Columbus Decks, Porches and Patios by Archadeck

A Columbus Online Magazine for Outdoor Living

Archadeck of Columbus proves good things come in small packages, such as this unique custom fire pit which is part of the bigger picture of outdoor bliss

Granville OH patios and hardscapes

This new outdoor space gives the rear of this Granville, OH home new direction.

Our featured project this week proves the power of adding a quality designed and built outdoor space to your backyard. This relatively new home only had a small concrete landing. When we met with these Granville homeowners, we discussed adding a larger and more usable outdoor living space. The existing area had stairs that led to the home’s upper level. They also had a door outside their basement that sat at a lower grade. Their desire was to add two outdoor living spaces to extend their backyard enjoyment. They were also certain that they wanted a fire pit with a seating wall.

Granville OH before

This image shows the backyard area before we began the project.

Archadeck of Columbus headed to the drawingboard to design a space that would meet their needs and fulfill their wishes. We came out with a combination outdoor living space that includes a low maintenance deck and new patio complete with the fire pit and seating wall.

The deck was built with TimberTech Evolutions decking in walnut. This choice ensures the authentic look of natural wood but requires minimal maintenance to stay looking great for years to come. We wanted to tie the trim color of the house into the space so we used white vinyl railing. The contrast between the walnut deck and the white railing is clean and crisp. We also recommended TimberTech rail camp on the vinyl railing to allow a flat surface. Normal vinyl railing will not allow for this feature since they are often rounded. The rail camp adds another layer of aesthetic to the space.

Granville OH TimberTech decks

Notice how beautifully the Walnut TimberTech Evolutions decking compliments the whote vinyl rail and rail camp.

In addition to the new TimberTech deck, we removed the existing concrete patio and replaced it with a nice curvilinear patio with a retaining wall that also serves as a seating wall. We then integrated a wood fire pit within the seating wall. This design includes a retaining wall next to the house. This small retaining wall is both functional and attractive. Archadeck of Columbus constructed the hardscape components with Unilock‘s Brussels in the Sierra color. We also added a soldier course with an Il Campo charcoal colored border. For the retaining walls we used Unilock’s Brussels dimensional stone which is typically used for walls since it is a larger sized hardscape medium.

Granville OH custom fire pits

The fire pit’s unique design is functional yet unobtrusive.

We included Unilock Ledgestone as a decorative cap, and carried the same cap throughout the seating wall. We designed the custom fire pit into the retaining wall so it becomes one with the wall. For a relatively small space, the fire pit doesn’t take up a lot of functional, usable space. In addition to the deck and hardscape area, we also installed an extra column to support the stairs. This is our protocol with any set of long stairs such as this. This is to alleviate movement and bouncing, which will not occur with the additional support we installed.

These Granville homeowners are elated with their new space. They hosted an outdoor party last weekend where they were able to use (and show off) their new outdoor oasis! They are looking forward to the spring and summer season to have more opportunities to utilize their new space.

If you would like to learn more about improving the beauty and function of your backyard, contact Archadeck of Columbus. No dream is too big, or too small, for us to make a reality. Call today for a free consultation (740) 879 – 3730
westcolumbus@archadeck.net

Michael Reeder, Archadeck of Columbus

Michael Reeder, Archadeck of Columbus

You can see more examples of our low maintenance deck designs and out patios and hardscapes by visiting our composite and PVC deck gallery and our patio and hardscapes gallery, located on our website.

With outdoor building in Columbus, are there any guarantees? Archadeck of Columbus says yes!

Open porch and hardscape patio

Let Archadeck of Columbus open the door to your outdoor living imagination and build you the highest quality outdoor space imaginable.

When you decide to find a builder to build your dream deck or porch addition, most reputable contractors will provide some type of warranty on their work. These warranties are typically placed on a structure once it is completed. These can include structural warranties, and warranties on the products and materials used in completing your outdoor space. Remember, in all building endeavors, a warranty is only as good as the company providing it and the degree in which they stand behind that warranty. With this in mind, it is important to make sure the builder warranties their work and stands behind the guarantee to ensure you receive a quality built structure to reduce or eliminate facing problems and heartaches in the future. This is where the old cliché, a guarantee is sometimes only as good as the paper it is written on comes into play.

