Archadeck of Columbus just completed a backyard transformation in Vinmar Farms, a neighborhood located in Galena, Ohio. When we originally met with the homeowners they had recently purchased the home and their existing outdoor living space consisted of only an 8x 10 builder grade deck. Not only was the deck small it created a boxed in feeling of not being able to turn around in the space, and it offered no access to the backyard from the deck itself. In order to enter the backyard you had to do so from the main level of the home. Since the home included a walkout basement, not having access to the backyard from the deck was an issue they wanted to rectify.
When we met with the homeowners to discuss upgrading their outdoor living space there was another prerequisite we needed to address. Aside from all the reasons associated with the size, flow and functionality of the existing space. The homeowners, being caring dog owners, wanted a space that would give their beloved canines, and themselves, an open space to spend time outdoors together and separate.
The final design we came up with speaks to all their concerns through a new (much larger) low-maintenance deck, spacious Unilock patio and under-deck space that could provide a shady spot on those dog day afternoons. The entire space flows from one into another and offers access to the backyard AND walkout basement.
The deck is built in durable TimberTech Terrain in brown oak, this color is not only easy on the eyes, it also helps mask any dirt brought onto the deck by muddy paws. The deck also includes a white vinyl rail with a TimberTech rail cap which unifies the design. We used a three-board tread step approach to the stairs to make travel up and down into and from the deck into the yard easier for the homeowner’s aging dogs.
Just a gentle walk below the deck is the stunning curvilinear paver patio which opens up the outdoor living space possibilities for man, and man’s best friend. The patio is built with Unilock Beacon Hill Flagstone pavers in platinum with a sailor course edge in Unilock Basalt Courtstone. The patio is finished off with a cropped rotary wall of Ledgestone which compliments the edge of the patio and adds a custom touch to the entrance into the walk-out basement.
As you can see, the patio floor extends the length of the under-deck area to provide a shady spot for the homeowner’s dogs to relax on warm days. The homeowner’s plan to add low-profile outdoor furnishings to help make the under-deck area easily accessible for the dogs too.
The entire space is built with pet-friendliness and extended outdoor living capabilities in mind. The homeowners are elated with their new backyard, as are their dogs. We look forward to revisiting this project in the months ahead and capture images of our four-legged clients enjoying the space too!
If you are ready to extend your outdoor living possibilities, for all members of your family to enjoy, Archadeck of Columbus can help! We can address any special circumstances and expertly refine an outdoor living space to address those needs. Contact us today to learn more at (740) 879 – 3730 or email us at westcolumbus@archadeck.net.
Low-maintenance is defined as requiring little work to keep in good condition. When most homeowners think about adding a low-maintenance outdoor living space, they often automatically imagine a composite or PVC deck. It is only natural that many of our clients assume that decking is the only material that comes in low-maintenance because we design and build many stunning TimberTech, AZEK and Fiberon decks here at Archadeck of Columbus. However, many clients are pleasantly surprised when they learn about another low-maintenance option we specialize in; patios.
Paver patios in particular, are becoming more popular with Columbus homeowners who are looking for low maintenance, durability, and stability in their outdoor living space. In fact, more than 200 million square feet of pavers have been installed throughout North America.
Our patios are built with quality and beauty in mind for the long haul.
They require very little attention on the part of the homeowner aside from just maintaining them with common sense practices to ensure their aesthetics; i.e.keeping leaves blown off the patio, cleaning up mud where the dog tracked it from the yard on a rainy day, etc.
Our custom paver patios work well as part of an outdoor living space combination, with a deck or porch, around a pool of to highlight your landscaped beds. Patios serve as the perfect space to complete your backyard retreat. Paver patios, when properly installed, are as reliable and stable as concrete patios. They last just as long as concrete patios and with only minimal maintenance requirements trumping the time you spend laboring over the constant cleaning, staining and maintenance of a wooden deck.
We take our building process very seriously and do not cut corners when it comes to building paver patios or any other hardscape structure. Since patios don’t require maintenance as often as other structures, low-maintenance does not mean NO maintenance. In order to keep your patio and/or hardscape looking and performing its best, professionals do recommend intensive maintenance/patio restoration services and resealing every 2 -3 years. Along with patio design and installation, we also offer a patio restoration service here at Archadeck of Columbus. Our professional team has you covered from every angle!
Contact us today to design your one-of-a-kind patio or hardscape! We will create a space for you that delivers the epitome of outdoor living at its best. You can reach us at Call (740) 879 – 3730, or email us at westcolumbus@archadeck.net.
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.
Archadeck of Columbus explains the difference in composite and synthetic decking materials.
This Granville, OH deck was built using TimberTech Earthwood Evolutions which is a capped PVC product – beautiful.
