Archadeck of Central GA, Deck builder, Redecking and Deck Resurfacing

A Redeck in Milledgeville, GA, That Never Goes Out Of Style!

April 30, 2018 admin

If you visit our website you are likely impressed by the amount of brand new large-scale spaces we build. Many homeowners thinking of renovating an existing space rule out the potential to bring their vision to life when they don’t have a large scale project in mind.

Here at Archadeck of Central GA, we realize that redecking projects have every opportunity to add as much enjoyment and benefit as new (from scratch) builds do. Thus, is the case with our recent redecking project in Milledgeville, GA.

We can redeck using wood, hardwoods or composite materials. Many of our clients choose composites for their redecking projects because they have grown tired of routine deck maintenance. Synthetic materials can transform your Macon or Warner Robins deck from a chore that needs tackling to a place to relax.

When we inspected the existing wooden deck to see if it was a candidate for redecking, the first thing that was evident was the deck’s age — it was really old, wiggly and close to becoming a safety hazard. Archadeck of Central GA deemed the deck structurally sound enough based the condition of the joists.

First, we needed to re-bolt the deck to the home. We also notice when the deck was originally installed with 4 x 4 posts, which was incorrect and not up-to-current code. We installed new beams and a new edge band.

Once the structural improvements were set in place we redecked with low-maintenance Timbertech composite decking in Antique Palm^®for the decking floor, on the custom inset benches, and on the rail cap. We accented the rich hue of the decking with Fortress steel powder-coated railings.

Milledgeville GA Redecking Experts

The nifty benches were constructed without backs in order to retain the view. The benches are also moveable so the homeowners can change the look of the deck any time they wish.

If you are ready to breathe new life into your tired backyard deck and add years of outdoor living enjoyment, contact Archadeck of Central Georgia. You can reach us by phone at (478) 745 – 2000 or via email at centralgeorgia@archadeck.net.

Archadeck of Central GA, Deck builder, Screened Porch

New Screen Porch by Archadeck of Central GA Makes It Home, Sweet Home For Aultman Pines Homeowners

March 26, 2018 admin

This is the story of a home we were pleased to make “feel like home.” Our clients in the Aultman Pines neighborhood south of Macon, GA, own this home and had been renting it out for some time. When they decided to move into the home themselves, instead of renting it, they knew the house needed renovations, including a revamp of the outdoor living space. However, we advised the homeowners to first replace the Masonite siding and replace it with vinyl siding because the Masonite had failed and the house was starting to rot. This delayed the construction of the porch for months, but it was the right call for the homeowner.

Back of home before we began the project:

With the siding handled, they were able to proceed with a much-needed upgrade to their outdoor living space. The home had a backyard wooden deck that needed to be replaced, and these clients had a better idea. They felt they’d get more use out of a screened porch than a deck. At Archadeck of Central Georgia, our philosophy is that whatever outdoor structure you’re apt to use the most, that’s the one you should build. While a deck is right for some people, if you’re a screened porch family then you should have a screened porch.

We removed the old wood deck and built a screened porch in its place. The homeowners wanted a place for their grill, so we included a small grill deck off the porch. The project is built with the addition of a future hot tub in mind as well because the homeowners eventually want to add one next to the screened porch.”

Project after Archadeck of Central GA completed:

For materials, the homeowners selected pressure-treated wood for the inside of the screened porch and low-maintenance composite decking for the grill deck outside. Their decision was driven by price, with wood being more economical than composite decking. Because the interior of the screened porch is protected from the weather, wood used inside the porch will last longer — and look great longer — than it would outside on a deck subjected to sun and rain. For the grill deck they selected the Ipe color composite decking boards from Fiberon’s Horizons line. They also used the Fiberon Ipe rail cap over the grill deck’s wooden railings. Finally, they chose a bronze screen door and bronze screens for the screened porch.

As early as the design phase, this project took an interesting turn because the home had a window looking out from the kitchen onto the original deck. Once a screened porch was sketched in to replace the deck, suddenly we had a window and its roof inside the porch. We were able to remedy this by making the porch walls a foot taller than usual (about 9′ rather than 8′) and using a knee wall to cover the roof of the window. Never let it be said that Macon porch and deck builder Archadeck of Central GA doesn’t meet a challenge head-on!

If your outdoor living space could use some help to make it feel more like home, contact Archadeck of Central Georgia to learn more about our custom outdoor living designs in Macon, Warner Robins and the surrounding area. You can reach us by phone at (478) 745 – 2000 or via email at centralgeorgia@archadeck.net.

