Archadeck of Columbus takes you on a trip through the many beautiful colors to build your new TimberTech deck from.
With all the new composites that are on the scene, each manufacturer has their own color palette to choose from. In our experience working with many different synthetic decking brands, among the most beautiful composite undoubtedly has to be TimberTech. The TimberTech line offers superior scratch, stain and fade resistance, this means the lovely color your deck starts out with is the color it will keep. Much of Timbertech’s decking also rivals the look of real wood with graining and undulation so close to the real thing you have to walk right up on it to tell it is indeed synthetic. Since TimberTech offers a wide array of beautiful colors to choose from to build your new deck, we only thought it fitting to take a closer look at some of their most popular hues.
1) This stunning first and second story deck in Powell, OH was completed with TimberTech XLM in Harvest Bronze, with a coordinating TimberTech Radiance rail. The space also features built-in bench seating and planters for a seamless space that becomes one with the lush landscape surrounding the area.
2) A golf course plays as the backdrop to the unique deck in the Muirfield community of Dublin, OH which is shown below. We used TimberTech Earthwood Evolutions decking in Teak with a Walnut border and streamlined cable rail. A true masterpiece.
3) This deck also features TimberTech’s Earthwood Evolutions in Teak with a Walnut trim and parting board. Notice how closely this deck mimics the look of real wood with shading and graining throughout.
4) An aerial view of this gorgeous TimberTech Earthwood Evolutions deck lends a bird’s-eye view of the colors and patterning. We paired Walnut alongside black aluminum railings for a beautiful contrast.
5) The low-to-grade deck in Columbus, OH shown below showcases the beauty of TimberTech’s XLM decking in Sandridge with Mountain Cedar trim.
6) This multi-level deck flows graciously with the lines and colors of this existing home. We used a winning combination of TimberTech Earthwood in Walnut with a stained cedar rail alongside black aluminum pickets.
7) This outdoor living combination in Columbus, OH includes a TimberTech XLM deck in Walnut Grove with a low maintenance white vinyl rail. The deck spills onto a charming hardscape patio area below.
8) This Columbus low-to-grade deck includes multi-levels and a gazebo which houses a hot tub for enhanced enjoyment. The deck is constructed from TimberTech Twin Finish decking in Gray.
9) Another low-to-grade beauty in Columbus, OH finished with TimberTech XLM. This palette is breathtaking in Rustic Bark with a black Radiance rail.
10) This deck has a stunning curved design and was completed using TimberTech Twin Finish in Cedar with an ornamental rail.
Michael Reeder, Archadeck of Columbus
If you are looking for a quality low-maintenance deck that comes in a myriad of beautiful tones. A TimberTech by Archadeck of Columbus may be just what you are looking for. Contact us today to learn more about TimberTech decks and our many other outdoor structure designs. We can help make your outdoor living dreams a reality. Call for a free consultation at (740) 879 – 3730 westcolumbus@archadeck.net
To see more examples of the beauty of TimberTech decks, you can visit our composite and PVC deck gallery located on our website.
Archadeck of Columbus explores the world of synthetic decking products, from the original composite to the newer capstock decking.
Synthetics are for more than just decks. This screened porch in Upper Arlington was built using a gorgeous TimberTech floor.
The term composite is used to describe a broad spectrum of low maintenance materials. Because of the new introductions to the market, there are other low maintenance products that are actually not composite materials. Many people are familiar with composites or the idea of composites and that has become the Coca-Cola of the low maintenance materials. Because of the new and improved low maintenance materials, we now call this category synthetic decking and composites are just one of the materials in this synthetic category.
This TimberTech deck and outdoor fireplace by Archadeck of Columbus is the perfect spot for entertaining this spring.
Composites are a mix of materials including wood fiber and plastic. Product lines such as the TimberTech Twin Finish, and Trex Accents are good examples of traditional wood/plastic composites. Traditional composite has now become the value oriented decking board because of the new products that have joined the category. Wood particles are still part of the makeup of the product which makes it porous. If you spill coffee, wine, or grease on the deck you will want to clean it up quickly just as you would inside your home. Other environmental factors such as bird droppings can lead to staining if now cleaned properly. We expect that in the next 5-6 years these composite products will fall by the wayside, they will still remain available but will probably not experience any dramatic growth in the popularity of these products with the other newcomers that are making their way into the spotlight.
