Archadeck of Columbus explores that area under your 2nd story deck and the ways we can transform that unused space into a covered outdoor oasis.
This gorgeous Columbus under deck space was created by using a DrySnap system.
Whether you have an existing 2nd story deck or are considering adding one from scratch, taking advantage of the area below your deck can be a great way to get two outdoor living spaces out of one. Normally, the spaces between the deck boards will cause water to drip down below which can keep you from enjoying the space under your deck in wet weather. We are able to add an under decking system to your deck that prevents any water from dripping down through the decking boards. This is critical when creating a under-deck outdoor living area but also when building a porch under a deck.
This Columbus 2nd story deck contains a lovely screened porch underneath.
There are several different ways to make your under deck space watertight. If you have an existing deck, there are products that we can retro-fit to your existing structure to ensure no water gets through your decking. Keep in mind when you retrofit that it will not always be a 100% solution, but it will be 99% effective. The idea behind using a retrofitting system is to create a slope which feeds water down to a gutter to drain the water. When using retrofits, theses systems have components that create the slope needed to divert water. This means you will not have a flat roof, it will be slightly sloped. The slight slope is hardly ever noticeable. Some of the retrofitting products available are InsideOut, DrySnap, and Dry Space by TimberTech. Inside Out is a high-end premier aluminum product that comes in a variety of colors. Dry Space by TimberTech and Dry Snap are both plastic products, with a more limited color palette of white, bone and off-white. We have used each of these products to retrofit and each has shown beneficial results. You can even retrofit lighting and ceiling fans to keep the wiring safe and dry, but the key is to make sure it is done right.
If you are starting your structure from scratch then you will have the ability to install a rain deck. With a rain deck, there are layers built within the structure with a slope that will divert the rain and water away from the deck. Comparatively speaking it is more expensive to install a rain deck than it is to retrofit an existing deck, but it is easier. By installing a full-fledged rain deck you take care of the cavities that are in-between the layers of the structure. You are able to create the slope needed and use rubber roofing and a cavity under which is the non-sloping ceiling. Because you have this cavity and layers of framing, there is more flexibility with adding accoutrements. Rain decks make the most sense when you are considering a finished lower level such as a porch or patio underneath your deck.
Michael Reeder, Archadeck of Columbus
If you are thinking of adding a second story deck onto your homes, or if you presently have an existing second story deck we can create an under deck space that will double your outdoor living enjoyment. Our outdoor living combinations make all other “two for one” deals in your life pale by comparison. Call Archadeck of Columbus for a free consultation today (740) 879 – 3730 or email westcolumbus@archadeck.net
See more examples of outdoor oasis project that are a result of using the area under a second story deck by visiting our covered patio gallery and our screened porch gallery, both located on our website.
Archadeck of Columbus recently took a world-class tour of the TimberTech plant in Ohio. The experience left us in awe of the whole process and stringent standards TimberTech uses to create magical materials for your perfect outdoor oasis.
View from outside the TimberTech factory
Do you remember how excited Charlie from “Charlie and the Chocolate Factory” was when he got inside the chocolate factory and got see where and how Willy Wonka made all that scrumptious candy? Well, that is a little how I and members of the Archadeck of team, Dennis Schaeffer and Rob Mitchell felt when we recently had the opportunity to take a plant tour of the TimberTech plant in Wilmington OH (Columbus) this past week.
We were invited to participate in the TimberTech plant tour along with other contractors and dealers from all over Ohio. The event was called “Dare to Compare”. On our walk-through we were able to see the product being made on extruders. We were also given the opportunity to review the company’s marketing and social media and what they do to help their contractors. We spent time reviewing a number of new products and discussing the benefits these new products will have for our customers. The plant here in the Columbus area makes all synthetic decking and rails. We were also able to visit the main plant in Wilmington, OH where they make the remainder of TimberTech products. In essence we got a dual tour of the TimberTech facilities during this visit.This particular facility has the capacity to send out 50 semi-trucks of their product daily, and their warehouse stores 500 semi-trucks full of product at a time. The massive size was awe inspiring.
