Columbus Decks, Porches and Patios by Archadeck

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Category Archives: Screen Porches Columbus Oh

Columbus screen porch exterior choices by Archadeck of Columbus

Leave a Comment Posted by on September 12, 2012
Columbus screen porch matches existing home perfectly

The exterior finish of this screened porch matches the existing home to a T.

I know that your screened porch inside is what you see on a regular basis. With that in mind, the exterior of your screened porch effects the view of your home as a whole. Our goal  on each project we design is to create a space that looks and feels original to your home.

Columbus screened porch with stucco exterior

This screened porch exterior is finished in stucco in the same color and texture as the house and looks original to the existing home.

Making it all match…

How do our designs make it all come together? The first step is to take cues from your existing home. A good option is to have the exterior of your space stained or painted to match the color of your home.  We can also match the fascia, trim, soffit and gutters to your homes existing hues.

9' walls with wrapped columns

The columns on this screened porch are painted to match the existing home.

Sometimes we try to match the colors used on your screen porch door to those of the windows and doors of your home. A good example of choosing a veneer which will tie your structure into your existing home from a design standpoint is through the knee wall portion of your porch. A knee wall runs the perimeter of your exterior space. Even a small scale knee wall takes up an area from 18 to 36 inches and can be a key area of your exterior finish focus. If your home is stucco, we would recommend finishing the knee wall with the same stucco on the outside finish. This is the same with a home that is vinyl, hardy plank or even brick, using the same materials as your home’s exterior on your knee wall will make the exterior cohesive with the exterior of your home. With brick and stone veneers sometimes it is difficult to get an exact match because specific colors of stone and brick are often discontinued. If this is the case we can match it to as close to the native veneer of your home as possible.

Columbus close end gable roof screen porch

This Columbus gable roof screened porch is a perfect example of a close end, finished design that adds continuity to the style of the porch and existing home.

Many homeowners are choosing to go with low-maintenance exterior finishes by using vinyl and PVC products on the trim, roof posts and roof beams. These elements offer ultra-convenience. Even small areas can be matched to keep the colors cohesive such as the aluminum framed screen inserts used in screen porch construction. If your home’s windows are trimmed in white we can special order the screen inserts in white as well.

Colors aren’t the only way to create a covered porch or screened porch that delivers a design in keeping with your home and architecture details. Taking advantage of shape, such as creating screen porch openings which match the shape of your home’s windows is another good way to pick up elements filled with originality and pulling them into your outdoor space. On a gable or gable-end roof design you may choose to keep this area open and screened or closed ended and finished to match the cues set forth through your home. It is all up to you.

Columbus contemporary screen porch exterior details

This contemporary style screened porch looks original to the house because the exterior is finished in the same style as the home. From color to roof style the space looks like it has always been there.

Columbus screened porch painted to match existing home

This exterior was painted to match the adjacent home, even down to the screened openings.

Think outside the box adds flair and pizzazz

Another viable option for keeping the originality of your design in focus is to compliment your homes color and architecture as opposed to replicating an exact match on the entire exterior. This can be achieved by adding new design elements such as fluted columns with extra trim which can be wrapped and finished in a complimentary color of your choice. With screen porches many homeowners like to go with a rustic, vintage cabin style design in all wood tones. Choosing a unique exterior for your screen porch design can add character and charm to your home, and many homeowners just don’t want everything to match. These one of a kind exterior finishes turn out wonderfully.

Columbus Timbertech XLM Sandridge Colored Deck with Screen Porch and Patio

This outdoor living combination includes a screened porch, twin decks and a stunning hardscape patio. Notice how the exterior finish compliments the entire backyard and the home.

While most of the screened porches we build are attached to the home, we build a small number of freestanding or detached porches. A good example would be a covered patio, or screened room that doubles as a poolside retreat. In these cases there is not as much need to match your home perfectly. We can pull out important elements to compliment your home and introduce new details in as well. Outdoor spaces such as these offer more design freedom than those that are in close proximity to your home in a side-by-side attached construction.

Open porch Columbus

Look closely at how the siding on the gable end of this covered porch matches that of the existing house.

Our goal is to deliver a space that delivers aesthetic and structural harmony by using compatible design elements. You never want your space to stick out like a sore thumb. You want a space to boost the appeal of your home and landscape and unify your surroundings.

Michael Reeder, Archadeck of Columbus

Michael Reeder, Archadeck of Columbus

If you foresee a covered porch, or screen porch in your horizon contact Archadeck of Columbus to help you choose the design that best suits your needs, your function and your lifestyle. Call for a free consultation today (740) 879 – 3730
westcolumbus@archadeck.net

You can see more inspiring  covered porch and screen porch designs by visiting our covered porch and  screen porch galleries located on our website.

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Important considerations when deciding where to place your new Columbus screened porch

Leave a Comment Posted by on September 5, 2012
Columbus OH Screen porch with flat ceiling

Placing your screened porch in the right spot is crucial to its function and aesthetics.