Archadeck of Central GA, Converting deck to porch, Deck builder, Porch builder/contractor, Professional outdoor structure builder, Screened porches

Archadeck of Central GA agrees with these Wesleyan Woods homeowners: Sometimes smaller is better

February 23, 2018 admin

Macon Deck and Porch In Wesleyan Woods If your heart is telling you that you’d prefer a smaller outdoor living space, then by George, it’s time to stop, listen and downsize. Every now and then we work with homeowners who want to go smaller rather than bigger when it comes to their outdoor living space. As the premier Macon and Warner Robins deck and porch designers/builders, Archadeck of Central Georgia will fully support you in this decision.

At Archadeck of Central GA, we don’t just build, we design and build outdoor living spaces. To design, we first listen to you, the homeowner, as you describe the space you have in mind. We won’t try to talk you into something bigger or fancier than you want.

In the case of these homeowners in Macon’s Wesleyan Woods neighborhood, they had a large deck that was part of the house when they purchased it, and this deck was too big for them. We have found, as deck designers, that when a deck stretches out too far from the house, the homeowners tend to push their furniture farther and farther out to get closer to the yard. From a design standpoint, that’s not a great use of space.

What’s more, these clients truly wanted a screened porch, not a deck, so this project falls into the category of deck-to-screened-porch conversions. They did, however, request a small (10×12) side deck off the new screened porch as a place for their grill.

A deck-to-screened-porch conversion is similar to a redecking in that once we remove the deck floor, we have to evaluate the existing posts, beams and joists to determine whether we can still use them. In this case, some of the original joists were still in good shape but there were not enough, so we had to add more. However, the posts and beams of the original joists were still in good shape, so we were able to use those. We also replaced the stairs, but we designed them to end on the same path where the original deck stairs ended.

Wesleyan Woods Deck and Porch Builders

The Wesleyan Woods homeowners selected pressure-treated wood as the building material for their screened porch and side deck. We installed white screened panels for the screened porch because the clients plan to use a solid white stain for the porch, inside and out. In keeping with the porch and side deck, the pickets and railings are built with wood. We also built special Chippendale panels for the side deck; that was one aspect of the original deck the homeowners wanted to recreate.

Wesleyan Woods Screened Porch Builder

As with all porches Archadeck of Central GA builds, we installed screening under the porch floor between the joists and the floor boards. This is important as a barrier to keep insects and other debris from coming up through the porch floor. Many of our clients are surprised to learn we do this.

Wesleyan Woods Screened Porches

One last detail — we worked with the homeowners’ electrician for all of the electrical work needed on the new porch. We are always willing to work with the clients’ electrician if they prefer that.

Is your deck too big or too small? Would you rather have a porch? Contact Archadeck of Central Georgia to learn more about our custom outdoor living designs. You can reach us by phone at (478) 745 – 2000 or via email at centralgeorgia@archadeck.net

Archadeck of Central GA, Converting deck to porch, Deck builder

Transforming A Macon Deck With The Seeds Of Change In Mind

February 15, 2018 admin

When these Macon, GA, homeowners contacted Archadeck of Central GA about refurbishing their backyard deck, they had a pretty good idea of what they had in mind.

Macon Deck extension with integrated tree

With an existing small deck that only extended about 6 ‘ off the rear of their home, they realized they needed a more spacious deck in order to live the outdoor lifestyle they really wanted. Such is the case with many Macon and Warner-Robins residents; a larger deck means more opportunities for outdoor living, more space to entertain, more room to grill, etc.

Here at Archadeck of Central GA, we perform many new deck, redecking and deck extension projects every year — however, this particular project entailed more than the typical deck extension.

This Macon deck included an integrated tree in its original design. The clients did not want to eliminate the tree, so we had to incorporate it into the extension project. Part of this meant we had to frame the new deck with future growth of the tree in mind.

Macon Deck extension with integrated tree

Archadeck of Central GA extended the deck using pressure-treated wax-injected wooden decking which comes presealed giving the deck a longer period between installation to the first sealing. We also added beautiful Fortress metal balusters to compliment the new spacious deck design. The homeowner’s opted to have no entry or stairway from the backyard to the deck as a safety feature. This type of secure deck design is becoming more popular in the local area.

Along with designing the deck with the future growth of the integrated tree in mind, we also structured it in preparation for a future screened porch. We added screen below the decking so it would be ready if and when the homeowners decided to add a roof –another way we prepared the space for the seeds of change.

