Pergolas – 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.

Pergolas may be small in stature, but they make a big statement in your outdoor living space

Sometimes it is the small things in your outdoor living space that can make the biggest impact. Take for example the pergola. Pergolas give you the capability of creating that outdoor room feeling with a minimal investment.

The pergola is among one of the fastest growing elements in backyard building. All you have to do is visit Pinterest, turn on the TV to HGTV or peruse through your favorite home & garden magazine to discern their appeal. In addition to being a favorable aesthetic for your backyard, pergolas also promote coziness within an intimate environment. And it is certainly no secret that adding a Columbus pergola to your outdoor living space can provide loads of ambiance, too!

This photo shows one of the pergolas the homeowner chose — Pergolas add shade and definition to any outdoor space.

Gone are the days of classifying two posts with a board across the top as a pergola! At Archadeck of Columbus, our pergolas can be custom designed and built in a variety of shapes, sizes, and styles and in a wide range of materials including classic wood and low maintenance vinyl. Our pergolas can be finished with all the electrical accouterments that are available in outdoor areas such as patios and porches such as lighting, ceiling fans, and more!

One of the unique facets of the pergola’s design is that there are no set standards so your pergola can really become a creative piece that you can add your own personal touches and character. A great example of the use of diverse materials is the pergola we built in Columbus that aluminum powder coated trusses across the top …

Aluminum powder coated trusses on pergola.

Most homeowners prefer to implement their pergola addition as a secondary layer of a multi-faceted outdoor living combination. For instance; Pergolas work as a great medium for adding definition and dimension to a deck, they can also be attached to other structures such as covered porches, patios and even screened porches. Let us not forget that pergolas can be used as viable shade structures. The amount of protection they deliver is based on the design itself. By building the pergola with 3″ wide lathing (the top portion of the pergola), and installing these on a 20-degree angle we can increase the measure of shade and sun protection.

Contact Archadeck of Columbus today to design and build the pergola of your wildest dreams. When it comes to the design and functionality possibilities of the pergola, the choices are endless!

You can reach us at (740) 879 – 3730 or email us at westcolumbus@archadeck.net.

This Outdoor Living Combination in New Albany, OH, Gives New Meaning to Backyard Bliss!

One of our most recent completed projects took us to beautiful New Albany, OH, where we total transformed the backyard and outdoor living potential for these amazing homeowners. Their journey to fulfilling their wish for a new and improved outdoor space began by contacting Archadeck of Columbus.

When we initially met with these New Albany, OH, homeowners for their consultation, their existing outdoor living space consisted of a painted wooden deck. The deck, in itself, was not complimentary or scaled to accentuate to their home or their landscape. The main concern expressed by the homeowner’s was their desire to have more outdoor space to entertain, and a space to provide shade on those hot summer days. With this in mind, our talented design team went to work on coming up with a multi-faceted design that would address the clients needs and deliver a new & improved look and feel to the backyard!

New Albany OH Before and After — Amazing before & after images of this project.

The new outdoor living space combines all the function, beauty and versatility the homeowner’s had in mind, and much more. This outdoor living combination includes a new deck, paver patio surround with a shade pergola, custom fire pit and a seating/retaining wall. Archadeck of Columbus also designed and installed the landscaping as the perfect finishing touch to the outdoor structure additions.

Here’s an in-depth look at each of these outdoor living structures which together, comprise a total package delivering enjoyment and fluidity:

The Paver Patio encompasses and blends the entire space from the moment you enter from the rear of the home, or step off the deck. The patio was built using Unilock Beacon Hill pavers in Sierra with a Holland Stone soldier course border in Charcoal.

The Deck was built using a low-to-grade design providing a seamless transition from one space to another in low-maintenance TimberTech in Pacific Rosewood. This beautiful color was recently discontinued from the TimberTech line, so Archadeck of Columbus diligently searched to ensure the needed materials were within our reach as we began the project. The railings used on the deck were powder-coated aluminum and we also integrated deck lighting into the design to enhance evening functionality and ambiance.

