What is involved in building a dock at my lakeside Central GA home?

June 20, 2012 admin

Dock on Houston Lake in Warrner Robins, GA by Archadeck of Central GA — This custom dock on Lake Houston, features a heavenly descending staircase from the backyard onto the dock.

Here in Central Georgia we are fortunate enough to have some of the most beautiful natural settings in the south. Adding to that beauty is the large number of Lakes we have access to in the area. Several lake communities call Central GA home including Eagle Springs Lake, Lake Oconee, Lake Sinclair, Lake Houston and Lake Tobesofkee. Many residents opt to make one of the lakes their home, whether as a primary residence or a weekend home. We have been commissioned to build several docks at lake-home communities here in Central GA.

Perry, GA Dock built by Archadeck of Central GA — The dock we built in Perry, GA features a unique octagonal shape for optimum views of the lake.

Right now Archadeck of Central GA is building a dock for some Eagle Springs residents in Warner Robins, GA. By building a number of docks in the area we are familiar with the codes and requirements for constructing a dock in Georgia. The most important aspect of building a dock is the fact that in order to properly set the posts the water level of the lake needs to be down. This fluctuates with the varying amounts of rainfall. Since most lakes in the area are governed by Georgia Power, the amount of water that passes through the dam needed for the generation of electricity also influences the water levels. During certain times the water levels may be lowered when drawdowns are scheduled for maintenance of the dams and government mandated flow limits. You can find out the lake levels for those governed by GP by visiting http://lakes.southernco.com/. We also monitor the lake levels so that we can find an opportune time to begin construction on your dock, and schedule your project accordingly.

Waterside porch — A unique take on the typical waterside porch and dock, by Archadeck.

When homeowners decide they want a dock we try to work the construction around fluctuating lake levels, this is important in order to properly set the footings on a new dock. We typically use pressure treated framing materials and posts to build the dock, but you can use a composite material or Ipe as well. PVC is the composite we would recommend if considering using one because it withstands exposure to the water really well. Pressure treated wood will take a beating with the constant exposure to water and will need to be treated annually. Ipe is beautiful but is prone to cup, warp and split even though it ages 10 times slower than pressure treated pine. Inevitably in 10 years the Ipe will look the same as pressure treated does after one year. If you use wood in this close proximity to the water, it will require maintenance more frequently than a normal deck or porch would. When we build a dock we often build stairs descending down to the dock and we also make sure your dock is set at the right point off the water.

Dock and Gazebo in Fortsyth, GA — This dock in Forsyth, GA includes a gazebo, which gives the dock elegance along with a functional shade structure to cast a line on those hot GA days.

If time is of the essence and the lake levels are not where they need to be to ensure proper post installation you may choose to build a floating dock. These are constructed atop plastic pontoons which float on the water’s surface and are always at the same height. This would also make an easy project that you could enjoy while awaiting proper water levels to build a full-on dock. No matter what type of dock you choose to build, lakes that are controlled by Georgia Power have code requirements for building docks, boathouses, or any structure that is built on the lake itself. It is important to know what your county or individual governing body allows. If you know that GA power governs the lake you are on, you can consult your Shoreline Management Guidelines provided by Georgia Power Lakes to view the rules and regulations that could affect your dock construction. All docks require a permit, and we take care of that for you as part of your building package.

If you have a lakefront or lakeside home that would benefit from a dock , contact Archadeck of Central Georgia. We can plan, design, build and schedule your dock in accordance with water level shifts and give you a dock that is sound, and beautiful. What better way to enjoy living by one of Georgia’s most relaxing and beautiful assets. We can make everyday like a vacation for you and your family with a dock.

Stephen Denton, owner of Archadeck of Central GA

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

Porch builder/contractor, Porches

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

June 20, 2012 admin

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.

Porch builder/contractor, Screened porches, Vinyl window for porches

The right vinyl window can make turning your screened porch into a 3- or 4-season room a breeze

June 4, 2012 admin Leave a comment

A 2-season room before decorating in Forsyth GA

Using the right vinyl windows can turn your screened porch into a 3- or 4-season room. Archadeck of Central Georgia installs vinyl window systems for new and existing screen porch transformations. A vinyl window system enables you to be better protected from the elements thus giving you the ability to use the room for more months during the year.

