Re-decking – Columbus Decks, Porches and Patios by Archadeck of Columbus

Top-shelf outdoor living makeover in Gahanna, OH, draws oohs and aahs

With a house of this size, its beautiful landscaping and manicured back yard that goes on forever, the word that comes to mind is estate. The home’s original outdoor living structure was an attention-grabber in its day, and we can be certain the family has spent many enjoyable hours on this deck. However, styles have changed; the natural cedar deck and stairs showed extensive wear and the deck was in serious need of some shade!

Enter Archadeck of Columbus to put things right again. Our mission was to restore the deck, staircase and landing to their former glory — only better — and add a grand pergola for shade. What do we mean by better?

First, better for these homeowners means their deck has now been rebuilt with TimberTech Legacy composite decking. This is an excellent choice for the low-maintenance outdoor living lifestyle. The new deck will not need to be sanded, stained or re-sealed; nor will it show the signs of wear you see over the years with natural wood. The TimberTech color the homeowners selected for their deck is called tigerwood.

We’ll let you in on a little secret. We did not have to rebuild this deck from scratch. The original support structure was in very good condition, still structurally sound and capable of supporting the new deck. That’s especially important because composite decking is heavier than wood. So what Archadeck of Columbus actually did here is called redecking. We removed the deck’s original surface and railing system and replaced the cedar boards with composite boards from TimberTech.

Next, better means an updated railing system. The original railings were quite sturdy but, compared to today’s railings, they looked clunky — especially the way they were bolted to the outside edge of the deck. Compare that to the new vinyl railing system. It’s just as protective but elegant and much less obtrusive. The light tan railings provide a subtle contrast to the tigerwood color of the decking boards.

Because the deck extends all the way across the back of the house, literally from one end to the other, you’re going to see a lot of railing. All the more reason to select an elegant railing system. A single design change here creates a huge visual impact.

Following the railing down the sweeping staircase, you may notice that the new stairs include risers, the vertical boards that connect each step to the one above it. The addition of risers is a design technique that seems simple but creates a polished look.

Finally, better means the family now has a shaded area for dining on the deck. We designed and installed a tan vinyl pergola to match the deck’s new railing system. The pergola is large enough to shade the biggest section of the deck, which contains the dining table.

Altogether the redecking project enhances the entire back side of the house. As you can see, the deck, pergola, stairs and landing make up a portion of the home’s entire outdoor living space. There’s also a grill and another seating area under the deck, a patio featuring a fire pit, a handsome retaining wall and a large swimming pool. Archadeck of Columbus is proud of the way the new deck helps transform this home from stunning to amazing.

Your Archadeck of Columbus design consultant is ready to help you explore options for updating and transforming your outdoor living space — or creating a new one from scratch. Contact us today at (740) 879 – 3730 or email us at westcolumbus@archadeck.net.

This Columbus re-deck evokes exudes Asian Zen inspiration, craftsmanship and artistry

Americans often attribute characteristics of symmetry, balance, and peace with Asian-inspired art and architecture. The philosophical and design concept of feng shui emphasizes the need to have harmony between people and their environment.

This second story deck is part new construction and part refurbishment. The existing deck was in disrepair and we resurfaced it with Timbertech Earthwood Evolutions Legacy in pecan color. Then we extended it further out into the yard in a half-moon shape. The extra six feet of Columbus rounded deck is supported by columns and a beam and fits beautifully into the existing landscape. We trimmed the new columns to match the existing ones. Creating a round or curved deck with composite materials like Timbertech takes some expertise. You need to first carefully heat the boards before you are able to install them in your desired shape as

Even the wet conditions in which we took these project photos can’t hide the beauty and harmony of the picture frame decking done in TimberTech walnut and pecan. The separation of the halves within the rounded whole evoke the Yin/Yang symbol. The hidden lock fasteners used to secure the decking ensure that your eye sees only uninterrupted lines. It will doubtless be even more stunning come spring when the garden and trees are in bloom.

