May is National Home Improvement Month. At first blush, this doesn’t sound like much fun; in fact, it sounds a lot like work, but it has tremendous potential to change the way you look at and live in your home. What parts of your home do you enjoy the most? What would you like to change? What could you add or improve in your home that would make you want to spend more time in it? Home improvement isn’t just about fixing a sagging door or replacing shrubberies. It’s about reimagining your family’s home as you would love it to be.
The National Association of the Remodeling Industry offers a terrific “Top 10” useful tips for preparing for a project for free on their website. The list is comprehensive and applicable to almost any project that involves a contracter: a wonderful resource. It’s in the format of a press release, but don’t let that throw you. The information in it is something every homeowner should know.
After you’ve spent some time thinking about what you’d like and doing a little research about various project options on the internet and elsewhere, don’t forget to take a few minutes to give some thought to what the potential Return on Investment (ROI) for the project is likely to be. Various industry groups do annual surveys that provide numbers on this subject, but I’d like to share a few from my line of business.
In the Columbus area, the average cost for a composite deck addition runs about $16,675 and improves the home’s value by about half of that. A Columbus wood deck has an even better ROI, returning about 67% of the cost immediately to your home’s bottom line. These numbers might not sound impressive, but they are higher than those for many other common projects like bathroom additions and roofing replacement. Remember: the real payoff is in the months and years you enjoy spending time with friends and family on your new Columbus patio or deck. The ROI is just a bonus you enjoy at home sale time.
If you’re thinking about adding an outdoor living space to your Columbus backyard, give us a call to see how we can make creating your dream backyard an enjoyable experience, start to finish. The consultation is completely free. Call (740) 879 – 3730, email us at westcolumbus@archadeck.net or visit our website at columbus.archadeck.com. We look forward to connecting with you.
As part two of our 3-part series exploring top design trends, Archadeck of Columbus explores the top 16 trends in decks among homeowners in our region, and all across the country.
The deck of your dreams is just a phone call away at Archadeck of Columbus!
Archadeck of Columbus is in what many would call an enviable position. We have the opportunity to meet with homeowners around Columbus throughout the year and get to hear what they like, what they are looking for and what type of things they are contracting us to build in their backyards. As 2013 will soon be drawing to a close, we would like to share some of the trends we’re seeing on the front line.
As part two of this 3-part series exploring top design trends, Archadeck of Columbus explores the top 16 trends we’ve seen in our market.
Top 16…
#1) The use of roofed structures on top of decks – Currently, we are seeing a high demand for roofed structures on decks. Roofed outdoor structures include covered porches, screened porches and even 3- and 4-season rooms. The trend toward these covered structures indicates that homeowners are entertaining more and investing in their home’s living space more via the outdoor room. Having a roofed structure adds both shade and comfort to a deck space.
#2) Combination of a deck with other structures such as a patio or porch -The great part combining your deck with a porch or patio, is that it is the perfect add-on to give you those multiple outdoor living areas that you really want. A patio can be added with a new or existing deck at any time. Adding a patio to your deck is a great way to spice it up and put that spark back into your outdoor entertaining as well enhance the beauty in your backyard. Adding a porch will extend the function of your outdoor space and provide shade and shelter from inclement weather. If considering a screened porch and deck combination, you will also gain protection from hungry insects too!
TimberTech Evolutions Terrain is more affordable than other composites.
#3) The availability of more affordable composites for your deck – Up until recently, all high-quality composites came with a price tag to match. There has been a new addition to the composite line 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.
#4) More available decking board textures – New synthetic decking materials have a little more cleft in them which replicate more of a natural wood texture. Many decking companies are doing their best to make synthetics look far more like real wood than in years past.
#5) Contrasting color choices – Combining contrasting rails and decking add character and style to your deck. Even if you are considering a deck built with wood, you can stain your railing a different color to add contrast.
#6) The use of thin profile aluminum or cable railing – Thinner, lower profile railing will not impede visibility into your backyard or outdoor space.These include architectural rail such as Feeney Cable rail and many others. Not only will using less obtrusive railing open up the view, it gives your deck an upscale elegance with a contemporary feel. If using wooden decking, you can also get the same effect by using more upgraded pickets.
This deck was built using TimberTech Earthwood Evolutions- beautiful.