I know you have heard the phrase “location, location, location” in the world of real estate. Location is just as important in the addition of adding your new screened porch to your home and yard. When considering the addition of any outdoor structure to your home there are several factors to take into consideration. In essence about 95% of the screen porches we build are located on the back of the home; the remaining 5% are built as freestanding or detached structures or in locations other than the rear of the home.

Columbus OH Screen porch with pine tongue and groove detail

Notice the bay window through the window of this lovely screen porch, and the location of the door that enters into the home. All were important factors in determining where to place this porch.

Where, oh where on my house should my new screened porch be?

The most important consideration in deciding the best location for your screen porch is to address the spatial and functional needs that are important in regards to your lifestyle. If you are going to use your space for dining, for instance, you may choose to create an area within close proximity to your interior (or in some cases) your outdoor kitchen. Functionality is important in choosing placement that is ideal for your individual needs, but structural influences will usually dictate the most realistic area your screened porch should be.

A good exercise is to go into your backyard with a tape measure and think about where you want your boundaries to be and where you want to begin the screened porch. We recommend centering your back door in the space as a good place to start to get a good idea of  your desired starting and stopping points.

Structural influences such as doors and bump out swill dictate where your screened porch should begin and end. Utilities can also play a role in placement of your screened porch. Typically, when houses are built utilities like A/C units, water spigots, gas meters and vents are placed in the most inconvenient places in terms of adding on. In many cases we can work around the utilities or we can help to get them relocated.

Columbus OH Screen porch with skylights

By adding skylights to your screen porch you add an open, airy feel to the space and also let much-needed light into interior rooms in close proximity.

A consultation with a qualified and reputable builder is key when considering a screened porch addition because many times the design of your house and roof will dictate how and where the screened porch will tie into your home. If roof lines are an issue, a sidewall connection is the answer. A licensed professional will also consider the details that are often overlooked when considering the addition of a roofed structure such as loss of light within the home. Adding a screened porch can impact the amount of natural light that flows into your home. The roof for your new outdoor addition will likely affect the area within the home’s interior that is the closest in proximity to the new porch; this can many times be amended by the addition of skylights within your screen porch. We take all these factors into consideration when designing your new space because overlooking the smallest nuance can mean the difference in falling in love with your new outdoor space or leaving you with regret over the small things you should have considered before construction began.

If you are considering the addition of a combination outdoor structure that includes a screened porch and deck or patio combination then you need to consider additional factors such as harmony and flow and how each structure will function together. With combination structures the grade of your lot is also an important consideration. If you have a relatively flat area then consider adding a patio or deck. Patios are less expensive to build on a flat grade than a deck. If you have a steeper grade then the opposite is the case because a patio would require more aggregate and retaining walls.

Columbus Timbertech XLM Sandridge Colored Deck with Screen Porch and Patio

This outdoor living combination includes a screened porch, twin decks and a stunning hardscape patio. Notice how the structures, and the existing home harmonize as one.

No matter where you decide as the most advantageous location for your new screened porch it will likely become your favorite room in the house, and the space you gravitate to during the outdoor living season. With fall in the air now is the best time to begin your screened porch addition. You may even get to enjoy some of the colors of autumn from your new screened porch before the arrival of winter.

Michael Reeder, Archadeck of Columbus

Michael Reeder, Archadeck of Columbus

Contact Archadeck of Columbus to help you decide on the perfect porch, or outdoor living combination as well as the perfect way to tie it all together. Call for a free consultation: ( 740) 879 – 3730 Email:westcolumbus@archadeck.net

You can get more ideas for the perfect placement of your screened porch by visiting our screened porch gallery located on our website.

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When the architectural design solution is not as simple as it seems…

Leave a Comment Posted by on May 30, 2012

This is what the deck looked like before we converted it to a screened porch.

Delaware screened porch and patio underneath

Our screened porch project in Delaware is finished and the homeowners are elated!

Not so long ago we covered a project we were working on in Delaware where the homeowners wanted to convert their existing deck into a screened porch. At first glance, this request seemed simple enough. The obvious choice was to just place the screened porch where the deck was using a gable roof to match the home’s existing gable style jut outs which were on the back of the home. Sometimes when really looking at roof connections and house connections the design and construction isn’t as simple as it appears to be.

Stunning view from Delaware screened porch through structural details

The view and the design of this screen wall, are breathtaking. Can you imagine having your morning coffee looking into this each morning?

After looking at the roof connections, it became apparent that the drainage from the two adjoining gables would cause water to drain from those gables directly into the screened porch so we needed to find an architectural solution to overcome that obstacle. When other contractors would have told these Delaware homeowners the space wasn’t workable, we made it work with careful specifications and well thought out design.

The large elevated screen porch was placed in the location of the homeowners existing deck, which includes a walkout below and serves as a patio underneath the porch as well. The scope of the job was to remove the old deck and build a screened porch that encompassed an area of about 12 x 14. We had to design a porch 13′ in the air for the roof tie in we were looking for. Because the home was part of a condo association, we had to ensure every facet of the new structure matched the existing home, this included the trim, exterior finishes, and everything else that was included in the new space.