Vinyl window systems offer more protection from inclement weather, wind, rain, and even the cold with the addition of a space heater on your screened porch. But be careful, all vinyl window systems are not created equal. For a vinyl window system to function properly it needs to contain a window frame that is built to support the vinyl windows. We have found that the Eze-Breeze window system is the best, and we use this system exclusively.

Screened porch to sunroom conversion in N. Macon Ga — Screened porch to sunroom conversion in N. Macon GA

If you are considering a window system in your outdoor room it is crucial that you hire someone to professionally install the windows and that the windows themselves are good quality. In a vinyl window system the frame system is going to carry all the weight. If you are thinking of just using vinyl windows without a framing system it will lead to a multitude of headaches and problems on down the road. The Eze-Breeze window systems that we use include a supportive frame system that can carry the strength of the windows without putting stress on your outdoor structure itself.

Not only are Eze-Breeze systems strong, they come with a plethora of functional options to make your life easier. One of the options they offer is the sliding track system that allows you to operate the windows easily and engage the windows according to how much or how little you want to use at your leisure. This tracking system for the Eze-Breeze porch enclosures gives you the freedom of horizontal or vertical sliders that offer up to 75% ventilation.

PGT Fist shot for web — The Eze-Breeze window will revert back to its original shape within minutes of any mishap.

The vinyl used in the Eze-Breeze system is an innovative product that is strong, nearly invisible in its clarity, and isn’t susceptible to cracking or breaking. If the unforeseen happens, such as a baseball pop-fly that hits one of the windows the window actually takes the blow and pops back into place! If the vinyl is accidentally misshapen or distorted it will revert back to its original shape within minutes.

If you are ready to create a versatile room by bringing all the beauty of the outdoors in the room and leaving all the undesirables out, contact Archadeck of Central Georgia to learn more about our screened porches, outdoor rooms and vinyl windows systems for use in your porch enclosure. Contact us for a free consultation (478) 745 – 2000 centralgeorgia@archadeck.net

You can see more stunning transformations of screened porches into sunrooms and 3 & 4 season rooms by visiting our screened porch photo gallery and our sunroom gallery located on our website.

Free deck safety inspection

BE SAFER with a free deck safety inspection from Archadeck of Central GA

May 23, 2012 admin Leave a comment

Don’t become a grim statistic. In a six-year period there were

179 deck failures
1,122 people were injured
33 were killed

Deck safety is no accident

Ensure that your deck is safe by following these tips and suggestions from Archadeck Outdoor Living.

Be safer with a deck inspection by Archadeck of Central GA

Boards
Look at the condition of your deck boards. Most wood will show some cracks and splits over time, but is the general condition of the boards good, or are the boards splintering and unsafe to walk on?

Every Connection
A deck should be built using a variety of fasteners and metal hardware connectors to create a continuous pathway to ensure deck stability and safety. Check to see if the appropriate fasteners and connectors were used when constructing the deck. The condition of the hardware used and if any of it need to be replaced?

Structure
If visible, look at the posts, beams and joists that provide the structural framework of the deck. What is their condition? Is there any noticeable sagging between supports?

Attachment
The attachment of the deck to the house (at an area called the house band) is the area where most deck failures occur. Pay special attention to this area and check to make sure that the deck is properly attached to the house band with appropriate screws or bolts and that it is properly flashed for water protection. Nails should never be used for this type of attachment.

Foundation / Footings
The foundation / footings receive and support the weight (also known as the load) on a deck and the columns that bear on them. A footing that is sinking may cause a noticeable sag in an area or a column separating from a beam.

Exits
Check the areas where people exit from the deck. These exits usually involve stairs so be sure to check the condition of the material used on the stair stringers, stair treads and risers.

Rails
Look at the condition of the rail posts and sections of railing on the deck to make sure that the railing is secure. Check to make sure that the pickets/balusters are fastened securely and spaced no more than four inches apart.

