Archadeck of Columbus gives our review of TimberTech Evolutions – 2 thumbs up!!

Archadeck of Columbus discusses the pros and cons of TimberTech XLM and TimberTech Earthwood Evolutions in helping Columbus area homeowners decide which product is the right fit for their new deck or redecking project.

TimberTech Earthwood Evolutions Teak with Walnut Border
This deck uses two shades of the Earthwood Evolutions tropical line, Teak and Walnut, to add more visual interest to this stunning deck.

In our line of business we have seen a wide range of synthetic decking materials come and go over the years. Over the past several years synthetic decking materials have evolved past the traditional composites giving us product lines that perform better and look the part too. TimberTech is one of the leaders in this decking evolution. Their introduction of TimberTech Earthwood Evolutions and TimberTech XLM have changed the way many of us think of the synthetic decking arena. Archadeck of Columbus uses both Evolutions and XLM. With our experience, we wouldlike to share about how each perform.

Now that TimberTech Evolutions and XLM have been out for a couple of years, we have placed enough down to provide feedback and the long term pros and cons for both product lines. In case you aren’t familiar with the components of Evolutions and XLM, though both are synthetics, each is different in their general makeup. TimberTech XLM is a solid PVC product with a PVC foam core and PVC cap. Evolutions is what is referred to as capstock composite. Capstock consists of wood and plastic composite core wrapped in a PVC cap that extends around the entire board.

Powell OH TimberTech XLM Harvest Bronze with TimberTech Radiance rail
This deck in Powell ,OH is built with TimberTech XLM Harvest Bronze.

TimberTech XLM Review

Because XLM is solid PVC, it is non-porous meaning dirt and grime cannot penetrate the boards. XLM performs really well in most outdoor structure installations. Any of your solid PVC materials are going to have a higher price point than other low-maintenance decking materials. The negative side of XLM is of course, the higher price, but also that the material is very pliable. Because of the pliable nature of XLM there is an expansion and contraction that takes place when the product gets hot which can cause slight waving of the product. I like to explain the waving like that of a rubber band that becomes even more pliable when heated. Add XLM’s pliable nature to the fact we are attaching it to wood, which already has a tendency to move, and that is the scenario you may be faced with. For most homeowners choosing to use XLM it is not a big deal, but we alert them of the possibilities of this happening.

columbus-timbertech-Earthwood Evolutions teak with white vinyl Pergola and white vinyl rail
This deck is built using TimberTech Evolutions.

TimberTech Evolutions Review

In our opinion, Evolutions is a much stronger product than XLM because it has a wood/plastic core and is not as pliable as XLM. There is no risk of the product becoming wavy in the future. Evolution’s performance is just as good as that of its solid PVC counterpart XLM, because it too cannot be penetrated by dirt or grime. This product comes in a wide range of color choices from the hues usually only seen in tropical hardwoods to traditional natural wood colors. Evolutions is also moderately priced in comparison with XLM. TimberTech provides a 25 yr. no fade, no stain warranty on their Evolutions line along with the 25 yr. warranty already provided in their entire product line which covers against bulging, splitting, cracking and board defections. To better show you how Evolutions stands up to normal wear and tear I allowed my sons to experiment with a few of the Evolutions decking boards. They had a really great time doing it and this demonstration speaks volumes about how the product would perform under normal everyday conditions on your deck. If it can get past Jake and Kyle, it can get past just about anything!

Earthwood Evoutions line
This chart shows the profile difference of the new Terrain line compared to the Natural and Tropical line of Evolutions.

Archadeck of Columbus has installed close to 200 projects using Evolutions, and we have not had one problem. This proves the integrity and quality of the product. In addition to XLM and Evolutions, TimberTech introduced a new line of synthetic this year called TimberTech Evolutions Terrain. Terrain debuts a different profile to their board in this line which comes in two neutral colors; Silver Maple and Brown Oak. Terrain is the least expensive product in TimberTech’s line of decking and should prove to be a winner in the years to come.

If you foresee a deck in your future and like the idea of having a stunning space with low-maintenance benefits, contact Archadeck of Columbus to learn more about the TimberTech line of quality composites- you’ll be glad you did.

Michael Reeder, Archadeck of Columbus
Michael Reeder, Archadeck of Columbus

You can visit our decks photo gallery and our composite and vinyl ( PVC ) deck photo gallery located on our website for more examples of decks we have built using TimberTech XLM and TimberTech Evolutions.

