Tag Archives: Warner Robins open porch

If you like it then you better put a roof on it…

Archadeck of Central Georgia just completed this stunning covered porch addition in Warner Robins, just off Hwy. 96 in the Brantley Subdivision.  In their quest to add more shade and function to their existing raised concrete patio, the homeowners reached out to us for the best advice.

Open Porch-Warner Robins

Initially, they were considering the notion of adding a pergola over top the patio. However, since the footings were already poured, we offered the second option of a porch cover, since it would be more advantageous for delivering shade and protection from inclement weather.

Archadeck of Central Georgia used beefy columns for the addition to complement the architecture of the existing home. To compensate for the two 2nd story windows just above the addition, we designed an almost flat, shed roof. The roof is built using a modified bitumen rolled roof which we carefully matched to the home’s existing color shingle.  The result is a porch cover that appears to have always been part of the original home.

Warner Robins-Porch-Patio

Patio covers, such as this one, might just be the greatest thing to happen to outdoor living since patio furniture or the advent of the backyard grill! This addition is perfect for porch parties and backyard barbecues. By opting for a roof cover instead of a pergola, this family now can enjoy their patio safe from the elements and impervious to the changing seasons. Like the title says; if you like it then you better put a roof on it…

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

Contact us to learn more about all the ways we can improve your existing outdoor space, or create a new one from scratch. You can reach us by phone at (478) 745 – 2000 or via email at centralgeorgia@archadeck.net.

 

 

Archadeck of Central GA provides information to make the best interior ceiling choice for your anticipated porch addition

Macon GA screened porch with gable roof
Macon GA screened porch with exposed rafter detail.

Choosing the right ceiling to fit your own individual tastes and in keeping with the look you want to achieve within your porch is an important decision. There are many choices available when it comes to styles and finishes. As a customer of Archadeck of Central GA, we want you to be an informed customer. We want to provide the information to help you make the best decision for your specific needs and wants. In this article, we will explore the various interior porch ceiling options in an effort to educate homeowners providing information to make the best decision.

Your porch ceiling is the perfect spot to add style and flair. There are a many choices, styles, accoutrements, details and materials that can be used to finish your interior ceiling. Each one can be used to convey a feeling and a mood within your porch.

Rustic Shed Roof Screen Porch
Rustic shed roof screened porch by Archadeck of Central GA.

The first decision to make when it comes to an interior porch ceiling is whether you want a vaulted/cathedral or flat ceiling. Flat ceilings are generally standard 8′ or 9′ foot height, the same as that of an interior room in your home. Flat finished ceilings give your porch or screened porch an interior room feel. Flat ceilings are often used to create a more formal space. They can be enhanced by using hardwood finishes to achieve a rustic elegance. From a budgetary perspective, it is less expensive to do a sloped or cathedral ceiling. Installing a flat ceiling under a sloped roof requires more lumber and will add to the cost of your porch.

The height of a vaulted ceiling is dependent on how steep your roof pitch is. For example, vaulting a 20-by-20-foot room can create a vaulted or cathedral ceiling that’s 11 to 12 feet high at its peak. A porch that has a higher ceiling will appear and feel larger than it actually is. Cathedral ceilings give the room a sense of lightness and airiness. They also allow more room to use trim, moldings and architectural detailing.  An elevated ceiling also provides “architectural reveals.” which are effects caused by shadowing lines that can be induced through extra architectural details and lighting.

Beautiful rustic interior shot of open porch in Warner Robins GA
Open porch with dramatic cathedral ceiling in Warner Robins, GA.