This deck was built with AZEK in brownstone from their harvest color collection.
Pure PVC products came onto the scene about 5-6 years ago. Lines such as AZEK, and TimberTech’s XLM, and Fiberon are great examples of pure PVC decking materials. They consist of PVC foam and a hard PVC cap that is non-porous. They are non-porous and accordingly will not stain permanently however when they become soiled, they will need to be cleaned with soap and water. Just because it’s low maintenance doesn’t mean it’s self cleaning. PVC comes in a host of colors and new color introductions are made onto the market almost every year, so the selection is vast. You can get solid colors such as the TimberTech Natural Collection, or the TimberTech Tropical collection which has more streaking to replicate the look of real tropical hardwoods. These PVC products are oil-based so the natural colors are the least expensive, and the tropical collection forges into the higher end of the synthetic cost spectrum.
TimberTech earthwood evolutions new colors 2012
The newest synthetic product came onto the scene 2-3 years ago. This is called capstock. Capstock is a third generation synthetic which is also referred to as capped PVC. This product contains a composite core which has been capped, or wrapped in PVC. TimberTech Evolutions and Trex Escapes are good examples of capstock. In the Columbus market, Fiberon is the most costly because it is not stocked locally. The TimberTech capstocks are popular in this area because they are good products and the close proximity to their national office makes them easily obtainable. TimberTech now has a capstock line called Evolutions that has a realistic look of tropical hardwoods with streaking, and color variations that mimic the real thing. TimberTech also offers a line of natural color capstock as well. The beauty of capstock is the performance and the price point. Capstock is less expensive than pure PVC and performs beautifully.
Michael Reeder, Archadeck of Columbus
No matter which synthetic is right for your deck and your budget, Archadeck of Columbus can answer any questions you have about any of the decking products we offer. We also build wood decks as well. Whatever your function or fancy, we can build it. Learn more about all our wonderful deck designs by contacting us today. Call for a free consultation: (740) 879 – 3730 westcolumbus@archadeck.net
See more great examples of synthetic decks by visiting our composite and PVC deck photo gallery located on our website.
Archadeck of Columbus recently took a world-class tour of the TimberTech plant in Ohio. The experience left us in awe of the whole process and stringent standards TimberTech uses to create magical materials for your perfect outdoor oasis.
View from outside the TimberTech factory
Do you remember how excited Charlie from “Charlie and the Chocolate Factory” was when he got inside the chocolate factory and got see where and how Willy Wonka made all that scrumptious candy? Well, that is a little how I and members of the Archadeck of team, Dennis Schaeffer and Rob Mitchell felt when we recently had the opportunity to take a plant tour of the TimberTech plant in Wilmington OH (Columbus) this past week.
We were invited to participate in the TimberTech plant tour along with other contractors and dealers from all over Ohio. The event was called “Dare to Compare”. On our walk-through we were able to see the product being made on extruders. We were also given the opportunity to review the company’s marketing and social media and what they do to help their contractors. We spent time reviewing a number of new products and discussing the benefits these new products will have for our customers. The plant here in the Columbus area makes all synthetic decking and rails. We were also able to visit the main plant in Wilmington, OH where they make the remainder of TimberTech products. In essence we got a dual tour of the TimberTech facilities during this visit.This particular facility has the capacity to send out 50 semi-trucks of their product daily, and their warehouse stores 500 semi-trucks full of product at a time. The massive size was awe inspiring.
Archadeck of Columbus built this stunning TimberTech deck in Dublin, OH. The Muirfield golf course serves as the backdrop.
I was fortunate enough to take a tour in 2006 when Archadeck of Columbus and TimberTech initially established a relationship. The main point that sticks out in my mind from then until now is their expansion into other products. When I visited in 2006 it involved just wood and plastic composite. The trend we are seeing now is the growth of the PVC products and also the growth of polypropylene and polyethylene products as well.