Archadeck of Columbus built this stunning TimberTech deck in Dublin, OH. The Muirfield golf course serves as the backdrop.
I was fortunate enough to take a tour in 2006 when Archadeck of Columbus and TimberTech initially established a relationship. The main point that sticks out in my mind from then until now is their expansion into other products. When I visited in 2006 it involved just wood and plastic composite. The trend we are seeing now is the growth of the PVC products and also the growth of polypropylene and polyethylene products as well.
Watching the magic happen in real-time is really amazing. The extrusion of the material appears similar to “Play-doh” in composition, this material is put through a mold which gets pressed and becomes a shape. When mixing the wood pulp with the plastic there are numerous tests the product goes through, such as those similar to a stress test. TimberTech uses Maple in their wood pulp because it doesn’t absorb a lot of mold and mildew spores. They get the maple through recycling practices by using recycled wood cabinetry and furniture. They even re-use the waste off their own decking boards after they emboss a decking board and as it grinds out the top of the board, the remainder is then re-used.
They also conducted competitive comparisons on their product such as UV tests, humidity tests, mold and mildew tests, and scratch tests. TimberTech conducts these tests on their product and those of the competition, so we got to see a great deal of different manufactured products tested during the tour. A finished decking board takes an astounding 48 hours to cool completely after it’s production.
Our team walked away impressed with the entire process. Our biggest impressions were the extent of the efforts taken to ensure the product uses Green technology and how much TimberTech is actively involved with that. They have reduced their total waste by 95%, on what they used to send to the dump. TimberTech’s care and quality checks are also very impressive. As we watched the quality tests throughout the day, no stone is left unturned, from testing every hour for quality and the product’s tolerance level.
We would like to sincerely thank TimberTech for giving us this wonderful opportunity to experience this up close and personal. This only solidifies how proud we are to have them as a partner and how strong their presence is in the market.
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.
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
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.
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
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
Archadeck of Columbus explains when is the most opportune time to build your new deck and why.
Imagine this beauty ready and waiting for you to enjoy with the first blooms of spring, after overwintering has seasoned it perfection
Many of our Columbus homeowners ask me when is the best time to build a new deck? Many of you may think that the best time to build a deck is the spring, but the truth is, the best time to consider building a new deck may be in the winter. The best way to explain the reasoning behind a winter deck construction is what i would refer to as the “give and take” of the project. Give and take refers to the use of pressure treated wood during the winter months. The give refers to the woods expansion, and the take refers to the woods contraction that is caused by the effects of varying outdoor temperatures on the wood itself.
Double low to grade deck in Columbus OH with fire pit
The first thing you have to remember when considering building any type of deck or other outdoor structure, whether the decking boards you choose are composite, PVC, vinyl, IPE or hardwoods the foundation of your structure will be constructed using pressure treated pine or another pressure treated wood. Wood curing is important to understand in relation to the wood’s natural tendency to “give and take”, and curing which occurs over the winter months offers many important benefits.
Pressure treated wood has a 50% moisture content when you initially build. This fresh lumber is sometimes referred to among builders as “green”. The winter has less humidity and thus the pressure treated wood will stabilize itself and dry more consistently and evenly when you build in the winter. On the other end of the spectrum a summer deck construction exposes the pressure treated wood to higher humidity conditions. In addition, when drying in the hot sun, pressure treated wood will undergo expansion and contraction which can cause cracking, warping and other damage to the wood itself. Due to the orientation of the sun during the winter months, the sun doesn’t beat down on your deck, and the pressure treated wood that holds the key to your project’s structural integrity will not undergo these negative effects.
TimberTech composite deck and screen porch by Archadeck of Columbus
Another benefit of building in winter is you will also experience less wait time and backlogs which are typical in spring and summer projects. Our typical waiting list is 8 weeks in the height of the season, during the winter you are likely going to cut that wait time in half. A winter project also causes less lifestyle interruption because homeowners typically spend less time outdoors and less time participating in outdoor activities during the colder months of the year. You will also experience less deterioration of the ground, and less turf damage during the winter months because of the dormancy period that Columbus landscapes experience through the cooler months.