If choosing a vaulted or cathedral ceiling, the question arises of whether to choose an exposed rafter or an enclosed rafter design. Enclosed rafters often communicate a more formal look. Certain amenities, such as recessed can lights require the use of closed rafters. The decision to leave the rafter exposed or to enclosed is a personal preference. When enclosing the rafters, the expense comes in when painting everything. There are ways to give the space a finished look without having to paint everything in the process. Exposed rafters are very popular among outdoor structures. This conveys a rustic earthy elegance to the structure and is actually less expensive than choosing to enclose the rafters. When leaving the rafters exposed the size of the rafter itself will greatly impact the look of your space. It is also a consideration as  larger rafters with more girth and presence reflect a  more masculine feel and also leave a bigger cavity within the ceiling itself.

Chippendale pattern on Perry GA deck rail reflects the homeowners Chippendale-backed swing
This lovely porch in Perry, GA feature an open rafter ceiling which is painted white.

Finishing out the interior ceiling is the next step. We are seeing a trend of finishing the space out using the same lumber as the rest of the structure. For an informal look we generally recommend using T-111, which is rough- sawn, grooved plywood. This option cost the same a bead board. Many homeowners like the rustic look of T-111 and choose a clear seal to keep the natural look intact. Bead board is also popular and gives a more formal look and is less expensive than using grooved planks.

Other amenities for porch interiors are only limited to the imagination, and your budget. These include wiring for speakers, ceiling fans, and various lighting elements. Our goal at Archadeck of Central GA is to provide you with a porch built with quality and beauty at the best value.

Archadeck blue ceiling
True blue Southern porch ceiling?

With our location here in GA, we cannot put together a post on interior ceiling finishes for porches and not mention the Southern tradition of painted blue porch ceilings. There are numerous theories as to why this practice started – from fooling spiders and wasps into thinking the ceiling is the sky, to blue being a harbinger of good luck, to the color extending daylight, to scaring away evil spirits and as an effort to discourage birds and bees from building their nests in the ceiling.

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

When considering any outdoor structure project including a new porch addition, you want to make sure you are using an experienced, licensed builder who has the knowledge, integrity and the design expertise to provide you with a porch that has your best interest in mind. Archadeck of Central Georgia has years of experience in perfecting the porch, and other outdoor structures, here in Central GA.  To learn more contact us at (478) 745 – 2000 Email: centralgeorgia@archadeck.net

Please visit our extensive porch galleries, including our open porch, screened porch and front porch galleries located on our website for more examples of ceiling finishes for porches.

Archadeck of Central Georgia builds an open porch in Warner Robins GA that opens up a world of outdoor living possibilities for these homeowners

Poolside open porch in Warner Robins GA
Here is a peek at this lovely poolside open porch addition in Warner Robins!

Take a look at our recently completed project in Warner Robins GA. Our assignment was to come up with a roofed outdoor design to convert a patio into a covered patio/open porch. The homeowners had a raised concrete patio with brick skirting. The homeowners shared their need for relief from the hot sun that constantly beat down on the patio. They wanted a refuge from the heat and a place to cool off and relax after a swim in their backyard pool which is a few short steps away. They wanted a shaded area on the patio so they could utilize the space for what it was meant for.

Beautiful rustic interior shot of open porch in Warner Robins GA
Overcoming the obstacle of the home’s interior cathedral ceiling made for a stunning finished porch interior– breathtaking!

Several other builders looked at the project and each informed the homeowner that the design they had in mind just wasn’t possible. The biggest issue was the way the design and structure would attach to the back of the house. The home’s interior had a 2-story cathedral ceiling so there were no floor joists to connect to. In order to accommodate their desire for a covered porch space, we had to design a dual roof tie-in to make the structure fit. We used a combination shed and gable roof. We had to do some really unique things to make the structure sound. These included adding collar ties and using some innovative corner posts to support the roof. We then shared the drawings with the local inspector to have the design blessed before we began. We also contacted the county to make sure the footings were inspected properly. Many contractors would not have gone the extra mile to ensure approval of the design. Archadeck of Central GA always takes extra measures to ensure our projects will be approved by inspectors when we’re finished.

The guttering feeds down into two rain barrels enabling the homeowners to use the water collected for other purposes within the landscape — the new addition is built with an eye on recycling natural resources with less of an impact on the environment!