When you choose Archadeck of Columbus to build your backyard dream, we offer our customers a very detailed 3-part warranty – structural, craftsmanship, and manufacturer warranty support. Our first warranty given upon completion includes a one year craftsmanship warranty and a five year structural warranty. This warranty is designed to ensure all the details of your structure are done properly such as cuts, sanding, fasteners, positioning and other pertinent details. The second warranty covers all aspects of supportive structures such as decks or porches, connections to your home, railings, stairs, walls and patio foundations.

It is possible that a branded component (one of the materials) has problems. Many manufacturers of the component materials offer warranties that typically cover only the product and not the labor for replacement. Archadeck negotiates with our vendors and in most cases we can negotiate for the vendor to pay us to replace the component if there is a problem.

We like to give homeowners several methods to communicate any craftsmanship warranty issues. We urge our clients to frequent the job site regularly so that we may discuss any issues and answer any questions they may have. Once a project is deemed completed, we ask the customer to do a walk-through prior to our departure so we make sure to fix anything that needs to be.

Columbus paver patio and pergola with retaining wall surround

Our outdoor designs are backed by two distinct warranties.

Following completion and departure from your project we always schedule an additional walk-through one week to 10 days after to verify with the customer they are completely happy with the installation. This is something that is protocol for us at Archadeck of Columbus; it’s just how we operate. Our ultimate goal is the happiness of our customers and their ultimate satisfaction with our work. We feel very fortunate that we have rarely ever had structural issues with our work which is based on the quality level in which we build.

If you are ready to experience what true quality, professionalism and dedication is in an outdoor structure builder, contact Archadeck of Columbus. We strive to deliver the ultimate in outdoor living spaces from start to finish and beyond. Call us today for a free consultation (740) 879 – 3730
westcolumbus@archadeck.net

Michael Reeder, Archadeck of Columbus

Michael Reeder, Archadeck of Columbus

See more examples of our expert outdoor living designs that are built with integrity and quality in every inch by visiting our decks photo gallery and our porches photo gallery located on our website.

Archadeck of Columbus guarantees a whole than other companies. And, it’s at no charge to you.

Rustic exposed rafter porch

Your outdoor living project is covered from every angle, start to finish.

In addition to providing our project warranty, Archadeck of Columbus offers another way to pass value to our customers. About 10 years ago, Archadeck, in conjunction with the local franchise owners, started a company called the National Guarantee Corporation. I myself am a current board member and shareholder with this corporation. The National Guarantee Corporation (NGC) is responsible for giving Archadeck the ability to extend unsurpassed warranties on to our customers. However, this is not one those warranties that the customer opts to pay for, this warranty comes automatically with the purchase of our services. The cost to our customers? None!

Being backed by The National Guarantee Corporation means the Archadeck office you signed your contract with will complete your project to fruition as outlined in your contract. In this day and age, if something happens where your local office cannot complete your job, the Archadeck corporate office in conjunction with the National Guarantee Corporation will then step in and see that your project is completed. For example, if a current owner were to fall gravely ill, gets hit by a bus, or becomes insolvent, then the National Guarantee Corporation will step in and see that your project is completed per the contract. This type of warranty is similar to a bond or insurance. Upon completion, the NGC will then cover any warranties therein for up to two years after completion of your structure. They will also carry the other Archadeck warranties if the office is no longer able to provide that service to its customers due to catastrophic circumstances.

Our contract checklist outlines all the value you are getting at no extra cost to you.

Our contract checklist outlines all the value you are getting at no extra cost to you.

As a board member for the last five years, I am proud to say that we have only had small claims come before us but, we are a healthy business nationally that takes this very seriously. Even during the last economic downturn we proved to be a strong organization as is evident through the absence of any significant claims during the rough times. I always ask potential customers if being protected is important to them. I also go into detail about what our protection includes. Many times homeowners don’t think warranties such as these are available and would never imagine receiving them at no charge. But this is what we call “The Archadeck Difference”.

If you are thinking of adding an outdoor living space to your backyard, ask yourself if you value the peace of mind in knowing your dreams are protected. If the answer is yes, contact Archadeck of Columbus today for a free consultation(740) 879 – 3730
westcolumbus@archadeck.net

Michael Reeder, Archadeck of Columbus

Michael Reeder, Archadeck of Columbus

You can see more inspirational images of past outdoor living projects by visiting our patio and hardscapes photo gallery and our outdoor living photo galleries located on our website. One look and you will realize our commitment to quality and service we strive to achieve.