Call us today for a free deck safety inspection at (478) 745 – 2000 or email us at centralgeorgia@archadeck.net. We look forward to your call.

Outdoor rooms builder/contractor, Porch builder/contractor, Screened porches

From sunny to screened may be less investment than you may think

May 14, 2012 admin Leave a comment

Covered porch in Macon GA — This covered porch in Macon, GA leaves plenty of opportunity for shady days and relaxing evenings.

Screen porch transformation in Warner Robins — We transformed this patio into a screened porch in Warner Robins, GA.

Are you tired of the hot Georgia sun beating down on you every time you go out to use your deck or patio? Many homeowners turn to us to help them convert their sunny deck or patio into a covered deck, screened porch or covered patio. We help turn lots of decks and patios into screen porches or covered porches which can represent a substantial savings.

Macon GA deck and screened porch combination — These Macon, GA residents opted for a combination of both a deck and a screen porch.

If you have a deck, often at least 50% of your structure can be re-usable in terms of converting it to a porch. In order to accommodate a roof though, most scenarios may require additional footings and larger posts. Even if you are looking to change the size of your area, we can typically use the existing structure and enlarge it which will save you at least 15-30% of the cost.

In using your existing deck, bug control is the key factor in determining if we need to replace the decking boards or install a layer of screen beneath the boards to keep the bugs out of your screened porch. If your existing deck is still in good shape we may only need the screen installed as long as there enough room under your deck for us to install it.

Patios are also sometimes ready to convert to a screened porch. If you have a patio that you are looking to convert and the patio is raised, then in most cases it has the appropriate footings necessary to accommodate the added weight of a roofed structure and therefore we can place the posts on the top edge which will allow you a 30% savings. If your patio is on the ground, it typically doesn’t have turn down footings and cannot accommodate the added weight of columns. Based on your patio’s condition and age this may be cause for an exception. If your patio is 15 years old and doesn’t have a crack , the building inspector may allow us to build atop that. When we construct a flat patio, we typically build in the cost of installing footings underneath it. Depending on the county and city you reside in depends on the individual restrictions.

Screen porch in Macon GA — The ultimate outdoor living structure is the screen porch. This one in Macon, GA allows insect free enjoyment on those hot summer days.

Other considerations to keep in mind are whether or not your structure has any constraints such as a deck or patiothat has a restricted tie into your existing home in a certain spot. This creates a challenge and may require a start over to allocate a more desirable tie in area. We are very good at figuring out creative roof tie-ins and many of our customers have told us when they sought the advice of other contractors who told them it couldn’t be done, we have made it work beautifully. It just takes an eye and the desire to overcome obstacles that other builders won’t put the care and thought into. Another key consideration is your accessibility from your porch into the yard. Sometimes move stairs because having stairs leading to a door is awkward at best and could be dangerous so typically we suggest adding a landing for the door of the porch. The width of your stairs also needs to match the width of your screen porch door.

Contact Archadeck of Central Georgia to find out more about turning your deck or patio into a screen porch this season. We offer a free consultation: (478) 745 – 2000
centralgeorgia@archadeck.net

For more cool ideas to escape the heat of your deck or patio, visit our screened porch gallery as well as our patio gallery located on our website.

Deck builder

Pictures of decks in Macon, Warner Robins, and the Central GA area

May 8, 2012 admin Leave a comment

At Archadeck of Central GA, we build decks, porches, patios, pergolas, custom fire features and so much more. Take a look at a variety of porches we’ve built in the area.

Paver patios & hardscapes, Pergola builder/contractor

Central GA hardscapes are strong in more ways than one

May 7, 2012 admin Leave a comment

Paver patio in Macon, GA — This paver patio in North Macon, GA also provides shade with the beautiful pergola atop the structure.

The word hardscape in itself communicates strength and durability. The hardscape is a strong choice in more ways than one. Not only is a professionally installed hardscape strong enough to drive a car on it, our hardscapes are built to withstand various and changing soil conditions as well as the effects of the elements. Requiring little to to maintenance, the pergola is a very strong choice for your outdoor living space.