In matching the design to the existing home we wrapped the column supports with Pawlonia. We also used a kneewall with hardy plank for the exterior finish. On the interior, the customer chose PVC ply bead and an enclosed rafter system with a beadboard finish. We installed four Velux skylights that provided lots of can lights, low voltage lighting, and a stunning ceiling fan. The flooring is Trex in saddle and so are the wide stairs leading down to the patio below. We used white vinyl railing to compliment the landing and stairs. Underneath the porch we installed a underdeck drainage system called Dry Snap.

Delaware screened porch interior

To add even more light and a chance to enjoy the clouds as they roll through a blue sky, we installed 4 Velux skylights.

Archadeck of Columbus loves working with the client, the lot, the area we have to work with and any nuances or challenges we have to overcome to deliver you a finished product you are seeking.

Interior details of Delaware screen porch

Interior details of the finished porch.

The finished screened porch is a beautiful, functional use of the space allocated by the previous deck’s location. The porch looks as though it was original to the home and boasts some of the most amazing views into the backyard. These Delaware homeowners could not be more pleased.

Michael Reeder, Archadeck of Columbus

Michael Reeder, Archadeck of Columbus

Contact Archadeck of Columbus today if you have been told by other builders that the outdoor space you desire isn’t possible, we would like to hear your ideas and your vision. More often than not, we can make your dream a reality. Call for a free consultation: (740) 879 – 3730
westcolumbus@archadeck.net

You can see more stunning screened porches that double as works of art by visiting our screened porches photo gallery located on our website.


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Do you want to enjoy your new deck in Spring or wait until Summer?

Leave a Comment Posted by on February 22, 2012
Large_Columbus_deck_with_hot_tub_pergola_and_planter

Imagine this beauty ready and waiting for you to enjoy with the first blooms of spring.

Usually our phones start to ring off the hook around Groundhog day each year. Whether it’s only six more weeks to spring, or six more weeks of cold weather, that’s when many people start thinking about getting started on their new deck or porch or patio. No matter how you look at it the answer comes out to the same conclusion. Spring is just around the corner. With that sudden realization, whether it comes from a groundhog, or the first traces of dandelions sprouting under the snow, many homeowners are getting ready to get started on their spring projects.

A new deck or outdoor structure can be ready for you to enjoy this spring.

On average a typical deck project takes about a week to construct.  But what takes time if you’re working with a reputable builder is getting your project scheduled. Reputable builders will have projects on the docket and may be 6 or 8 weeks out before they can start your project. Unfortunately, many homeowners wait until they are within the warmer months to begin planning their outdoor project, and this often means a longer wait time to start enjoying the benefits and living outdoors. Right now in early February when people sign, we are scheduling start dates in March for the structures to be ready in April. We serve our customers on a first come, first serves basis and if you wait too long, you won’t be able to enjoy your project this year in the prime months of the year.

Here in Columbus we build year-round and cold weather does not keep us from constructing your deck , screen porch or other structure. It’s so important to call early to avoid long wait times and to ensure you get to enjoy your structure this spring.

Michael Reeder, Archadeck of Columbus

Michael Reeder, Archadeck of Columbus

Being the early bird is vital in getting the outdoor structure you have dreamed about all winter ready in time for for those warm, sunny days. Contact Archadeck of Columbus to get started. Give us a call for a free consultation and come see us at the Central Ohio Home & Garden Show Sat Feb. 25 – Sun Mar. 4 located in the Celeste building booth #2306 & 2308. See you there!

(740) 879 – 3730
westcolumbus@archadeck.net

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Using architectural reveals for your screened porch interior design

Leave a Comment Posted by on November 23, 2011
Interior of screened room in Powell, OH by Archadeck of Columbus

The interior of this screen porch displays design perfection in every detail

Have you ever been flipping through your favorite home and garden magazine and seen an image that makes you wish you could have something just like it? If you are a proactive homeowner that is always looking for ways to improve upon your home or landscape then the answer is most certainly yes. These Powell, OH homeowners recently turned their dream of having a screen porch into a reality.

It all began when we initially sat down and met to get an idea of what they were looking to build. They told us that what they wanted most was a unique structure and they even gave us some pictures they had clipped out to use as a starting point for their project which showed a very finished structure that had wrapped beams and lots of architectural reveals on the inside and outside. The pictures provided valuable insight into developing the concept of the screen porch’s design. (see picture of clipping below). With the homeowner’s requests in mind we were ready to begin the design process.

Unique and beautiful screen porch in Powell, OH by Archadeck of Columbus

This screen porch in Powell, OH by Archadeck of Columbus is picture perfect in every way.

The finished porch boasts an abundant 16′ x 16′ sq. feet of blissful outdoor living space which includes 9′  high walls which are higher than standard screen porch walls.  High ceilings are becoming more and more popular and we like to build the walls of our outdoor structures to match  the the walls inside the house on the adjoining room. Your outdoor room is truly an extension of your home.