Watching the magic happen in real-time is really amazing. The extrusion of the material appears similar to “Play-doh” in composition, this material is put through a mold which gets pressed and becomes a shape. When mixing the wood pulp with the plastic there are numerous tests the product goes through, such as those similar to a stress test. TimberTech uses Maple in their wood pulp because it doesn’t absorb a lot of mold and mildew spores. They get the maple through recycling practices by using recycled wood cabinetry and furniture. They even re-use the waste off their own decking boards after they emboss a decking board and as it grinds out the top of the board, the remainder is then re-used.
They also conducted competitive comparisons on their product such as UV tests, humidity tests, mold and mildew tests, and scratch tests. TimberTech conducts these tests on their product and those of the competition, so we got to see a great deal of different manufactured products tested during the tour. A finished decking board takes an astounding 48 hours to cool completely after it’s production.
Our team walked away impressed with the entire process. Our biggest impressions were the extent of the efforts taken to ensure the product uses Green technology and how much TimberTech is actively involved with that. They have reduced their total waste by 95%, on what they used to send to the dump. TimberTech’s care and quality checks are also very impressive. As we watched the quality tests throughout the day, no stone is left unturned, from testing every hour for quality and the product’s tolerance level.
We would like to sincerely thank TimberTech for giving us this wonderful opportunity to experience this up close and personal. This only solidifies how proud we are to have them as a partner and how strong their presence is in the market.
Archadeck of Columbus delivers the forecast in what is hot in outdoor living trends for this Spring. Deck and patio combinations, as well as porch and patio combinations seem to be at the top of the list.
This photo shows how each of the structures,the custom deck, screened porch and patio by Archadeck of Columbus work together as one.
We are really excited about the outdoor living season this year. We recently took part in two fantastic home shows in the area and got tons of ideas on the outdoor living trends for this Spring. While at the show we had a great deal of interest in not only decks, but also adding a patio to your deck. The trend we see is that Columbus area homeowners are requesting the addition of a patio to go with their new AND existing decks and porches. It stands to reason that even when it comes to outdoor living structures the hot new idea is to double the fun.
The great part about adding a hardscape, such as a patio, to your deck or porch is that it is the perfect add-on to give you those multiple outdoor living areas that you really want. A patio can be added with a new, or existing, deck or porch at anytime. Adding a patio to your deck is a great way to spice it up and put that spark back into your outdoor entertaining as well enhance the beauty in your backyard.
Wouldn’t it be great to have your deck serve as your outdoor cooking or gathering location and have a beautiful patio adjacent to use for dining and conversation? Or even a deck that leads into a covered hardscape patio with a fully functional outdoor kitchen? The entertaining opportunities that open up to you when you think about a dual structure such as a deck and patio combination are endless. Having multiple living areas within your outdoor design can offer more room and expand the functionality of your design. We can design a project for you that will turn your backyard until the ultimate backyard oasis.
Synthetic Deck with Hot Tub and Paver Patio
Archadeck of Columbus also offers “phased building”. This means we can plan upgrades or additions to your current project to accommodate for later additions or enhancements. For instance, if you really want a deck for this season, but foresee the future facilitating a patio and deck combination, we can make all the necessary adjustments in advance so when your budget allows you to add the patio a little later the structural necessities needed to make the transition run smoothly are already put into place.
Contact Archadeck of Columbus to learn more about our deck/patio and porch/patio combinations, and to learn more about our phased building program. We are now scheduling projects for the Spring season to have the backyard of your dreams in time for warmer weather, don’t delay. (740) 879 – 3730 westcolumbus@archadeck.net
Archadeck of Columbus is ringing in 2012 with the addition of a trio of TimberTech heavyweights. Radiance Rail Express and two new color collections for the Earthwoods Evolution line of composite decking. Welcome the Tropical collection and the Natural collection, both packed with quality, longevity, durability and beauty.