#7) Integrating different colors within the deck itself – Today’s decks aren’t always one color. Archadeck of Columbus is constantly asked to integrate additional colors into homeowners’ decks through picture framing and parting boards. Additional colors are sometimes used to highlight a specific part of the deck, such as a dining or living area. By adding colors you can also accentuate the dimensions of your deck. By thinking outside the box when using colors, you can turn your outdoor living space into a one-of-kind work of art!
#8) More use of exotic woods such as Ipe and other Brazilian hardwoods – There is a growing trend among homeowners choosing to build their deck with Brazilian hardwoods such as Ipe. Ipe is simply beautiful. Along with the rich wood tone and natural streaking that sets this exotic hardwood apart from all others, it is also strong – so strong in fact, holes need to be pre-drilled prior to installation. Ipe looks the part, and performs the part. It requires less maintenance than other hardwoods and when left untreated will weather to an elegant dove-gray over time.
#9) Deck lighting is a big trend – Lighting adds safety and ambiance to your deck. We install a huge amount of LED lighting into deck risers and posts, rail posts and even integrate lighting into the floor of the deck. Deck lighting will extend the function of your deck into the evening hours and give your space a romantic feel that invites you to linger a while longer.
#10) Stairs – Stairs are now wider and more decorative than the minimum code of 3 feet. We also design stairs that are more aesthetically interesting like flared stairs or landing with integrated seating. The reason behind this is because homeowners want wider stairs to create more seating options. It also helps balance larger and more elaborate deck designs.
2nd story deck in Delaware County, OH with finished under deck space.
#11) Multiple stairs for traffic flow – Archadeck of Columbus thinks about the flow of your entire backyard, not just the simplest way to get from here to there. We place heavy consideration on exactly where your stairs should be placed to offer the most benefit, and many times we integrate more than one set of stairs to add function and harmony to your space.
#12) Under deck systems for elevated decks – More and more, homeowners are looking to utilize the “under deck” so their elevated decks become viable outdoor living spaces. By implementing an under deck rainwater carrying system such as Dry Snap, or outdoor ceiling systems like Inside Out into an elevated or 2nd story deck, you can create a under deck space that functions like a covered porch or patio.
#13) Balusters – Options for balusters are huge! In terms of distinction and design, balusters come with a myriad of design options. These include balusters topped with decorative finials, arches, baroque styles and even integrated lighting with the baluster itself Archadeck of Columbus uses a lot of Deckorators balusters because they are a high-quality product that offers many options to the homeowner.
#14) Lattice is out – and so is skirting – Skirting is sometimes requested, but we do not recommend it because it takes away from the view and surrounding landscaping. In addition, a skirted portion of your under deck space can inadvertently become the perfect spot for wildlife.
This wide set of stairs allows for easy traffic flow between the deck and patio. The stairs also include riser lights for visibility in the evening.
#15) We foresee the trend towards more electrical considerations – Homeowners are now asking for some hardwired plugs within their new deck. These outlets are installed for varied purposes including plugging in space heaters, laptop computers and even to operate holiday lighting along their deck railings. As technology advances, so does the increase in varied places available to utilize those technologies, including outdoor spaces.
#16) Gorgeous outdoor furnishings and accessories – Even though we don’t build it, we would be remiss at not mentioning the benefit eye-catching furnishings and accoutrements add to your completed outdoor living space. Just like the suit is said to make the man, outdoor furniture makes the deck. Finishing out your space with comfy couches and chairs featuring oversized pillows is hugely popular, as is using pillows and cushions covered with weather resistant Sunbrella fabrics. Many of today’s contemporary outdoor furniture designs also use streamlined design with deeper seating with less of an emphasis on a slender leg. Stacked resin furniture is wildly popular right now. The trend we see throughout outdoor furniture design is taking the comfort and easy feel of your living room into the exterior. Homeowner’s are leaning toward outdoor furniture that mimics the comfort and loftiness of their favorite couch or easy chair but with low-maintenance outdoor fabric choices.
Michael Reeder, Archadeck of Columbus
If you are starting to think about adding a new outdoor space to your Columbus area home, give Archadeck of Columbus a call for a free consultation. We can help you plan and design an outdoor space that suits your individual function with a cutting edge deck, patio or porch addition.
(740) 879 – 3730 westcolumbus@archadeck.net
Take a look at our extensive deck photo galleries by visiting our website today!
Archadeck of Columbus takes a peek inside a one of a kind custom gazebo and deck combination project we just completed.