In terms of trimming out this screen porch, we used “build-up” columns in the screen porches interior. In essence this means we actually build them up to make them appear larger and more finished. By having thicker columns in the middle, we were able to put sconce lights in the interior and these more robust columns add to the elegance of the entire room. When working with certain interior design aspects of an outdoor structure, bigger is usually better, it gives your finished room a richer feel.

Powell, OH screen porch Cedar tongue and groove ceiling detailing

Powell, OH screen porch Cedar tongue and groove ceiling detailing

We used Paulownia trim on the posts which comes ready to paint upon installation. On the floor the homeowners chose a pressure-treated pine floor laid on a diagonal pattern.  Using pine adds a rustic, natural ambiance to a room like only real wood can, and choosing the diagonal patterning conveys a sense of creativity by steering away from the traditional pattern commonly seen in screen porches. These Powell, OH homeowners played on the rich lines and wood within the flooring and took it a step further by choosing an unfinished cedar tongue and groove ceiling. Also included were some little creature comforts and extras. These included a wall mount system for the homeowners TV, ceiling fans, and ample electrical outlets on those hearty posts.

Powell, Oh screen porch exterior by Archadeck of Columbus

This image shows the majesty of the porches exterior

Of course, the quality and sense of exclusivity was carried on to the exterior as well. We put architectural reveals on the outside with the use of  additional trim that creates the appearance of a  more layered look which shows shadow lines. We also installed  siding on  the exterior of the porch and painted it to make it look natural to the  house.  We used aluminum screen inserts and also placed white reveals around the screens to add character.

If you are looking for a builder that can deliver you a “picture-perfect” outdoor structure, contact Archadeck of Columbus to get started today call us at (740) 879 – 3730 or email us at westcolumbus@archadeck.net

Michael Reeder, Archadeck of Columbus

Michael Reeder, Archadeck of Columbus

To see more stunning Columbus area screen porches visit our screened porches photo gallery by visiting our website.

Columbus screen porch translating customer design ideas

Columbus screen porch translating customer design ideas

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Interior designs for Columbus sunrooms and room additions

Leave a Comment Posted by on October 12, 2011
Columbus OH rustic sunroom with exterior grade door

Columbus OH rustic sunroom with exterior grade door

Wouldn’t you love to have that room addition you have always dreamed of? A place to relax, read a book, take a nap or even a room where you can watch the sun fade into the horizon. Nowadays room additions don’t have to be “plain Jane” sheet rock with four walls and no pizzazz. Room additions can come under the guise of many other titles, like sunrooms, 3 and 4 season rooms and even screened porches. Any room that is attached to your existing home that serves to improve your way of life can be a room addition. That being said we are going to explore the interior design options that can be incorporated into various room additions.

When we refer to the term interior design, this does not mean you have to be a licensed interior designer with an association like ASID ( American Society of Interior Designers) in order to turn your room addition into a work of art. The first vital observation to make is to what extent you will be able to trim out your structure and what medium would be appropriate for your structure. This depends solely on what type of structure you choose to build. For example, a screen porch interior can be trimmed out with a myriad of beautiful interior details, but since a screen porch is subject to temperature variance and inherit moisture your interior design choices may be a little more limited than that of a sunroom, which is insulated. By adding insulation, windows and the HVAC you are in essence dealing with an interior room addition that just so happens to take its inspiration from the outside world around you from the beauty of nature and gives us the ability to coexist with that beauty from within an insulated, temperature controlled structure. A sunroom , also referred to as a 4 season room, addition to your home will come with endless interior design possibilities because having insulation and a consistent temperature free from the exposure of possible moisture will give you the ability to explore more options in flooring, ceilings, trim, wall finishes and even furniture and accessories.

Archadeck screened porch

This screened porches interior design gets its inspiration from nature.

Within a screen porch we are seeing many interior choices that reflect the rustic look. Rustic design options include exposed beams, rich deep wood tones used in the floors, bead board or ply bead ceilings, and even the addition of stone fireplaces within the structure. A good analogy is to compare the interior design options that are popularly used in today’s screened porches is a design that mimics a wilderness lodge full of earthy tones and hues that create a natural appeal for such a structure. Making sure your interior design choices are weather-worthy is crucial to the life and required maintenance of your screen porch here in Ohio where the winters  can be quite brutal.

Four_Season_Sunroom_with_Tile_Floor

This four season sunroom has a beautiful tile floor.

Once you move into the realm of the 3 season room addition more interior design choices will begin to unfold especially if you choose to build a structure that offers the option of convertibility by changing out the screens for windows when the weather changes such as an Eze Breeze convertible system. In doing this you will expand your choices for suitable design choices . More flooring, wall and finish options are within your grasp. The addition of windows to your 3 season room can open up a world of interior design possibilities.

Notice how this sunroom flows effortlessly to and from the existing homes interior through these stunning french doors.

Notice how this sunroom flows effortlessly to and from the existing homes interior through these stunning french doors.