Here you can see the exotic beauty and realistic details of the new Pacific Walnut color selection from the TimberTech tropical collection
The world of composite/synthetic decking just got a little more interesting. Not so long ago you may remember the minimal choices in colors and textures that were available to homeowners who chose to use composite/synthetic decking. This is no longer the case. Composite decking now comes in a wide array of colors and finishes. The realistic look of synthetics make even a seasoned expert have to walk a little closer and lean in a little further to tell the difference between composites and wood. TimberTech synthetic decking is a frontrunner in the composite industry and has introduced some stunning new additions to its palette in the Earthwood Evolutions line for this year.
TimberTech introduced the “Tropical collection” which includes Pacific Teak, Pacific Walnut and Pacific Rosewood in 2011. What makes this collection a real showstopper is the realistic graining, streaking and undulation that mimics real wood so beautifully. This collection takes all the positive attributes of exotic hardwood decking and makes it a decking material that will truly endure the tests of time and mother nature.
TimberTech Earthwood Evolutions new colors 2012
New in 2012 is the debut of TimberTech’s “Natural collection”. This collection is made with same top quality ingredients that go into the TimberTech winning recipe but offers a more even toned, non-streaked composite. The new color introductions include Brick, Brownstone and Slate. The absence of streaking makes the Natural collection a little easier on the wallet than the choices in the Tropical collection, but with the same quality, value and beauty that TimberTech is known for.
Both the Natural and Tropical collections are part of the Earthwood Evolutions line from TimberTech. The resiliency and durability of this line of decking is among the best in the business. The construction includes a wrapped PVC composite board made with a proprietary composite core. This evolutionary approach boasts a product with superior scratch, stain and fade resistance backed by a 25-year fade and stain warranty. Just a little soap and water cleanup will keep your deck looking like new year after year.
Radiance Rail Express gives homeowners an upscale, clean railing system at a lower cost than traditional Radiance Rail
Archadeck of Columbus is proud to offer our customers the new arrivals to this exquisite TimberTech line of products. To add to our arsenal of aesthetically pleasing and durable composite products we also offer the newest addition to the Radiance Rail collection to compliment your TimberTech deck perfectly. Radiance Rail Express was introduced in mid-2011 in white. New colors to the line include Walnut and black. Radiance Rail Express is less expensive than the original Radiance Rail, PVC, vinyl or composite rails that have a PVC cap. Even though synthetic rails are still more expensive than wooden railings, the benefits outweigh the costs in the long run. The Radiance Rail Express has a routed baluster receiver for clean and easy installation and also comes backed by a limited 25-year warranty on residential applications. With a wide array of shapes and colors to choose from, Radiance Rail offers you a high quality clean finished railing system that coordinates perfectly with all TimberTech decking colors. This rail offers you an upscale, finished look that is durable and will outlast and outshine wood each and every year.
Michael Reeder, Archadeck of Columbus
To learn more about composite decking, including the new introductions from TimberTech, contact Archadeck of Columbus. We can design and construct the deck of your dreams that will endure the test of time. Call us at (740) 879 – 3730 or send us an email at westcolumbus@archadeck.net
Archadeck of Columbus urges homeowners to schedule their outdoor structure endeavor now to ensure a spring ready completion.
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
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!
Archadeck of Columbus explains when is the most opportune time to build your new deck and why.
Imagine this beauty ready and waiting for you to enjoy with the first blooms of spring, after overwintering has seasoned it perfection
Many of our Columbus homeowners ask me when is the best time to build a new deck? Many of you may think that the best time to build a deck is the spring, but the truth is, the best time to consider building a new deck may be in the winter. The best way to explain the reasoning behind a winter deck construction is what i would refer to as the “give and take” of the project. Give and take refers to the use of pressure treated wood during the winter months. The give refers to the woods expansion, and the take refers to the woods contraction that is caused by the effects of varying outdoor temperatures on the wood itself.
Double low to grade deck in Columbus OH with fire pit
The first thing you have to remember when considering building any type of deck or other outdoor structure, whether the decking boards you choose are composite, PVC, vinyl, IPE or hardwoods the foundation of your structure will be constructed using pressure treated pine or another pressure treated wood. Wood curing is important to understand in relation to the wood’s natural tendency to “give and take”, and curing which occurs over the winter months offers many important benefits.
