Say goodbye to the screened porches of yesteryear!

It wasn’t so long ago that screened porches were built with utilitarian purposes in mind. Their job was to keep the bugs, and the rain, off of you. Historically, in rural areas and before air conditioning became commonplace, many people used a screened porch as a bunk room (sometimes referred to as a sleeping porch) on particularly sweltering summer nights.

Digging a little deeper into the archives, you will learn that the use of window screens started as soon as people began framing windows. References to window screens can be traced back to 1823. The earliest screens were made of wood, ceramic and stone. Their purpose was to provide protection from animal and human intruders but still allow some light and ventilation into a building. Cloth screens came along and provided protection from dust and insects and allowed some light to enter. During the 1840s, Gilbert and Bennett Manufacturing Co. of Redding, Connecticut, invented affordable wire mesh window screens.
fishing trip

I myself can remember fishing trips I enjoyed in my youth and the way the fishing camp I frequented utilized a screened room as their bait station. The structure consisted of a wooden floor with simple framed posts with screened openings. The sole purpose of the porch was to keep bait safe from flies. Definitely not a place you would want to spend the night!

Columbus outdoor fireplace on porch
Another Columbus outdoor fireplace and screened porch combination.

Fast forward to the modern screened porches homeowners crave today. Yes, they keep out bugs, allergens, debris and rain. However, they have become an extension of our homes and an oasis for outdoor living. Modern screened porches are now designed to include many comforting and convenient amenities like fireplaces and televisions, much like you would find in any other room of your home. The screened porch is essentially a more relaxed, casual room addition to the rest of your home.

Delaware screened porch interior

Anyone who has experienced one has to admit that a screened porch is a wonderful addition to any house. A screened porch offers the breezes, scents, sounds and sights of being outdoors – but without the bugs and the blazing sun. Rough and tumble has its own charm, but these days most homeowners enjoy relaxing under the ceiling fan while listening to their surround sound audio system.

Columbus screened porches

Contact Archadeck of Columbus today to discuss our stunning porch and screened porch designs. Our consultation is completely free. You can reach us at  (740) 879 – 3730 or email us at westcolumbus@archadeck.net. We look forward to your call.

Archadeck of Columbus team
The Archadeck of Columbus team.

 

 

Why wait for the Columbus outdoor living space you are yearning for?

Columbus OH covered patio for dining and entertainingThe prospect of adding a custom outdoor living structure, or combination of structures, to your home and property just naturally sparks excitement. That is why I am often stumped when a customer has their preliminary plan in place and decides to “wait until spring” to begin their project. It is from my experience within the world of outdoor living that a common misconception among many homeowners is we don’t build in the fall and winter. In actuality, nothing could be farther from the truth.

When is the best time of year to embark on an outdoor living addition you may ask? The answer may be more surprising than you may think. Many homeowners are under the impression that outdoor structures such as decks, porches or patios are best to build during the warm weather months. The truth is that Archadeck of Columbus builds year-round and anytime that best suits your circumstances and budget is the right time to build. However, there are certain advantages to moving ahead with your project during the cooler months…

Columbus porch for happy catEnjoy your space sooner and be “sitting pretty” in time for spring

There are many advantages to building in the cooler months. Along with shorter lead times you will also get a space that is up and running in time to enjoy for the upcoming holidays, spring and the beginning of the outdoor living season.

Wood loves cooler weather

Since the humidity level is much lower during the fall and winter, any wood used during construction of your project will season quicker. Seasoning involves the drying out of wood making it ready to accept stain or paint better. When a project is built during the warmer, humid months the usual wait time to stain or paint is a few months.

Increased productivity

Another plus to cooler weather construction is productivity. A crew that is working in the humid 95 degree weather, even in the shade, is less productive than one that is working outside during milder weather. Less heat means more stamina and less time lost to hydration breaks for the crew. This translates to the likelihood that a job that is completed sooner.

Low maintenance Columbus TimberTech deck with pergola lrSave more in the long run

Prices for building materials generally increase during the early part of the 1st quarter. Moving ahead with your outdoor living project now instead of waiting will ensure you are locked into this year’s pricing modules. In addition, outdoor furnishings and accessories sometimes reflect deep discounts as retailers make way for holiday merchandise. Outfitting your new space may also mean a savings!