A sunroom is the coup de grace of room additions. Sunrooms offer an extension of your interior living area that offers a bird’s-eye view of the outside. Sunrooms are insulated, heated, and cooled to keep the room and you at a constant comfortable temperature no matter whether there is snow on the ground or 100 degree temperatures outside. By choosing a sunroom addition you open all the choices in interior designs. With a 4 season room there is no danger of freezing temperatures causing flooring choices such as tile to crack. You also have the ability to trim your 4 season room with interior grade hardwoods without or without rugs used atop, wall-to wall carpeting, and even the popular laminate floors seen readily in today’s homes such as the popular Pergo  laminate flooring. By adding the simple element of insulation to your room addition you have opened the door to endless wall finish options as well. Without insulation wall finish options such as crown moldings, faux finishing and even wallpaper aren’t possible because without insulation  putting drywall  in your room addition is not possible because of the presence of moisture.

This sunroom has track lighting and ceiling fans for added appeal and convenience

This sunroom has track lighting and ceiling fans for added appeal and convenience

No matter what type of room addition you are thinking of, it is important to also consider the way the structure harmonizes with your existing home. Taking into consideration door swings, and traffic flow as you move from the addition into your existing homes interior is important to get the most enjoyment out of your room addition. Taking the functionality of your structure into view is also crucial, for example if you intend to use your structure as an extended room for dining and entertaining close proximity to your homes kitchen would be a necessity for utmost enjoyment. Imagine taking your morning coffee and danish on a sunroom alive with the first morning light, the whole experience can turn from mundane to moving just by your surroundings.

Michael Reeder, Archadeck of Columbus

Michael Reeder, Archadeck of Columbus

Archadeck of Columbus can plan, design and build the perfect room addition for your home. We make certain that our room additions are cohesive to your existing homes character and style down to even the smallest elements, matching carpet, ceilings , flooring and even paint to ensure your room addition will look original to your home. Contact us today to learn more (740) 879 – 3730
westcolumbus@archadeck.net

Visit our screened porches gallery for more images of  sunrooms and 3 and 4 season rooms visit our outdoor rooms gallery for design inspirations

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Archadeck of Columbus explores ways to enjoy your screen porch all year through

Leave a Comment Posted by on October 5, 2011
Archadeck of Columbus can convert your screened porch to a 3 or 4 season room

Archadeck of Columbus can convert your screened porch to a 3 or 4 season room

For many homeowners who have a screened porch they look at it as a structure that can only be used during the warmer months of the year and once the weather turns colder they can no longer spend time enjoying their screened structure. Many screened porches are treated much like a seasonal outdoor pool would be, opening in the spring only to close it down a few months later after the warmth of the sun has made its grand appearance and faded back behind the clouds of autumn. This doesn’t have to be the case. There are many ways to convert your screen porch into an outdoor living space that can be used beyond the end of summer and in some cases all year through. These conversions still take advantage of the whole reason you wanted a screen porch to begin with – the freedom and fresh air without the hassle of insects and the suns dangerous UV rays beaming down upon you and your family. These conversions won’t take away all the glory that is the screened porch, only enhance it and make it a livable addition to your home and backyard for extended season enjoyment.

A screen porch does have it’s limitations and in some cases only be used between five and six month out of the year. Screened porches can be converted into 3 and 4 season rooms that can be used for longer time periods throughout the year. If you are considering a new screened porch in your future and think you may want to convert the structure at some point, it is  good idea to convey this to your builder so that certain prerequisites for conversion can be met ahead of time, such as the use of standard window sizes to make conversion easier and less hassle in the future.

Here is a look  at some of the options available to screened porch owners who are thinking of a conversion:

The addition of windows turn this amazing screened porch by Archadeck of Columbus into a 3 season room

The addition of windows turn this amazing screened porch by Archadeck of Columbus into a 3 season room

The 3 season room

Converting a screened porch to a 3 season room can be as easy as adding windows. By adding windows you can take advantage of 3  or more months of enjoyment on your screened structure. All windows come with screens that can be used when that Indian summer arrives. Many homeowners use acrylic inserts that block out the weather and when the temperatures dive into a less comfortable zone you can easily add a space heater to add warmth on those days when the windows won’t block a sufficient amount of the chilliness to keep you comfortable while using your screen porch. Vinyl window inserts such as the Eze breeze porch enclosure system, are on a track system and can be opened and closed depending on the weather. Other manufacturers offer a double-paned insulated window that can also be removed in the spring when the weather turns warm. The advantage of having windows and screens is you can amend how your structure functions season to season, and even day to day  and customize how much of the outside you want to let inside. Artistic enclosures makes a wonderful swing and slide window wall that is perfect when considering a conversion to a 3 season room for your screened porch.

Sliding glass windows can turn your screen porch into a room for all seasons

Sliding glass windows can turn your screen porch into a room for all seasons

The 4 season room

The difference in a 3 season room and a 4 season room is the addition of insulation. These structures can be used throughout most of the year. Insulation is added to the kneewalls, ceiling and underneath the floors. On existing screened porches this requires enclosed walls be re-opened to add the insulation. Making the decision to convert to a 4 season room is based on how often you feel you would use the structure during the cooler months of the year. A 4 season room will still need to have a heating source, whether this heating source is a heat pump or a new MEHVAC  unit such as Mitsubishi’s ductless heating and cooling unit, which are engineered to efficiently heat or cool and individual space the functionality of the space throughout the year for you and your family is the deciding factor when thinking of converting to a 4 season room.