The scope of outdoor structure materials has broadened in recent years to reflect a constant evolution of new technology. These products are built with longevity, convenience and beauty in mind. You may have heard the terms “composite” and “synthetic” used when referring to these materials. Many homeowners think these products are one and the same which is not the case. Composites and synthetics do include some of the same characteristics and benefits but are actually quite different. Archadeck of Columbus is here to explain the differences in our quest to help homeowner better understand each product and place a face with the name.
This deck in Powell ,OH is built with TimberTech XLM Harvest Bronze with TimberTech Radiance rail
What is the difference between composite and synthetic?
Composite is a general term for the original form of low-maintenance decking. Some builders also use the technical term when referring to composites- which is wood plastic composites, or WPC. Composites came onto the scene in the late 1980’s and early 1990’s. Composites are made up of wood pulp that is combined with plastic which is often derived from recycled plastic. This combination of wood pulp and plastic is used to create this low-maintenance decking material. The wood plastic composite is a great product but is one that we rarely sell anymore. Even though WPC’s don’t require staining or painting, they do need to be kept clean in order to be keep them looking and functioning their best. A good comparison of what can happen to a wood composite deck is to look at what an ignored leaf can do to a concrete driveway if it is not removed promptly. This is the same thing that can happen with your WPC deck if it is not kept clean. Since we are dealing with products that are outside in the elements on a daily basis, composite needs to be checked for any debris or dirt on a regular basis. WPC is still a great product to use on or in your outdoor structure design, but the growing trend is leaning toward more homeowners choosing synthetic over composite nowadays.
This deck was built with AZEK in brownstone from their harvest color collection.
Synthetic decking materials encompass products that contain PVC. This can be a product that is built using solid PVC or capped (wrapped) with PVC. PVC or (poly vinyl chloride) is a product that is free of any wood. These decking products, known as the second generation of decking materials, came onto the scene about a decade ago. Pro-cell was the original PVC manufactures which was later purchased by AZEK ,which specialized in PVC trim used around homes. PVC products deliver the ultimate in low maintenance characteristics, but are generally at the higher end price point. Cost for synthetics can vary depending on the color, pattern and amount of streaking and undulation present. In general, the formulation of synthetic is very expensive and especially the synthetics that contain emulated natural wood details. Among the leader in solid PVC decking is of course, AZEK, but Fiberon and many other manufacturers are offering solid PVC along with their capstock and WPC lines.
This deck uses two shades of the Earthwood Evolutions tropical line, Teak and Walnut, to add more visual interest to this stunning deck.
One of the newest synthetics is a composite wrapped in PVC. This product is often referred to as capstock decking. The advantages of both solid PVC and wrapped PVC products include reducing the amount of maintenance required by the homeowner, and more specifically a decrease in the amount of cleaning required to keep the deck looking new. Capped composites, or capstock include Trex Transcends and TimberTech Earthwood Evolutions. Most synthetic manufacturers stand behind their product with a 25 year warranty. Based on Archadeck of Columbus’ experience with these synthetic products, my belief is that many of these products will outlast their warranties by many years. The only downfall we have seen with PVC products is due to the elasticity of the material it will sometimes expand during the hotter days of the summer.
This TimberTech deck and outdoor fireplace by Archadeck of Columbus is the perfect spot for entertaining.
In terms of price, composites are the least expensive and generally speaking a capped composite will be less expensive than a pure PVC product. TimberTech Twin Finish and Reliaboard are among some of the wood plastic composites that are available, but we recommend using a capped PVC product in most circumstances. The technology behind WPC has gotten better since their debut, but they still require lots of care and cleaning. Most all of the synthetic manufacturers are now in a stage of tweaking their color choices to offer a wider selection for homeowners to choose from. This includes more colors that contain streaking and undulation that mimics the beauty of natural wood. The technology behind making a stronger more resilient board is also improving.
Hopefully this information will quell any confusion about the differences between composite and synthetic. Our goal here at Archadeck of Columbus is to provide you with all the information you need to make the best decision when choosing the material that bests suits your needs and budget for your new outdoor structure.
Michael Reeder, Archadeck of Columbus
If you are ready to create an outdoor living space that will provide more time for enjoyment and less time focusing on maintaining your space, contact Archadeck of Columbus. We can help you choose the best decking material for you! Contact us today for a free consultation (740) 879 – 3730- Email westcolumbus@archadeck.net
You can see more examples of composite and synthetic decks by visiting our decks photo gallery and our composite and PVC decks photo gallery located on our website.
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
A deck, patio and fire pit combination outdoor space is just what these Granville, OH homeowners had in mind.
This new outdoor space gives the rear of this Granville, OH home new direction.