It’s not good to fool with Mother Nature

Since our average temperatures remain above freezing in Columbus for most of the winter, chances of inclement or freezing weather impacting your project are minimal. The advantages of fall and winter construction outweigh any deficiencies brought on by Mother Nature. As with any construction project there will be damage to the turf caused by foot traffic. In a fall/winter project the turf is more apt to recover quicker because it has the time to overwinter in time for spring taking in valuable nutrients present in precipitation. Some turfs are dormant during the winter and this will aid in quicker recovery as well.

New Albany OH Softscaping

If you are on the fence about deciding when your outdoor structure project, keep in mind that lead times during the outdoor living season can be in excess of 8-12 weeks. In the winter it may be 4-6 weeks at the most.  This quick turn-around will ensure you get the full benefits of your outdoor space when you are ready, and with less impact on your lifestyle. Contact Archadeck of Columbus to schedule your free consultation today and get the ball rolling on your outdoor dreams. (740) 879 – 3730
westcolumbus@archadeck.net.

Archadeck of Columbus team
The Archadeck of Columbus team.

Sun protection is not something that should be taken lightly…

DrySnap rain deck
DrySnap rain deck by Archadeck of Columbus.

We’d all love to spend our summer days in the garden, reading a book by the pool or just taking in the fresh air with a cold ice tea on our patios. But often times we forget to think about the risks of spending too much time outdoors in the sun without proper protection. Numerous medical complications like Melanoma and Cataracts can occur when sun protection is disregarded.

 National UV Safety Awareness monthDisregarding the sun’s damaging rays are nothing to take lightly. These serious complications have life threatening concerns that need immediate attention. Melanoma occurs when the pigment-producing cells that give color to skin become cancerous due to overexposure to sun or sunburn. Broad-spectrum sunscreen is used as a temporary protector against the sun but is frequently only applied once throughout the day which becomes inefficient over time if you plan to spend a full day outdoors.

Columbus Screened Porch BuilderThe month of July is observed as National UV Safety Awareness month. Archadeck of Columbus wants to ensure you are worry free when it comes to spending time outdoors. Instead of spending your time indoors in fear of the damage UV rays may cause, invest in long-term protection for your backyard. Archadeck can help protect you and your family by adding a covered patio, screen porch or a 3 or 4-season room addition. Whether you enjoy gardening or sitting in the breeze to read a book these are perfect options to get you the ultimate protection while still enjoying the freedom of being outdoors.

Columbus OH covered patio for dining and entertaining

Covered patios and screen porches offer a shaded more private area for you and your family to escape to during lunch when the heat is in full swing. Even with an existing hardscape patio, Archadeck can custom design a covered structure over the top to help provide proper UV protection. With a screen porch you get triple protection. Screen porches provide the benefit of sun protection but also becomes a defense against allegans such as pollen and mosquitoes and other nuisance insects.

Four_Season_Sunroom_with_Tile_Floor

Adding a 3-season or 4-season room is like taking a piece of the outdoors and bringing it inside. A 3-season room can be designed and built with an Eze-Breeze® window system. Eze-Breeze® allows your outdoor structure to quickly switch from glass windows to screen panels letting in the cool Columbus breeze. 4-season rooms are designed with HVAC systems to keep you cool in the summer and warm in the winter. These additions protect you from direct sunlight while still being able to enjoy the panoramic views of your backyard garden and landscape with floor to ceiling windows.

Open porch and hardscape patio

It is fairly easy to forget to follow the standard recommendations for sun protection such as continuously adding a strong broad-spectrum sunscreen or wearing sunglasses throughout the day. That is why Archadeck of Columbus wants to help you and your family with long-term sun protection by adding a covered patio, screen porch or a 3-season or 4-season room onto your backyard.

Archadeck of Columbus team
The Archadeck of Columbus team.

Contact Archadeck of Columbus today at (740) 879-3730 or via email at westcolumbus@arcahdeck.net to get out of the sun by designing your custom outdoor structure. We would look forward to connecting with you!

Better Screens Make a Better Screened Porch

Powell OH screened porch screened insertsIt’s spring and a homeowner’s thoughts turn toward the yard:  making it look beautiful and spending more time in it.  But homeowners are also practical people.  They know that soon the bugs will arrive and some days will bring rain– that’s when they consider adding a screened in porch or sunroom so they can enjoy more carefree time outside.