Columbus deck built with treated pineMichael Reeder, Archadeck of Columbus
Keep in mind that Archadeck of Columbus can also build your outdoor structure combination in stages. Winter is the perfect time to start the first stage of your desired outdoor living project. If you are considering a deck and patio combination for example, you can take advantage of our staged building option and build the deck this winter and then we can add the patio later into the spring. With Archadeck of Columbus’ staged building the choice is yours. Contact us today to learn more, call us at (740) 879 – 3730 or email us at westcolumbus@archadeck.net
This composite deck in Washington Courthouse, OH is so much more than a deck. It is an outdoor oasis that is so functional and breathtaking in it’s design it has gained media attention and won numerous awards. Archadeck of Columbus was able to weave a cohesive design using the highest quality materials and expert craftsmanship that indulges the senses with a deck that incorporates a hot tub deck flanked by a pergola and privacy wall, an outdoor fireplace, grilling area, custom planters and retaining walls, and every expert detail you could imagine.
This composite deck by Archadeck of Columbus is a virtual fantasy of relaxation and elegance.
If you were to imagine the backyard of your dreams, what would it look like and what functions would it address for you and your family? Imagine being able to soak in the hot tub on your custom hot tub deck on a cool autumn evening while listening to the crackling of a fire burning in your own outdoor fireplace. This outdoor structure takes advantage of mingling two of nature’s most mesmerizing elements – fire and water.
Archadeck of Columbus has created a masterpiece of design with this multi-level deck complete with an outdoor fireplace for the ultimate in backyard enjoyment.
This outdoor living area flows effortlessly in a carefully planned series of functional vignettes that make the structure a joy to use for these Washington Courthouse, OH homeowners, and indeed a feast for the eyes as well.
When we began to plan and design the structure we were given a blank canvas to work our magic on because the home was brand new. The landscaper had completed the landscape design and brought us into enhance the home and landscape for the homeowners with an outdoor structure design that would bring out the best of every attribute of the stunning home and the landscape. The homeowners were looking for a design that would be great for entertaining on a grand scale with plenty of room for a crowd as well as the capability to play on the structures ability to create intimacy in a way that would be comfortable for a smaller crowd. Another crucial design element the homeowners wanted is a planting area incorporated into the deck.
Here is an awe-inspiring view of the entire structure from the backyard of the Washington Courthouse, OH home.
In order to achieve complete harmony in relation to the home the color selections played a huge role and tied everything together. We matched the brick used on the outdoor fireplace to the brick on the home. We also chose a color for the large composite deck that would blend beautifully with the stonework and columns and pillars that were used to create this magnificent outdoor structure. We even matched the lanterns that are used throughout the structure atop the caps on the retaining walls to continue the neutral, rustic feel that is present throughout the design of the entire structure.
This image shows the beautiful colors and the realistic wood grain of the composite decking used on this fabulous deck.
We chose to use composite decking material on the deck. Composites are ultra low maintenance and don’t require staining or sealing. Composites are also scratch and stain resistant, and many are impervious to insects, mold and mildew as well. They are also long-lasting and cannot be damaged by the moisture which is present when you use the hot tub. With this particular deck, using composites gave us the freedom to install the decking boards on a beautifully interesting angle which only adds to the appeal of the deck.
Notice how the design and placement of the hot tub deck, pergola and privacy wall offers shade and intimacy for the homeowners when the hot tub is in use.
The pergola which is placed above the hot tub to add character and offer some shade in deflecting the suns rays is made from vinyl by Mt. Hope Fence, Ltd. The privacy wall which matches the pergola, is also constructed of vinyl as well. Vinyl is a durable material which offers many of the same attributes of composite decking in that it is durable, maintenance free and won’t succumb to rot, insect damage and decay like wood can. The choice to use vinyl alongside the composites means this deck and the details used within the deck will give these Washington Courthouse, OH homeowners many years of carefree enjoyment without the worry of painting or staining in the future.
Careful attention was paid to every detail from the columns to the paver border used on this entrance into the home from the deck.