Before open porch
Before
Lovely view of open porch from across pool by Archadeck of Central GA
After.

The project integrates the wrought iron railing and large columns that were already part of the existing patio. The completed structure is very large and quite dramatic. It adds loads of beauty and appeal to the home, the pool and the landscape. These Warner Robins homeowners are elated with their new outdoor oasis and cannot wait to test it out once the hot Georgia afternoon sun reaches its fevered pitch. The new covered patio/porch has opened up a host of outdoor living possibilities.

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

If you have an outdoor oasis in mind for your backyard and have been told the design you have in mind is not possible, contact Archadeck of Central Georgia. Our innovative backyard living designs go the extra mile in terms of beauty, enjoyment and possibilities. (478) 745 – 2000
centralgeorgia@archadeck.net

Please visit our porches photo gallery and our patio and hardscapes photo gallery located on our website  for more unique examples of our unique outdoor room designs.

 

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.

Read this before you finish your plans for your new Macon Warner Robins backyard pool addition

Ipe Deck at the pool in Warner Robins GA
This stunning Ipe deck in Warner Robins, GA makes the perfect spot to soak up the sun by the pool.

If you are considering a big enhancement to your backyard this year, planning properly can save you time and money. Adding a large scale backyard enhancement such as a pool or a pool with a patio/deck can be a daunting task. The key to the successful completion of each phase of your backyard endeavor depends heavily on good planning. I am often approached by homeowners and asked at which stage of their pool addition they should contact us to begin planning the deck, porch, or patio they anticipate adding in the near or distant future.. The answer is to contact us immediately upon making your decision to go ahead with a large-scale backyard enhancement. Many contractors don’t stress the importance of planning and having a detailed finished backyard vision going into a project.

Central GA poolside gazebo in Macon
This Central GA gazebo serves as a shady spot and impromptu covered porch with a custom bridge that leads to the homeowner’s backyard pool.

For example, what would a pool be without an accompanying outdoor space? This space could be a pool house, a cabana or covered porch. Even a waterfall or koi pond can benefit from an adjoining space such as a paver patio surround or retaining wall to place plants and flowers.

Contacting Archadeck of Central Georgia prior to breaking ground for your next outdoor project will ensure you have a master plan to guide you through the stages of enhancing your outdoor area.  A master guide is especially important if your addition involves something like relocating sprinkler heads. A little foresight into your anticipated project will save time and money later. Important considerations like electrical and plumbing can be planned or hidden. Hiding the pool pump/filter system and wiring as well as masking the noise that is generated by these pool pumps can be designed into your project early on so you won’t have headaches or surprises later.

outdoor kitchen-warner robins
This outdoor kitchen and hardscape patio opens the door for abundant poolside entertaining opportunities.

We can work along with your pool contractor to make sure the digging and needed utility lines are ready for future growth. We can build your deck, patio or cabana before, during or even after your pool is installed. Doing this planning prior beginning your project will mean a smoother construction with less turf or lifestyle distraction later.

Archadeck of Central GA can also help you plan for the backyard of your dreams on a budget. Our planning and project scope precision will enable you to build your project in stages over a period of months, or even years to give you the benefits of improving your backyard over a span that makes sense for you financially.

Pavilion Next to Pool in Macon GA
A poolside pavilion provides shade and room for a myriad of outdoor activities.
Stephen Denton, owner of Archadeck of Central GA
Stephen Denton, owner of Archadeck of Central GA

If you are planning the addition of a water feature and outdoor structure combination, such as a pool and pool house, contact Archadeck of Central GA today. We can sit down and map out the order and importance of each stage of your project to ensure your project runs smooth as silk. Call us for a free consultation today (478) 745 – 2000
centralgeorgia@archadeck.net

You can get more visual ideas about poolside outdoor spaces by visiting our deck galleries and our shade structure galleries located on our website.