Many of our clients start by asking around the neighborhood, collecting information about what kind of porch their friends have and who built it.  More often than not, the neighbor hired a contractor who built a shell of a porch then took aluminum or fiberglass screening and stretched it around the outside and stapled in place.  It was finished after trim was applied around the window openings.  And everything was great, until…

Real life arrives.

Real life takes many forms.  Often it looks like a playful child with a stick or a ball.  Sometimes it’s an excitable pet or the occasional destructive storm.  With that old-style construction, it seems like no time at all before the screen crimps or tears and needs to be replaced.  Before that can be done, the trim has to come off.  Ugh!

Archadeck clients have the same kids, pets and storms, but they have a much more convenient way to keep their screened porches looking sharp.  We use a weatherproof, flexible fiberglass screening that isn’t easily crimped or destroyed.  We also use framed fiberglass screen inserts.  These inserts hold the screen in place with a rubber strip squeezed into a channel around the perimeter.  Each insert screws into an opening on the porch for easy repair and replacement.

A local company makes our screened inserts and they come in six different colors.  This makes it easy to match them to the colors on the house and porch.  The screen itself is a patented product called Screen-eze® and is available in two strengths.  Their top product is incredibly strong—try throwing a baseball at it!  The second option is also very robust and can support a 10-foot wide panel.  Screen-eze inserts come in standard sizes or we can build them on site to create the perfect size and look for the job.  Custom projects take a little longer, but customers love the results.

In addition to installing screened inserts, Archadeck also installs screen doors—don’t ever buy a wood door for a screened porch.  An aluminum door is sturdy and won’t warp. They will typically be made with an aluminum-framed screen insert for easy maintenance.

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

Contact Archadeck of Columbus today to see how we can make creating your dream backyard an enjoyable experience, start to finish — how many builders can promise that? (740) 879 – 3730
westcolumbus@archadeck.net.

As the final installment in our series on design trends Archadeck of Columbus explores the top 10 design trends in screened and open porch designs

The year in review takes a bow as Archadeck of Columbus explores the top 10 design trends in screened and open porch designs; the final installment in our design trend series for 2013 and beyond.

Delaware OH rustic screen porch with outdoor fireplace
An outdoor fireplace adds to the rustic charm of this wooden screened porch in Delaware, OH.

As we look back at the year in review, porches were hot! Screened porches and open porches were very popular in 2013. We see that trend continuing into the New Year as well. The number one reason homeowners love porches is because they are a functional and beautiful way to provide shade in your outdoor living space. The need for shade is a necessity in many cases, especially in yards facing South or West. In many cases, porches are a way to allocate a more permanent shade structure than the use of an awning or shade curtains in an outdoor living space.

As the final installment in our series on design trends, Archadeck of Columbus explores the top 10 design trends in screened  and open porch designs…

#1) Paver flooring used in a screened porch setting – This is what as referred to as a “screened patio”. These spaces have all the function and appeal of a porch with the only difference being the grade of the structure and floor medium used. Paver and hardscape patios can be the foundation for a wonderful screened or covered/open porch addition. These outdoor living spaces are often built on the ground or at a lower grade than traditional screened porches, but can also include an elevated design.

#2) Wraps are very popular – Wrapping consists of covering areas such as posts with a more aesthetically pleasing wood. We often wrap areas that are visible in your screened porch with cedar or paulownia to give the space a rustic appeal. Custom trim is also widely requested.

Columbus rustic open porch
The open rafter detail of this porch gives it a rustic feel and the warm wood tones the homeowners used further the charm.

#3) Cathedral ceilings are a must – Cathedral ceilings within screen porches interior are a hot commodity. The pitch of the roof dictates ceiling height and since our most utilized roof styles for screened porches in the Columbus area are the gable and hip, it sets the stage for a cathedral ceiling. Cathedral ceilings lend an open airy feel to your porch interior and create a sense that the space is larger than it actually is. Keep in mind, if conditions require, we can do a flat roof as well.

#4) Exposed rafters – Nothing adds character or style to a screened porch interior quite like exposed rafters. With the simple act of leaving the ceiling of your porch open (exposed), you create a panoramic focal point. In most cases, making the decision to enclose the rafters is more expensive than leaving them open because the additional trim that is required. In choosing an open rafter ceiling you will get a true original work of art in your space, and save a little green to boot!

#5) Ceiling finishes – We have a huge demand for tongue & groove products, including beaded materials. Among the most requested ceiling material for screened porches here in our region is cedar.