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.

Michael Reeder, Archadeck of Columbus
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

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

Michael Reeder, Archadeck of Columbus
Michael Reeder, Archadeck of Columbus

Top 5 Reasons to Build a Composite/Synthetic Deck by Archadeck of Columbus.

Archadeck of Columbus gives you the top 5 reasons to build a composite/synthetic deck.

Composite deck Columbus
This composite/synthetic deck by Archadeck of Columbus says it all.

When considering which type of decking material to construct your new deck from the number of choices, this otherwise easy task can turn into a quite daunting one.  It can seem sometimes like there is a little person on each shoulder, one of which is shouting “wood” and the other is shouting “composite”. Archadeck of Columbus is here to help you silence the shouting. Composite/synthetic is definitely the way to go for many reasons. The low maintenance, the beauty, and the consistency to remain looking like new are just a few reasons to choose composite/synthetic decking for your new deck. We have compiled a list of the top 5 reasons to build your new deck out of synthetics. The list is in no particular order of importance and was compiled to assist homeowners in making the daunting task of choosing their decking material a little easier.

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

1) No staining or painting, ever– with any wood deck you’re going to need to take care of it. Wood is also a natural material therefore, eventually, with any wood, it will rot. Depending on the deck’s location in relation to the sun, you might have to maintain a wood deck more readily if it is facing west with the sun’s rays beating down onto it constantly. Wood needs to be treated at a minimum of once per year. Wood decks also require power-washing to remove staining prior to sanding. It is also recommended to pre-treat a wood deck to ensure cleanliness before you apply any stain or paint. An average 300 sq. foot deck can cost between $500 to $900 per year to maintain properly. If your wood deck has a lot of details such as railings it can take a tremendous amount of time to stain or paint as well.

2) No more tweezer torture– Okay, we can all relate to this one. You or the kids get a splinter by simply walking barefoot across your wooden deck or one of the kids inevitably picks up a splinter every time they chase each other around the deck. You’re yelling stop running but it’s not because you’re scared of a fall. It’s because you dread putting your kids through tweezer torture to get splinters out. If your wood deck is not kept up to par, splinters will become an issue. Wood will move and expand with heat, and when it expands, it will not always shrink back and this causes splinters. Splinters can be a real headache, especially when you have to get out the tweezers to painfully remove the splinter and put yourself or your child through an instant replay of pain. Splinters hurt as much coming out as they do going in. Who wants a deck you can’t enjoy in your bare feet anyway?

TimberTech Earthwoods with Aluminum railings Columbus
This composite/synthetic deck by Archadeck of Columbus will retain its beauty for many years to come.

3) What you see is what you get– Synthetics retain that “like new” color and feel , so what you see is what you will still have years from now. Synthetics won’t fade like wood. Wood can fade gradually and over time you no longer get what you paid for, sort of like that expensive pair of designer jeans that fade out in the wash over time, one day you look down and think “wow” what happened?

4) 15 year warranty for wood VS 25+ year warranty on composite/synthetic– This one is really a “no brainer”. Usually the 15-year warranty on wood has a clause about “normal wear and tear”, which includes the pains of naturally aging wood like splintering, twisting, cupping, checking not to mention the other aches and pains of naturally weathering wood like fading among others. Today’s composite/synthetic decking has a 25+ year warranty, and they’ve only been around for close to 20 years, so the product could exceed the warranty by years beyond that.

Azek Harvest Series - Brownstone
This AZEK deck entails quality, beauty and a warranty to match.

5) A smart investment– If you’re making an investment in your home, it should be a smart investment. You wouldn’t buy a brand new car only to anticipate the transmission falling out after only  1,000 miles would you? Of course not, then why invest in a deck that is going to decay and fade over time when you can invest in a deck that will be like driving it off the showroom floor in 10 years?

With so many positive attributes in composite/synthetic decking nowadays, it is easy to make an informed and smart decision. Another great choice is pure PVC decking products such as  AZEK, TimberTech XLM and TimberTech Earthwood Essentials. These pure PVC products are non-porous , so stains won’t happen at all. You can also learn more about composite/synthetic decking materials by reading a wonderful story written last year on the subject https://columbus-decks.com/2010/02/11/wood-plastic-composites-vs-pvc-decking/

Michael Reeder, Archadeck of Columbus
Michael Reeder, Archadeck of Columbus

To learn more about the joys of  owning a composite/synthetic deck contact Archadeck of Columbus (740) 879 – 3730
westcolumbus@archadeck.net We can create a deck that is made to enjoy, not to constantly worry about maintaining.