The stone surround and retaining walls were constructed using Celtic retaining walls by Belgard. The retaining walls gives strong concrete elements and uses the aspects of old stone to create an elegant old world appeal. By using this high quality innovative retaining wall system by Belgard, Archadeck of Columbus was able to facilitate the creation of curves within the retaining walls surrounding the deck that would not have been possible by using natural stone or other materials.
Archadeck of Columbus paid close attention to every detail within the composite deck and accompanying structures. From the color choices made to paint the columns and pillars that help frame the beauty of the deck’s entrances into the home, to the use of custom paver borders used to outline and enhance the grill area. No stone was left unturned in terms of the use of cohesive design within this structure. The pairing of stone, composites, vinyl, and detailing truly creates a match made in heaven for this home in Washington Courthouse, OH.
The perfect place for a backyard barbecue.
We were able to create a masterpiece of beauty, design, functionality and enjoyment with this outdoor structure. The homeowners continue to enjoy their new deck and all it’s amenities more and more each day. This is truly the outdoor oasis of their dreams, and they get to live the reality each day, and for many years to come as well.
If you have a dream of creating an outdoor oasis within your backyard, contact Archadeck of Columbus to turn that dream into a reality. Call us at (740) 879 – 3730 or email us at westcolumbus@archadeck.net to learn more.
Archadeck of Columbus takes the plunge into tranquil spa and hot tub decks that will soothe your aching muscles and your soul with design inspirations that are as beautiful as they are functional.
This spa deck in Columbus, OH by Archadeck of Columbus has everything a deck could possibly offer.
More and more homeowners are choosing to invest in making their backyard into a place of refuge rather than splurging on exotic vacations and trips abroad in pursuit of the ultimate place to relax and rewind. Hot tubs and spas are a popular choice among homeowners seeking to create a tranquil setting to escape to while staying in the comfort of their own back yards. What could be more perfect on a brisk autumn evening than soaking in the hot tub with a glass of Merlot? The steam wafting in the cool air around you and the sounds of the season captured by the sound of crisp leaves blowing in the breeze. This scene is set and played out with your very own hot tub integrated as the focal point to your custom spa deck.
With the dawn of the personal hot tub or spa comes the custom spa deck to compliment the structure and add valuable outdoor living space as well. A customized spa deck is perfect for entertaining, dining, grilling and cooking and any other activity you and your family enjoy doing outdoors. Keep in mind the need for easy accessibility from your home because you want to plan on using your spa during the fall and winter months for the utmost in warmth, ambiance and relaxation. Here is a stunning panorama of spa and hot tub decks that will give you some ideas and inspiration in your own backyard.
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This deck extension by Archadeck of Columbus even has a retractable awning for the ultimate in comfort.
Here are some considerations when designing and building your spa or hot tube deck. A spa or hot tub deck is not just a deck with a hot tub placed in it or on it. There are certain areas within the structural criteria of a hot tub deck that must be met in order to accommodate the added weight for safety and to preserve the structural integrity of the deck as a whole. Many homeowners don’t take into consideration the full magnitude of the weight a hot tub or spa , once filled with water will add to the deck. This is why it is crucial to make sure your deck has the appropriate structural supports to accommodate the added weight of a hot tub or spa. When considering adding a hot tub or spa to your existing deck it is important to implement this support system as well. Utilizing the expertise and experience of a professional licensed deck builder to design and construct your deck is the best route to take when thinking of adding a hot tub or spa to the structure. In many cases a spa can add an additional weight of up to 2,000 pounds when filled with water and your deck will need to be sturdy enough to carry this weight without any stress. This sturdiness can be achieved by constructing a spa support deck, with either a concrete pad of wood platform.
Another consideration is having accessibility to the mechanics of the hot tub or spa. If the hot tub is located on top of the deck, access is simple, but with a partially or fully recessed hot tub you may need a trap door or have an access area built around it on 3 sides so as to have access to the control panel. Trap doors such as these are quite easy and can be designed to be hidden from view.
The curvilinear design of this hot tub deck wraps you in beauty and comfort.