Columbus outdoor fireplace on porch
Another Columbus outdoor fireplace and screened porch combination.

#6) Fireplaces are hot! – Integrating an outdoor fireplace is hugely popular on our screened porch designs. Having an outdoor fireplace within your porch space helps create an atmosphere similar to an interior living room. Imagine being seated around the  fire along with family and friends in a protected outdoor space that can be utilized throughout the year — magical. This type of magic can come with a hefty price tag depending on the type of outdoor fireplace you choose. Wood burning masonry models can cost $15,000 +, but gas inserts are also available which are a lot easier on the wallet.

#7) Televisions – When it comes to electrical within your porch, Archadeck of Columbus always ensures our porches are wired for electrical. This includes outlets, cable, ceiling fans, lights and switches. We try to ensure no creature comfort has been overlooked. With those comforts in mind, having access to mount a flat screen TV within the porch interior is our most popular porch accoutrement and is requested by a vast majority of homeowners as the “must have” item for their porch.

Columbus finished style screen porch wrapped columns
Notice the overstuffed, comfy furniture used on this screened porch in Columbus, Ohio.

#8) Perimeter seating – This is especially the case with covered or screened patio designs.  Many homeowners are requesting perimeter area seating with a patio, for instance, to use for dining and other recreational functions. The key to gaining the most function from your porch is to always consider what your main function of the room is going to be. This will ensure it is designed with that function in mind.

#9) Porch furniture – We are seeing the use of larger-scaled furniture than of those used in the past in finishing out porch designs. Loveseats, couple chairs, and tables are often used alongside coffee and end tables to give the porch the feel of the ultimate outdoor room. We always recommend homeowners have some idea of the type, and scale of the furniture they plan on using in their space in order for us to design the space accordingly with plenty of turn-around room.

#10) Totally custom – Each and every one of our porches is totally custom to what the homeowners want and need for their new space. The size, roof style, finishes, flooring, and ceiling treatment are done according to your specification.

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

If you are starting to think about adding a new open porch or screened porch to your Columbus area home for the New Year 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 screened porch or porch addition.
(740) 879 – 3730
westcolumbus@archadeck.net

You can see more of our stunning porch designs by visiting our screened porch photo gallery, and our porches photo gallery, located on our website.

Screening considerations for Columbus, OH porches – it’s not just about the window screens!

Archadeck of Columbus discusses screening considerations for porches.

Archadeck of Columbus interior views of this stunning screened porch
Archadeck of Columbus interior views of this stunning screened porch

Autumn is a time when many homeowners begin to think more about having a protected outdoor space to enjoy the beauty of the season and the milder temperatures. One of the most popular outdoor spaces to utilize the fresh fall air and still have protection from inclement weather is a screened porch. Screened porches have always been a beloved addition to the home and backyard. But there are many things to consider when thinking of building a screen porch. One of the most important of these considerations is the screen itself.

The screen of the screened porch is the lifeblood of the structure, it is the element that enables you to remain protected from insects, rain, and the dangers of the sun. Nowadays, screening options have evolved from the old-fashioned screened porch of yesteryear. There are more choices with higher quality benefits that not only aid in getting the most enjoyment out of your porch, but they also promote longevity of your space.

Stunning view from Delaware screened porch through structural details
The view and the design of this screen wall, are breathtaking. Can you imagine having your morning coffee looking into this each morning?

The old-fashioned way of screening which you can purchase at your local hardware store, involves aluminum screen that is approximately 4 foot wide. This screen is stapled to the posts all around the perimeter of the openings on the porch; once the entire screen is stapled a piece of trim is then placed on top. Archadeck of Columbus doesn’t like, or use, this type of screen since aluminum creases easily and using it can lead to a wavy looking screen if it is not installed properly. More importantly, this type of screen can be affected by birds, branches, falling object and other screen hazards because of its flimsy nature.

All screens are not created equal

We offer our customers more options when it comes to screening their porch. One of these options is using aluminum framed screen inserts. These inserts consist of aluminum with fiberglass screen which we have made locally so we are able to ensure they are made to custom sizes which ensures a custom fit.  Once we finish the shell of the screen porch, we get exact measurements for the screens and then custom order them. We also use a product called Tiger Screen which is made from really strong fiberglass screening. With Tiger Screen we custom build the screen on site.