Every detail of this project was done with an eye toward beauty and utility. We remanufactured the gate to mimic the original that the owners loved. It limits access to the lower stairway for the safety of children and pets. You can barely see the dimmable post lights during the day, but in the evenings they provide plenty of light for either entertaining or relaxation. Black Pegatha aluminum rails were installed in short angles to blend with the deck curve.

The icing on the cake of this project was some touch-up detailing we did on the area under the pergola and the landing of the stairway. The spruced up pergola has a rubber roof to provide protection from sun and rain. The landing got a bump-out extension for a grill. The flow from home to deck to landing to yard flows like a river to the sea–it’s gorgeous.

Contact Archadeck of Columbus today to see how we can make creating your dream backyard an enjoyable experience, start to finish. The consultation is completely free. (740) 879 – 3730 or email us at westcolumbus@archadeck.net. We look forward to your call.

Archadeck of Columbus ponders the considerations of re-decking your existing wood deck in synthetic

Archadeck of Columbus discusses the benefits of choosing to re-deck your existing wood deck with synthetic decking.

After -Redecking in TimberTech Earthwood by Archadeck of Columbus — We removed the decking and railings on this deck in Powell, OH and resurfaced the existing structure using TimberTech composite decking- stunning!

Being in the business of outdoor structures, Archadeck of Columbus has seen our fair share of maintenance nightmares with pressure treated wood. If you are considering the addition or a new deck, or it has come time to re-deck your existing deck, there are some things you need to know before you make the final material decision. With a growing trend towards longevity and low-maintenance, synthetic decks deliver on both. Out of the approximately 80 synthetic deck projects we do in a year, about 30 of those are re-decks, and the majority of these are re-decking from pressure treated to synthetic.

This is the before image of the same deck pictured above. The original deck was built using cedar.

Keep in mind that all outdoor structures are built with pressure treated pine framing. This is used so the structure does not rot over time, and also so no termites will eat it. There are other natural woods that can be used for framing purposes, such as cedar, but they cost significantly more and deliver the same results as using pressure-treated. Most of the time, when we are inspecting an existing deck as part of the planning process for a re-decking project, the framing members are usually still in great shape. This allows us to re-deck the surface, re-skin and put the new synthetic down. 95% of the cases where we have an existing wood structure, we are able to use the structure for the re-decking. There are times when Archadeck of Columbus may need to add additional framing, replace insufficient framing, or repair the framing before we can proceed. In these cases, it is most often because the framing was not completed correctly when the deck was originally built and it involves getting the deck up to our quality standards before we will proceed.

Before- this old Cedar Deck which was beginning to show some structural deterioration. Note the stairs in particular. They are not level as evidenced by the railings.

How many of you have seen a wood deck that looks really bad? If you have, then you probably remember the wood on the deck floor may have started to crack and deteriorate. Maybe the nails used to install the deck were popping and protruding from the flooring boards even though the railings were in half decent shape in comparison to the floor. The reason for this is a natural phenomenon that horizontal surfaces tend to get beat up, and suffer from less wear and tear over time than vertical surfaces. On the majority of our re-decks we install new railing, but it is often possible to retain your existing railing and install only a new rail cap, but this is only in certain circumstances.

The design was changed and allowed for better traffic flow, especially with the addition of the paver patio. Timbertech Earthwood Decking was installed with a Cedar Railing including black aluminum pickets. — The design was changed allowing for better traffic flow. TimberTech Earthwood Decking was installed with a Cedar Railing including black aluminum pickets. The trim and railings were stained to match the trim on the home. This beautiful! Project was custom designed and built in Dublin, OH.