The Fire Pit delivers extended enjoyment for the homeowner’s to gather with family and friends for conversation, or even s’mores! The retaining wall helps define the area and adds additional seating when entertaining a crowd. The fire pit and wall were built using Brussels Dimensional pavers with a ledgestone cap and accent banding within the seating wall to unify the color used along the patio’s edge and for added visual interest.

The Pergola adds the shade qualities these homeowner’s wanted while adding beauty to the entire project. The pergola is made of low-maintenance vinyl and is constructed with angled lathing to deliver additional sun-blocking benefits.

The Landcaping/Softscaping is last but certainly not least, as it serves as the perfect finishing touch to the entire outdoor living space. Archadeck of Columbus carefully hand-picked select perennials that would work best in this backyard and to compliment the design elements of the new outdoor space, and the homeowner’s personal tastes. Softscaping is the pièce de résistance to many of our projects and it adds a signature flair and seasonal color.

If you are ready to transform the way you live outdoors through the addition of a singular or combination outdoor living space, contact Archadeck of Columbus today to get started! We would love the opportunity to work with you on your anticipated outdoor structure project. You can reach us at (740) 879 – 3730, or via email at westcolumbus@archadeck.net.

Love to spend time in your sunny Columbus OH back yard? Want shade?

TimberTech Legacy deck pergola Dublin OH lr — Cedar pergola attached to the house over composite deck

If you are like me, you are trying to figure out ways to get more sun, not less. But, trust me, there will soon come a time when you will be looking for ways to get a little protection from the hot summer sunshine. One of the most beautiful and versatile ways to introduce additional shade to your deck, patio or yard is by building a Columbus pergola.

Pergolas are open structures that can transform your yard or garden into a cooler, quieter, more peaceful haven. They frequently have a lattice design across the “roof” which provides shade on its own and may also serve as a frame for decorative climbers like clematis or wisteria. Whether or not your pergola is adorned with greenery, it provides a striking vertical interest to your yard.

This TimberTech deck includes classic white rail with decking boards as rail caps. — Unattached pergola over TimberTech composite deck

Pergolas can be free-standing and may be designed in many different shapes with details that complement the architecture of your home and yard. One of the first things we look at when starting a discussion about a pergola or Columbus arbor or trellis is the orientation of the yard with regards to the sun. It’s important to orient the structure so that it best suits your needs during the prime outdoor entertaining months. We’ll also help you choose the size of your pergola based on how you plan to use it– I love them for their flexibility is size, design, and choice of material.

Many of our customers love vinyl pergolas because they are low maintenance and their slats are angled slightly to provide additional shade. White is the most popular color for our vinyl structures as many homes have white trim on their windows or elsewhere on their exterior, which provides a nice visual tie-in. Beige is another option. Regardless of color, vinyl offers superior strength and long life, in addition to its easy-care nature.

Columbus cedar pergola and hardscape duo

Pressure-treated pine is the least expensive option for building a pergola, with cedar at the midrange (about 20% more) and vinyl at the higher end (about a 75% premium, depending on the design). Fiberglass and aluminum have a smaller presence in the marketplace. Regardless of the material you choose for your Columbus pergola, it will be a gorgeous adornment to a walkway, deck, patio or other seating area.

If you are interested in a new twist on the traditional pergola design, I’d encourage you to check out ShadeTree canopies. They have an almost Mediterranean look, which will make you feel like you have an exotic getaway locale right in your own backyard. Whether you choose ShadeTree or another pergola design, you have the option of upgrading with ceiling fans, lights, speakers or other accessories that will make your yard more fun and festive. Bring us your ideas or ask us for some. Brainstorming your dream backyard is the most fun part of every free consultation.

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.

Our most recent upcoming projects mark the shape of things to come for two Columbus area backyards

Archadeck of Columbus is thrilled to give you the chance to preview two upcoming outdoor living space projects. Both projects are outdoor living space combinations that integrate various functions into singular multi-faceted designs

Dublin OH TimberTech deck and open porch by Archadeck of Columbus — A peek into our upcoming outdoor living combination project in Dublin, OH.