Top 11 building and design trends, as well as upgrades, for your outdoor space in 2013

hardscape builder macon GA warner robins
Screened porches as well as hardscape designs such as patios and outdoor fireplaces remain at the top of many homeowner wish lists as we look to 2013.

Each of us starts off the New Year with aspirations and hopes of improving our lives in the upcoming year. These improvements can include freeing ourselves of bad habits and making changes to improve our health and appearance. Many homeowners begin making changes that will improve our lives and our lifestyle. Adding and upgrading areas in and around your home to get more enjoyment out of your home is at the top of many homeowners’ lists. With this in mind, Archadeck of Central Georgia has compiled a summary of what we see for hot building and design trends for 2013.

Building and design trends in outdoor living for 2013

Central Georgia Belgard hardscapes
This beautiful walkway was built usng Belgard hardscapes.
  1. We are continuing to watch the screened porch market grow. This is especially true when the screened porch becomes a room that can be utilized for 9 months out of the year or even longer with the inclusion of an outdoor fireplace. This is an inexpensive way to add a big living space to your backyard and home.
  2. Hardscapes will continue to be a growth area for us in 2013. Patios are becoming more and more popular in the Central GA market. We expect growth in the higher-end patio build and design market which includes outdoor fireplaces and outdoor kitchens. This is an ideal choice for a patio home with a flat yard or those homeowners who already have a concrete patio which is too small or does not provide adequate function.
  3. Among the top choices for hardscapes is Belgard’s Chattahoochee blend. This beautiful blend contains purples and browns. We continue to get requests for this color, in particular because it contains enough brown to hide dirt effectively.
  4. Multi-area outdoor spaces will continue to grow as well. Multi- area spaces and outdoor living combinations provide multiple uses for one space. People will continue to want to build more outdoor kitchens, and fire pits. These areas can be used on patios and decks to increase the length of usable time for the space.
  5. Fire pits continue to grow in popularity within our market. Not only is the fire pit a relatively inexpensive way to add ambiance and rustic beauty to your outdoor setting, but people really love them.
  6. Interest in composite and PVC (synthetic) decks will continue to grow in popularity in the New Year. Adding a synthetic deck make sense for less maintenance and maintaining your deck’s beauty and value over time.
    Screen Porch - Macon GA
    Screened porches continue to be one of the most requested outdoor spaces for 2013.
  7. AZEK PVC trim boards have started to become popular for people who also want a more finished look to their outdoor space. We can use these to wrap the deck, edge band, column posts and risers in white. Most houses have white windows and trim so the white PVC finishes match really nicely.
  8. A great way to add pizzazz to a deck without adding really expensive custom elements is to use a two-tone color design. This can be achieved with an outline, or even parting boards. This kind of design trend adds little additional cost to the homeowner and adds loads of personality to your deck.
  9. One thing we’ve seen is a great deal of repair work that has been put off with homeowner’s existing outdoor spaces because of the recent economy. The economy is improving and if you are thinking of selling your home, the needed repairs will have to be addressed in order to place your home on the market. Personally, I have seen a number of decks that need repair so we foresee a great deal of safety inspection and repair work in 2013.
  10. Beyond minor repairs, we anticipate there will be some re-decking without changing the size and shape of existing decks as well as adding new railing to many decks to improve the salability of homes. Re-decking can be a valuable way to add beauty and longevity to your deck, this is the case whether you are staying in your home or plan to sell in the near future. Deciding to upgrade to a synthetic will add value over time, and will leave you more time to enjoy your outdoor space without the worry of constant maintenance.
  11. With existing screened porches we are seeing the popularity of converting their screens to EZE Breeze windows. This is the case with many porch owners because it extends the amount of time you can enjoy your space. It also offers versatile function that can enable your porch to function as a three-season, or even a four-season room with minimal effort.
Stephen Denton, owner of Archadeck of Central GA
Stephen Denton, owner of Archadeck of Central GA