You can also see photos of other stunning composite/synthetic decks in our photo gallery at http://columbus.archadeck.com/pickYourProject/composite-and-vinyl.html

At Archadeck of Columbus, a picture is worth 1,000 words.

Archadeck of Columbus finds severe damage in this home in Dublin, OH left from poor workmanship of the previous builder, but takes it all in stride, and sets out to make it all right. The end result being a quality, and structurally sound deck these homeowners can be proud of.

proper_rubber_membrane_on_deck_lr
This photo is an after photo showing the proper rubber membrane that was installed by Archadeck of Columbus

They say that a picture is worth a thousand words. The pictures I have posted below showing the poor workmanship in regards to the work completed by a previous builder at  this home in Columbus, OH speak volumes. Archadeck of Columbus was called out to these homeowners’ residence to replace their decking, cable railings, posts and add lighting and a drainage system. Once we arrived at the home we found a deluge of mistakes left by the previous builder. Thus begins the process of making the construction another builder did improperly, our job, by fixing  the areas within our grasp for the safety of the homeowners as well as the structural integrity of the home. Please watch the video detailing what we found…

house_rotted_under_windows_near_deck_connection_lr
This photo shows the rot around the windows near the deck connection

The first obstacle we encountered was a portion of the deck which lies above the basement in this home that showed evidence of rotting around the windows and doors which indicates water was getting into the home’s basement. Proof positive that improper building techniques led to the decay. When we removed the old deck in preparation of installing the new deck, there was also a tremendous amount of rot. The house itself was not outfitted with the proper preventative of Tyvek when it was built, the lack of this crucial material promoted rot and decay throughout the structure. Tyvek is a barrier which is used in home construction to increase air and water resistance and provide protection from water and moisture.

house_not_water_protected_and_rotting_lr
Improper building techniques led to rot and decay.

Archadeck of Columbus was able to fix the areas surrounding the location of the deck, as well as installing Tyvek around the doors and  new aluminum flashing around the doors.

proper_deck_sub_structure_lr
This photo shows the proper sub-structure built by Archadeck of Columbus

When we pulled up the old deck the beams were run perpendicular to the house, which is not customary when building a deck. Archadeck of Columbus rebuilt the sub-structure of the deck to our standards. You have to have a correct and firm foundation for any structure you build.

The stone area near the stairs was vas poorly constructed at best and falling down. The lights did not work as well.

proper_door_protection_before_new_decking_structure_lr
Proper door protection was installed before the new decking was completed
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Construction like this is sad and unfortunate

When we come into contact and witness the shoddy construction that some builders try to get away with, it is unfortunate and saddening. This is the main reason it is so important to hire an experienced, qualified and licensed builder.

Archadeck of Columbus has a track record of quality built structures for over 10 years. We have a A+ rating with the BBB, ( Better Business Bureau). We received the “Super Service award” from Angies list 5 years running. This award is quite prestigious with only a mere 5% of the service providers on Angie’s list receiving this award. We have been recommended by TimberTech as a premier contractor in the area. We also have a multitude of satisfied customers, some of which have called upon us to build more than just one structure for them. We are proud of our record and proud to offer homeowners in the Columbus, OH area quality construction that is built to endure years of enjoyment. That is what we refer to as the “Archadeck difference.”

Michael Reeder, Archadeck of Columbus
Michael Reeder, Archadeck of Columbus

Contact Archadeck of Columbus to plan, design and build quality and integrity into your outdoor structure. (740) 879 – 3730
westcolumbus@archadeck.net

Please visit our web site to read the testimonials of Archadeck of Columbus’ customers http://columbus.archadeck.com/local/Testimonials.html

Archadeck of Columbus adds curves of distinction to custom decks in Dublin, OH

Archadeck of Columbus talks about previewing an upcoming deck in the Muirfield Village community in Dublin, OH. We also show you the innovative process of achieving radius edging when installing a deck.

