, we have been called a few times by homeowners hoping to build a porch but their home configuration makes it very difficult to identify how to attach a roof to their home. Take a look at the back of this home before a porch was added. There are two facades at different depths each with their own gable roof.

The homeowners originally called us about 2 years ago to discuss how to tackle attaching a screened porch. After reviewing a couple design ideas, they were not ready to move forward yet. Fast forward to 2016. They were ready to move forward. We again worked with a couple different design ideas for how to connect a new porch to the complicated back of their home.

As you can see, the design solution complemented the double gable roof lines with a gable style roof on the new porch. The room does not obstruct the view from the bay window section on the center facade. We kept a portion of the existing deck structure but we changed out the decking boards and railings to make it look like new.

Take a look at the new porch from the side of the home.

In order to build the size porch the homeowners wanted, we extended the porch out past the side of the home. We matched the trim, soffits and roofing to make sure the porch looked original to the home.

Now take a look at the inside of this screened porch below. Even from the image, you can appreciate the view the homeowners now have while enjoying both sun and bug protection. The gable roof creates a vaulted ceiling inside the porch. The gable end is open to let in as much light as possible. The header boards are trimmed for a slightly more elegant look while maintaining the rustic character of the exposed rafter ceiling. We used dark-colored narrow profile pickets to ensure the greatest visibility of the yard.

We have been called a number of times from homeowners whose home configuration makes it difficult to design how a new porch would attach to their home. We are always able to provide a solution. If other builders tell you it can’t be done, give us a call for a free consultation. As this job demonstrates, we accept these challenges head on and enjoy taking it to the next level of making it look like it was always there.

Give us a call at (478) 745 – 2000 or send us an email at centralgeorgia@archadeck.net for your free consultation. We look forward to talking to you.

Porches

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

March 11, 2013 admin

: 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.

: 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.

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.

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

: 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

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.

Archadeck of Central GA

Why you want Archadeck to build your porch in Macon, Warner Robins

March 26, 2012 admin Leave a comment

Eatonton GA Milledgeville GA porch builder Archadeck of GA — Screen porch by Archadeck of Central GA

Porches sure have evolved since I was young. Many of us remember seeing porches with unfinished wood on all 4 sides finished with flimsy screens and a back door attached by springs that slams shut when you close it. Even since I’ve owned Archadeck of Central GA, porches have changed a lot. The first change is that not all porches are made with screens. The open porch is a very popular option. The open porch allows more breeze and other elements. You still have the experience of being outside but can enjoy the roof over head for those hot Georgia days that go on for months and months. In addition, a covered porch or open porch allows for protection from the elements so on some misty or light rain days, you will be able to spend time under your open porch while staying dry.

Macon Warner Robins Screened Porch wood floors fireplace — Screen porch by Archadeck of Central GA

Screened porches have many benefits. Compared to an open porch, a screen porch allows both bug protection and protection from the elements. There are other benefits to protection from the elements. This opens up your furniture choices quite a bit because the furniture will not have exposure to sun and pollen the way it would on an open porch or deck. A screen porch also allows you to have more options for amenities such as a mounted television.

Whether you choose a screened porch, open porch, or even a deck or patio, you should make sure to choose a reputable builder. This is a big investment and can add a lot of value to your home. You want to choose an experienced contractor with dozens if not hundreds of such projects under their belts. Archadeck of Central GA has been building in this area for over 21 years. We pride ourselves on quoting prices that we stick with and that have no hidden fees. We pride ourselves on being able to work with big design challenges. Often times customers will tell us that other contractors had said there was no way to fit a screen porch to the back of their home and we were able to design a solution. Most importantly, we pride ourselves on the satisfaction of our customers throughout the Central GA area.

Stephen Denton, owner of Archadeck of Central GA

Give us a call for a free consultation for your new porch, deck, sunroom, patio, pergola, or whatever outdoor living area you have in mind. (478) 745 – 2000 or email us at centralgeorgia@archadeck.net.

Click here to see our porches photo gallery on the Archadeck of Central GA website