Tag Archives: Macon screened porches

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!

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

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.

Deck builder, Low maintenace decks, Porch builder/contractor, Screened porches

Our recent screened porch and deck combination in Westchester is farmhouse fabulous, and functional!

December 30, 2013 admin

: This screened porch and deck combination located within the Westchester subdivision of Macon is farmhouse fabulous, and functional!

These Macon homeowners heard about Archadeck of Central GA from one of their friends who was also a former client of ours. They had seen our work and were impressed so they contacted us to consult about a screened porch addition they had in mind. Following the completion of some interior remodeling, they contacted us to clarify the design and begin the addition.

: These Westchester homeowners are ready to enjoy their new screened porch for the holidays!

The homeowners had been anticipating the porch addition for a long time. As part of their long-term planning, they had compiled many pictures and lots of ideas about how they wanted the design to look. Archadeck of Central GA used these valuable tools to not only give them the porch of their dreams, but we were able to show the homeowners ways to accomplish their goals less expensively. The homeowners also had an interior designer which we worked with closely on this project.

When we began the porch addition, there was an existing deck we really wanted to utilize for the new porch. We were able to utilize the existing deck space and make it even better — by adding to the deck and making it one foot larger out from the house. In addition to expanding their existing deck, we also added a deck off the side of the screened porch that is the ideal amount of space for the homeowner’s grill. The floor and stairs of the deck were built using low-maintenance TimberTech Earthwood Evolutions Tropical in Pacific Rosewood.

: Here is a view of the screened porch & deck combination in it’s entirety.

There are quite a few unique elements involved in this particular project. One is the farmhouse inspired, cross bunk design chosen for the railing. These are evident as the large cross X’s. In order to achieve the look intended, we had to make sure the panels were evenly spaced to ensure the X’s are all evenly sized. The Macon homeowners also had special wooden doors made to mimic the cross bunk design used in the panels.

The home owners originally wanted a flat ceiling on the porch. However, we showed how a closed rafter ceiling would be less expensive and provide more height with a sloped ceiling. Making the choice of the sloped closed rafter ceiling also ensured no encroachment into second story windows and made it possible to mimic the high ceilings found inside the house. They also wanted plank ceilings used on the interior of the screened porch to give the space a more rustic, old-time look. Again we were able to help the homeowners choose a more cost effective alternative by using beadboard which comes in a large sheets rather than individual pieces.”

: Notice the unique, farmhouse inspired, cross bunk design used on the screened porch railing and door.

We used various columns on the screened porch to give the space more character. The pressure treated square columns were hollowed out on the inside so we could run electrical wiring inconspicuously. We used large 8 x 8 columns on the exterior and 6 x 6 columns on the interior. Although we placed composite flooring on the deck, we used standard pressure-treated wood flooring for the screened porch. Since the porch floor dwells within a protected space that doesn’t encounter sun or rain, we agreed composite was not necessary inside the porch. The homeowner plans to stain the wood in the spring to match the Rosewood color of the composite. We cannot wait to see the completed space.

These Westchester homeowners couldn’t be happier with their new screened porch and deck space. It serves as a perfect place for enjoying nature. They’ve even assembled their holiday tree within the space to enjoy during the holidays!

Archadeck of Central GA has been specializing in quality, upscale outdoor additions since 1991, including many, many open porch and screened porch projects in the Macon and Warner Robins areas. When we meet with you to discuss a porch addition for you and your family we actually listen to your wants and needs in order to provide a porch that will not only meet, but exceed your expectations. Contact Archadeck of Central GA today to learn more about building your perfect porch (478) 745 – 2000
centralgeorgia@archadeck.net

: Stephen Denton, owner of Archadeck of Central GA.

You can see more examples of past porch projects by Archadeck of Central GA by visiting our screened porch photo gallery and our three and four-season room photo gallery located on our website.

Vinyl window for porches

Archadeck of Central GA takes the screen porch through the looking glass with a more versatile enclosure system – vinyl windows!

July 8, 2013 admin

: This 3-season room in Forsyth, GA was enahnced with the addition of Eze-Breeze vinyl windows.

Screened porches are a wonderful asset to your backyard enjoyment. They offer protection from nuisance insects like mosquitoes. Screened porches also offer protection from the sun’s harsh rays, and can be used during times of inclement weather where other outdoor spaces cannot. Just when you thought the benefits of screened porch living couldn’t get any better along comes another way to extend and enhance your screen porch experience – vinyl window enclosures!

The vinyl window enclosure system we use the most often here at Archadeck of Central GA is the Eze-Breeze vinyl window porch enclosure system. This system provides floor to ceiling visibility for panoramic viewing. The windows are safe when installed in dimensions of over 10 ft. and provide shatterproof enjoyment because they bounce back from backyard collisions such as the occasional pop fly ball when playing backyard baseball. These vinyl windows are extremely durable and rugged 10-mil vinyl glaze panels. This flexible material is transparent but is not breakable and will not shatter like glass. If distorted in some way, the vinyl returns to its original shape in minutes. If the vinyl is cut or severely damaged it can be easily replaced, unlike glass which is more difficult and costly to replace.