Our featured project this week proves the power of adding a quality designed and built outdoor space to your backyard. This relatively new home only had a small concrete landing. When we met with these Granville homeowners, we discussed adding a larger and more usable outdoor living space. The existing area had stairs that led to the home’s upper level. They also had a door outside their basement that sat at a lower grade. Their desire was to add two outdoor living spaces to extend their backyard enjoyment. They were also certain that they wanted a fire pit with a seating wall.
This image shows the backyard area before we began the project.
Archadeck of Columbus headed to the drawingboard to design a space that would meet their needs and fulfill their wishes. We came out with a combination outdoor living space that includes a low maintenance deck and new patio complete with the fire pit and seating wall.
The deck was built with TimberTech Evolutions decking in walnut. This choice ensures the authentic look of natural wood but requires minimal maintenance to stay looking great for years to come. We wanted to tie the trim color of the house into the space so we used white vinyl railing. The contrast between the walnut deck and the white railing is clean and crisp. We also recommended TimberTech rail camp on the vinyl railing to allow a flat surface. Normal vinyl railing will not allow for this feature since they are often rounded. The rail camp adds another layer of aesthetic to the space.
Notice how beautifully the Walnut TimberTech Evolutions decking compliments the whote vinyl rail and rail camp.
In addition to the new TimberTech deck, we removed the existing concrete patio and replaced it with a nice curvilinear patio with a retaining wall that also serves as a seating wall. We then integrated a wood fire pit within the seating wall. This design includes a retaining wall next to the house. This small retaining wall is both functional and attractive. Archadeck of Columbus constructed the hardscape components with Unilock‘s Brussels in the Sierra color. We also added a soldier course with an Il Campo charcoal colored border. For the retaining walls we used Unilock’s Brussels dimensional stone which is typically used for walls since it is a larger sized hardscape medium.
The fire pit’s unique design is functional yet unobtrusive.
We included Unilock Ledgestone as a decorative cap, and carried the same cap throughout the seating wall. We designed the custom fire pit into the retaining wall so it becomes one with the wall. For a relatively small space, the fire pit doesn’t take up a lot of functional, usable space. In addition to the deck and hardscape area, we also installed an extra column to support the stairs. This is our protocol with any set of long stairs such as this. This is to alleviate movement and bouncing, which will not occur with the additional support we installed.
These Granville homeowners are elated with their new space. They hosted an outdoor party last weekend where they were able to use (and show off) their new outdoor oasis! They are looking forward to the spring and summer season to have more opportunities to utilize their new space.
If you would like to learn more about improving the beauty and function of your backyard, contact Archadeck of Columbus. No dream is too big, or too small, for us to make a reality. Call today 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
Archadeck of Columbus unveils the TimberTech additions for 2013, Terrain decking and Feeney Cable Rail. These two additions mean more choices and more beauty can be yours with a custom outdoor space from us.
TimberTech unveils their new Terrain line and new railing options as well for 2013
Just when we thought the TimberTech product line couldn’t get any better, there is a new introduction to their new line of synthetic decking called TimberTech Terrain. Terrain is a wood and plastic capstock product that is similar in many ways to the popular Earthwood Evolutions line. The Terrain line features a thinner profile, similar to the TimberTech Reliaboard line, but with the same attributes that makes homeowner’s flock to the Earthwood Evolutions line at about 30% lower cost.
This picture shows both colors of the Terrain line.
Capstock is a term that depicts a synthetic board with a composite core which is wrapped (hence the term capped), with a PVC shell. According to a press release from TimberTech “In its second year, Earthwood Evolutions continues to exceed expectations for aesthetics and scratch, stain and fade resistance, said Toby Bostwick, director of product management for TimberTech. “From the Terrain Collection, customers can expect the same high performance qualities, backed by the same 25-year fade and stain warranty as our other Evolutions planks.” This means more of a good thing from the TimberTech line.
Terrain comes in two neutral colors; Brown Oak which is a deep brown, and Silver Maple which is dark gray. Both these new colors were formulated to complement any of the other TimberTech products and their vast color palettes. As with the Earthwoods Evolutions, we also have the ability to conceal lock fasteners so you won’t see any fasteners providing a clean, cohesive appearance.
New railing options for TimberTech for 2013
With the new introduction of the Terrain line, TimberTech also joins forces in 2013 with Feeney Cable Rail. These railings are very desirable because they deliver an unobscured view in your outdoor space. The same aesthetics that have made the design of the “endless pool” so popular among pool owners is the same design basis with Feeney cable railings. Both provide a clear view into your landscape and backyard. The concept really opens up a space, allows for more visual interest, and makes your outdoor space appear more spacious. Feeney is a significantly higher-end product but customers agree it is worth it for the added beauty it provides in your outdoor space.