Full View Screen Porch
Full View Screen Porch

When the perimeters of your screened porch openings require a span of larger areas, we also use Screen-Eze. This product  allows us to screen in much larger areas such as 6-10 feet. Screen-Eze  comes in wider spans, and is very strong which minimizes the need for additional posts. You get a cleaner, less interrupted view with this product.

It is important to have a professional builder with background and knowledge of screening options to help you make the right decision for your porch needs. Archadeck of Columbus factors in many details to make sure you get not only the look you want, but also a solid screen installation. Just for example, many homeowners have pets and these customer would benefit from using a knee-wall across the bottom of the screened porch to prevent animals from walking into or damaging the screen with their claws. Pet owners can also benefit from using Screen-Eze because with this product you can throw a baseball into the screen and it will revert back to its original shape within minutes.

Unique and beautiful screen porch in Powell, OH by Archadeck of Columbus
This screen porch in Powell, OH by Archadeck of Columbus is picture perfect in every way.

If your porch is low to the ground, you may consider screening from floor to ceiling. This method of screen installation opens up the porch to deliver panoramic views and plenty of fresh air. If your porch is located in an area that receives a great deal of sun, we can install charcoal tinted screen that helps deflect the UV rays of the sun. These screens also help provide additional shade when the sun is setting low in the sky.

Last but certainly not least, always make sure there is screening under your porch to keep the bugs out. It is better to do this while the porch is under construction rather than an afterthought when the first mosquito finds its way into your safe haven! Archadeck of Columbus always installs screen on top of the framing and underneath the decking. We do not install it underneath the framing because debris will accumulate between the deck and floor boards. In order to keep your deck tidy and clean, our way ensures you can blow all the dirt out. If you place the screen under the joists, it makes blowing dirt away nearly impossible.

Screened porch and deck combo. Columbus
Notice the kneewall present in this screened porch.

If you already have an existing screened porch that has screen installed the old-fashioned way, Archadeck of Columbus can retro-fit your porch with one of our more advantageous screening options. If you are ready to begin a screened porch from scratch we would love to meet with you to discuss your needs and choose a screen porch design that best suits your lifestyle and budget.

Contact Archadeck of Columbus today to schedule a free design consultation and be on your way to living the good life on your very own screened porch!  Call us today at (740) 879 – 3730
westcolumbus@archadeck.net

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

You can see more examples of our versatile screening styles and techniques by visiting our screened porch photo gallery and our 3 and 4 season room photo gallery located on our website.

With outdoor building in Columbus, are there any guarantees? Archadeck of Columbus says yes!

Archadeck of Columbus discusses their unmatched warranties which include a one year craftsmanship warranty and a five year structural warranty.

Open porch and hardscape patio
Let Archadeck of Columbus open the door to your outdoor living imagination and build you the highest quality outdoor space imaginable.

When you decide to find a builder to build your dream deck or porch addition, most reputable contractors will provide some type of warranty on their work. These warranties are typically placed on a structure once it is completed. These can include structural warranties, and warranties on the products and materials used in completing your outdoor space. Remember, in all building endeavors, a warranty is only as good as the company providing it and the degree in which they stand behind that warranty. With this in mind, it is important to make sure the builder warranties their work and stands behind the guarantee to ensure you receive a quality built structure to reduce or eliminate facing problems and heartaches in the future. This is where the old cliché, a guarantee is sometimes only as good as the paper it is written on comes into play.

When you choose Archadeck of Columbus to build your backyard dream, we offer our customers a very detailed 3-part warranty – structural, craftsmanship, and manufacturer warranty support. Our first warranty given upon completion includes a one year craftsmanship warranty and a five year structural warranty. This warranty is designed to ensure all the details of your structure are done properly such as cuts, sanding, fasteners, positioning and other pertinent details. The second warranty covers all aspects of supportive structures such as decks or porches, connections to your home, railings, stairs, walls and patio foundations.

It is possible that a branded component (one of the materials) has problems. Many manufacturers of the component materials offer warranties that typically cover only the product and not the labor for replacement. Archadeck negotiates with our vendors and in most cases we can negotiate for the vendor to pay us to replace the component if there is a problem.

We like to give homeowners several methods to communicate any craftsmanship warranty issues. We urge our clients to frequent the job site regularly so that we may discuss any issues and answer any questions they may have. Once a project is deemed completed, we ask the customer to do a walk-through prior to our departure so we make sure to fix anything that needs to be.

Columbus paver patio and pergola with retaining wall surround
Our outdoor designs are backed by two distinct warranties.