Archadeck of Columbus is thrilled to give you the chance to preview two upcoming outdoor living projects we’re building in the Columbus area. Both projects are outdoor living space combinations that integrate various structures into singular, multifaceted designs. These projects serve as a great example of the unique qualities homeowners here in the Columbus area have a taste for. Take a peek at the shape of things to come in these Columbus area backyards…

Large, open, and worthy of lots of outdoor living

Our first upcoming project preview is located in Dublin, OH very close to the zoo. These homeowners had no existing outdoor living space and contacted Archadeck of Columbus to create a low-maintenance deck and covered porch to enliven their backyard enjoyment. The design includes a multi-level deck, open porch and extensive hardscape skirting.

This large multi-level deck is being built with low-maintenance TimberTech Earthwood Evolutions Terrain decking in Brown Oak. The stair treads and rail cap will be built using TimberTech Earthwood Evolutions in Tropical Walnut. The two neutral shades play off one another and add visual interest to the decking components in this project. Tan vinyl railings with round powder coated black balusters will finish off the details of this elegant deck which steps out on three different sides to lower levels. The deck itself encompasses an area of 1440 square feet. The large deck balances the long rectangular porch that will set in the middle of the space within its own level.

Dublin OH TimberTech Terrain deck in brown oak — This deck and open porch combination promises pure outdoor living bliss!

The open porch adds an air of charm to the outdoor living combination because it is reminiscent of the classic design of porches from another era. The porch is placed around the home’s existing bay window and will look original to the home once completed. The placement and design details make the porch appear as if it has always been there. The porch will have pressure treated pine rafters all wrapped in cedar. The six columns included in the design will have a recessed panel on the columns with each having skirts and collars. The ceiling will be finished in ply bead to further the country feel of the space. Finishing up the porch will be two ceiling fans, four down lights and for added enjoyment the interior will have speakers wired to all four corners. Adding sound to this already stunning outdoor oasis will enhance entertaining opportunities for these Dublin homeowners.

Since this backyard has a large amount of slope, the skirting including on this project is dramatic. At the lowest point the structure sits 6″ above ground and spans to 5′ in some parts. The skirting is being completed using cultured stone to match the front of the home. The cultured stone runs the entire perimeter of the backyard structure and encompasses 140 linear feet.

Here is a first look at this Arlington, OH outdoor living combination.

From weathered wood to stunning Ipe Brazilian hardwood

Our second upcoming project takes us to Upper Arlington, OH where the homeowners have a very old existing cedar deck that is just one step off of the ground. When the homeowner’s contacted us, their existing outdoor living space did not do the home or the surrounding landscape justice. Many times with aging decks of this nature, where time and weather have taken their toll, it is better to just clear the area and begin afresh. That is exactly what Archadeck of Columbus has in mind.

This image shows the space before we begin the project.

We are starting this backyard transformation by removing the old deck and railroad ties to make way for an Ipe deck and large pergola which connects the home to the deck space by way of a stunning natural Bluestone patio. The space will include an Ipe Brazilian hardwood deck which is covered with a large cedar pergola. The pergola is designed to include large structural elements including large beams and joists. The use of larger elements will give the pergola a “beefier” feel a really make a design statement as part of this outdoor living combination. From the deck we are building limestone walls that lead to the rear door of the existing home. The limestone walls are to be 6-inches wide and will harmonize beautifully with the wood used in the deck and pergola. Natural stone compliments wood when used together, and creates a space full of rustic natural elements. As part of this project we will have to contend with some existing irrigation and electrical which will require retro-fitting a lot of new wiring and irrigation lines.

Upcoming Arlington OH Outdoor living combo — Upcoming Arlington,OH outdoor living combination.