The growing trend towards synthetics has become more evident over the past 5 years. In our market where we are building decks, 70-80% of the time the demand is for synthetic versus wood, and the primary being synthetic; rewind five years back, and this data was in reverse with the wood being in higher demand. With re-decking, as with any of our outdoor living structure projects, we are always happy to comply with the homeowners budgetary needs and aesthetics. Most often Archadeck of Columbus recommends re-decking in a synthetic decking such as TimberTech because of the low maintenance and longevity benefits. Being a predominately wood builder, we try to communicate the maintenance needs, care and protection required of choosing to re-deck with wood to the homeowners so they may make the best decision to suit their lifestyle and needs. If you are considering re-surfacing your tired wood deck with a synthetic, the most popular one is our region is TimberTech. By choosing a synthetic product such as TimberTech, they not only offer an array of up and coming selections such as their XLM , Terrain and Earthwood Evolutions line, you are also eliminating the chore of painting and staining your deck in the future.

Last but certainly not least, one of the most important considerations is replacing the cost associated with re-decking your existing wood deck with synthetic. Synthetics are typically double the cost of the traditional pressure treated pine deck. Before you make the decision to re-deck in synthetic you should take into account the time you plan to live in your home. If you stay in your home 4 or 5 years or longer, you will get your money out of it and you will also create an investment that you and your family can enjoy into the future!

If you are considering a new deck, or re-deck in the future, contact Archadeck of Columbus to learn more about the many options we offer. We can help you choose the right decking material that best suits your lifestyle and budget. Call us for a free consultation today (740) 879 – 3730
westcolumbus@archadeck.net

You can see more examples of wood to synthetic redecking, and backyard makeovers by visiting our composite and PVC deck photo gallery and our before and after photo gallery located on our website.

This in progress backyard project is destined to give these Columbus homeowners the backyard of their dreams right on time to enjoy the changing leaves of autumn

Archadeck of Columbus gives us a sneak peek into one of their curren in-progress projects which includes a stunning re-deck, expansion and hardscape addition in Columbus, OH.

Columbus OH redeck in TimberTech Brown Oak — Here is a peek into this stunning re-decking , expansion and addition project in Columbus, OH we are currently working on.

Upgrading an existing outdoor living space can take on many forms. Some homeowners call us and are interested in only re-decking an existing deck while others are interested in transforming an existing deck into a porch. There are endless possibilities when it comes to upgrading and expanding upon your existing outdoor space to enhance the time you spend outdoors with your family. Our recent outdoor living area upgrade consists of a re-deck and deck extension that includes an open porch and extended hardscape area to house the homeowner’s grill and smoker. When you dig a little deeper into the details of the project, it is evident that what the homeowners are getting is so much more than additional room for grilling.

When we met with these Columbus homeowners they had an existing linear rectangular deck with a permanent fabric awning that provided shade to the space. Their existing deck space did not allow for good traffic flow, or enough space with all their outdoor furnishings. The homeowner’s goal was to expand their existing deck space out from the house on a curve to make it more aesthetically appealing.

Archadeck of Columbus redecking experts — This is the detailed design rendering and custom plan prepared for this project.

Since the existing deck is low to the ground, our design will include a hardscape seating wall that follows the same curved pattern of the deck as requested by the homeowner. Our design encompasses re-surfacing the existing deck with TimberTech Evolutions Terrain in Brown Oak. Above the deck we plan to build an open porch addition that will provide more function, shade and beauty than that of the awning previously used to gain shade. As part of the expansion, Archadeck of Columbus will also add new footings to make sure the new area is structurally sound. We are wrapping all exposed wood in Polonia for added appeal. The homeowner also asked that we minimize the columns that are to support the roof of the open porch, to accommodate this request we plan to use engineered lumber so you will only see two visible posts supporting the roof of the porch.

A little look at the anticipated grill and smoker area, which will lie adjacent to the deck and porch area.

What is difficult about this project is the presence of second story windows right above the intended area for the porch roof. In order to overcome this obstacle Archadeck of Columbus will install a flat rubber membrane roof to facilitate the use of a low-pitched roof on the open porch. This rubber membrane roof will divert water away from the house and assist in keeping this area dry. Most rubber membranes are black, but we were able to locate one in white to fulfill another request of the homeowner. The end result will be cohesive and will match the exterior of the other amendments we are completing. On the interior porch ceiling we plan to use white ply bead as a continuation of the sleek white used elsewhere in the project.