Our recent 3-season room in Newark, Ohio proves summer is on the way and the livin’ is easy

vaulted ceiling with glass for sunlight Columbus OH sunroomSince warmer weather and longer days have arrived, do you wish you had an outdoor room to enjoy the beauty of the outdoors in cool comfort all summer long? Do you wish you had a place to escape the dangers of the sun and pesky mosquitoes? One Newark, OH family recently added a 3-season room and achieves all of those objectives and more!

Even though our most recent completed project is an outdoor room, the lack of and HVAC unit means we refer to it as a 3-season room. However, the room is geared for comfort in all weather conditions with the Mitsubishi ductless heating and cooling system we installed. In addition, we installed ceiling fans to help the homeowners cool off on those humid Ohio afternoons. These heating and cooling systems are innovative in that they don’t require extensive HVAC tie ins to create an efficient means of keeping your outdoor room the perfect temperature when in use. This “per room” unit is controlled separate from the home’s interior HVAC system putting you in charge of how cool or warm you want the 3-season room to be at any given time. This approach also means the unit will not be in use unnecessarily when your room is not in use.  This 3-season room also includes well insulated walls, floors and a heavily insulated ceiling. This insulation will help keep the room cool in the summer months and warm in the winter months.

The diverse use of windows in this space provides unobstructed views to the outdoors and ample sunlight, giving the illusion that you are indeed outdoors. This three season room was built using vinyl clad windows to match the windows of the existing home. These windows are double hung including the screens and really open up the view for the homeowners because they are six feet tall! large window sunroom Newark Columbus OHThe size of the windows and the stunning panoramic views give the space the feel of using window walls. The windows we used were placed in the roof beam. These and the columns between the windows are wrapped with Paulownia which we primed for painting. The trapezoid windows we used between the windows and ceiling space are fixed glass meaning they cannot be moved up or opened.

On the interior of the outdoor room we installed a 12″ knee wall and also placed plenty of outlets into this area. We also finished the ceiling in rustic cedar tongue and groove within the closed rafter design. The space boasts plenty of recessed can lighting which was a wise choice since the homeowner’s plan to spend quiet time reading in their new 3-season room. The homeowners have a standard steel door which goes out to their pressure treated deck  adjoining  this new space. We also built a Grand flared staircase built to grade.

Columbus OH sunroom builder beadboard walls and ceiling

If you are on the fence about adding that deck or outdoor room addition this season, now is the time to get started. We can schedule your design consultation and you too will be on your way to making your outdoor living wishes come true. Contact Archadeck of Columbus today for a free consultation(740) 879 – 3730 or drop us an email at westcolumbus@archadeck.net

Michael Reeder, Archadeck of Columbus

Michael Reeder, Archadeck of Columbus

You can see more stunning outdoor room additions by visiting our 3 and 4 season room photo gallery and our screened porch photo gallery located on our website.

Archadeck of Columbus is now an authorized Unilock contractor!

WallAccents Unilock

This outdoor oasis was built using Unilock wall accents- photo courtesy of Unilock.

Archadeck of Columbus is now an authorized contractor for Unilock pavers. Unilock has been a great product for us but we are happy to have recently been approved as an authorized contractor. In order to do so, candidates must be verified as a reputable company in regards to warranties, proper installations and correct certification. This invitation is only granted to a select few and we’re honored to be chosen.

Unilock is an international company with a wealth of great products. Some of their new products to keep an eye out for include their new wall product, Rivercrest™ Wall. This product offers the character and flexibility of natural stone with the durability and affordability of concrete. Another newcomer to the Unilock family is Thornbury™pavers. These pavers are ideal for both standard and permeable installations. It delivers a modestly textured surface and three compatible sizes allowing for a pleasing look. Unilock also introduced a new paver called Belpasso which is one of the most durable pavers available today because of its ability to resist stains.