This project in the Providence community in Macon GA is one example of the impact a quality hardscape can have on your backyard. The project includes a paver patio covered by a pergola. A deck would not have worked in this yard and because the homeowners wanted the least possible maintenance. Hardscapes, in general require even less maintainance than composites or PVC.

Providence, GA paver patio and pergola — Here is another view of this paver patio and pergola project, in North Macon ( Providence), GA.

Building a home-made paver patio is generally not a good idea. Individual soil conditions vary greatly from yard to yard, Almost all home-made patios will inevitably move, sink, bulge and/or crack. A professionally designed and built hardscape patio from Archadeck of Central Georgia is made to last. We dig down 4-6″ deep, apply a 4-6″ base of aggregate and make sure it is properly compacted before we even begin laying the pavers.

We use Belgard hardscaping materials almost exclusively. Belgard is a top quality hardscape that has a long history of successful applications on thousands of residential and commercial projects. Commonly used applications of Belgard hardscape materials include driveways, walkways and paver patios.

Using pavers allows a lot of design flexibility. We specialize in patterns, border-colors and multi-color designs. We can even incorporate a pathway to the driveway, garden area, or front of your house that matches and works in unison with the paver selection you choose.

The Belgard line has tremendous range in shapes, sizes and colors but right now earth tones and neutrals are popular. Earth tones are often highlighted with grays, blues and reds. The Cambridge cobble is a very popular color here in the Macon/Warner Robins and surrounding area. The Holland line is also popular and has a more traditional feel and style. Belgard also offers a line of outdoor fireplaces, fire pits and outdoor kitchens.

SPLCambridge008 — Belgard's popular Cambridge Cobble offers a tailored, architectural look with gently rounded corners and a domed surface.

NFDHollandHighland — Belgard's Holland line is a solid choice for residential and commercial applications.

If a paver patio is something you are planning in the near future, now is the perfect season to start. It is the best time of the year to build due to the heavy equipment used when constructing a paver patio. Spring is the optimum time for the turf to recover from stress, whereas other seasons make it less resilient due to weather and temperature conditions.

Contact Archadeck of Central Georgia to learn more about our strong and beautiful patio and hardscape designs today. Call for a free consultation: (478) 745 – 2000
centralgeorgia@archadeck.net

AZEK, Composite, Deck builder, Free deck safety inspection, PVC and capstock decking, Synthetic decks

Archadeck of Central Georgia looks at the many faces of synthetic decking

April 23, 2012 admin Leave a comment

Warner Robins GA composite deck — This composite deck in Warner Robins, GA exemplifies the beauty of composites.

Among the many options available when choosing the materials for your new deck or re-deck, synthetic decking is often one of the top choices. Within synthetic decking, there are quite a range of choices and all are not the same. Synthetic decking comes in many colors, finishes, dimensional designs and brands. Synthetic decking includes composite decking, solid PVC and capstock decking, each one of which has certain similarities as well as differences. We have outlined each of of the three below.

Composite decking

Your traditional wood/plastic composite material, such as TimberTech, Trex , and Fiberon composites, have a combination of wood fiber and resin. This pairing of wood and plastic sets the stage for durability that wood has never been able to provide. TimberTech’s Reliaboard for example, resists splintering and rotting and never requires staining or painting. These 1st generation composites are very economical as well. The downside is that since there is the presence of wood, stains can occur. Wine, oil and grease can stain the deck because of the wood, the board is porous. High traffic areas are also a concern and are prone to mark over time . Making sure your deck builder uses a high-quality composite decking material, such as the ones mentioned above is critical. These products are covered by warranties that exceed those of any wooden deck on the market, so rest assured composite itself is a solid choice for decking.

Fiberon deck in Macon GA — This Fiberon deck in Macon, GA includes a custom pergola in the design.