As you can see, the shape of things to come is an outdoor space that combines multiple functions with multiple elements. Designing the perfect outdoor space for you and staying on top of outdoor living and design trends is our business. We are seeing an increase in the number of combination projects Columbus area homeowners are seeking such as deck/porch combinations and deck/patio and pergola combination. Clients who build combination projects want to create an outdoor space that fits all their needs, and allows the effortless flow from one structure into another to offer maximum enjoyment in their backyards.

To learn more about our outdoor combination designs, including the design details that helps bring it all to life, contact Archadeck of Columbus today. Call for a free consultation: (740) 879 – 3730
westcolumbus@archadeck.net

See more multifaceted outdoor combination structures by visiting our many photo galleries, located on our website. There are so many wonderful and functional combinations it will be hard for you to choose!

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

Archadeck of Columbus urges homeowners to schedule their outdoor structure endeavor now to ensure a spring ready completion.

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.

Spa deck with privacy screen — 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.

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

These Washington Courthouse, OH homeowners get the outdoor structure of their wildest dreams by Archadeck of Columbus

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.

Columbus_celtic_retaining_walls_with_Columbus_TimberTech_deck — 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.

Multi_level_TimberTech_deck_with_outdoor_fireplace_Columbus_Archadeck — 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.

Belgard_Celtic_retaining_walls_Columbus_hardscape_builder — Here is an awe-inspiring view of the entire structure from the backyard of the Washington Courthouse, OH home.

Archadeck of Columbus went to work on the design and came up with a deck with a surround of stunning stone retaining walls, custom stone planters, a hot tub deck with a custom pergola and privacy wall, grilling area, and plenty of room in between for dining and conversation. At one end of the deck there is an outdoor fireplace flanked as well by custom stone retaining walls and plenty of room for seating upon an elevated section which surrounds the outdoor fireplace.

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.

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.

Columbus_hot_tub_deck_with_privacy_wall_and_pergola — 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.

Columbus_composite_deck_with_paver_border — 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.

Columbus_large_TimberTech_composite_deck_with_planter_and_hot_tub — 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.

Visit our Composite and vinyl decks photo gallery located on our website for more picture perfect composite decks.

To turn up the heat on design inspirations you can also visit our outdoor fireplace and fire pit gallery, also located on our website.

A custom hot tub or spa deck is a personal place of refuge and relaxation for many homeowners.

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.

Monarch deck with vinyl pergola in Columbus, OH — 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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Archadeck of Columbus deck extension for hot tub with retractable awning — 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.

This stunning hot tub deck takes curves to a new level — 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.

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

To experience more serene inspiration visit out pool and spa deck gallery located on our website.

Payin’ it forward on Extreme Home Makeover feels so good

Archadeck of Columbus is asked to contribute their time and expertise on a home makeover for Extreme Makeover Home Edition.

extreme_makeover_team_after_18_hours — Here is a photo of the Archadeck of Columbus Extreme Makeover crew after working 19 straight hours, still all smiles.

If you haven’t had a chance to tune in to catch an episode of “Extreme Makeover Home Edition“, on ABC then now is your chance. The show itself centers around a family that is nominated for an extreme home makeover. The recipients of this makeover are families that have experienced unfortunate circumstances or debilitating illness within the family, Often times these recipients are pillars of their community who have devoted their lives to improving the lives of those around them. These families shine through and are chosen to receive a much deserved extreme home makeover.

Being asked to participate in helping improve the lives of a family by a home makeover is truly an honor. Recently Archadeck of Columbus was given the chance to contribute their time and expertise for an upcoming Extreme Makeover Home Edition episode. Working on a job such as this can change your life forever, and it gives us an opportunity to be able to give back to the community and touch you in a way nothing else possibly can.

Archadeck of Columbus was asked by a lead local builder in Ohio, P&D custom builders, to assist in building the deck on top of a detached garage utilizing TimberTech Earthwood Evolutions composite. The deck was constructed using concealock fasteners, and the color the Extreme Makeover design team chose for the deck was a beautiful walnut color. The deck construction entailed building a frame over a rubber roof on top of the 2nd story garage. The deck parapet walls are 38″ high around three sides of a 20 x 23 area. This area also includes an 8 x 20 stunning cedar pergola that is over one side.