Aside from the structural diversity that is required when building your spa deck, there are many design options available when deciding how to finish out your spa deck. Above all, location of the hot tub itself is an important decision. Archadeck of Columbus likes to think outside the box in terms of locations for your spa or hot tub. Many times homeowners make the mistake of placing the hot tub in the center of the deck. This can be a major design flaw which will affect the flow and use of your deck. The first rule of thumb is to never place the hot tub in front of a window. This will become a regrettable decision because it will restrict your view and soon become an eyesore. From experience we have found that most popular with homeowners is partially recessing the hot tub within the deck. Hot tubs are most typically 3 feet high and many times homeowners decide to mount the hot tub flush with the deck so you actually “step into” the hot tub. We also see a great many top mountings as well. The only dangers we see if when the hot tub is partially recessed it can present a challenge when exiting and entering the hot tub, and a tripping hazard in some cases as well. For example, consider placing the hot tub within a curvilinear corner, or incorporate the spa to be surrounded by bench seating that will make the perfect place to sit down and take off your shoes to dip your fit in the warm bubbling water. If entering and exiting the hot tub seems as though it may present a problem, steps can easily be incorporated into the design to make gaining entry to the hot tub easy and safe. Keep space in mind as well when considering how your hot tub or spa will integrate into your decks design. If you choose a hot tub with a cover that has an arm, for instance, you will need ample space to back it up comfortably.
When your hot tub is in use privacy as well as shading can be important. Many homeowners choose to build privacy walls adjacent to the hot tub, this offers shade from the sun and also keeps prying eyes away. Pergolas look great when paired with hot tubs and spa features as well and can also provide ample shade and privacy.
Selecting the right material for your hot tub or spa deck is also important, after all you don’t want to get splinters in those bare feet. There are many quality composite and PVC decking materials, as well as natural woods on the market that are designed specifically for areas around water. There are many brands that offer slip-resistance and that also keep heat build-up to a minimum so they are easy on your bare feet. TimberTech , AZEK and many others have lines specified for use on pool and spa decks, and some are even formulated for use on docks such as TimberTech’s Docksider decking.
Michael Reeder, Archadeck of Columbus
Now is the perfect time to consider taking the plunge into a spa or hot tub deck of your own. The chill of Autumn creates a stunning backdrop for the soothing waters of a spa or hot tub. Archadeck of Columbus can design and build a hot tub or spa deck that will compliment your home and your lifestyle. We can even incorporate other outdoor living structures such as an outdoor fireplace or firepit into your decks design that will enable you to enjoy two of natures most mesmerizing and powerful elements in unison. To learn more about the magic you can create in your own backyard with a hot tub or spa deck contact us today (740) 879 – 3730
westcolumbus@archadeck.net
Archadeck of Columbus is able to create three seperate outdoor structures that work as one. This double deck, patio and screen porch have the harmony and fluidity that many single structures lack, covering all the bases of style, design, quality workmanship and function with this winning triple-play.
This large double-deck sits directly over the gorgeous screen porch and patio.
It is not often that you have a combination of structures that work together effortlessly to create not just a grouping of spaces but an entire outdoor living area. These Columbus, OH homeowners definitely scored a triple play with this stunning second story double-deck, rustic screen porch and beautiful paver patio. Every inch of these structures are built with quality and style and they also create the feeling of one large, multi-functional outdoor structure despite the fact that they are actually three separate structures. These structures work together with harmony and fluidity as they flow effortlessly into one another, making it perfect for intimate get togethers and entertaining on a grand scale as well. Here is a video to experience to experience this entire outdoor living space.
This photo shows how each of the structures by Archadeck of Columbus work together as one.
Archadeck of Columbus used composite, low-maintenance TimberTech XLM decking in Sandridge to cover the second story double-deck and accented it with black aluminum railings. On the lower level, a rustic screen porch welcomes you with its breathtaking and aromatic cedar walls and trim. The floor of the screen porch is finished with large concrete slab pavers that resemble tile to carry on the rustic theme, we also used Unilock pavers around the porch itself. The screen porch spills out onto a beautifully designed patio . As always, Archadeck of Columbus paid close attention to every important detail of this outdoor oasis by making sure the roof between the deck and screened porch below is a dry roof to keep out moisture that could cause damage to the structures. For the final touch we added small flush mounted low voltage lighting for safety and ambiance.