Following completion and departure from your project we always schedule an additional walk-through one week to 10 days after to verify with the customer they are completely happy with the installation. This is something that is protocol for us at Archadeck of Columbus; it’s just how we operate. Our ultimate goal is the happiness of our customers and their ultimate satisfaction with our work. We feel very fortunate that we have rarely ever had structural issues with our work which is based on the quality level in which we build.

If you are ready to experience what true quality, professionalism and dedication is in an outdoor structure builder, contact Archadeck of Columbus. We strive to deliver the ultimate in outdoor living spaces from start to finish and beyond. Call us today for a free consultation (740) 879 – 3730
westcolumbus@archadeck.net

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

See more examples of our expert outdoor living designs that are built with integrity and quality in every inch by visiting our decks photo gallery and our porches photo gallery located on our website.

Archadeck of Columbus guarantees a whole than more other companies. And, it’s at no charge to you.

Archadeck of Columbus explains the importance and value associated with the National Guarantee Corportation (NGC).

Rustic exposed rafter porch
Your outdoor living project is covered from every angle, start to finish.

In addition to providing our project warranty, Archadeck of Columbus offers another way to pass value to our customers. About 10 years ago, Archadeck, in conjunction with the local franchise owners, started a company called the National Guarantee Corporation. I myself am a current board member and shareholder with this corporation. The National Guarantee Corporation (NGC) is responsible for giving Archadeck the ability to extend unsurpassed warranties on to our customers. However, this is not one those warranties that the customer opts to pay for, this warranty comes automatically with the purchase of our services. The cost to our customers? None!

Being backed by The National Guarantee Corporation means the Archadeck office you signed your contract with will complete your project to fruition as outlined in your contract. In this day and age, if something happens where your local office cannot complete your job, the Archadeck corporate office in conjunction with the National Guarantee Corporation will then step in and see that your project is completed. For example, if a current owner were to fall gravely ill, gets hit by a bus, or becomes insolvent, then the National Guarantee Corporation will step in and see that your project is completed per the contract. This type of warranty is similar to a bond or insurance. Upon completion, the NGC will then cover any warranties therein for up to two years after completion of your structure. They will also carry the other Archadeck warranties if the office is no longer able to provide that service to its customers due to catastrophic circumstances.

Our contract checklist outlines all the value you are getting at no extra cost to you.
Our contract checklist outlines all the value you are getting at no extra cost to you.

As a board member for the last five years, I am proud to say that we have only had small claims come before us but, we are a healthy business nationally that takes this very seriously. Even during the last economic downturn we proved to be a strong organization as is evident through the absence of any significant claims during the rough times. I always ask potential customers if being protected is important to them. I also go into detail about what our protection includes. Many times homeowners don’t think warranties such as these are available and would never imagine receiving them at no charge. But this is what we call “The Archadeck Difference”.

If you are thinking of adding an outdoor living space to your backyard, ask yourself if you value the peace of mind in knowing your dreams are protected. If the answer is yes, contact Archadeck of Columbus today for a free consultation(740) 879 – 3730
westcolumbus@archadeck.net

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

You can see more inspirational images of past outdoor living projects by visiting our patio and hardscapes photo gallery and our outdoor living photo galleries located on our website. One look and you will realize our commitment to quality and service we strive to achieve.

With Archadeck of Columbus’ staged building program you can be a winner too!

As the time ticks away to enter our Archadeck Dream Backyard Makeover contest, we urge you to dream big. Our staged building program can also deliver the backyard of your dreams over time and according to your budget making you a winner no matter what the contest results say.

Dream backyard makeover by ArchadeckThe end of March is just a short time away and our Archadeck 2013 Dream Backyard Makeover contest is still going strong. Two more finalists have yet to be chosen for March so now is the time to enter. Unfortunately there will be a lot of people who enter the contest that will not win, but our advice is to dream big and keep those entries rolling in! When you visualize your dream backyard, think about all the use and functionality of the spaces you want before you submit your entry. For example you may want to start with the primary structure such as a deck or porch and allow your other areas to feed off this to further function and enjoyment of your dream space.