OutdoorLiving elements by Unilock

Outdoor Living elements by Unilock- photo courtesy of Unilock

Among the most favored characteristic within the family of Unilock products is their use of EnduraColor products. EnduraColor is a unique pigment process. The process utilizes more than just a top-color only process but allows pigment to go deep into the paver. Unilock has been manufacturing products with the EnduraColor and EnduraColor Plus features for twenty years. First introduced in 1992, both technologies are exclusive to Unilock. EnduraColor uses high quality surface aggregates for increased durability. It also incorporates additional cement within the top layer of their product for reduced water absorption. What this means to the homeowner has a surface which is smoother, has more color stability, and wears better than traditional pavers.

Unilock offers a huge selection of products featuring extensive color selections to suit any taste. They are also cutting edge when it comes to their designs such as offering the same color schemes for vertical products as they do pavers. Their palette is always evolving. Unilock also offers transferable lifetime guarantees which is another plus for us in the way Unilock solidifies its commitment to providing an outstanding product and promise to the customer.

You can view photos of gorgeous Columbus hardscape projects from our extensive portfolio by visiting our hardscape and patio photo gallery and our outdoor fireplace and fire pit photo gallery located on our website.

Michael Reeder, Archadeck of Columbus

Michael Reeder, Archadeck of Columbus

To learn more about the Unilock line of superior hardscape products  and how they can enhance your outdoor living design contact Archadeck of Columbus today for a free consultation (740) 879 – 3730 or email us at westcolumbus@archadeck.net.

 

Archadeck of Columbus gives you an insider’s view of one homeowner’s master plan to the evolution of their dream backyard

Columbus open patio outdoor fireplace deck

This ultimate Columbus, OH dream backyard is the master plan of one homeowner’s staged building project currently underway.

Our last story provided insight into our phased building program. Phased or staged building begins with a master plan to your ultimate backyard which can be built in phases, or over years, to accommodate your budget and your lifestyle. Phased building allows you to feel like you have a new backyard during each stage of your backyard extension. Take a look at this master plan and and the phased plan to achieve this dream space. This particular project is the epitome of a dream backyard space.

Phase one

Phase one begins closest to the house with the deck and pergola. It is always a good idea to begin your master plan working outward from your home. The primary reason for starting closest to your home is to ensure less lifestyle interruption. It also ensures that all primary structures are tied into your home structurally as you build out from the initial phase. There is less room to overcome unforeseen obstacles that may arise when you begin a job working from the outside back to your home.

Columbus dream backyard with deck patio outdoor stove

This dream backyard begins with a stunning low maintenance deck and pergola combination.

On the low-maintenance composite deck you will see a picture frame border with decorative inlays. To define the dining area on the new deck we are integrating a secondary color inlay for definition and contrast. The deck will include built-ins for added convenience such as a bench with storage underneath. Little touches like this that add convenience to your outdoor living space and will enhance your enjoyment for years to come. The skirting around the base of the deck includes the lines needed for the future pool addition underneath. Preparing the space for future development will ensure there is no reason to tear the skirting out when the conduit and plumbing are installed for the pool. The first phase also involves planning ahead for the intended landscaping design.  It is important to have a design plan drawn up along with our master plan to ensure we are able to integrate the inline landscaping along with your design. Archadeck of Columbus will work in unison with your landscaper and your pool or spa installer to ensure every detail is accounted for and to facilitate each phase of your project. We also work with your electrician and plumber to get all your lines placed in advance to avoid retrofitting in the future. Laying the foundations for the additional phases of your master plan is an important part of the first phase of your project.

Completing the pergola is also an important part of the initial phase. The pergola in this project attaches to the existing home and will provide shade to the deck. The pergola also adds beauty and character to the deck and rear of the home. This pergola will serve as much for function as aesthetics as part of the completed master plan.

Phase two

Phase two includes the addition of a backyard pool and the paver patio surround. This includes the patio area which will become part of the poolside pavilion. This phase is set to take place during this calendar year. The hardscape spaces will include two distinct rounded patio areas. One of the patios will serve as a spot for a large dining table or lounge chairs and the other rounded patio will serve as outdoor entertaining space. The patio construction will include running conduit underneath for the pool as well.

Since the Conduit and lines for the pool are already ran under the deck and patio areas installing the pool will not disturb these completed areas during this, the second phase of the project. We anticipate the pool installation to run smoothly because of the prior preparations during this phase and phase one of the project.