Solid PVC decking

Solid PVC decking such as AZEK is impervious to just about anything you can dish out. From red wine, to grease from your grill and even the kid’s fruit punch. This cellular PVC product offers superior stain resistance, scratch resistance, fade resistance, and split resistance. It is also insect, and mold/mildew resistant. There is never a worry from your patio furniture or your pet scratching your deck with solid PVC. The only downfall is that since it is solid PVC (plastic) it may not look as authentic as natural wood. We use a large amount of AZEK decking and our customers love it. AZEK even offers a line of railing to compliment their large color selection.

Capstock decking

Capstock is what we also refer to as a wrapped or covered product. This takes the benefits of composite as the core and wraps it with a PVC covering. This product can be seen in the Fiberon Horizon line. Capstock uses the best of both worlds through superior stain, fade, scratch, and insect resistance and still giving you the beauty of real wood. The veining and colorations used in the Trex Transcends line are so realistic and beautiful it will leave you having to lean in a little closer to see whether or not the product is real wood with hues that even mimic the look of exotic Ipe, and other tropical hardwoods.

Composite deck Chippendale pattern Milledgeville GA — We installed this Milledgeville, GA composite deck using a unique Chippendale pattern.

No matter which of these synthetics you choose to build your dream deck, each one is packed with versatility and beauty. Choosing a synthetic doesn’t need to be incredibly expensive. Archadeck of Central Georgia is a trusted and respected leader in the community. We have the experience to consult effectively with our customers on material selections. We are well-versed and really know the business of synthetics top to bottom. We can help you select and choose the right material to suit your needs, your lifestyle and your budget.

Contact us today to learn more about synthetic and other outdoor living material options. Call for a free consultation: (478) 745 – 2000 centralgeorgia@archadeck.net

See more beautiful images of synthetic decks by visiting our composite and PVC deck gallery located on our website.

Outdoor rooms builder/contractor, Porch builder/contractor, Screened porches

This large Lake Oconee screened porch doubles as a college retreat space

April 16, 2012 admin Leave a comment

It is not often that a home impacts as many members of a given family and their friends as this one on Lake Oconee does. This family not only uses their lake home as a family retreat but also opens it up to their children’s college friends to access throughout the year. It is no wonder this family wanted a very large lakefront screened porch that spans the entire width of the back of this lake home. The screened porch we constructed doubles as a seating and eating area and in general is a great place to just hang out. The floors of this porch can often be found littered with sleeping bags as happy college kids abound the perimeter getting a much-needed rest from school.

When we began the project the home already had a lake house deck to take in the views of serene Lake Oconee, but the family said the deck was too hot and “buggy”. The family wanted a large screened porch so they could cool off, and still enjoy the views of the lake without the bugs. We designed this spacious 14′ x 30’+ porch with just that in mind.

Lake Oconee screen porch — Plenty of room for rest, relaxation and meals make this screened porch a winner for the collegians that frequent the lake house often.

To accommodate the span for structural strength and to add character to the appeal of the lake house we used a metal standing seamed roof. On the interior of the screened porch we continued the use of rustic materials by using Pressure Treated wood throughout the room. The materials compliment the lake view perfectly.

Archadeck of Central Georgia also added a deck off the guest bedroom with stairs on the other end that spill into the yard. Within the screened porch we installed multiple ceiling fans to keep the family and hardworking collegians cool. This family’s kids attend college in Milledgeville and meet at the lake house with their friends and family often even choosing this lake house as their ultimate destination on Spring break over the sandy beaches of some far away place. The finished porch pays homage to the lively amount of loved ones that will have the opportunity to enjoy the structure. Now when the guests arrive they go straight to the porch. This porch has increased the size, and enjoyment, of the whole house.

If you are looking for an outdoor structure that can extend your outdoor and indoor living enjoyment, contact Archadeck of Central Georgia to learn more about our multi-functional designs. Call now for a free consultation today (478) 745 – 2000 centralgeorgia@archadeck.net

Deck builder, Porch builder/contractor

This Macon GA deck has both functionality and style

April 2, 2012 admin Leave a comment

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Macon Warner Robins Decks, Patios, Porches, Pergolas, Gazebos and more