With our staged building program everyone is a winner

Many of our customers design their outdoor spaces using staged building.  Staged (or phased) building enables you to plan your dream backyard over time. With staged building we can develop a plan that encompasses an entire outdoor space to be built in stages as your budget and lifestyle allows. We assist in planning your perfect outdoor oasis and ensuring all the structural footwork is in place to facilitate future additions. Archadeck of Columbus met with a homeowner just last week that wanted to build multiple structures over time. We prepared a grand plan showcasing the project in its entirety. We then priced out different segments as a starting point to his dream backyard. Archadeck of Columbus can also work with your pool company, lighting company and your landscaper on the structural components we need to proceed with your grand backyard design. When the time comes and you want to explore what a staged building project might cost you can contact us. Our primary goal during our initial consultation is to understand your needs, wants, budget and priorities to come up with a plan for you.

Columbus OH Timbertech deck in Sandridge
This outdoor space incorporates many levels of function and beauty in it’s design. A good example of a dream backyard.

Set the stage, dream the dream

Being in the business of outdoor living, my wife Carol and I have mapped out our dream backyard. It will include a screened porch to deliver safety from inclement weather and insects. We would incorporate an adjacent deck flowing from the screened porch. Our ultimate outdoor dream includes a rustic inspired outdoor fireplace with a multi-level patio used in conjunction with the deck. We would use the deck or patio to house tables and chairs for dining and designate the lower level patio for relaxing and conversation. We even have a vision of that lower level including an exterior fire pit or custom water feature. Even though we haven’t built our outdoor oasis yet we would consider the orientation of the sun to our home. For example, our home faces south therefore we would want a roofed structure to provide shade.

Patio with sailor course edging adjacent to Deck Columbus Ohio
This patio and deck combination matches the exterior of this home beautifully and also includes a sailor course border for added contrast.

A dream is as personal as the one who dreams it. With that being said we hope our dream backyard inspires you to dream as big as we do. Our dream backyard space includes a porch,  however  if a porch is not your cup of tea then you may consider an open outdoor structure instead. With a myriad of hardscape textures and colors available it is easy to coordinate your decking to the pavers. Another viable option when planning your dream backyard is to create accents through the decking and pavers, and even matching the colors you use in these areas to the trim on your home. The possibilities are endless…

To learn more about making your outdoor dreams a reality through our stages building program contact Archadeck of Columbus. We can create a custom master multi-year plan that will enable you to get a new backyard each year until your goal is reached. Call for a free consultation today(740) 879 – 3730
westcolumbus@archadeck.net

Archadeck of Columbus has seen a huge amount of interest from the Archadeck 2013 Dream Backyard Makeover contest. Just to clarify the contest specifications it is important to follow the instructions when entering. Entries must include one picture of your existing backyard and a brief description of what your dream backyard would be by utilizing decking, pavers and outdoor lighting. You can enter the 2013 Dream Backyard Makeover contest here

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

Please visit our decks photo gallery and our patio and hardscape photo gallery located on our website for more dreamy backyard ideas.

Humbled and delighted to have 2 wins in the Archadeck annual outdoor living design contest

As an outdoor builder, there are so many facets of what we do every day. We consult with new clients. We create designs to translate their needs and wants into physical structures. We build those structures. While we’d love to think our designs and processes are some of the best in the country, or at least top ranking in our national franchise, it’s incredibly humbling to actually win.

Archadeck of Columbus Design Contest winner 2013 patios hardscapes
Archadeck of Columbus Design Contest winner 2013 patios hardscapes

Last week we participated in Archadeck’s annual convention. We were able to share and gather ideas from Archadeck locations nationwide. Each year there are design awards in 4 different categories – deck designs, porch/enclosure designs, patio and hardscape designs and combination project designs. The combination projects include 2 structures such as a deck and patio combination project or a porch and deck combination project. The award winners are determined by votes from our corporate office and even more importantly from our peers.

Columbus design contest winner elevated screened porch
Columbus design contest winner elevated screened porch

We won 2nd place nationally in the patio and hardscapes design contest and 3rd place nationally in porch and enclosures design contest. These pictures are the projects that won the design awards.

Designing is such a rewarding part of our business. It’s not about the structures themselves. It’s about how those structures and outdoor spaces create a magical backyard space for our customers.

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

We’d love to provide a free consultation to you to discuss your ideas to enhance your outdoor living with a porch, hardscape, deck or other structures. Please give us a call at (740) 879 – 3730 or email us at westcolumbus@archadeck.net.

To see more pictures, please visit our Columbus patios and hardscapes online photo library and our Columbus porches picture gallery. We look forward to your call.