Phase three

This phase is to include the covered patio next to the new pool and the execution of the homeowner’s landscape design. The covered patio is to be built using a hip roof to match the roof of the existing home. The roof will be supported by round fiberglass columns. The design also allows the interior of the pavilion an open, airy cathedral ceiling. The completed covered patio will also boast large exposed cedar beams along with a cedar tongue and groove ceiling. These features will add a rustic flair to the covered patio design. Abundant lighting and ceiling fans are included in the finished interior space. The preparations to accommodate the electrical plan for the covered patio were planned as part of our previous phases so this portion of the phase will run smooth as silk.

The final chapter

The final phase of the master plan to this dream backyard includes an outdoor kitchen and outdoor fireplace within the covered patio completed in the previous phase. The outdoor kitchen area will give the homeowners a bar area that can also serve for additional seating and food preparation. A bar element within your outdoor kitchen allows the person preparing the food and the ones dining to share the same space instead of having separate spaces. It has always been said that the kitchen is the heart of the home and in this outdoor kitchen design the same rings true. Delivering two functions in one space enhances the whole experience.

the ultimate columbus dream backyard

The final phase of this project will include the addition of the outdoor kitchen and fireplace within the covered patio completed in phase three of the project.

The outdoor fireplace will provide a perfect spot for relaxing as well as entertaining. Nothing says relaxation quite like the crackle of a fire! Since the fireplace is under the chimney and there is an existing gas line to the chimney the homeowner plans to incorporate the gas into the chimney during the final phase of the project.

To be continued….

Like with many of our completed phased building projects, there is usually room for additional outdoor living space in the future. These homeowners may decide at a later date to add a pergola over one of the circular paver patios, or even an area to facilitate a spa. Once their space is complete they can enjoy all the outdoor living opportunities to come.

Michael Reeder, Archadeck of Columbus

Michael Reeder, Archadeck of Columbus

If you have a vision of your dream backyard but you’re not ready to complete it all at one time, our phased building program is the perfect answer. We can bring the backyard of your dreams to life one beautiful stage at a time. Contact Archadeck of Columbus to learn more about our innovative approach to outdoor structure building. Call now for a free consultation (740) 879 – 3730
westcolumbus@archadeck.net

For more inspiration on creating your ultimate backyard visit our decks photo gallery and our outdoor living photo gallery located on our website.

With Archadeck of Columbus’ staged building program you can be a winner too!

Dream backyard makeover by ArchadeckThe end of March is just a short time away and our Archadeck 2013 Dream Backyard Makeover contest is still going strong. Two more finalists have yet to be chosen for March so now is the time to enter. Unfortunately there will be a lot of people who enter the contest that will not win, but our advice is to dream big and keep those entries rolling in! When you visualize your dream backyard, think about all the use and functionality of the spaces you want before you submit your entry. For example you may want to start with the primary structure such as a deck or porch and allow your other areas to feed off this to further function and enjoyment of your dream space.

With our staged building program everyone is a winner

Many of our customers design their outdoor spaces using staged building.  Staged (or phased) building enables you to plan your dream backyard over time. With staged building we can develop a plan that encompasses an entire outdoor space to be built in stages as your budget and lifestyle allows. We assist in planning your perfect outdoor oasis and ensuring all the structural footwork is in place to facilitate future additions. Archadeck of Columbus met with a homeowner just last week that wanted to build multiple structures over time. We prepared a grand plan showcasing the project in its entirety. We then priced out different segments as a starting point to his dream backyard. Archadeck of Columbus can also work with your pool company, lighting company and your landscaper on the structural components we need to proceed with your grand backyard design. When the time comes and you want to explore what a staged building project might cost you can contact us. Our primary goal during our initial consultation is to understand your needs, wants, budget and priorities to come up with a plan for you.

Columbus OH Timbertech deck in Sandridge

This outdoor space incorporates many levels of function and beauty in it’s design. A good example of a dream backyard.

Set the stage, dream the dream

Being in the business of outdoor living, my wife Carol and I have mapped out our dream backyard. It will include a screened porch to deliver safety from inclement weather and insects. We would incorporate an adjacent deck flowing from the screened porch. Our ultimate outdoor dream includes a rustic inspired outdoor fireplace with a multi-level patio used in conjunction with the deck. We would use the deck or patio to house tables and chairs for dining and designate the lower level patio for relaxing and conversation. We even have a vision of that lower level including an exterior fire pit or custom water feature. Even though we haven’t built our outdoor oasis yet we would consider the orientation of the sun to our home. For example, our home faces south therefore we would want a roofed structure to provide shade.