This image depicts our initial design for this Columbus outdoor oasis.
Our most recent project is located in Columbus, OH and incorporates an outdoor living design that defines thinking out of the box. These homeowners contacted Archadeck of Columbus to explore building an extension onto their existing deck as well as a custom gazebo addition to house their hot tub. By making their deck space larger and building a specialized area set aside for the hot tub, the homeowners wanted to add functional space and a private place to enjoy the hot tub.
Upon meeting with the Columbus homeowners and becoming familiar with the aesthetics, function and investment objective that best suited their needs we then proceeded to
TimberTech synthetic deck to go with their gazebo hot tub
design their outdoor oasis.We began by extending their existing deck and re-decking the area with low maintenance TimberTech Earthwoods Evolutions decking. This same decking was also used in the floor of the custom gazebo addition. The homeowners chose to use the beautiful Walnut color flooring as it adds a deep, rich feel to the entire addition. The Earthwoods Evolutions line of decking from TimberTech works great on pool and spa decks because it is capped with a protected polymer shell. The plank is resistant to the elements and everyday accidents endured by most decks. Earthwood Evolutions’ 25-year Fade and Stain Warranty also gives homeowners total peace of mind.
Spa-ing in style in Columbus
The spacious 15 x 15 custom gazebo includes a luxurious recessed hot tub. Opting to recess the spa not only increases ease of access when using the hot tub, it also gives the interior of the gazebo an open feel. The gazebo is built in a unique octagonal shape. We installed a 24″ knee wall on all angles (minus the door).
What’s better than a hot tub gazebo? How about having a Buckeye grill cover on your adjacent grill!!
We kept the gazebo original to the home by matching the shingles we used to the ones on the home, and we also matched the exterior vinyl finish to the vinyl used on the home. Archadeck of Columbus took the custom look a step farther by wrapping the gazebos’ columns with beautiful Paulownia hardwood and installing lattice around the openings of the gazebo which have plantation shutters. The use of lattice on the gazebo gives the space an Asian feel that is ambiguous to the Zen inspired outdoor spaces readily seen in upscale home and garden magazines.
This outdoor living space clearly defines an area inspired by the principles of Zen, which involves a total state of focus that incorporate a total togetherness of body and mind. Zen is a way of being and a state of mind. From the open deck to the tranquil gazebo interior specially designed for relaxation and renewal, this project takes comfort to a whole new level.
Don’t forget the flat screen TV in your ultimate soaking oasis!
If you are thinking of an outdoor living space addition to your backyard, but are looking for a unique design that reflects your individuality or special needs, contact Archadeck of Columbus today. We can design an outdoor living oasis especially for you that is truly one of a kind. Call us today for a free consultation (740) 879 – 3730 westcolumbus@archadeck.net
Archadeck of Columbus highlights the master plan of a present clients phased building master plan. The project is underway now and we are giving you exclusive access into this Columbus, OH dream backyard project.
This ultimate Columbus, OH dream backyard is the master plan of one homeowner’s staged building project currently underway.
Our last story provided insight into our phased building program. Phased or staged building begins with a master plan to your ultimate backyard which can be built in phases, or over years, to accommodate your budget and your lifestyle. Phased building allows you to feel like you have a new backyard during each stage of your backyard extension. Take a look at this master plan and and the phased plan to achieve this dream space. This particular project is the epitome of a dream backyard space.
Phase one
Phase one begins closest to the house with the deck and pergola. It is always a good idea to begin your master plan working outward from your home. The primary reason for starting closest to your home is to ensure less lifestyle interruption. It also ensures that all primary structures are tied into your home structurally as you build out from the initial phase. There is less room to overcome unforeseen obstacles that may arise when you begin a job working from the outside back to your home.
This dream backyard begins with a stunning low maintenance deck and pergola combination.
On the low-maintenance composite deck you will see a picture frame border with decorative inlays. To define the dining area on the new deck we are integrating a secondary color inlay for definition and contrast. The deck will include built-ins for added convenience such as a bench with storage underneath. Little touches like this that add convenience to your outdoor living space and will enhance your enjoyment for years to come. The skirting around the base of the deck includes the lines needed for the future pool addition underneath. Preparing the space for future development will ensure there is no reason to tear the skirting out when the conduit and plumbing are installed for the pool. The first phase also involves planning ahead for the intended landscaping design. It is important to have a design plan drawn up along with our master plan to ensure we are able to integrate the inline landscaping along with your design. Archadeck of Columbus will work in unison with your landscaper and your pool or spa installer to ensure every detail is accounted for and to facilitate each phase of your project. We also work with your electrician and plumber to get all your lines placed in advance to avoid retrofitting in the future. Laying the foundations for the additional phases of your master plan is an important part of the first phase of your project.