: Eze-Breeze is strong and durable.

The panels come in two versions, vertical four-track that glide up and down for that screen porch feel and horizontal for full view. This system is easy to use; with just a touch of your finger they will open from the side and gently roll on corrosion free nylon rollers. They can be used on almost any size opening making them one of the most versatile vinyl windows for screen porch makeover products on the market. Maintaining your porch using these windows is also a breeze, with powder coated aluminum framing they are lightweight, durable and nearly maintenance free. Just simply clean with mild dishwashing detergent and clear water rinse and the panels tilt in for easy cleaning.

Eze-Breeze vinyl window enclosures can be used on almost any size opening giving your screen porch makeover a customized look. The system consists of special designed panels that allow for 75% air flow versus standard window which allows for only 50%.If you choose to use horizontal panels, these will provide full air flow.

: Archadeck three season room with Eze-Breeze windows.

Another benefit all Central Georgia homeowners can relate to is the amount dirt, debris and especially pollen that enters your screen porch space each season. Having to deal with the constant chore of cleaning your porch in order to use it can become a headache. With an Eze-Breeze vinyl window enclosure system, these issues become a thing of the past because these particles cannot penetrate the window system. An added bonus is that they offer some protection against high allergy pollen counts to allow you to enjoy the outdoors. Even if you sometimes suffer from allergies caused by oak pollen, pine tree pollen, cedar pollen, or others, these screen porch windows may help to reduce the pollen count so you can breathe easier enjoying a pollen free porch!

Contact Archadeck of Central GA to learn more about our screen porch makeovers, it doesn’t get any easier than adding vinyl windows such as the Eze-Breeze enclosure system to create your own versatile screened porch or three season room. Call today for a free consultation (478) 745 – 2000
centralgeorgia@archadeck.net

: Stephen Denton, owner of Archadeck of Central GA

See more vinyl window screen porch makeovers by visiting our screened porch photo gallery and our three and four season room photo 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.

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.

Screened porches, Vinyl window for porches

Archadeck of Central Georgia gives the lowdown on the Eze-Breeze window system

October 22, 2012 admin

With the onset of cooler weather, we continue to receive more calls with questions regarding the Eze-Breeze window system. This system is the perfect answer to turning your screened porch space into a 3 or 4 season room space by providing more protection from the elements and insects. By installing an Eze-Breeze system you can decide how much, or how little window you use at any given time.

Room to breathe

Unlike traditional windows, the Eze-Breeze system does not require a traditional window frame. The window panels are custom-sized to fit your existing openings without expensive re-framing. So you can keep out the chilly wind in the fall without having to build a Sunroom! In addition the vertical 4-track unit gives you the capability of opening the windows up to 75% of the window area, which is well over the 50% offered by traditional glass products. This feature allows you to maintain the features and view you love about your screened porch by simply opening the windows when you like. This option also gives homeowners added air circulation to help keep the area cool on those balmy Georgia afternoons.

Keeping it clean

clean with soft cloth — Make sure to use a soft cloth when cleaning your Eze-Breeze windows.

Cleaning your Eze-Breeze windows is a breeze. The window vents tilt in for easy cleaning and they can be ordered in clear, bronze and gray tints to reduce the sun’s glare as well. Cleaning the windows only requires using a solution of Woolite or Murphy’s oil soap, a soft cloth, and water. It is recommended that you remove your rings, watches and bracelets before cleaning the windows because the vinyl can be punctured by sharp objects. We also recommend a final cleaning with a moderate amount of our Vinyl Cleaner available from your PGT distributor. It will prolong the life of your Eze-Breeze Sliding Panels and reduce static electric charges that attract dust. Never use ammonia, ammonia based cleaners or dishwashing detergents and soaps, as they can harm vinyl. It is recommended to clean the windows twice a year for optimum results. For a detailed diagram of how to care for your Eze-Breeze system you can visit the website care and cleaning page here.

Georgia on my mind

Archadeck 3-season room with Eze-Breeze windows

Our mild climate allows homeowners to use their porches year round. Many times your screened porch can be utilized even when old man winter comes to call by adding a space heater to your space. The same rings true for our humid summer days by adding a ceiling fan or oscillating fan to your porch can help keep you cool when using your Eze-Breeze window system as a valued part of your porch design. They can be raised or lowered or if desired, the vents can be taken out completely in the summer and stored for use when the weather starts to get colder. The choice is yours.

Stephen Denton, owner of Archadeck of Central GA

The benefits the addition of these windows can bring to your porch environment are endless. Once you have made the decision to install the system, you will wonder how you ever got along without it. Contact Archadeck of Central Georgia to learn more about this wonderful product and how we can transform your screened porch into a room for all seasons with these economical and versatile windows. Call us for a free consultation today (478) 745 – 2000
centralgeorgia@archadeck.net

See more examples of the Eze-Breeze system in action please visit our screened porch 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.

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