Patio with sailor course edging adjacent to Deck Columbus Ohio

This patio and deck combination matches the exterior of this home beautifully and also includes a sailor course border for added contrast.

A dream is as personal as the one who dreams it. With that being said we hope our dream backyard inspires you to dream as big as we do. Our dream backyard space includes a porch,  however  if a porch is not your cup of tea then you may consider an open outdoor structure instead. With a myriad of hardscape textures and colors available it is easy to coordinate your decking to the pavers. Another viable option when planning your dream backyard is to create accents through the decking and pavers, and even matching the colors you use in these areas to the trim on your home. The possibilities are endless…

To learn more about making your outdoor dreams a reality through our stages building program contact Archadeck of Columbus. We can create a custom master multi-year plan that will enable you to get a new backyard each year until your goal is reached. Call for a free consultation today(740) 879 – 3730
westcolumbus@archadeck.net

Archadeck of Columbus has seen a huge amount of interest from the Archadeck 2013 Dream Backyard Makeover contest. Just to clarify the contest specifications it is important to follow the instructions when entering. Entries must include one picture of your existing backyard and a brief description of what your dream backyard would be by utilizing decking, pavers and outdoor lighting. You can enter the 2013 Dream Backyard Makeover contest here

Michael Reeder, Archadeck of Columbus

Michael Reeder, Archadeck of Columbus

Please visit our decks photo gallery and our patio and hardscape photo gallery located on our website for more dreamy backyard ideas.

Archadeck of Columbus helps you plan the perfect patio or hardscape from head to toe

Columbus OH covered patio for dining and entertaining

This covered paver patio in Columbus is a great example of planning for function and comfort in your outdoor space.

When it comes to getting the most enjoyment and functionality out of your patio or hardscape, the devil is in the details. To the surprise of many of our clients one of the most important things to consider when planning your design is what will actually go into your space in terms of furniture, grills, etc. The key is to treat your outdoor spaces with the same consideration when analyzing and “sizing up” your interior space. How often do you go into an empty house and not really think about your furnishings? When you purchased your home, the room sizes were predetermined so you had to fit within those constraints. If you’re adding a new outdoor space, you can determine how you want to live in your new space and thus how you want to furnish it. That will tell us what size your new space needs to be.

Columbus Monarch Composite Deck with Paver Patio

Planning the perfect patio includes furniture considerations, shape, size and placement to allow proper traffic flow.

During our consultation we always ask what primary function your space will serve. For example, will your space be used primarily for dining or seating? If your answer is dining, then we take into consideration how many chairs you will need and the size of your table. If you are considering using a round table which is typically four feet in diameter and includes four chairs that are typically two and a half feet deep, we can help you decide your best use of space. One crucial factor that is often missed is allowing ample pull-out room for your chairs. Having enough room to easily sit back and relax in your chairs is a necessity if you want to get the most enjoyment from your space. Another key consideration is the type of chairs you intend to use in your patio. Rockers, swivels and stationary chairs all have different dimensions. Knowing ahead of time what furnishings you intend to use will allow us to ensure your space delivers proper traffic flow. The goal is to have a space that is large enough to travel to and around your table easily. This is especially important with dining because tripping could cause an accident or a spill.

Columbus paver patio rounded edges rounded retaining wall bench

Consider the big picture and how you wish your space to function in the years to come when planning your patio or hardscape endeavor.

A very popular table size is four feet in diameter. In order to obtain a comfortable proportion you will need a space that is 8 and a half feet. You have to consider the space that the chairs occupy when being occupied and the space they occupy when you and your guests are sitting away from the table during conversation or after meals. A typical case scenario is when your table is occupied and all are sitting away from the table. Then, you s till need room to move around those chairs. Once you add up all these measurements, this totals an area of approximately 14 square feet. There’s a lot more than meets the eye when it comes to space planning.

Columbus OH hardscape patios and paths

This hardscape patio and path in Columbus, OH is a good example of mixing hardscape mediums in one design.