In addition to the deck upgrades and renovations, our team also ensure the natural gas lines were run and secured for the client’s gas grill and we moved their Egg smoker from the yard to the deck for convenience.

Contact us today to schedule your design consultation and let us show you how we can help you get the outdoor living environment you have in mind!

Call us today at (478) 745 – 2000 or email us at centralgeorgia@archadeck.net.

Archadeck of Central GA, Deck builder, Deck engineer and construction, Outdoor rooms builder/contractor, Porch builder/contractor, Professional outdoor structure builder

Planning a New Outdoor Living Space is A Great Way to Curb The Post Holiday Blues

December 29, 2017 admin

Planning a New Outdoor Living Space is A Great Way to Curb The Post Holiday Blues The holiday season is filled with excitement and fun. It is a time when families and friends come together to celebrate and festive decorations change our homes and landscapes. The days and weeks leading up to the big day are often just as exciting as the day itself. Once the holiday is over, however, the lack of excitement can leave you feeling down.

As the New Year quickly approaches, one way to curb the post-holiday blues is to look beyond the winter doldrums to warmer months ahead. With this in mind, many Central Georgia homeowners may begin planning for the outdoor living season. These plans may involve a new addition to your landscape or outdoor living space. Whether your aspirations include adding a new outdoor structure, or improving or adding to an existing structure, winter is a good time to get the ball rolling before spring arrives.

Macon Open Porch Barrington Hall lr

Because of our mild Georgia climate, construction can begin as soon as your design is finalized and the contract is signed. In fact, the sooner we can start building, the more enjoyment you will get from your new outdoor living space. Once spring has arrived, the demand will increase and building timelines will become longer, this is why we recommend starting the design and building process with us as soon as possible. Using these winter months perfecting the design of your new space, ordering materials, and filing for permits is a perfect use of time.

Macon GA-sceen porch-metal Balusters

In fact, there are quite a few reasons why winter is the best time to begin a new Macon or Warner Robins-area outdoor living space project:

Our custom deck, porch and outdoor room designs require close collaboration with you. This process can take a few rounds of going back and forth, making adjustments and getting the project just right.

Macon open porch design plan Archadeck

Securing building permits can take a long time as we are at the mercy of the building department. Starting this process now, means you don’t have to let the good spring weather pass you by while we are waiting for building permits to come in.

Hot tub-deck-Perry GA-design drawing 750

At Archadeck of Central GA, our spring and summer construction schedule fills fast. In fact, spring is our busiest time of year. If you start the process now, you beat the rush and are on the schedule for construction, or your project may even be completed, when others are just starting their process.

Deck-composite-koi pond-warner robins

Despite the fact that all the pomp and circumstance has ended, all the presents have been opened and loved ones have headed home, Archadeck of Central GA can ensure the weeks ahead are overflowing with excitement and anticipation.

Contact us today to schedule your design consultation to begin making the 2018 outdoor living season the best on record! Call us today at (478) 745 – 2000 or email us at centralgeorgia@archadeck.net.

Converting deck to porch, Deck builder, Porches

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

December 1, 2017 admin

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Archadeck of Central GA, Deck builder, Deck engineer and construction, Decks, Fiberon

This Vintage Outdoor Space in Shirley Hills Gets A New Lease on Life

November 9, 2017 admin

Macon-Fiberon-deck It is not very often that Archadeck of Central GA is asked to consult on a structure built as far back as the 50’s. One of our most recent outdoor living transformations took us on a blast from the past.

This project took place in Shirley Hills, which is located in Macon, Ga. The homeowner had a poured slab concrete deck they were using as a carport. The structure was beginning to fail and had become dangerous. The original structure had been built using special 2 x 14 joists that spanned 16′. Other materials used as part of the original carport/deck included plywood, wire and concrete. Over time the footing had begun to give away and the outside walls had started to lean. In turn, this opened up a way for water to penetrate the integrity and the wood then began to rot. The homeowner said that the wood had been mushy for over a year.

concrete deck - rotting framing — Before; concrete deck – rotting framing.

Upon inspection, Archadeck of Central Georgia deemed the structure was no longer repairable nor salvageable due to the damage caused by Father Time and Mother Nature. We were able to use the existing steel and beam. We filled it back in with concrete and additional posts to make it structurally sound. We also repaired the old wall and stood it back up.

Deck-Macon-Fiberon

The new deck is built from Fiberon ProTect Advantage decking in gray birch. Not only does this decking look like premium hardwoods. The boards feature a three-sided PermaTech® cap layer for exceptional stain and fade resistance. The solid composite core also resists splintering, cracking and decay. In addition, the decking is backed by a 25-year warranty providing added peace of mind.