Whether you are considering a new outdoor structure addition this year, or are looking to upgrade an existing outdoor space to deliver more enjoyment and appeal, Archadeck of Central Georgia can transform your outdoor space into everything you always hoped it could be. Contact us today to learn more. Call today for a free consultation (478) 745 – 2000 centralgeorgia@archadeck.net Visit our deck gallery, our patio and hardscape gallery and our screened porch gallery located on our website to see more examples of trending outdoor structure designs for 2013. learn more. Call today for a free consultation (478) 745 – 2000 centralgeorgia@archadeck.net

Visit our deck gallery, our patio and hardscape gallery and our screened porch gallery located on our website to see more examples of trending outdoor structure designs for 2013.

Top 5 reasons not to be your own contractor by Archadeck of Central GA

Macon GA screened porch with fireplace
It is important to let a professional take the reins and see to it that your outdoor dreams are brought to life in a timely manner with quality workmanship and materials.

When it comes to adding an outdoor living space to your home, there are certain things that should not be undertaken or decided upon without the help of an expert. These things are quality, structural expertise, cost, and safety. These are the aspects that may be lost when deciding to be your own general contractor for your structural outdoor project. I like to compare the pitfalls that homeowners experience when choosing to be their own general contractor to representing yourself in a trial with no prior experience of how the judicial system operates. A novice taking on their own defense would not be familiar with the judge, the district attorneys, or even how to present a case. All good intentions aside in order to represent yourself you need the guidance of an experienced professional with knowledge of the courtroom. The same can be said about an experienced contractor. A seasoned builder or contractor knows the business and how it operates, how to get the best values on the highest quality materials and how to avoid being pushed onto the back burner of the schedule.

5 reasons to not be your own general contractor

Archadeck of Central GA quality sub contractors
Archadeck of Central GA only uses sub-contractors that are experts in the quality and workmanship of their given trade.

1) Risk – if you are acting as your own contractor there will be substantial risks involved. These can range from the design, the construction and the people you hire to work for you. Being a homeowner and taking on these risks means there is no recourse for holding subcontractors accountable if something goes wrong. Since you are not licensed as a contractor you are accepting all the risk. In addition to the liability and danger involved if an accident such as a fire happens, your homeowner’s insurance does not cover the risk associated with deciding to take on the role of a general contractor. Reputable sub-contractors you seek to complete the work will require an up-to-date certificate of insurance showing you are covered in the event of an accident.

2) Expertise– the sub-contractors hired will have to be supervised and instructed. Questions like “how deep are the footings supposed to be”, and “how many nails should go in the joist” commonly arise. Knowledge of code requirements is also crucial when managing a building project. In order to play the role of a general contractor you must have knowledge and be well-versed in conveying the proper structural requirements to the subs when needed. Without the skill, experience and expertise; you will be left in the dark. This means when the inspections are completed and something doesn’t meet code, or is done incorrectly, you as the general contractor will have to fix it.

Archadeck
Our customers our priority one and we uphold the highest expectations of each contractor, safety and the highest quality materials.

3) Costs– licensed contractors have relationships with their suppliers. They deal with them on a regular basis and are repeat customers. This relationship between the contractor, the supplier and the sub-contractors helps facilitate honesty between the groups. Suppliers want good relationships with their contractors and sub-contractors because they want repeat business. This rapport means that they are more apt to be treated fairly on price and delivery versus doing business with a one-time customer. You are not likely to get the same discounts or prompt delivery as that of one their regular contractors.

4) Timing – suppliers will make sure the deliveries for the contractors they deal with as repeat customers on a regular basis are top priority. Deliveries for one time clients are generally placed last. The same can be said about the scheduling importance of your sub-contractors. Since yours is a one time job they will likely not have the same incentive to get the work completed in a timely manner as the jobs of their repeat contractors. They will prioritize their better relationships over your job of someone they are not familiar with and will likely never work for again. Building is a realm where contractors, subs and suppliers take care of their “own” before any others, much like a family would.