The addition of windows turn this amazing screened porch by Archadeck of Columbus into a 3 season room

The addition of windows turn this amazing screened porch by Archadeck of Columbus into a 3 season room

No matter how you choose to convert your screen porch, Archadeck of Columbus can help you with our years of experience in converting screen porches to better suit the colder months of our Ohio climate, that can sometimes be harsh. Archadeck of Columbus can meet with you to discuss which conversion would best suit your needs and your lifestyle. Contact us today at (740) 879 – 3730
westcolumbus@archadeck.net
To see more stunning 3 and 4 seasons rooms by Archadeck of Columbus visit our Columbus screen porch photo gallery.

Michael Reeder, Archadeck of Columbus

Michael Reeder, Archadeck of Columbus

3 and 4 season rooms, Mutil-level outdoor living structures Columbus, OH, Ohio, screen porch, Screen Porches, Screen Porches Columbus, Screen Porches Columbus Oh, Screen Room Columbus Ohio, Screen Rooms Columbus Oh, Screened Rooms, Screened Rooms Columbus, Screened Rooms Columbus Oh , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Archadeck of Columbus scores a triple-play on this screen porch, patio and deck combination

Leave a Comment Posted by on September 28, 2011
Columbus_OH_large_double_deck_over_screen_porch

This large double-deck sits directly over the gorgeous screen porch and patio.

It is not often that you have a combination of structures that work together effortlessly to create not just a grouping of spaces but an entire outdoor living area. These Columbus, OH homeowners definitely scored a triple play with this stunning second story double-deck, rustic screen porch and beautiful paver patio. Every inch of these structures are built with quality and style and they also create the feeling of one large, multi-functional outdoor structure despite the fact that they are actually three separate structures. These structures work together with harmony and fluidity as they flow effortlessly into one another, making it perfect for intimate get togethers and entertaining on a grand scale as well. Here is a video to experience to experience this entire outdoor living space.

Columbus_OH_large_paver_patio_with_screen_porch_and_deck

This photo shows how each of the structures by Archadeck of Columbus work together as one.

Archadeck of Columbus used composite, low-maintenance TimberTech XLM decking in Sandridge to cover the second story double-deck and accented it with black aluminum railings. On the lower level, a rustic screen porch welcomes you with its breathtaking and aromatic cedar walls and trim. The floor of the screen porch is finished with large concrete slab pavers that resemble tile to carry on the rustic theme, we also used Unilock pavers around the porch itself.  The screen porch spills out onto a beautifully designed patio . As always, Archadeck of Columbus paid close attention to every important detail of this outdoor oasis by making sure the roof between the deck and screened porch below is a dry roof to keep out moisture that could cause damage to the structures. For the final touch we added small flush mounted low voltage lighting for safety and ambiance.

Michael Reeder, Archadeck of Columbus

Michael Reeder, Archadeck of Columbus

If you are ready to turn your backyard into an extension of functional beauty and style, contact Archadeck of Columbus to learn how to create an outdoor oasis of your own. (740) 879 – 3730
westcolumbus@archadeck.net

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Screen porch flooring options and considerations in Columbus

Leave a Comment Posted by on September 21, 2011
Columbus_screen_porch_divider_rail_patio_and_firepit

This stunning screen porch uses a divider rail, which conveys from and function in the design.

Screened porches can be finished with as much panache and flair as any other living area. Just because the screened porch is considered an outdoor structure as opposed to an interior structure doesn’t mean you have to skimp on style. You have to take into consideration the livable space an outdoor room such as a screened porch can add to your home, as well as your lifestyle. Last week we published a piece on the choices in interior screen porch ceilings http://columbus-decks.com/2011/09/14/interior-designs-on-screen-porches-so-many-choices/ this week we are taking it down the wall and to the ground by turning the spotlight on screen porch interior floors, from finish options to styles and everything in-between.

Screened porch divider rail with floor of diagonal decking boards

This screen porch by Archadeck of Columbus shows the use of diagonal decking boards and a divider rail.

Interior flooring finish choices

      • Wood, Tile or Synthetic? Most of the time we put a decking material down like pressure-treated (PT) pine, cedar or synthetic flooring. Considerations that come into play when choosing your flooring material may include plans to use the area for perimeter seating or dining. Most often the flooring material that is chosen by the homeowner reflects what is used on the interior ceiling or on the posts. Wood is a favorite plus, since it is under the cover of a roof you don’t have to worry about damage caused by rain, or sun exposure, as you would if the wood was used in an “open” porch setting. Some customers like to use area rugs to define seating or dining areas. The use of rugs is purely a cosmetic element used for aesthetics to convey the intimacy, unity and warmth of the structure.
      • Synthetic or composite flooring may be overkill on your screen porch floors because the area is already protected from the elements. Synthetic and composites do offer a tongue and
            groove type of flooring, but these materials are more expensive when compared to other choices in flooring available.