Completing the pergola is also an important part of the initial phase. The pergola in this project attaches to the existing home and will provide shade to the deck. The pergola also adds beauty and character to the deck and rear of the home. This pergola will serve as much for function as aesthetics as part of the completed master plan.
Phase two
Phase two includes the addition of a backyard pool and the paver patio surround. This includes the patio area which will become part of the poolside pavilion. This phase is set to take place during this calendar year. The hardscape spaces will include two distinct rounded patio areas. One of the patios will serve as a spot for a large dining table or lounge chairs and the other rounded patio will serve as outdoor entertaining space. The patio construction will include running conduit underneath for the pool as well.
Since the Conduit and lines for the pool are already ran under the deck and patio areas installing the pool will not disturb these completed areas during this, the second phase of the project. We anticipate the pool installation to run smoothly because of the prior preparations during this phase and phase one of the project.
Phase three
This phase is to include the covered patio next to the new pool and the execution of the homeowner’s landscape design. The covered patio is to be built using a hip roof to match the roof of the existing home. The roof will be supported by round fiberglass columns. The design also allows the interior of the pavilion an open, airy cathedral ceiling. The completed covered patio will also boast large exposed cedar beams along with a cedar tongue and groove ceiling. These features will add a rustic flair to the covered patio design. Abundant lighting and ceiling fans are included in the finished interior space. The preparations to accommodate the electrical plan for the covered patio were planned as part of our previous phases so this portion of the phase will run smooth as silk.
The final chapter
The final phase of the master plan to this dream backyard includes an outdoor kitchen and outdoor fireplace within the covered patio completed in the previous phase. The outdoor kitchen area will give the homeowners a bar area that can also serve for additional seating and food preparation. A bar element within your outdoor kitchen allows the person preparing the food and the ones dining to share the same space instead of having separate spaces. It has always been said that the kitchen is the heart of the home and in this outdoor kitchen design the same rings true. Delivering two functions in one space enhances the whole experience.
The final phase of this project will include the addition of the outdoor kitchen and fireplace within the covered patio completed in phase three of the project.
The outdoor fireplace will provide a perfect spot for relaxing as well as entertaining. Nothing says relaxation quite like the crackle of a fire! Since the fireplace is under the chimney and there is an existing gas line to the chimney the homeowner plans to incorporate the gas into the chimney during the final phase of the project.
To be continued….
Like with many of our completed phased building projects, there is usually room for additional outdoor living space in the future. These homeowners may decide at a later date to add a pergola over one of the circular paver patios, or even an area to facilitate a spa. Once their space is complete they can enjoy all the outdoor living opportunities to come.
Michael Reeder, Archadeck of Columbus
If you have a vision of your dream backyard but you’re not ready to complete it all at one time, our phased building program is the perfect answer. We can bring the backyard of your dreams to life one beautiful stage at a time. Contact Archadeck of Columbus to learn more about our innovative approach to outdoor structure building. Call now for a free consultation (740) 879 – 3730 westcolumbus@archadeck.net
Archadeck of Columbus explores the design and color trends in synthetic decking for 2013, what’s hot, what’s not and the importance of choosing the right decking material and color to express your style.
Choosing the right color for your new synthetic deck can be a daunting task, we can help.
Choosing the right color for your new synthetic deck can be a daunting task. Colors in general are a very personal detail of any project. In most cases homeowners will make their color selections based on complimenting the deck color to that of their home or contrasting with their home. Each of these approaches to choosing a color for your deck can be quite powerful, but therein is where the problem can lie; choosing the right hue even when dealing with neutrals can open up a wide spectrum of choices. Too many choices can lead to confusion and uncertainty. Nowadays, brown is more than just a singular shade. There are a wide range of browns that start from light to dark and everything in between. With synthetic decking, there may be a dozen natural tone options.
