Columbus low-to-grade decks – Columbus Decks, Porches and Patios by Archadeck of Columbus

Top 6 reasons a low-to-grade deck may make sense for you

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

Decks that are very low to the ground are called low-to-grade decks. Low-to-grade decks are suitable in so many situations and popular with a variety of clients, especially with those who have flat yards.

Top 4 reasons low-to-grade decks make a whole lot of sense:

Mobility: Customers with friends or family with mobility issues love these decks because of their easy accessibility.
Toddlers? Young grandchildren? Situated so close to the ground, they work well for families with young children.
Dislike heights? For some people, being on a lower outdoor space is just more comfortable thank being on a more elevated space.
Yoga anyone? A low-to-grade deck creates a “zen deck” feeling.
Your dog or cat: If you have timid pets who dislike stairs or rambunctious pets who can easily scale tall sets of stairs in a single bound, a low deck might be the favorite for your pets.
Transitions: today’s homeowners think about the whole picture. They think about how their deck transitions to their patio and how those spaces connect to their yard. A low deck welcomes you to the surrounding spaces with the easy transition.

Flat yard? Is a patio a better choice?

low maintenance vinyl screen porch Columbus — You don’t necessarily have to choose between a deck and patio.

Deck, patio? Patio, deck? Which to choose? Archadeck can consult with you about the pros and cons of the various options. Working with a contractor that has installed many decks and many patios can help you decide which type of outdoor living space will work best for the way you want to live outside. Here is a little insight about both kinds of spaces. In general, a structure such as a deck is going to cost more than a patio. Obviously the building materials that you select will impact the overall cost, but the carpenters who build a deck are skilled tradesmen and are more expensive to hire than a patio installer. Another consideration is that in most jurisdictions a patio is considered landscaping and not an off-the-ground structure, so no permits are required.

It may not sound logical, but decks lower than 18” from the ground can require more time and effort than a deck that is more than 18” off the ground. We use post and beam construction which is the most efficient way to build a deck, but at heights under 18” we have to excavate to fit all the necessary parts into that small area. Throwing one more number at you: railings are optional on decks under 30”. Decks and patios with fewer extras like railings and built-in seating are generally less expensive.

Your vision for how you want to integrate pathways, landscaping, or other yard features will influence your choice. Ultimately, the kind of project you build should be driven by how you want to use that space. Regardless of whether you decide patio or deck or both, Archadeck of Columbus would love to meet with you to see your yard, listen to your concerns and preferences and then help design and build a project you can proudly call part of your home.

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.

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.

Archadeck of Columbus introduces the new Terrain line to TimberTech and more railing options for 2013

Archadeck of Columbus unveils the TimberTech additions for 2013, Terrain decking and Feeney Cable Rail. These two additions mean more choices and more beauty can be yours with a custom outdoor space from us.

TimberTech_new_decking — TimberTech unveils their new Terrain line and new railing options as well for 2013

Just when we thought the TimberTech product line couldn’t get any better, there is a new introduction to their new line of synthetic decking called TimberTech Terrain. Terrain is a wood and plastic capstock product that is similar in many ways to the popular Earthwood Evolutions line. The Terrain line features a thinner profile, similar to the TimberTech Reliaboard line, but with the same attributes that makes homeowner’s flock to the Earthwood Evolutions line at about 30% lower cost.

TimberTech Terrain — This picture shows both colors of the Terrain line.

Capstock is a term that depicts a synthetic board with a composite core which is wrapped (hence the term capped), with a PVC shell. According to a press release from TimberTech “In its second year, Earthwood Evolutions continues to exceed expectations for aesthetics and scratch, stain and fade resistance, said Toby Bostwick, director of product management for TimberTech. “From the Terrain Collection, customers can expect the same high performance qualities, backed by the same 25-year fade and stain warranty as our other Evolutions planks.” This means more of a good thing from the TimberTech line.

Terrain comes in two neutral colors; Brown Oak which is a deep brown, and Silver Maple which is dark gray. Both these new colors were formulated to complement any of the other TimberTech products and their vast color palettes. As with the Earthwoods Evolutions, we also have the ability to conceal lock fasteners so you won’t see any fasteners providing a clean, cohesive appearance.