        This Columbus, OH screened porch shows the use of a decorative divider rail and post patterns

        This Columbus, OH screened porch shows the use of a decorative divider rail and post patterns

  • Tile floors- Homeowners always ask about using tile floors inside their screened porch. Tile can be beautiful and we are more than happy to put in a tile floor. Keep in mind that tile expands and contracts with the weather and temperature, and over time the grout will undoubtedly crack . Pavers are a good choice for people seeking that “old world” stone look without using tile. Pavers can be installed with less risk of cracking because we use a sand bedding as opposed to grout for installation.
  • Keeping it real- When it comes to patterns, and which way to run your flooring it is a good idea to replicate the same pattern on your new screen porch that is used in the adjacent structures. Whether you use the same color or one that contrasts your existing structure, remember you want to make your porch look as though it was built when the house was constructed.
Columbus_screen_porch_wrapped_column_matching_kneewall_and_roof

This screen porch by Archadeck of Columbus uses wrapped columns and a matching kneewall.

Kneewall vs. rail vs. divider rail

  • Building codes- In most jurisdictions, any structure or floor that is 30″ above grade or more requires a barrier, which can be a rail or divider rail at 36″ tall. The view from your screened porch is important and at 36″  the rail will block your view somewhat when in a sitting position. Rails can either be mounted on the inside or outside of your screen porch. If kids and pets are part of your scenario then it is usually best to mount the rails on the inside.
  • Kneewalls- Kneewall height is commonly set at 24″, in order to be completely accurate check with your screen porch builder or your particular jurisdiction for the proper code requirements regarding approved height. Both the inside and the outside of the kneewall can be trimmed to match your house. Another plus to using kneewalls is that it allows space
    Columbus_screen_porch_wrapped_posts_beadboard_kneewall_tile_floor

    This Columbus, OH screened porch has wrapped posts as well as a beadboard or plybead kneewall and a tile floor.

    for electrical outlets. Putting outlets in a rail is much more difficult and is not attractive. Kneewalls can also be finished in plybead and with a wainscoating design to add style to the kneewall itself. Some homeowners take advantage of the kneewall in regards to it’s shelf effect and display small decorative items as well.

  • Divider rails- Divider rails allow for maximum visibility and also allows for an area to “break” the screen adding more strength.  This added strength is especially helpful for families with small children and pets to protect the screen from damage.
Knotty_pine_24_in_kneewall_Columbus_screen_porch_builde

This screened porch by Archadeck of Columbus shows the beautiful use of a 24" knotty pine kneewall.

Open posts vs. exposed posts

  • To wrap or not to wrap- Choosing to wrap your posts gives a beautiful finished effect. Posts can be wrapped in a wide variety of materials including PT which can be painted in a color of your choice vinyl, cedar, pine and other rustic woods to allow continuity of design within the structure itself. Leaving the post exposed can lend to a more rustic and natural effect as well. Beauty is in the eye of the beholder and your posts can be finished in the medium that best suits your individual tastes.
Screen_porch_Columbus_knotty_pine_kneewall(2)

Another view of this gorgeous screened porch with knotty pine kneewall.

Choosing the most appropriate interior flooring finish for your screened porch doesn’t have to be a daunting task.  By using an experienced porch builder your journey of watching your screened porch reach fruition can be a magical experience, alive with design elements and textures to tantalize your senses.

Michael Reeder, Archadeck of Columbus

Michael Reeder, Archadeck of Columbus

Contact Archadeck of Columbus to learn more about our screened porches and the many ways you can customize your structure to truly make it one of a kind. (740) 879 – 3730
westcolumbus@archadeck.net

To see more gorgeous images of screened porches, and the wide selection of mediums used to create an unforgettable space visit our screened porch gallery at http://columbus.archadeck.com/pickYourProject/ScreenedPorches.html

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Interior designs on screen porches-so many choices.

2 Comments Posted by on September 14, 2011
Rustic_exposed_rafter_screen_porch

This screened porch is big on rustic appeal by the choice of wood and the exposed rafter ceiling, even down to the details of the ceiling fans.

As with any element of design in custom building, when you talk about the number of the choices that are available, screened porches are no exception. Screened porches can be constructed with simplicity in mind as well as sophistication. One area to consider using as a design focal point when building your screened porch is the ceiling. The area in which an interior  ceiling covers is quite large, and is the perfect spot to add style and flair to your screened structure. There are a myriad of choices, styles, accoutrements, detailing  and materials that can be used to finish your interior ceiling. Each one can be used to convey a feeling and a mood within your screen porch. Here are some very popular ceiling design elements to show what function each one carries out in order to make finishing out your screened porch a little easier.

Ceiling elevation

  • Columbus_screen_porch_open_rafters

    By using open, exposed rafters and skylights this screened porch by Archadeck of Columbus offers incredible views.