Adjacent to the deck and open porch area, we are also building a small addition for the homeowner’s grill and smoker. This portion of the project will not be under roof. A grill surround that will include taking placing vertical paver dimensions into the grill surround will add to the charm and function of this unique space. This area will function much like that of an outdoor kitchen addition.

Adding to the distinct appearance of this addition is the beautiful hardscape seating wall. This area will contain small pillars against the seating wall as well as pillars above the seating wall. The finished seating wall will stand 19 inches and the post supporting the roof of the porch will come down into the seating wall. The anticipated seating wall will be wide enough to sit on and add valuable additional seating to this gorgeous backyard oasis. These Columbus homeowners are very excited about completion of this project and cannot wait to use their new and improved backyard in time for fall as the expected finish date is expected to be late summer to early fall.

If you are ready to upgrade or improve your backyard to make it more livable, and more beautiful contact Archadeck of Columbus. Our goal is to make your outdoor living dreams a reality. Call us for free consultation today (740) 879 – 3730
westcolumbus@archadeck.net

You can see more inspiring outdoor living transformations by visiting our decks photo gallery, our covered porches photo gallery and our outdoor living photo gallery located on our website.

New TimberTech colors – you heard it here first!

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.

Archadeck of Columbus composite deck builders — 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 Archadeck Columbus — 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.

RadianceRail-Express-Walnut — 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.

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

Do you know why Winter is actually the best time of year to build a new deck?

Archadeck of Columbus explains when is the most opportune time to build your new deck and why.

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, 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 deck and screen porch — 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.

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

A product as good as its warranty is worth using.

Archadeck of Columbus is a premier TimberTech contractor. TimberTech stands behind it’s product when it comes to quality beauty and warranties that far exceed your expectations.

Hopefully even though you are reading this you haven’t had to experience the process of filing a warranty claim when a product didn’t perform as anticipated. If you have had to file a warranty claim, you probably realize that most warranties cover product replacement only and not labor. Archadeck of Columbus urges homeowners to be cautious and become familiar with the warranty of a prospective product before you make the investment. Many times, the fine print reveals the truth. When it comes to above average warranties in the world of composite and PVC decking, TimberTech has some of the longest and best warranties in the business. Archadeck is a premier contractor of TimberTech and we enjoy their warranty which includes product replacement with labor included.

Dublin_OH_TimberTech_deck_Columbus_golf_course_deck — TimberTech deck built by Archadeck of Columbus.

Being a premier contractor has it’s advantages. TimberTech and Archadeck have an exclusive agreement where the cost of replacement is not passed onto the customer. In today’s rough economic climate this breathes fresh air and confidence into the minds of consumers straddling the fence as to what decking material to choose for their new deck, and what contractor to use to build it. The answer is clear, Archadeck of Columbus and TimberTech.

The reason TimberTech offers this agreement and some of the longest and best warranties in the business is because they offer a quality product that they have the utmost confidence in offering to consumers. With any manufacturing, there can always be defects, or the chance thereof. With building products such as composite or PVC decking manufacturers they will replace the material, but the vast majority will not include the labor. Have you ever had a problem with the warranty on a product? Warranties can be a big headache and companies usually make you jump through hoops in order to receive what you deserve. TimberTech is a horse of a different color, they stand behind their product every step of the way.

columbus TimberTech Earthwood — TimberTech's Earthwood composites have the look of wood without the headaches.

Case in Point, we have a really large job we are working on. We had a batch of decking that was off-color. Color inconsistencies can sometimes vary from batch to batch, just like carpet and dye lot numbers. The stickler was that most of the decking was already completed. No problem , TimberTech came out and replaced the boards already down and paid labor. They actually had their quality control manager drive 1 and 1/2 hours to our job site to take care of the problem, not only was this an example of curb service customer care at it’s best, it kept the homeowner from being put into an uncomfortable and troubling situation.