New railing options for TimberTech for 2013

With the new introduction of the Terrain line, TimberTech also joins forces in 2013 with Feeney Cable Rail. These railings are very desirable because they deliver an unobscured view in your outdoor space. The same aesthetics that have made the design of the “endless pool” so popular among pool owners is the same design basis with Feeney cable railings. Both provide a clear view into your landscape and backyard. The concept really opens up a space, allows for more visual interest, and makes your outdoor space appear more spacious. Feeney is a significantly higher-end product but customers agree it is worth it for the added beauty it provides in your outdoor space.

RadianceRail in the style of Feeney Cable Rail, endless views and endless beauty.

Archadeck of Columbus looks forward to the opportunity of using these new TimberTech additions in the field in 2013. More choices and diverse options always make for a happy customer!

If you are planning to add a synthetic deck, or porch to your backyard in the New Year, contact Archadeck of Columbus to learn more about TimberTech and all the other great synthetic options we offer. Call today for a free consultation (740) 879 – 3730
westcolumbus@archadeck.net

Visit our composite and PVC (vinyl) deck gallery located on our website to see more stunning examples of TimberTech decks and railing options we have available.

The top 10 most colorful reasons to choose Archadeck of Columbus for your new TimberTech deck

Archadeck of Columbus takes you on a trip through the many beautiful colors to build your new TimberTech deck from.

With all the new composites that are on the scene, each manufacturer has their own color palette to choose from. In our experience working with many different synthetic decking brands, among the most beautiful composite undoubtedly has to be TimberTech. The TimberTech line offers superior scratch, stain and fade resistance, this means the lovely color your deck starts out with is the color it will keep. Much of Timbertech’s decking also rivals the look of real wood with graining and undulation so close to the real thing you have to walk right up on it to tell it is indeed synthetic. Since TimberTech offers a wide array of beautiful colors to choose from to build your new deck, we only thought it fitting to take a closer look at some of their most popular hues.

1) This stunning first and second story deck in Powell, OH was completed with TimberTech XLM in Harvest Bronze, with a coordinating TimberTech Radiance rail. The space also features built-in bench seating and planters for a seamless space that becomes one with the lush landscape surrounding the area.

2) A golf course plays as the backdrop to the unique deck in the Muirfield community of Dublin, OH which is shown below. We used TimberTech Earthwood Evolutions decking in Teak with a Walnut border and streamlined cable rail. A true masterpiece.

3) This deck also features TimberTech’s Earthwood Evolutions in Teak with a Walnut trim and parting board. Notice how closely this deck mimics the look of real wood with shading and graining throughout.

4) An aerial view of this gorgeous TimberTech Earthwood Evolutions deck lends a bird’s-eye view of the colors and patterning. We paired Walnut alongside black aluminum railings for a beautiful contrast.

5) The low-to-grade deck in Columbus, OH shown below showcases the beauty of TimberTech’s XLM decking in Sandridge with Mountain Cedar trim.

6) This multi-level deck flows graciously with the lines and colors of this existing home. We used a winning combination of TimberTech Earthwood in Walnut with a stained cedar rail alongside black aluminum pickets.

7) This outdoor living combination in Columbus, OH includes a TimberTech XLM deck in Walnut Grove with a low maintenance white vinyl rail. The deck spills onto a charming hardscape patio area below.

8) This Columbus low-to-grade deck includes multi-levels and a gazebo which houses a hot tub for enhanced enjoyment. The deck is constructed from TimberTech Twin Finish decking in Gray.

9) Another low-to-grade beauty in Columbus, OH finished with TimberTech XLM. This palette is breathtaking in Rustic Bark with a black Radiance rail.

10) This deck has a stunning curved design and was completed using TimberTech Twin Finish in Cedar with an ornamental rail.

If you are looking for a quality low-maintenance deck that comes in a myriad of beautiful tones. A TimberTech by Archadeck of Columbus may be just what you are looking for. Contact us today to learn more about TimberTech decks and our many other outdoor structure designs. We can help make your outdoor living dreams a reality. Call for a free consultation at (740) 879 – 3730
westcolumbus@archadeck.net

To see more examples of the beauty of TimberTech decks, you can visit our composite and PVC deck gallery located on our website.

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 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.

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.