    Cathedral and clerestory ceilings- When choosing the elevation for your interior ceiling keep in mind that magic  and the slight of hand is at work in some cases. For example, a room that has a higher elevated ceiling will appear and feel larger than it actually is. Cathedral ceilings give the room a sense of lightness and airiness. They also offer more room to use trim, moldings and architectural detailing.  With an ability to allow room for these details in a higher elevated ceiling, you also get the “architectural reveals”, which in essence are effects caused by shadowing lines that can be induced through extra architectural details and lighting. These architectural reveals  are used to add  depth and ambiance to a room.

  • Columbus_screen_porch_flat_enclosed_ceiling

    This screened porch by Archadeck of Columbus has enclosed rafters within the confines of a flat, finished ceiling.

    Flat ceilings- Flat ceilings are sometimes used to create intimacy inside a particular space, and can also be used to create a sense of unity or formality. Flat ceilings can be played-up by the use of hardwood finishes to achieve a rustic elegance. Gone are the days of the boring 8′ blown popcorn ceiling with no personality or pizzazz, now even a standard height ceiling of 8′ or 9′ feet and be finished to convey warmth and beauty within your screened porch.

Screen_porch_with_exposed_rafters

This is good example of exposed rafters used in a screened porch.

Rafters- to expose or enclose- that is the question

  • Exposed rafters- Exposed rafters are very popular among outdoor  structures such as screened porches. Exposing the rafters creates a rustic, earthy elegance to the structure.
  • Enclosed rafters- Enclosing the rafters is more expensive than leaving the rafters exposed. Enclosed rafters are still used to create formality to a structure. The decision to leave the rafter exposed or to enclose is a personal preference.
Columbus_screen_porch_builder

This screened porch by Archadeck of Columbus provides a rustic influence through the use of cedar tongue and groove

Material Choices

  • So many choices-  This is definitely an understatement. There are literally more material choices than you could ever imagine that are suitable for use in a screen porch. Some homeowners go with a more classic style, and others throw all caution to wind and really “think outside the box” in terms of using material choices as design elements. On the ceiling alone you have a wide array of materials to choose from like  the wonderfully aromatic cedar tongue and groove, which carries on the rustic feel many screened porch owners are looking for. Then you have pine tongue and groove, which is less expensive than the cedar, but has a similar effect that is very natural and “woodsy. Using hardwoods on the ceiling are reminiscent of a “mountain lodge” type feel. There is also beadboard, which can be left natural or painted in the hue of your choice. Many homeowners choose a white-painted beadboard ceiling for their screened porch. White beadboard is clean, crisp and charming.
Columbus_screen_porch_gable_ceiling_with_skylights

A gabled ceiling and skylights add to this screened porch's charm.

Material costs

  • As with any material, each has its own price point- Pine is less expensive than cedar, beadboard is very popular among use as a ceiling material for screened porches. Beadboard can be less expensive than both pine and cedar depending upon the type of beadboard and the radius needed for your particular structure.
Large_screen_porch_with_outdoor_fireplace_and_tongue_and_groove_ceiling_Columbus

This beauty by Archadeck of Columbus has a gorgeous tongue and groove ceiling.

Rafter Styles

  • When leaving the rafters exposed the size of the rafter itself will greatly impact the look of your space. Larger rafters with more girth and presence  reflect a masculine feel and also leave a bigger cavity within the ceiling itself.
  • Wrapped rafters - by wrapping the rafters in a material like pine you can deliver style continuity and provide that rustic feel everyone is gravitating towards in design. Wrapping the rafters does cost more because wrapping the rafters will use more material as well as more labor.
Cedar_screen_porch_Columbus_with_exposed_4x6_rafters

This screen porch is finished in cedar and uses exposed 4x6 rafters.

It’s all in the details

  • Architectural elements-  elements that can be used to add style and mood to your screened porch are important in a masterfully planned and built structure. Elements such as the ridge beam, which is the beam which runs the length of the ceiling, and in vaulted settings goes in-between the 2 opposite sides of the ceiling can become a focal point by using a large wooden beam. Ridge beams are also usually where the ceiling fan is most often mounted. Roof beams are the beams that run along the perimeter of the ceiling. Roof beams are sometimes trimmed out or wrapped to add some sizzle and style.
  • The little extras really count- Options that can be added to your screened porch ceiling include skylights, ceiling fans, lights and multimedia devices such as speakers. We install a large amount of skylights for our clients and we use Velux. Velux skylights come with multiple options including built-in blinds that will open and close at the touch of a button,  automatic sensors to close if the skylight is open and it detects the presence of one raindrop and much more. The little extras you pour into your individual structures ceiling can be as simple or as luxurious as you wish.
Michael Reeder, Archadeck of Columbus

Michael Reeder, Archadeck of Columbus

With all screened porches you want to make sure you are using an experienced, licensed builder who has the knowledge and the design expertise to provide you with a screened porch that has your individuality built from the floor to the ceiling. Archadeck of Columbus has years of experience in perfecting the screened porch, and other outdoor structures, to learn more contact us at (740) 879 – 3730 westcolumbus@archadeck.net.

To see more Columbus screen porches, visit our screen porch photo gallery on our website.

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