5) Quality – this is especially a concern where sub-contractors are concerned. Many quality subs already have specific contractors which they will only work for. It is difficult to find a good sub that will work for you as a one-time deal. The inability to hire quality sub-contractors will set the stage for inferior or sub-standard work, because all the quality workers are already scheduled on jobs for licensed contractors. This is a major pitfall for homeowners acting as their own general contractor because it can lead to problems in the future as a result of shoddy workmanship.

The best way to avoid these dilemmas is to hire a licensed general contractor to oversee your outdoor structure project. Archadeck of Central Georgia specializes in taking the pressure off of the homeowner and ensuring a safe and trained work environment with skilled sub-contractors, turn-key pricing and quality workmanship in a timely manner. If you are looking for an answer to “all of the above”, we can provide it for a lot less than you may expect. Contact Archadeck of Central Georgia to learn more and to discuss how we can bring your outdoor living dreams to life. Call for a free consultation (478) 745 – 2000
centralgeorgia@archadeck.net

See more of our award-winning outdoor living projects by visiting our deck gallery and  our outdoor living gallery located on our website. Quality you can see and feel in every project we build!

These Warner Robins Quail Run residents’ backyard goes from plain to perfect

pool paver patio-warner robins
The Belgard patio that surrounds the pool also includes a special paver made especially for the edges of pools. It delivers a smooth, eased edge to ease into the pool painlessly.
screen porch-warner robins
The improved porch which overlooks the pool in this Quail Run backyard includes mosquito curtains that provide function and airy beauty as they flank the porch corners when not in use.

Have you ever been thumbing through one of those dreamy home and garden magazines and found that perfect picture that represents exactly what you are looking for in your dream backyard? These residents in the Quail Run community of Warner Robins, Georgia had a great backyard pool with a concrete apron surround but it didn’t have the character and outdoor living appeal they were looking for. Archadeck of Central Georgia took their cues from the homeowner’s desires to turn their backyard into a haven of style and function that looks like it rolled right off the pages of Southern Living magazine.

hardscape firepit-warner robins
This view from the rear backyard shows the patio, outdoor kitchen and fire pit area and how it "gels" together perfectly.

The existing area around the homeowner’s pool was a concrete apron with no special features. It only served the purpose of having somewhere solid to enter and exit the pool, and a level place to put outdoor furniture. They wanted an area for entertaining with lots of open space, which would also have close access to the pool especially since the homeowners really enjoy entertaining friends and family. The home also had an existing porch which overlooked the pool and the porch had some drainage issues. To solve the drainage issue, we installed a drain between the pool area and the porch/kitchen area. The drain is very subtle aesthetically and completely does the job functionally.

Warmer Robins hardscape Archadeck of Central GA
The custom wood burning fire pit sits atop the beautiful hardscape patio in hues that blend perfectly.

They wanted to complete the perfectly picturesque project in stages, the first of which was to improve upon the area around their pool and add a new drain for the porch. They also wanted a fire pit and an outdoor kitchen. The outdoor kitchen was to be part of the second stage of the project, but we were able to modify the plan to better accommodate their needs and include during the first stage.

The area around the pool was transformed with a custom hardscape patio using Belgard Holland Stone in the spice blend color and installed using a dramatic herringbone pattern. We then used an alternate Belgard patterned stone called Urbana stone that incorporates a special paver that goes around the pool that has an eased edge. We also drilled anchor holes into this edge for the pool cover. We worked around the pool’s diving board because the pavers changed the elevation of the pool surround.

outdoor kitchen-warner robins
The outdoor kitchen includes many amenities, including a Primo Grill and Kegerator.