The day of the construction, we had the help of four people from Archadeck; Dennis Schaffer who is the regional franchise business developer and Seth Mitchell & Josh Kempf who are two of our best carpenters. The day began by dedicating our first four hours at the home assisting the interior house framers that needed some help. We were glad to give it, the spirit and emotion that was running through the whole construction site was like none we had ever experienced, and everyone present could feel it.

The whole makeover project took an unheard of total of 5 days, this is from the demolition phase all the way to the re-building. This event showed how a community can come together to complete what many would consider impossible or unthinkable and it shows what the human spirit is truly capable of when your driving force is that of humanity and humility.

The crew from Archadeck of Columbus worked 19 hours straight through their weekend to finish the job. Even though the crew was exhausted we wouldn’t trade this experience and we will always look forward to being honored enough to be asked to participate in endeavors such as this and give back what we can to our community.

The home itself is located near the Northeast side of Columbus, OH and the featured episode will be broadcast at Christmas time. We can’t give any more secrets than that. You will have to tune in to see and Archadeck of Columbus will be sure to post and share pictures following the show’s broadcast. Stay tuned…

A perfect pair of pergolas for homeowners in Columbus, OH

Archadeck of Columbus build a pair of pergolas for homeowners in Columbus, OH, and gives you the lowdown on pergola materials and styles.

These Columbus, OH homeowners recently hired Archadeck of Columbus to install a pergola at their home. The homeowners could not decide upon one pergola design that would work for all their needs, therefore they decided upon two pergolas in order to achieve what they were looking for.

Pergolas, also know as arbors or trellises are limitless in their design. Materials such as traditional wood and cedar are options to consider when deciding upon your pergola. Treated wood moves by expanding and contracting, whereas cedar doesn’t move because of the oils within the wood itself. Cedar is more costly than treated wood, so this is a consideration you may want to think about.

Columbus_home_pergola_2 — This free-standing pergola was another pergola selected for these Columbus, OH homeowners

The components of the pergola itself come with choices as well. Component options all depend upon the design and look you wish to achieve with your pergola. Usually rafters are set 16″ on center, and the lathing is 2×2 or 1×4 which are typically spaced 6″ apart. In order to accommodate or gain more shade, we may add in more components to bring in further sun protection, for example we can make rafters 12″ on center and the lathing 4″ on center. Archadeck of Columbus can construct your pergola to fit your individual needs.

Columbus_home_pergola_drawings_for_multiple_pergolas — The design rendering and drawings for the multiple pergolas for these Columbus, OH homeowners

In this day and age there are also the low maintenance fiberglass and vinyl pergolas as well. Backyard America manufactures pergola kits of fiberglass and we install these pergolas. This method is another consideration to keep in mind when planning your pergola. Here at Archadeck of Columbus we always supply our customers with a detailed design rendering of the outdoor structure they are considering, this way every detail is precise and to the customers approval before construction begins.

Here are some examples of pergolas by Archadeck of Columbus…

This vinyl pergola comes in adobe, white or tan.

With vinyl you can have different rafter rails as well, vinyl pergolas have leuvered slats angled toward the setting sun so you’re getting more shade.

Archadeck of Columbus can also install screens (backyard blinds) into your pergola to get more shade as the sun sets.

Pergolas are typically used as a shade structure or for aesthetics. This one is created to be easy on the eye. This pergola is made with custom powder-coated aluminum trusses and cedar railing with black aluminum pickets to match.

This cedar pergola is incorporated into the design of this privacy fence. It adds a perfect place to avoid the noon sun and to nurture climbing vines such as clematis or wisteria.

No matter which pergola style or design tickles your fancy Archadeck of Columbus can help you plan and construct the perfect pergola, or pair of pergolas, for your landscape. Contact us today to find out more (740) 879 – 3730
westcolumbus@archadeck.net