Pressure treated wood has a 50% moisture content when you initially build. This fresh lumber is sometimes referred to among builders as “green”. The winter has less humidity and thus the pressure treated wood will stabilize itself and dry more consistently and evenly when you build in the winter. On the other end of the spectrum a summer deck construction exposes the pressure treated wood to higher humidity conditions. In addition, when drying in the hot sun, pressure treated wood will undergo expansion and contraction which can cause cracking, warping and other damage to the wood itself. Due to the orientation of the sun during the winter months, the sun doesn’t beat down on your deck, and the pressure treated wood that holds the key to your project’s structural integrity will not undergo these negative effects.
TimberTech composite deck and screen porch by Archadeck of Columbus
Another benefit of building in winter is you will also experience less wait time and backlogs which are typical in spring and summer projects. Our typical waiting list is 8 weeks in the height of the season, during the winter you are likely going to cut that wait time in half. A winter project also causes less lifestyle interruption because homeowners typically spend less time outdoors and less time participating in outdoor activities during the colder months of the year. You will also experience less deterioration of the ground, and less turf damage during the winter months because of the dormancy period that Columbus landscapes experience through the cooler months.
Columbus deck built with treated pineMichael Reeder, Archadeck of Columbus
Keep in mind that Archadeck of Columbus can also build your outdoor structure combination in stages. Winter is the perfect time to start the first stage of your desired outdoor living project. If you are considering a deck and patio combination for example, you can take advantage of our staged building option and build the deck this winter and then we can add the patio later into the spring. With Archadeck of Columbus’ staged building the choice is yours. Contact us today to learn more, call us at (740) 879 – 3730 or email us at westcolumbus@archadeck.net
This composite deck in Washington Courthouse, OH is so much more than a deck. It is an outdoor oasis that is so functional and breathtaking in it’s design it has gained media attention and won numerous awards. Archadeck of Columbus was able to weave a cohesive design using the highest quality materials and expert craftsmanship that indulges the senses with a deck that incorporates a hot tub deck flanked by a pergola and privacy wall, an outdoor fireplace, grilling area, custom planters and retaining walls, and every expert detail you could imagine.
This composite deck by Archadeck of Columbus is a virtual fantasy of relaxation and elegance.
If you were to imagine the backyard of your dreams, what would it look like and what functions would it address for you and your family? Imagine being able to soak in the hot tub on your custom hot tub deck on a cool autumn evening while listening to the crackling of a fire burning in your own outdoor fireplace. This outdoor structure takes advantage of mingling two of nature’s most mesmerizing elements – fire and water.
Archadeck of Columbus has created a masterpiece of design with this multi-level deck complete with an outdoor fireplace for the ultimate in backyard enjoyment.
This outdoor living area flows effortlessly in a carefully planned series of functional vignettes that make the structure a joy to use for these Washington Courthouse, OH homeowners, and indeed a feast for the eyes as well.
When we began to plan and design the structure we were given a blank canvas to work our magic on because the home was brand new. The landscaper had completed the landscape design and brought us into enhance the home and landscape for the homeowners with an outdoor structure design that would bring out the best of every attribute of the stunning home and the landscape. The homeowners were looking for a design that would be great for entertaining on a grand scale with plenty of room for a crowd as well as the capability to play on the structures ability to create intimacy in a way that would be comfortable for a smaller crowd. Another crucial design element the homeowners wanted is a planting area incorporated into the deck.
Here is an awe-inspiring view of the entire structure from the backyard of the Washington Courthouse, OH home.
In order to achieve complete harmony in relation to the home the color selections played a huge role and tied everything together. We matched the brick used on the outdoor fireplace to the brick on the home. We also chose a color for the large composite deck that would blend beautifully with the stonework and columns and pillars that were used to create this magnificent outdoor structure. We even matched the lanterns that are used throughout the structure atop the caps on the retaining walls to continue the neutral, rustic feel that is present throughout the design of the entire structure.
This image shows the beautiful colors and the realistic wood grain of the composite decking used on this fabulous deck.