Once you have decided upon the perfect size furnishings to use for your new space, you’ll need to think about texture choices. A scored concrete or paver patio contains undulation which is part of the beauty of the hardscape itself. These undulations and grooves also mean your chairs will not sit perfectly flat as they did in the showroom when you made your purchase. Some hardscape materials offer a more level surface than others. If leveled area for seating and dining is a must then we can mix mediums in your hardscape design. Mixing mediums will allow for a mix of smooth hardscape in your functional space and rough textured hardscapes throughout the remainder of your patio. Not only will this solve the dilemma of rocking furniture, it also looks great and helps delineate your space.  The joints of your paver patio will also influence steadiness of your furnishings. The distance of the pavers to each other will help hold furnishings level. In essence a smaller joint promotes a steadier surface for tables and chairs.

Paver patio with rounded edges rounded step Columbus OH

Paver patio with rounded edges and steps in Columbus OH

We cannot forget the importance of choosing outdoor furnishings that match the appeal of your patio. Many of today’s contemporary outdoor furniture designs use streamlined design with deeper seating with less of an emphasis on a slender leg. Stacked resin furniture is wildly popular right now. The trend we see throughout outdoor furniture design is taking the comfort and easy feel of your living room into the exterior. The term outdoor room is widely used in patio and hardscape designs for this very reason. Homeowner’s are leaning toward outdoor furniture that mimics the comfort and loftiness of their favorite couch or easy chair but with low-maintenance outdoor fabric choices.

Cedar deck and patio in Columbus, OH

This deck and patio combination by Archadeck of Columbus exemplifies good landscape planning.

Last but certainly never least, don’t forget the patio landscaping. This stage of planning a patio or hardscape addition is often an afterthought. Many times homeowners only landscape the area around the perimeter of the patio after completion. The foundation of a patio extends by about one foot to support the outside perimeter. It needs to have a landscaping plan even if it only includes mulch beds or planting beds. This is also a service Archadeck of Columbus can provide enabling you to build it into your contract. Landscaping choices should also reflect shade configurations that will affect your completed patio or hardscape and be planned accordingly.

If your outdoor living season aspirations include a patio or hardscape addition, we can help from head to toe. We can assist you in choosing the correct size space all the way building and landscaping your space. Contact Archadeck of Columbus today for a free consultation (740) 879 – 3730
westcolumbus@archadeck.net

Michael Reeder, Archadeck of Columbus

Michael Reeder, Archadeck of Columbus

See more examples of stunning patios and hardscapes by visiting our patio and hardscape photo gallery and our outdoor living photo gallery located on our website.

Archadeck of Columbus is awarded the esteemed Columbus for patio and deck builder Consumers’ Choice Award

Archadeck Columbus consumer choice award

We are proud to be the recipient for the Consumer’s Choice award for 2012 Columbus deck and patio builder.

Nothing makes us more proud than to win an award that is based on the opinion of homeowners right here in the Columbus market. Our recent Consumer’s Choice Award for business excellence in Columbus is an honor we are very proud of. We have been in business for over 10 years. Along the way we’ve had the opportunity to work with Columbus homeowners on projects from decks to porches, patios, pergolas and many other outdoor living structures. We are committed to delivering exceptional service. All these factors go into the pride that we feel in receipt of this award because it is based on the opinion we value the most – our consumers.

The selection and confirmation processes are very rigorous. A company must first be nominated by at least two different homeowners. Only the most nominated companies in each category will populate the final ballots. Voting is commissioned to Survey Sampling International® (SSI), a global leader in consumer research. The consumers chosen to vote in the SSI survey are part of a registered panel population in your community. This consists of approximately 5,000 people who take the SSI survey to vote for the favorite businesses in each community. The final results are then tallied by an ethical review process done by a regulatory law firm that specializes in regulatory assessments (Macmurray Petersen & Shuster). The ethical review team reviews the business before they decide upon the recipient of  the award. Nominations can be submitted by anyone and the award winners are announced throughout the year. Winners are announced each year in December. The manner in choosing the winner for this award is much like the stringent practices seen in movie and music award shows.

Cedar deck and patio in Columbus, OH

Deck and patio combination by Archadeck of Columbus.

Being nominated and chosen is a testament to the way we do business and the passion that goes into every project. We want each of our clients to get the outdoor space they have always wanted. We treat each client like they are our one-and-only client.