Take a look at this amazing before and after image:

Macon Fiberon Deck before and after

We used standard wooden railing with a composite rail cap to finish off the beautiful new deck. Archadeck of Central GA also tore out all the old screen on the porch and installed new inserts and screening. We were able to salvage the existing doors and we rescreened these as well.

Sceen Inserts-Porch-Macon

The clients are over the moon about how their project turned out. With the quality and low maintenance materials used in building the space, they are looking forward to many years of enjoyment.

Let Archadeck of Central Georgia walk you through the design options for a new or replacement deck at your Macon or Warner Robins area home. Contact us today at (478) 745 – 2000 or via email at centralgeorgia@archadeck.net.

Archadeck of Central GA, Outdoor rooms builder/contractor, Pergola builder/contractor

This Byron, GA, pergola addition was the missing piece to this outdoor living puzzle

October 18, 2017 admin

Our recent pergola addition in Byron, GA, was the missing link to this outdoor living puzzle. When we met with the homeowners they walked us through their existing outdoor living spaces. These consisted of a screened porch which led out to a concrete patio and served also as the walkway to their back gate.

Pergola-sidewalk-Byron GA — View of the new pergola addition over the backyard gate.

During the initial consultation, they expressed the need to reduce the amount of sun to their existing screened porch. They also wanted a more proper sitting area for open-air outdoor living than just their concrete patio. Last but certainly not least, they also wanted to define and unify their outdoor areas as a whole.

Existing concrete patio and gate before we began the project.

Archadeck of Central GA was able to come up with a pergola design and by perfecting the placement, we were able to address all the needs of these homeowners.

pergola-Warner Robins-Byron

The new wooden pergola was built as freestanding ties into the right side of the screened porch. The design is “beefy” enough that it serves as a visual anchor unifying the entire backyard space together. As you can see it also serves as a way to reduce the amount of sun entering the screened porch as well, making the porch cooler and more functional on sunny days.

pergola-Byron- Warner Robins

In addition to the pergola, we also installed a concrete walkway that extends from gate to gate through the backyard. Archadeck of Central GA will only take on small concrete projects such as this when it is part of the overall outdoor living project.

The homeowners are more than satisfied with the way the pergola meets their needs. They are planning on installing a ceiling fan in the pergola in the near future to add even more versatility. As you can see, this pergola was the missing piece to this Byron, GA, outdoor living puzzle that Archadeck of Central GA helped solve!

Need help solving your backyard puzzle? Contact us today at (478) 745 – 2000 or via email at centralgeorgia@archadeck.net.

Archadeck of Central GA, Composite deck builder, Deck engineer and construction, Decks, Poolside outdoor spaces

This Barrington Hall Deck Sets the Standard for Poolside Transition and Function

October 9, 2017 admin

Timber Tech-deck-Macon GA This project took Archadeck of Central GA back to beautiful Barrington Hall in North Macon. We have been in completing many outdoor living projects in this neighborhood over the years for both new and repeat customers.

When the homeowners called us they were interested in improving the traffic flow and function of the concrete walkway area adjacent to their pool. The homeowners had been using the area as an impromptu seating and dining area, which just wasn’t working for them anymore — they wanted to rework this space to better speak to their outdoor living needs.

The area before Archadeck of Central GA began the project.

Since the stairs were inset, removing them was not an option. We started with a design in mind and then considered if a deck or paver patio was the best option for what the homeowners had in mind. After we decided on long steps, we realized that building with pavers would be quite costly. Instead, making the decision to move ahead with a composite deck made more sense from a budget standpoint.

Deck-composite-TimberTech-Macon GA

After carefully looking at all the composite decking choices we offer, the homeowners chose TimberTech Terrain in Silver Maple. Terrain is wrapped on all 4 sides which makes it perfect for this low-to-grade deck design. It also resists mold, mildew, and moisture damage making it a great material for poolside use!

Archadeck of Central GA topped off the smooth, streamlined look of the deck by adding a black Fortress metal handrail and all-composite trim.

Macon GA-deck-metal railing

Gone are the days when the homeowners have to sacrifice transition and style in order to facilitate function. The new deck delivers the freedom of a clean, open space where they can indulge in all things outdoor living.

If you would like to learn more about making your backyard all that it can be contact us today at (478) 745 – 2000 or via email at centralgeorgia@archadeck.net. We can design a space where form and function combine providing all the benefits you crave!