We chose to use composite decking material on the deck. Composites are ultra low maintenance and don’t require staining or sealing. Composites are also scratch and stain resistant, and many are impervious to insects, mold and mildew as well. They are also long-lasting and cannot be damaged by the moisture which is present when you use the hot tub. With this particular deck, using composites gave us the freedom to install the decking boards on a beautifully interesting angle which only adds to the appeal of the deck.
Notice how the design and placement of the hot tub deck, pergola and privacy wall offers shade and intimacy for the homeowners when the hot tub is in use.
The pergola which is placed above the hot tub to add character and offer some shade in deflecting the suns rays is made from vinyl by Mt. Hope Fence, Ltd. The privacy wall which matches the pergola, is also constructed of vinyl as well. Vinyl is a durable material which offers many of the same attributes of composite decking in that it is durable, maintenance free and won’t succumb to rot, insect damage and decay like wood can. The choice to use vinyl alongside the composites means this deck and the details used within the deck will give these Washington Courthouse, OH homeowners many years of carefree enjoyment without the worry of painting or staining in the future.
Careful attention was paid to every detail from the columns to the paver border used on this entrance into the home from the deck.
The stone surround and retaining walls were constructed using Celtic retaining walls by Belgard. The retaining walls gives strong concrete elements and uses the aspects of old stone to create an elegant old world appeal. By using this high quality innovative retaining wall system by Belgard, Archadeck of Columbus was able to facilitate the creation of curves within the retaining walls surrounding the deck that would not have been possible by using natural stone or other materials.
Archadeck of Columbus paid close attention to every detail within the composite deck and accompanying structures. From the color choices made to paint the columns and pillars that help frame the beauty of the deck’s entrances into the home, to the use of custom paver borders used to outline and enhance the grill area. No stone was left unturned in terms of the use of cohesive design within this structure. The pairing of stone, composites, vinyl, and detailing truly creates a match made in heaven for this home in Washington Courthouse, OH.
The perfect place for a backyard barbecue.
We were able to create a masterpiece of beauty, design, functionality and enjoyment with this outdoor structure. The homeowners continue to enjoy their new deck and all it’s amenities more and more each day. This is truly the outdoor oasis of their dreams, and they get to live the reality each day, and for many years to come as well.
If you have a dream of creating an outdoor oasis within your backyard, contact Archadeck of Columbus to turn that dream into a reality. Call us at (740) 879 – 3730 or email us at westcolumbus@archadeck.net to learn more.
Archadeck of Columbus takes the plunge into tranquil spa and hot tub decks that will soothe your aching muscles and your soul with design inspirations that are as beautiful as they are functional.
This spa deck in Columbus, OH by Archadeck of Columbus has everything a deck could possibly offer.
More and more homeowners are choosing to invest in making their backyard into a place of refuge rather than splurging on exotic vacations and trips abroad in pursuit of the ultimate place to relax and rewind. Hot tubs and spas are a popular choice among homeowners seeking to create a tranquil setting to escape to while staying in the comfort of their own back yards. What could be more perfect on a brisk autumn evening than soaking in the hot tub with a glass of Merlot? The steam wafting in the cool air around you and the sounds of the season captured by the sound of crisp leaves blowing in the breeze. This scene is set and played out with your very own hot tub integrated as the focal point to your custom spa deck.
With the dawn of the personal hot tub or spa comes the custom spa deck to compliment the structure and add valuable outdoor living space as well. A customized spa deck is perfect for entertaining, dining, grilling and cooking and any other activity you and your family enjoy doing outdoors. Keep in mind the need for easy accessibility from your home because you want to plan on using your spa during the fall and winter months for the utmost in warmth, ambiance and relaxation. Here is a stunning panorama of spa and hot tub decks that will give you some ideas and inspiration in your own backyard.
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This deck extension by Archadeck of Columbus even has a retractable awning for the ultimate in comfort.