If you can’t match the color of your new deck perfectly to the color of your home, don’t fret. Most houses have basic colorations of brown, gray or white, whether these colors are part of the hues in your masonry or whether they are the colors of your siding or trim. If your home has white siding for example, white is the perfect companion to any color you choose for your synthetic decking.
This deck was completed in Walnut from the TimberTech Earthwoods Evolution line of decking.
Even though the New Year has just begun, we have already seen new color trends emerge from some of the top synthetic decking manufacturers. We work closely with these companies to keep homeowners “in the know” about what is new, what is popular and what we foresee as being hot for 2013. Some of the up and coming colors are brown hues, which also include streaked colors that give the decking a more exotic feel closer to the look of natural hardwoods. With brownish tones, there are numerous choices such as light browns and dark browns that mimic the look of Walnut which is really popular right now. Walnut in the TimberTech Earthwood Evolutions line is highly requested among our customers, as well as Walnut Grove which is a TimberTech XLM color. The only drawback to using a dark brown is that they indeed show dirt more easily than a lighter brown, much like a dark colored car seems to get dusty more often. Dark colors also retain more heat and are hotter to the touch. If the orientation of your deck receives a great deal of sun, this is an important consideration. Along with the many browns, there are also a lot of grays, and even reddish hues that resemble rust or terra-cotta tones. These hues are not requested as often as earth tones.
This multi-level deck and gazebo finished in AZEK Brownstone with vinyl rails.
AZEK synthetic decking also has a myriad of beautiful hues to choose from when considering color selections. One of their most popular colors is Acacia which is part of their beautiful Brownstone collection. Acacia is a darker brown with all the undulation and streaking that closely matches natural wood. Another great color by AZEK is Brownstone from their Harvest collection. Brownstone incorporates the best of both worlds by covering the realm of both gray and brown in this color. It makes a fabulous choice for contrast and complimentary color selections.
If you really are set on exactly matching your deck to the color of your home, you may consider choosing an all wood product as opposed to a synthetic deck. With wood, you can match it easily to any color by simply applying stain. Wood is also a less expensive investment to make when compared to synthetics. If you do however choose an exotic hardwood such as Ipe, then it is likely the price point will be about the same as synthetic. Exotic hardwoods have a lot of character including wood graining which resembles the graining and details of an interior walnut hardwood floor. These woods are dense and require more labor, which can be more expensive, because the holes have to be pre-drilled prior to installation.
Ipe exotic hardwood deck in Columbus, OH.
All wood has to be stained or sealed. It’s never a good idea to paint a deck. Painting a deck can result in bubbling and it will also peel off very quickly, just imagine what our interior walls would look like if we walked on them?! We urge you to have your outdoor living structure professional steer you in the right direction to make the most informed decision on choosing your deck’s color. Remember, if you find a color you like there are always ways to bring your home’s color into your space. Whether you apply your home’s color to vertical accessories or by matching your house or house trim, there is always a fabulous way to pull it all together.
If you are ready to turn your backyard into a design masterpiece this year, contact Archadeck of Columbus to learn how.We can turn your outdoor space into a thing of beauty and joy. Call for a free consultation today (740) 879 – 3730 westcolumbus@archadeck.net
There is more to choosing the perfect color palette for your new deck or outdoor space than meets the eye. Archadeck of Columbus emphasizes the importance of choosing the right color in order to get the most enjoyment from your space.
This deck is built using TimberTech decking in the Sandridge color. Not only does the color choice work with the colors of the home beautifully, it stays cooler because it is a lighter color. This is a good color if your deck faces south or west and receives a good deal of sun.
Color is an amazing thing. Not only does color effect our visual perception of an object or space, it can also affect our mood and even our health. Choosing the right color or combination of colors, for your deck or outdoor space is important. Many times so much thought is put into the shape, size and location of your deck that choosing the color seems like an afterthought. Choosing the right hue can impact not only how you view your outdoor space, it can also impact the amount of enjoyment you get out of your structure as well.
River Rock is a TimberTech color which appeals to homeowners looking for a gray or taupe color for their deck.
Once you have chosen a contractor for your outdoor structure, hopefully they have helped provide suggestions on color choices. I know not having the tools and knowledge available to make an informed color choice can become frustrating. My wife and I are in the process of selecting colors for our new interior carpet and the miniscule 1 x 1 samples on carpet boards make it difficult to make a solid choice. Much can be said with other aspects of color selections within the interior and exterior of your home. Who invented those tiny paint chips anyway?