Michael Reeder, Archadeck of Columbus
If you are ready to turn your backyard into an extension of functional beauty and style, contact Archadeck of Columbus to learn how to create an outdoor oasis of your own. (740) 879 – 3730
westcolumbus@archadeck.net
Archadeck of Columbus takes it down the wall and to the ground focusing on the abundant flooring choice and styles available for your screened porch.
This stunning screen porch uses a divider rail, which conveys from and function in the design.
Screened porches can be finished with as much panache and flair as any other living area. Just because the screened porch is considered an outdoor structure as opposed to an interior structure doesn’t mean you have to skimp on style. You have to take into consideration the livable space an outdoor room such as a screened porch can add to your home, as well as your lifestyle. Last week we published a piece on the choices in interior screen porch ceilings https://columbus-decks.com/2011/09/14/interior-designs-on-screen-porches-so-many-choices/ this week we are taking it down the wall and to the ground by turning the spotlight on screen porch interior floors, from finish options to styles and everything in-between.
This screen porch by Archadeck of Columbus shows the use of diagonal decking boards and a divider rail.
Interior flooring finish choices
Wood, Tile or Synthetic? Most of the time we put a decking material down like pressure-treated (PT) pine, cedar or synthetic flooring. Considerations that come into play when choosing your flooring material may include plans to use the area for perimeter seating or dining. Most often the flooring material that is chosen by the homeowner reflects what is used on the interior ceiling or on the posts. Wood is a favorite plus, since it is under the cover of a roof you don’t have to worry about damage caused by rain, or sun exposure, as you would if the wood was used in an “open” porch setting. Some customers like to use area rugs to define seating or dining areas. The use of rugs is purely a cosmetic element used for aesthetics to convey the intimacy, unity and warmth of the structure.
Synthetic or composite flooring may be overkill on your screen porch floors because the area is already protected from the elements. Synthetic and composites do offer a tongue and
groove type of flooring, but these materials are more expensive when compared to other choices in flooring available.
This Columbus, OH screened porch shows the use of a decorative divider rail and post patterns
Tile floors– Homeowners always ask about using tile floors inside their screened porch. Tile can be beautiful and we are more than happy to put in a tile floor. Keep in mind that tile expands and contracts with the weather and temperature, and over time the grout will undoubtedly crack . Pavers are a good choice for people seeking that “old world” stone look without using tile. Pavers can be installed with less risk of cracking because we use a sand bedding as opposed to grout for installation.
Keeping it real– When it comes to patterns, and which way to run your flooring it is a good idea to replicate the same pattern on your new screen porch that is used in the adjacent structures. Whether you use the same color or one that contrasts your existing structure, remember you want to make your porch look as though it was built when the house was constructed.
This screen porch by Archadeck of Columbus uses wrapped columns and a matching kneewall.
Kneewall vs. rail vs. divider rail
Building codes– In most jurisdictions, any structure or floor that is 30″ above grade or more requires a barrier, which can be a rail or divider rail at 36″ tall. The view from your screened porch is important and at 36″ the rail will block your view somewhat when in a sitting position. Rails can either be mounted on the inside or outside of your screen porch. If kids and pets are part of your scenario then it is usually best to mount the rails on the inside.
Kneewalls– Kneewall height is commonly set at 24″, in order to be completely accurate check with your screen porch builder or your particular jurisdiction for the proper code requirements regarding approved height. Both the inside and the outside of the kneewall can be trimmed to match your house. Another plus to using kneewalls is that it allows space
This Columbus, OH screened porch has wrapped posts as well as a beadboard or plybead kneewall and a tile floor.
for electrical outlets. Putting outlets in a rail is much more difficult and is not attractive. Kneewalls can also be finished in plybead and with a wainscoating design to add style to the kneewall itself. Some homeowners take advantage of the kneewall in regards to it’s shelf effect and display small decorative items as well.