Remember folks, a product is only as good as it’s warranty. Who are you gonna turn to when you hired a professional contractor to do your work in the instance a problem arises? You are going to call the contractor. In this case you can call us and we can take care of the rest. Archadeck of Columbus has been in the business for 10 years and we have built over 600 projects in the Columbus market. Call us to learn more about the quality products we use and about our quality workmanship. (740) 879 – 3730
westcolumbus@archadeck.net

In Dublin’s Muirfield Village, a TimberTech deck is perfect for this golf course community living.

This journey has came to fruition, with a quality built and stunning new deck for these homeowners in Muirfield village in Dublin, OH. We leave these homeowners with peace of mind that their new deck will last for many years of enjoyment.

Dublin_OH_Columbus_Muirfield_Deck_Builder — A happy ending to the story for these Dublin, OH homeowners

If you’ve had the chance to visit Muirfield Village in Dublin OH, perhaps for Memorial Golf Tournament, you’ve experienced the calming serene atmosphere that extends past the courses and up into the homes. I remember attending one of the tournaments a few years back and noticing the way the homes seemed to fit right into the course. They were a nice distance from the course but the HOA also did a great job to establish guidelines for construction that would ensure the architecture of the homes and any home additions continued the peaceful interplay between the residences and the serene setting.

Columbus_Muirfield_TimberTech_deck_with_cable_rail — The use of the Feeney cable railing opens up the glorious vistas of the golf courses, as well as the pond.

Now if you’ve attended the Memorial Golf Tournament a couple of times, you probably brought a rain coat and an umbrella with you each time. In reality, the Muirfield homeowners don’t live under the cover of rain. But, homeowners anywhere with a nice elevated deck are wise to utilize an under deck drainage system that allows the area under the deck to serve as a very functional dry covered patio.

Columbus_TimberTech_deck_Muirfield_Dublin_OH — This photo shows the beautiful details of this finished TimberTech deck by Archadeck of Columbus.

Archadeck of Columbus was able to offer quality craftsmanship and make anew for these Dublin, OH homeowners. We installed a new 3/16″ thick rubber roof to ensure stability since the new TimberTech Evolutions deck has the capability to expand and contract. The homeowners chose a beautiful teak color, called “pacific teak”, in the Earthwood Evolutions series by TimberTech for this new deck, and accented it with a stunning pacific walnut picture frame perimeter and parting board. Instead of using wood posts on the new deck, we used black aluminum and we replaced the cable railings with brand new Feeney cable railings to enhance the view. The under deck-drainage system as well as the installation of the 40 watt low voltage lighting system for the in-deck lighting and rail lighting was completed by a company called Quality Edge. The finished product not only promoted the structural soundness of the construction that we stand behind tried and true, it came out quite beautiful. Easing the blow of the discovery of the damage caused by the previous builder and giving these homeowners peace of mind at a time when they need it most.

The under deck drainage system is called InsideOut, and is manufactured by Quality Edge as well. This product comes in various colors, of which these homeowners selected the wood grain appearance which is a very nice contrast to the wall of the house. These homeowners now have a completely dry space under their existing deck. No more worries and plenty of new deck space to enjoy.

TimberTech_golf_course_deck_Columbus_Muirfield_Dublin_OH — This photo shows how all the elements harmonize together, from the Pacific teak, to the pacific walnut, it all fits perfectly.

The finished deck measures out to an abundant 950 square feet of wonderful living space to enjoy. The access points of entry for this deck flow from the sunroom and also the master bedroom. Archadeck of Columbus also rebuilt the stairs, which had an adjacent stone wall and we applied a new concrete cap to that area as well. These homeowners in Muirfield village now have a properly constructed and stunning which overlooks the golf courses at Muirfield, as well as the pond. We were able to give them more than just a new deck, we also gave them peace of mind.