Columbus Dublin custom TimberTech deck
Custom TimberTech deck with radius edging by Archadeck of Columbus

Homes within this Columbus suburb of Dublin, OH include a multitude of beautiful custom-built homes with the widest array of custom features inside and out. Archadeck of Columbus will be profiling one such residence in Muirfield Village later this month where we are installing a stunning new deck.  With custom-built homes of this quality and stature it is important to hire a custom deck builder to install your decking as well. Custom deck builders, just like custom home builders have the experience, knowledge and capability to ensure your new deck has quality materials and workmanship poured into the structure. Custom deck builders also stay “in the know” when it comes to unique custom features that become popular.

The world of decks is constantly changing to include many new features and innovative design concepts. One of the custom deck features that have become quite popular recently include a custom radius edging. At Archadeck of Columbus, we really enjoy using radius edge decking. This story details the whole innovative process from beginning to end.

We mold the decking boards into a curvilinear radius edging by heating the boards to a certain temperature in order to make them pliable. This process is fascinating to watch and we actually have video footage detailing the entire process. In this video, we show you how we heat the boards themselves. 

Once the boards are heated to the accurate temperature they are then carefully remove

Then, while the boards are still hot, we install the boards within pre-determined curved framing to achieve the  distinct curvilinear design that is tops among custom decks today. This video shows the installation in real-time

This entire process is fascinating to witness from start to finish, and ends with breathtaking results. With custom deck design, gone are the days of being confined to  straight lines and edges in landscaping, patio designs, and deck designs. Flower beds now take on wondrous edging, and curving paths. Retaining walls even enjoy meandering curved paths down the sides of patios and landscape showcases. There are so many more options available to homeowners now.

Michael Reeder, Archadeck of Columbus
Michael Reeder, Archadeck of Columbus

If you are ready to add a deck worthy of distinction to your home contact Archadeck of Columbus to learn more. (740) 879 – 3730
westcolumbus@archadeck.net

You can also visit our photo galleries to view many more innovative and beautiful deck designs at  http://columbus.archadeck.com/pickYourProject/Decks.html

A low-to-grade photo gallery in the Columbus OH area

There are multiple benefits to a low-to-grade as we will write about in the next blog post. We have quite a few photos for design ideas so we wanted to share a photo gallery for inspiration if you’re considering a low-to-grade deck.

#1

Columbus low to grade composite deck with pergola
Columbus low to grade composite deck with pergola

#2

Columbus low to grade deck Floating Bench Flaired Steps Delaware County OH
Columbus low to grade deck Floating Bench Flared Steps Delaware County OH

#3

Columbus low to grade Deck with Corner Gazebo
Columbus low to grade Deck with Corner Gazebo

#4

Columbus low to grade double deck with firepit
Columbus low to grade double deck with firepit

#5

Columbus low to grade Timbertech composite deck multiple levels and Gazebo for hot tub.
Columbus low to grade TimberTech composite deck multiple levels and Gazebo for hot tub.

#6

Double low to grade deck in Columbus OH with fire pit
Double low to grade deck in Columbus OH with fire pit

#7

Low to grade Columbus deck with hot tub
Low to grade Columbus deck with hot tub

#8

Low to grade deck Powell Ohio Delaware County Ohio
Low to grade deck Powell Ohio Delaware County Ohio

#9

Low to grade Poolside Deck with Pergola and Privacy Fence Columbus OH
Low to grade Poolside Deck with Pergola and Privacy Fence Columbus OH

#10

Multi-level Timbertech XLM Deck low to grade Columbus OH
Multi-level TimberTech XLM Deck low to grade Columbus OH

#11

Multiple Level Pine Deck with low to grade in Powell Delaware County OH
Multiple Level Pine Deck with low to grade in Powell Delaware County OH

#12

Poolside low to grade Timbertech Deck in Columbus OH
Poolside low to grade TimberTech Deck in Columbus OH

#13

Timbertech low to grade Deck and Screen Porch in Columbus
TimberTfech low to grade Deck and Screen Porch in Columbus

Watch Jake and Kyle beat up TimberTech Earthwood Evolutions and TimberTech XLM

Can two young Columbus boys damage TimberTech Earthwood Evolutions and/or TimberTech XLM?

How much damage can two young boys do with 2 hammers, 2 wire brushes, chalk and mud? Watch their valiant effort.