Divider rails– Divider rails allow for maximum visibility and also allows for an area to “break” the screen adding more strength. This added strength is especially helpful for families with small children and pets to protect the screen from damage.
This screened porch by Archadeck of Columbus shows the beautiful use of a 24" knotty pine kneewall.
Open posts vs. exposed posts
To wrap or not to wrap– Choosing to wrap your posts gives a beautiful finished effect. Posts can be wrapped in a wide variety of materials including PT which can be painted in a color of your choice vinyl, cedar, pine and other rustic woods to allow continuity of design within the structure itself. Leaving the post exposed can lend to a more rustic and natural effect as well. Beauty is in the eye of the beholder and your posts can be finished in the medium that best suits your individual tastes.
Another view of this gorgeous screened porch with knotty pine kneewall.
Choosing the most appropriate interior flooring finish for your screened porch doesn’t have to be a daunting task. By using an experienced porchbuilder your journey of watching your screened porch reach fruition can be a magical experience, alive with design elements and textures to tantalize your senses.
Michael Reeder, Archadeck of Columbus
Contact Archadeck of Columbus to learn more about our screened porches and the many ways you can customize your structure to truly make it one of a kind. (740) 879 – 3730
westcolumbus@archadeck.net
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.
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.
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
Archadeck of Columbus is asked to contribute their time and expertise on a home makeover for Extreme Makeover Home Edition.
Here is a photo of the Archadeck of Columbus Extreme Makeover crew after working 19 straight hours, still all smiles.
If you haven’t had a chance to tune in to catch an episode of “Extreme Makeover Home Edition“, on ABC then now is your chance. The show itself centers around a family that is nominated for an extreme home makeover. The recipients of this makeover are families that have experienced unfortunate circumstances or debilitating illness within the family, Often times these recipients are pillars of their community who have devoted their lives to improving the lives of those around them. These families shine through and are chosen to receive a much deserved extreme home makeover.
Being asked to participate in helping improve the lives of a family by a home makeover is truly an honor. Recently Archadeck of Columbus was given the chance to contribute their time and expertise for an upcoming Extreme Makeover Home Edition episode. Working on a job such as this can change your life forever, and it gives us an opportunity to be able to give back to the community and touch you in a way nothing else possibly can.
Archadeck of Columbus was asked by a lead local builder in Ohio, P&D custom builders, to assist in building the deck on top of a detached garage utilizing TimberTech Earthwood Evolutions composite. The deck was constructed using concealock fasteners, and the color the Extreme Makeover design team chose for the deck was a beautiful walnut color. The deck construction entailed building a frame over a rubber roof on top of the 2nd story garage. The deck parapet walls are 38″ high around three sides of a 20 x 23 area. This area also includes an 8 x 20 stunning cedar pergola that is over one side.
The day of the construction, we had the help of four people from Archadeck; Dennis Schaffer who is the regional franchise business developer and Seth Mitchell & Josh Kempf who are two of our best carpenters. The day began by dedicating our first four hours at the home assisting the interior house framers that needed some help. We were glad to give it, the spirit and emotion that was running through the whole construction site was like none we had ever experienced, and everyone present could feel it.
The whole makeover project took an unheard of total of 5 days, this is from the demolition phase all the way to the re-building. This event showed how a community can come together to complete what many would consider impossible or unthinkable and it shows what the human spirit is truly capable of when your driving force is that of humanity and humility.
The crew from Archadeck of Columbus worked 19 hours straight through their weekend to finish the job. Even though the crew was exhausted we wouldn’t trade this experience and we will always look forward to being honored enough to be asked to participate in endeavors such as this and give back what we can to our community.
Michael Reeder, Archadeck of Columbus
The home itself is located near the Northeast side of Columbus, OH and the featured episode will be broadcast at Christmas time. We can’t give any more secrets than that. You will have to tune in to see and Archadeck of Columbus will be sure to post and share pictures following the show’s broadcast. Stay tuned…
Columbus Decks, Porches and Patios by Archadeck of Columbus 