Enjoy a video of this finished project.

If you are ready to take the leap into a new deck, or re-deck your existing deck, contact Archadeck of Columbus to learn more at (740) 879 – 3730
westcolumbus@archadeck.net

You can see more photos of our stunning decks by visiting our photo galleries at http://columbus.archadeck.com/pickYourProject/Decks.html

Multi-Level Decks and Deck and Patio Combinations Mean Multi-Levels of Unique Beauty and Added Function

Multi-level decks as well as deck and patio combinations are the growing trend in the Columbus, OH market. Archadeck of Columbus gives you some wonderful examples of the different combinations, with function and beauty in mind.

Columbus_low_to_grade_Timbertech_Composite_Deck_with_Patio_Columbus_Ohio — Low-to-grade composite deck with hardscape patio by Archadeck of Columbus

Here at Archadeck of Columbus the growing trend we continue to see among our customers is multi-level structures such as multi-level decks and decks that step down to patios and landscaping. Not only are these structures pleasing to the eye on multiple levels but they are built with multiple ways to enjoy your structure. Bi-leveled structures maintain room for a multitude of uses some of which would include separate dining, separate gathering areas and separate seating areas.

Most homeowners usually have a deck or patio only. By utilizing a combination of both of these structures you will not only have two distinct living areas, but you will also have multiple outdoor living areas which is unique. In today’s markets having the “unique” will enhance your investment in your outdoor living structure.

Low_to_grade_deck_in_Columbus_Ohio_with_firepit — Low-to-grade deck with fire pit by Archadeck of Columbus

A classic example, and one most homeowners can relate to, is the scenario of the backyard dinner party where the men and women usually end up congregating in separate spots on your single level deck or patio. The added space and separation a multi-level structure provides would give your male and female guests alike room to stretch out and enjoy their evening . You could even heat things up a little by adding a fire pit to create a distinct area. One level could make room for seating and dining and the other could be seating and the fire pit area.

Multi-Level_Cedar_Deck_with_low_to_grade_portion_and_Gazebo_Marysville_OH — This low to grade deck has a gazebo added to the lower level which allows cover from the elements

Another unique and aesthetically pleasing option is a gazebo or pergola added to one the levels in your your multi-level structure. Not only are these structures stunning to look at but they add shade to your space. Structures such as these would allow for shelter from the elements as well, so even if a summer shower comes to ruin your backyard barbecue your guests can move under the covered structure portion of your structure until the rain passes.

multi_level_low_to_grade_Floating_Bench_Flaired_Steps_Columbus_Delaware_County — This multi-level low to grade deck has flared steps and a floating bench

Multi-level structures are common in the Columbus area because of our terrain. The average home is about 30″ off the ground so it makes a perfect place to have two distinct areas. Low-to-grade decks are still a popular choice in this area as well. The beauty part of a low-to-grade deck is the option of not requiring a rail. Structures less than 30″ off the ground do not require a rail by code. advantages of not having a rail are the ability to see an un-obstructed view of landscaping, or hardscaping, or other focal point in your landscape, as well as the additional room you will have to add seating, furniture or planters. A clear uninhibited view is appreciated by many homeowners. If you have a relatively flat grade to your yard hardscapes such as patios are easier to construct.

Low_to_Grade_Deck_with_Landscaping_Westervile_Ohio_Columbus — Low-to-grade deck with exquisite landscaping

There are two things about being close to ground-level that we want to caution homeowners about. If the grade is extremely low the structure will require more posts to structure because you can’t use a beam construction. We use a true post and beam construction but with low to grade structures the posts are actually attached to joists which eliminate the beam. The second concern is the moisture and ventilation issue. Most communities require landscape fabric with gravel be put down to avoid grass and weed growth into the deck. This barrier also inhibits animals and helps keep it drier. Archadeck of Columbus recommends being no less than 16″ off the ground to alleviate structural costs and ventilation issues.