Archadeck of Central GA, Deck builder, Deck engineer and construction, Decks

Central Georgia deck designs can boggle the mind. Let us help you navigate the choices!

August 30, 2017 admin

Fiberon-Fort Valley-GA railing-lighting Looking for great ideas in deck designs? What’s new? What are the current trends? Here at Archadeck of Central Georgia, we keep up with innovations in deck design. We want to show our clients in the Macon and Warner Robins area the most attractive and well-constructed deck ideas. Clients are often amazed by the number of options available for decks today.

When you first start thinking about adding a deck onto your home, or replacing an older deck, you may think a deck is a deck is a deck. Seen one, seen them all? That’s certainly not true anymore. Among the variety of decks being built these days are different sizes, shapes, colors, materials, railing styles, stairway designs and more. By the time you complete your selections within each of these options, you will have designed a deck that reflects your personal style like no other.

Hawkinsville-GA round deck Archadeck

Archadeck of Central Georgia will not leave you to make these decisions on your own. During our design consultation, we can talk about trends and show you pictures of past projects we have completed. More important though, are your personal preferences. In the end, your own preferences will determine the look of your deck.

The 3 most popular deck design features today in the Macon and Warner Robins, GA, area:

Archadeck Deck-for-future-porch-in-St.-Croix-Macon-GA

Diagonal decking

Decking boards laid in a diagonal pattern serve two purposes. This design not only looks good, it creates a stronger deck.

Visually, diagonal decking adds a distinct character to your deck and can be directed intentionally to emphasize a specific view or to affect how people move through the space. The visual appeal of the diagonal pattern is more noticeable on a lower deck.

Fiberon Protect-Deck-Warner Robins 750

Technically, in terms of physics, the diagonal pattern creates triangles (which are stronger) as opposed to squares (which are weaker). Triangles help to brace the structure, so diagonal decking increases the strength of the frame by making the entire deck more rigid. This is especially desirable on taller decks.

Parting boards

If you’re looking for a deck design with even more visual interest, you’ll want to see some designs that incorporate parting boards. A parting board separates sections of a deck where the decking boards are running in different directions. We most often use this device when a deck is large enough to be sectioned off into different functional areas. Perhaps you want to have a lounge area on one part of the deck and a dining area on another section. The best way to visually define these different sections is to change the direction of the decking boards. A parting board serves as a meeting point for the two sections.

Metal pickets on railings

There was a time when all deck railings looked alike. If the deck was made of wood, the railings were, too. Wooden deck railings and pickets were somewhat thick and could easily block the view. Today we have a variety of materials available to use for deck railings and pickets. Most of the newer designs are thinner and made of metal. These new railings and pickets, or balusters, are much more stylish and almost seem to disappear when you look through them. Archadeck of Central Georgia uses Fortress™ Railing Products. The black square baluster design is the most popular with our clients, while second in popularity is the basket design (pictured).

Additional design features for today’s decks

There are many, many more elements that make up the infinite array of deck designs. Briefly, here are some of the other choices we will guide you through in the design process:

Colors and materials

Do you like bold colors, contrasts, or understated tones? Do you want to build with natural wood or composite decking materials? Wooden decks can be stained or painted, and a lot of the newer composite decking boards come in a variety of colors. If you are willing to perform — or pay for — annual deck maintenance, you can consider building with wood. However, if regular maintenance chores do not fit into your lifestyle, you will probably want to select one of the composite decking options. These new materials are evolving to look more and more like natural wood.

Shapes and levels

Composite deck in Warner Robins

Do you want a simple deck that follows the horizontal line of your home? Maybe you’re thinking about an octagonal deck or one that starts at the house and ventures out into the yard. A multi-level deck has a certain “wow” factor, but it’s not the right choice for everyone. What if you’re not really going to use more than one main level? Finally, if your deck is high off the ground, will you want to use the space under it as a covered patio or as a storage area?

Bottom line: the design decisions are your own

Fiberon ProTect deck in Warner Robins, GA.

You may think it will be hard to choose from all of the available designs, materials and accessories, but you’d be surprised. Once you start looking at the many options, certain elements will resonate with you pretty quickly. As you look at examples and sketches, your own preferences will solidify in your mind.

Let Archadeck of Central Georgia walk you through the design options for a new or replacement deck at your Macon or Warner Robins area home. Contact us to schedule a design consultation by phone at (478) 745 – 2000 or via email at centralgeorgia@archadeck.net.

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