We carried the elegant hardscape design into the outdoor kitchen area as well using Belgard’s Weston stone wall pavers. We used soldier course on the light posts and within the kitchen between the cabinets and the top of the kitchen island. The outdoor kitchen has many amenities for the homeowner’s convenience including a burner, grill, Kegerator and a Primo Grill egg shaped smoker. Any guests’ fortunate enough to be invited to this Warner Robins residence will benefit from the tasty treasures cooked up in this complete outdoor kitchen area.

The custom fire pit area contains a wood burning fire pit with a drain which is important to keep moisture out and away from the pit to prevent rain from damaging the fire pit components. We finished out the design with four light posts on the corners which match the fire pit and kitchen. All wiring is hidden from view under the hardscape pavers. For added convenience we also installed mosquito curtains on the porch that overlooks the pool to keep the homeowners and their guests concentrating on their menu and not worrying about being on the mosquitoes’ menu on those wonderful evenings when they entertain.

hardscapes fire pit warner robins GA
Picture perfect and ready for outdoor living this season.

This finished project exudes elegance, function and harmony as one area flows effortlessly into another. In the case of this project the basics were already here, the design of this backyard just needed direction and expert design to bring it to life.

Contact Archadeck of Central Georgia to learn how we can take your everyday backyard area into something beyond the usual, something extraordinary. We can take the potential your outdoor living area already has and improve upon it, or even build your dream backyard starting from scratch.

Call for a free consultation: (478) 745 – 2000
email:centralgeorgia@archadeck.net

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

See more images that could challenge the pages of your favorite magazine by visiting our patio and hardscape gallery located on our website.

If insects and pollen are a problem, Archadeck of Central Georgia has you “covered” with an open porch

Macon porch builder Archadeck Central GA
There is nothing quite like the feeling of a covered porch on a summer afternoon.

 

macon-porch
This covered porch in Macon, GA is built at a height that is too difficult for many insects to travel. This means less mosquitoes and other insects when enjoying your covered porch.

There are many reasons why an open porch is a great choice as an outdoor living structure, but with all of its benefits, the open porch has one significant drawback – it does not offer insect protection. The level of insect protection you are seeking on your porch may end up being your deciding factor as to whether to go with an open porch or screened porch. However, if your heart is set on an open porch and your porch will be elevated at the second story level, the height serves as insect protection and that may be enough protection for you.

Companies are coming up with new and existing mosquito curtains to give open porch lovers more options. Mosquito Curtains of Atlanta is fairly new company that our customers seem to really like.  Each curtain is custom-made to your specifications and Mosquito curtains are highly effective in controlling mosquitoes. Another way to discourage insects on your open porch is by installing ceiling fans, the circulation of air that the fans provide prevent the insect the ability to land, and if they cannot land-they cannot bite.

Here in Georgia we are known for our beautiful trees and plants. Unfortunately, those trees and plants produce an inordinate amount of pollen which ends up covering every surface around. Our cars, windows, and yes, outdoor areas are covered with a film of yellowish-green at intervals throughout the spring and summer. Cleaning up the pollen can be a real headache. Open porches are one of the easiest outdoor structures to have when you are dealing with pollen because there are no screens to worry about cleaning and you can just use a leaf blower or hose to clean it off.

The aesthetics of an open porch offer a more formal look to your backyard because of the open columns that are readily used in their design. Architecturally, screen porches look more rustic while open porches look more elegant. Design elements such as bead board ceilings, open rafters and exposed beams look great in open porches. You can also still take advantage of features like recessed canned lighting, ceiling fans and electrical outlets on your covered porch.

milledgeville-porch
This open porch in Milledgeville, GA uses an "open rafter" detail that adds aesthetic appeal.

Whether you choose an open/covered porch or a screened porch, Archadeck of Central Georgia can create a space especially for you and your family that is sure to become your favorite room” in the house”.

Call for a free consultation (478) 745 – 2000 email: centralgeorgia@archadeck.net 

To see more open porch and covered porch designs visit our porch gallery located on our website.

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

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
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