If you are considering a multi-level deck or deck and patio multi-level combination, or one of many other unique combinations, give Archadeck of Columbus a call to discuss what type of structure is best for you. We can schedule a free consultation to evaluate which grade would best suit your lot and design and construct the structure of your dreams.

Archadeck of Columbus and TimberTech Evolutions help pay it forward and get a lot back in return

Archadeck of Columbus donates to re-deck for Recreation Unlimited. A very rewarding experience for all who participated.

It is always a special opportunity when we are asked to give back to the community by helping a charitable organization. We really enjoy paying it forward by assisting our time and materials to help an organization like the one we recently helped on for Recreation Unlimited. Recreation Unlimited is a charity started by Dick Ruff in 1958 to provide recreational activities for people like himself with disabilities. Following the death of Dick Ruff in 1974 many community leaders such as Jimmy Crumm, local sportscaster and well-known face in the community with the local NBC station for many years, took the reins to make sure Dick’s dream would live on. Recreation Unlimited is located near Delaware and provides activities for developmentally and physically disabled individuals and those with health concerns.

Columbus Deck Builder TimberTech — Busy at work on the re-decking for Recreation Unlimited

Paul Huttlin is the director of the Recreation Unlimited facility. The facility had a 25-year-old deck adjacent to Lake Crumm. The deck itself overhangs the lake for fishing at the facility. There is a shelter adjacent to the deck and an open gazebo. The deck encompassed roughly 1,200 square feet. Archadeck of Columbus’ volunteers were in charge of the re-decking. Two crews donated their time and labor to complete this job. Seth Micheal and Josh Kempf both did a phenomenal job on this deck. We also couldn’t have did it without the help of our wonderful guys at TimberTech, Craig Hyatt and Tony Groh. It took us about two days to finish the job and it was a very rewarding experience.

Deck Builder Columbus TimberTech — A few of our wonderful volunteers

We chose to use the incredible TimberTech product called Evolutions. Evolutions is a beautiful composite deck that represents a new age in decking. The Evolutions material has a 25 year no stain and no fade warranty. TimberTech is the first ever to offer this full 25 year warranty on a decking product and we were really excited about using it on this structure. The Evolutions is not as expensive as pure PVC decking boards. It also has a PVC cap that extends around the perimeter of the board. Evolutions comes in many earthwood colors. We chose to use the Pacific Rosewood for this deck and Pacific Walnut and Radiance for the rail. The material has black veining/streaking through it to make it look more exotic, with breathtaking results. We also used hidden fasteners on the new deck to continue that endless vision of beauty without seeing the “stuff that holds it together”.

Anytime we donate our time or materials to help an organization such as this we always come back getting a lot more out of it than we could ever put in it. Having the opportunity to work on a job with this much significance to the community just makes you feel good. It is on a different level than doing jobs on a day-to-day. We encourage everyone to donate their time and whatever they have to a worthy cause such as this and help “pay it forward” in your community it is always an experience you will remember for the rest of your lives.

Columbus TimberTech deck — The completed Evolutions deck: A beautiful deck for a beautiful cause

From Recreation Unlimited…

The Recreation Unlimited deck by the lake is a major focal point for camp activities. The campers fish from the dock, do outdoor arts and crafts by the lake and use the deck for a picnic spot during the summer months. The original deck was very worn and needed repair or replacement. The Timbertech donation of materials was perfect for the type of application needed, a quality surface and maintenance free. If it wasn’t for Mike Reeder and Archadeck, the project would never have been completed. Mike and his crew’s expertise helped a bunch of weekend volunteers construct a beautiful deck in two days in a fantastic location. What a treat for our campers with disabilities and health concerns to use now and many years into the future. Thank you Archadeck and Timbertech.

Best regards!
Paul L. Huttlin
Executive Director and CEO
Recreation Unlimited Foundation
Recreation Unlimited Farm and Fun
7700 Piper Road
Ashley, OH 43003