RadianceRail in the style of Feeney Cable Rail, endless views and endless beauty.
Archadeck of Columbus looks forward to the opportunity of using these new TimberTech additions in the field in 2013. More choices and diverse options always make for a happy customer!
If you are planning to add a synthetic deck, or porch to your backyard in the New Year, contact Archadeck of Columbus to learn more about TimberTech and all the other great synthetic options we offer. Call today for a free consultation (740) 879 – 3730 westcolumbus@archadeck.net
Michael Reeder, Archadeck of Columbus
Visit our composite and PVC (vinyl) deck gallery located on our website to see more stunning examples of TimberTech decks and railing options we have available.
Archadeck of Columbus takes you on a trip through the many beautiful colors to build your new TimberTech deck from.
With all the new composites that are on the scene, each manufacturer has their own color palette to choose from. In our experience working with many different synthetic decking brands, among the most beautiful composite undoubtedly has to be TimberTech. The TimberTech line offers superior scratch, stain and fade resistance, this means the lovely color your deck starts out with is the color it will keep. Much of Timbertech’s decking also rivals the look of real wood with graining and undulation so close to the real thing you have to walk right up on it to tell it is indeed synthetic. Since TimberTech offers a wide array of beautiful colors to choose from to build your new deck, we only thought it fitting to take a closer look at some of their most popular hues.
1) This stunning first and second story deck in Powell, OH was completed with TimberTech XLM in Harvest Bronze, with a coordinating TimberTech Radiance rail. The space also features built-in bench seating and planters for a seamless space that becomes one with the lush landscape surrounding the area.
2) A golf course plays as the backdrop to the unique deck in the Muirfield community of Dublin, OH which is shown below. We used TimberTech Earthwood Evolutions decking in Teak with a Walnut border and streamlined cable rail. A true masterpiece.
3) This deck also features TimberTech’s Earthwood Evolutions in Teak with a Walnut trim and parting board. Notice how closely this deck mimics the look of real wood with shading and graining throughout.
4) An aerial view of this gorgeous TimberTech Earthwood Evolutions deck lends a bird’s-eye view of the colors and patterning. We paired Walnut alongside black aluminum railings for a beautiful contrast.
5) The low-to-grade deck in Columbus, OH shown below showcases the beauty of TimberTech’s XLM decking in Sandridge with Mountain Cedar trim.
6) This multi-level deck flows graciously with the lines and colors of this existing home. We used a winning combination of TimberTech Earthwood in Walnut with a stained cedar rail alongside black aluminum pickets.
7) This outdoor living combination in Columbus, OH includes a TimberTech XLM deck in Walnut Grove with a low maintenance white vinyl rail. The deck spills onto a charming hardscape patio area below.
8) This Columbus low-to-grade deck includes multi-levels and a gazebo which houses a hot tub for enhanced enjoyment. The deck is constructed from TimberTech Twin Finish decking in Gray.
9) Another low-to-grade beauty in Columbus, OH finished with TimberTech XLM. This palette is breathtaking in Rustic Bark with a black Radiance rail.
10) This deck has a stunning curved design and was completed using TimberTech Twin Finish in Cedar with an ornamental rail.
Michael Reeder, Archadeck of Columbus
If you are looking for a quality low-maintenance deck that comes in a myriad of beautiful tones. A TimberTech by Archadeck of Columbus may be just what you are looking for. Contact us today to learn more about TimberTech decks and our many other outdoor structure designs. We can help make your outdoor living dreams a reality. Call for a free consultation at (740) 879 – 3730 westcolumbus@archadeck.net
To see more examples of the beauty of TimberTech decks, you can visit our composite and PVC deck gallery located on our website.
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 just completed a backyard transformation in Vinmar Farms, a neighborhood located in Galena, Ohio. When we originally met with the homeowners they had recently purchased the home and their existing outdoor living space consisted of only an 8x 10 builder grade deck. Not only was the deck small it created a boxed in feeling of not being able to turn around in the space, and it offered no access to the backyard from the deck itself. In order to enter the backyard you had to do so from the main level of the home. Since the home included a walkout basement, not having access to the backyard from the deck was an issue they wanted to rectify.
When we met with the homeowners to discuss upgrading their outdoor living space there was another prerequisite we needed to address. Aside from all the reasons associated with the size, flow and functionality of the existing space. The homeowners, being caring dog owners, wanted a space that would give their beloved canines, and themselves, an open space to spend time outdoors together and separate.
The final design we came up with speaks to all their concerns through a new (much larger) low-maintenance deck, spacious Unilock patio and under-deck space that could provide a shady spot on those dog day afternoons. The entire space flows from one into another and offers access to the backyard AND walkout basement.
Columbus Decks, Porches and Patios by Archadeck of Columbus 