In this business, when it comes to decking materials, synthetics are a great product. Unfortunately, many synthetics offer only a limited number of color choices. Even though the biggest and best names such as AZEK and TimberTech introduce new color selections each year, they are still limited to maybe 8-12 choices at any given time. This makes choosing the right color a little more complicated. In order to get the most out of your outdoor investment we recommend taking certain factors into consideration when making your color selection.
This TimberTech Earthwoods deck combines contrast through the white railings, and the decking color compliments the home but is not an exact match.
Orientation of the sun
Orientation of the sun should play a key role in the material you choose to finish your deck or outdoor space in as well as the color. What direction does your back yard face? If it faces the south or west then you won’t get a lot of shade. Since synthetic decking materials like composites and darker colors retain more heat a lighter hue may make your best choice. This is especially true if you enjoy going barefoot on your deck. Choosing a lighter color composite or choosing to build with a natural wood medium will help keep those toes cooler.
Studies have shown that composites retain more heat than wood because they are denser. Wood is a naturally good insulator and breathes unlike a synthetic. This enables the surface to stay cooler and hold less heat. This may not factor into your color or material choice as a make-or-break issue, but if you live in a warmer part of the country shaving a few degrees off the outdoor temperature can make a big difference.
Contrast can be breathtaking. This decking is a complete contrast to the home, but was designed with matching rails.
Compliment or contrast the colors of your house
When it comes to selecting colors, one idea is to bring in the colors that surround your planned outdoor space. What is the color scheme of your house? Even though you likely won’t be able to achieve an exact match to your home’s color, you will be able to get fairly close. Maybe consider choosing a lighter shade with the same base tint as your home’s exterior. Or choose a darker shade for an elegant color scheme. This falls into a complimentary color scheme and can deliver a well-rounded approach to choosing a color. If you want to match your decking color with your home you can do so by picking up the colors on different areas of your deck. For example, if you install a wood rail you may stain it match the color of your home. This would create a scenario where the decking surface differs from the rail and adds contrast which is also good.
If you plan to build an outdoor living combination such as a deck and patio combination make sure to pick your decking color first. It is easier to match your hardscape or paver colors to the deck than the other way around.
This white vinyl pergola works in unison with a TimberTech composite deck in Cedar with white vinyl railings, and the home which is stucco.
Do your homework
Many of the synthetic decking websites have valuable color selecting tools that will aid in choosing your perfect color. TimberTech provides a TimberTech color visualizer on their website that actually enables you to build a virtual custom deck. You have the ability to change the colors on the rails, balusters, posts and many other details to try each hue on for size. On the AZEK website there is a vast AZEK gallery of photos that has a plethora of examples of their colors and how they look in different scenarios and combinations from railing to trim.
We’d love to provide suggestions and guidance from our experience. We have the knowledge of what is hot in terms of colors on the market, and what is not. Our personal favorite is Pacific Teak from TimberTech’s Earthwood line. Reddish tones are not popular in the Columbus area, and gray is making somewhat of a comeback especially with homeowners who have a gray home.
This color combination is truly a match made in heaven.
We provide many references and we highly encourage people to look at recent jobs we’ve completed to see what the decking looks like in “real-time”. Even if you feel comfortable with your builder, it is always a good idea to go and see real-life examples of their work. Contact Archadeck of Columbus to help you plan, design and build your perfect outdoor space. We can assist you with every aspect of the design and construction of your deck including choosing the hue that best suits you!
Archadeck of Columbus gives you the top 5 reasons to build a composite/synthetic deck.
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.
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?
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.
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?
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.
May is National Home Improvement Month. At first blush, this doesn’t sound like much fun; in fact, it sounds a lot like work, but it has tremendous potential to change the way you look at and live in your home. What parts of your home do you enjoy the most? What would you like to change? What could you add or improve in your home that would make you want to spend more time in it? Home improvement isn’t just about fixing a sagging door or replacing shrubberies. It’s about reimagining your family’s home as you would love it to be.
The National Association of the Remodeling Industry offers a terrific “Top 10” useful tips for preparing for a project for free on their website. The list is comprehensive and applicable to almost any project that involves a contracter: a wonderful resource. It’s in the format of a press release, but don’t let that throw you. The information in it is something every homeowner should know.
Columbus Decks, Porches and Patios by Archadeck of Columbus 