Michael Reeder, Archadeck of Columbus

Michael Reeder, Archadeck of Columbus

If you are searching for the right company in the Columbus area to bring your outdoor living dreams to life, contact Archadeck of Columbus. We can assist you in choosing the right structure to match your personal taste and desired function. From there we will provide a detailed rendering of your anticipated space, and upon your approval begin construction of your backyard masterpiece. Call us today for a free consultation (740) 879 – 3730
westcolumbus@archadeck.net

You can view photos of our completed outdoor structures by visiting our deck galleries and our patio and hardscape galleries located on our website.

If you are among the many who count themselves as a satisfied customer of Archadeck of Columbus, visit the Consumer’s Choice website to tell them about your experience.

From Shabby Chic to Rustic Chic- Authentic materials give you the individual character you crave

Columbus OH knotty wood screened porch

Notice the rustic character of the knotty wood used in the interior of this screen porch in Columbus, Ohio.

Thumb through any home and garden magazine and you will see the allure of vintage inspired rustic wood. It is evident through the deliberate efforts to make new furniture look old. It is also evident through the continued use of reclaimed materials in home building and furniture design.  Reclaimed materials are given a new lease on life in a design world where everything old is new again! It is clear that the older wood appears, the more appealing it becomes. The appeal of “rustic chic” extends into the realm of outdoor living designs as well. Homeowner’s want their new deck to look old, and some are making the choice to use wood in lieu of materials that display no imperfections.

Columbus OH Cedar porch and deck combination

Cedar is among the most commonly requested wood for exterior applications.

Design trends come and go, but the attributes associated with wood have never gone out of style. Wood is coveted for its rustic appearance and its natural flaws. Streaking, veining, knots and even worm holes are all appealing aesthetics of wood.  Many times the more knotted the wood is, the more people want it. Knots create more of a visual sense of the natural state of the wood. The more rustic the wood appears, the more character the wood has. When you look up the definition for the term “rustic” it reads made of the rough limbs of trees. This explanation defines rustic and speaks volumes about the characteristics homeowners are looking for when they make the choice to use wood.

Delaware OH rustic screen porch with outdoor fireplace

An outdoor fireplace adds to the rustic charm of this wooden screened porch in Deleware, OH.

The imperfection of the tree adds to the character of the wood

Many times clients will call and tell me there wood has some checking. Checking is a natural part of wood’s aging. Checking can safely be as much as six inches long. Wood is natural and porous and therefore it is expected to expand and contract. This is why clients choose wood. These are the elements that give the wood character. By the function of wood aging you get some rustic appeal like checking.

Knottiness in wood also delivers a rustic appearance. Clear wood which is made from the innermost part of the tree is less likely to contain knots, but is a lot more expensive. Different grades of wood will display different degrees of knottiness. The knots should not be of concern because they are part of the timber, are tight and will not fall out.

rustic timbers Columbus screened porch design

Rustic timbers help enliven this open porch design.

The very nature of certain types of wood lends itself to a rustic appearance. Cedar and pine are commonly used in outdoor structure design. Pine is more yellow where cedar is more gold. Pine is a softer wood than cedar and will expand and contract more than cedar. Cedar naturally contains oils that won’t allow for as much expansion and contraction as pine. Ipe’, even though it is a dense hardwood will weather to a rustic grey patina if left alone.

Columbus Rustic porch interiors

A king truss, and heavy wood graining add to the cabin allure of this screened porch.

The popularity of wood with more character has come full circle. Thirty years ago, redwood was the most popular choice for decks. It was a status symbol to own a redwood deck. Over the years mahogany and cypress have both had some popularity. Cedar has been popular for many years and today is still our most commonly requested wood in outdoor designs. So you see everything old is new again.

If you are looking for a way to incorporate naturally beautiful wood like cedar into your outdoor living space, Archadeck of Columbus can get the job done. Our diverse selection of exterior materials can turn your boring space into rustic chic. Contact us today for a free consultation (740) 879 – 3730
westcolumbus@archadeck.net

Michael Reeder, Archadeck of Columbus

Michael Reeder, Archadeck of Columbus

You can see more examples of outdoor spaces with character and charm by visiting our extensive wooden deck gallery, and our porch galleries located on our website.

Follow

Get every new post delivered to your Inbox.

Join 30 other followers