Here are some considerations when designing and building your spa or hot tube deck. A spa or hot tub deck is not just a deck with a hot tub placed in it or on it. There are certain areas within the structural criteria of a hot tub deck that must be met in order to accommodate the added weight for safety and to preserve the structural integrity of the deck as a whole. Many homeowners don’t take into consideration the full magnitude of the weight a hot tub or spa , once filled with water will add to the deck. This is why it is crucial to make sure your deck has the appropriate structural supports to accommodate the added weight of a hot tub or spa. When considering adding a hot tub or spa to your existing deck it is important to implement this support system as well. Utilizing the expertise and experience of a professional licensed deck builder to design and construct your deck is the best route to take when thinking of adding a hot tub or spa to the structure. In many cases a spa can add an additional weight of up to 2,000 pounds when filled with water and your deck will need to be sturdy enough to carry this weight without any stress. This sturdiness can be achieved by constructing a spa support deck, with either a concrete pad of wood platform.
Another consideration is having accessibility to the mechanics of the hot tub or spa. If the hot tub is located on top of the deck, access is simple, but with a partially or fully recessed hot tub you may need a trap door or have an access area built around it on 3 sides so as to have access to the control panel. Trap doors such as these are quite easy and can be designed to be hidden from view.
The curvilinear design of this hot tub deck wraps you in beauty and comfort.
Aside from the structural diversity that is required when building your spa deck, there are many design options available when deciding how to finish out your spa deck. Above all, location of the hot tub itself is an important decision. Archadeck of Columbus likes to think outside the box in terms of locations for your spa or hot tub. Many times homeowners make the mistake of placing the hot tub in the center of the deck. This can be a major design flaw which will affect the flow and use of your deck. The first rule of thumb is to never place the hot tub in front of a window. This will become a regrettable decision because it will restrict your view and soon become an eyesore. From experience we have found that most popular with homeowners is partially recessing the hot tub within the deck. Hot tubs are most typically 3 feet high and many times homeowners decide to mount the hot tub flush with the deck so you actually “step into” the hot tub. We also see a great many top mountings as well. The only dangers we see if when the hot tub is partially recessed it can present a challenge when exiting and entering the hot tub, and a tripping hazard in some cases as well. For example, consider placing the hot tub within a curvilinear corner, or incorporate the spa to be surrounded by bench seating that will make the perfect place to sit down and take off your shoes to dip your fit in the warm bubbling water. If entering and exiting the hot tub seems as though it may present a problem, steps can easily be incorporated into the design to make gaining entry to the hot tub easy and safe. Keep space in mind as well when considering how your hot tub or spa will integrate into your decks design. If you choose a hot tub with a cover that has an arm, for instance, you will need ample space to back it up comfortably.
When your hot tub is in use privacy as well as shading can be important. Many homeowners choose to build privacy walls adjacent to the hot tub, this offers shade from the sun and also keeps prying eyes away. Pergolas look great when paired with hot tubs and spa features as well and can also provide ample shade and privacy.
Selecting the right material for your hot tub or spa deck is also important, after all you don’t want to get splinters in those bare feet. There are many quality composite and PVC decking materials, as well as natural woods on the market that are designed specifically for areas around water. There are many brands that offer slip-resistance and that also keep heat build-up to a minimum so they are easy on your bare feet. TimberTech , AZEK and many others have lines specified for use on pool and spa decks, and some are even formulated for use on docks such as TimberTech’s Docksider decking.
Michael Reeder, Archadeck of Columbus
Now is the perfect time to consider taking the plunge into a spa or hot tub deck of your own. The chill of Autumn creates a stunning backdrop for the soothing waters of a spa or hot tub. Archadeck of Columbus can design and build a hot tub or spa deck that will compliment your home and your lifestyle. We can even incorporate other outdoor living structures such as an outdoor fireplace or firepit into your decks design that will enable you to enjoy two of natures most mesmerizing and powerful elements in unison. To learn more about the magic you can create in your own backyard with a hot tub or spa deck contact us today (740) 879 – 3730
westcolumbus@archadeck.net
Archadeck of Columbus is able to create three seperate outdoor structures that work as one. This double deck, patio and screen porch have the harmony and fluidity that many single structures lack, covering all the bases of style, design, quality workmanship and function with this winning triple-play.
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.
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
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
Columbus Decks, Porches and Patios by Archadeck of Columbus 