More on wood plastic composites vs. PVC decking

Wood plastic composite? Cellular PVC? Or, the new combination product called TimberTech Earthwood Essentials? We can help you make the choice.

Timbertech XLM - Sand Ridge and Mountain Cedar border
Timbertech XLM - Sand Ridge and Mountain Cedar border

One of our most popular blog posts last year was my post about wood plastic composites vs. PVC decking. For most of us, we will likely only have a deck, patio, porch or sunroom built onto the back of our house once or twice. If you’ve started to do any research on decking materials, you know that there are what seems like too many choices. On top of that, no single choice easily stands out as the best.

Well, you are not alone. This is what I do all day long and I feel the same way. The number and types and brands of products on the market are constantly growing and improving. So even my knowledge today is greatly expanded over last year because of the sheer speed of growth and change and product introductions with composite and PVC decking materials.

Azek Harvest Series - Brownstone
Azek Harvest Series - Brownstone Color

When I wrote the last post, you had to decide between composite or PVC. The latest product combines the best of both worlds. There is a new product called a wrapped or capped product that is a wood plastic composite with a PVC wrapped cap. In short, it’s cellular PVC on the outside and wood composite on the inside. Why is this the best of both worlds? Well, PVC has some advantages over straight composites – namely the fain and stain resistance. Although composites have strong protection against fade and stain, they do not compare to cellular PVC. On the other hand, solid PVC products are more expensive but the greatest benefit is having the PVC on the outside. So, a capped product really is the best of both worlds.

TimberTech Earthwood Essentials Deck
The completed TimberTech Earthwood Evolutions deck: A beautiful deck for a beautiful cause

Here’s what’s new on the market. TimberTech is one of the premier composite decking lines on the market – and for good reason. Not only are they based out of Columbus (great place to live) but they are very good at what they do. Their product is durable, strong, scratch resistant, mildew resistant and you do not need to paint, stain or seal it. It’s truly a low maintenance product. TimberTech stands behind their product with a 25 year warranty.

TimberTech has a PVC product line called TimberTech XLM. It’s a great product and I use it in my building quite a bit. As I said above, a solid PVC product is more expensive than a solid wood composite.

In the past, two things were not covered in the warranty of TimberTech’s wood plastic composites – stain and fade protection. Cellular PVC has the ultimate stain and fade resistance so the new TimberTech capped product called TimberTech Earthwood Evolutions has the best of both worlds.

It would be easy if the physical characteristics and warranty were the only factors to consider when choosing a decking material. But, after we make an intellectual decision, we then need to make the aesthetic decision. Every company’s composite or PVC line has different colors. And, from company to company those colors are different. We all know that what one company calls gray or tan is different than what another company calls gray or tan. Have you ever tried to pick out a shade of taupe at Home Depot or Lowes? I did this recently. Once I spent 30 minutes trying desperately to pick the best taupe out of the 39 shades of taupe, then I realized the next company had their 49 shades of taupe.

Columbus paver patio deck and landscaping
Columbus paver patio deck with landscaping customer design drawing

When picking color on composite or PVC decking, it’s a little bit easier. You won’t find 39 or 49 shades of each color. There will be a handful of total colors to choose from. And, yes, one company’s version of a color will be different than another company’s version. To make the decision a little more complex, the composite companies are now getting much more adept at adding the design characteristics that make these materials look more real – things like streaks.

Thinking about making this decision is probably making you tired. But, it’s good time and energy. Your composite or PVC deck is going to last 25 – 30 years or more – warrantied!  And that’s what I’m here to help you with. I have no allegiance to any of the companies. I work with TimberTech, Azek, Fiberon Horizon and other composite and PVC brands. I will bring you samples to touch and feel and compare. After reading this blog and touching and feeling the products, you will likely have a fairly good idea about what you want.

Michael Reeder, Archadeck of Columbus
Michael Reeder, Archadeck of Columbus

Give me a ring to talk about your next outdoor project. My consultation is free and you can tell I love what I do and discussing the merits of the various materials as well as discussing the pros and cons of the different structure choices. I can help you with deciding whether a screened porch, deck, patio, or sunroom is the best fit for you. I can give you guidance for making your choice on the materials. And Archadeck stands behind what we do with our own warranty. When you work with me, you get a design rendering of exactly what your project will look like. I like no surprises and a consultative selling approach so that’s what I give my customers.

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. 

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.

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.

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