Archadeck of Columbus ponders the considerations of re-decking your existing wood deck in synthetic

Archadeck of Columbus discusses the benefits of choosing to re-deck your existing wood deck with synthetic decking.

After -Redecking in TimberTech Earthwood by Archadeck of Columbus
We removed the decking and railings on this deck in Powell, OH and resurfaced the existing structure using TimberTech composite decking- stunning!

Being in the business of outdoor structures, Archadeck of Columbus has seen our fair share of maintenance nightmares with pressure treated wood. If you are considering the addition or a new deck, or it has come time to re-deck your existing deck, there are some things you need to know before you make the final material decision. With a growing trend towards longevity and low-maintenance, synthetic decks deliver on both. Out of the approximately 80 synthetic deck projects we do in a year, about 30 of those are re-decks, and the majority of these are re-decking from pressure treated to synthetic.

This is the before image of the same deck pictured above. The original deck was built using cedar.
This is the before image of the same deck pictured above. The original deck was built using cedar.

Keep in mind that all outdoor structures are built with pressure treated pine framing. This is used so the structure does not rot over time, and also so no termites will eat it. There are other natural woods that can be used for framing purposes, such as cedar, but they cost significantly more and deliver the same results as using pressure-treated. Most of the time, when we are inspecting an existing deck as part of the planning process for a re-decking project, the framing members are usually still in great shape. This allows us to re-deck the surface, re-skin and put the new synthetic down. 95% of the cases where we have an existing wood structure, we are able to use the structure for the re-decking. There are times when Archadeck of Columbus may need to add additional framing, replace insufficient framing, or repair the framing before we can proceed. In these cases, it is most often because the framing was not completed correctly when the deck was originally built and it involves getting the deck up to our quality standards before we will proceed.

Before- this old Cedar Deck which was beginning to show some structural deterioration. Note the stairs in particular. They are not level as evidenced by the railings.
Before- this old Cedar Deck which was beginning to show some structural deterioration. Note the stairs in particular. They are not level as evidenced by the railings.

How many of you have seen a wood deck that looks really bad? If you have, then you probably remember the wood on the deck floor may have started to crack and deteriorate. Maybe the nails used to install the deck were popping and protruding from the flooring boards even though the railings were in half decent shape in comparison to the floor. The reason for this is a natural phenomenon that horizontal surfaces tend to get beat up, and suffer from less wear and tear over time than vertical surfaces. On the majority of our re-decks we install new railing, but it is often possible to retain your existing railing and install only a new rail cap, but this is only in certain circumstances.

The design was changed and allowed for better traffic flow, especially with the addition of the paver patio. Timbertech Earthwood Decking was installed with a Cedar Railing including black aluminum pickets.
The design was changed allowing for better traffic flow. TimberTech Earthwood Decking was installed with a Cedar Railing including black aluminum pickets. The trim and railings were stained to match the trim on the home. This beautiful! Project was custom designed and built in Dublin, OH.

The growing trend towards synthetics has become more evident over the past 5 years. In our market where we are building decks, 70-80% of the time the demand is for synthetic versus wood, and the primary being synthetic; rewind five years back, and this data was in reverse with the wood being in higher demand. With re-decking, as with any of our outdoor living structure projects, we are always happy to comply with the homeowners budgetary needs and aesthetics. Most often Archadeck of Columbus recommends re-decking in a synthetic decking such as TimberTech because of the low maintenance and longevity benefits. Being a predominately wood builder, we try to communicate the maintenance needs, care and protection required of choosing to re-deck with wood to the homeowners so they may make the best decision to suit their lifestyle and needs.  If you are considering re-surfacing your tired wood deck with a synthetic, the most popular one is our region is TimberTech. By choosing a synthetic product such as TimberTech, they not only offer an array of up and coming selections such as their XLM , Terrain and Earthwood Evolutions line, you are also eliminating the chore of painting and staining your deck in the future.

Last but certainly not least, one of the most important considerations is replacing the cost associated with re-decking your existing wood deck with synthetic. Synthetics are typically double the cost of the traditional pressure treated pine deck. Before you make the decision to re-deck in synthetic you should take into account the time you plan to live in your home. If you stay in your home 4 or 5 years or longer, you will get your money out of it and you will also create an investment that you and your family can enjoy into the future!

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

If you are considering a new deck, or re-deck in the future, contact Archadeck of Columbus to learn more about the many options we offer. We can help you choose the right decking material that best suits your lifestyle and budget. Call us for a free consultation today (740) 879 – 3730
westcolumbus@archadeck.net

You can see more examples of wood to synthetic redecking, and backyard makeovers by visiting our composite and PVC deck photo gallery and our before and after photo gallery located on our website.

Archadeck of Columbus gives our review of TimberTech Evolutions – 2 thumbs up!!

Archadeck of Columbus discusses the pros and cons of TimberTech XLM and TimberTech Earthwood Evolutions in helping Columbus area homeowners decide which product is the right fit for their new deck or redecking project.

TimberTech Earthwood Evolutions Teak with Walnut Border
This deck uses two shades of the Earthwood Evolutions tropical line, Teak and Walnut, to add more visual interest to this stunning deck.

In our line of business we have seen a wide range of synthetic decking materials come and go over the years. Over the past several years synthetic decking materials have evolved past the traditional composites giving us product lines that perform better and look the part too. TimberTech is one of the leaders in this decking evolution. Their introduction of TimberTech Earthwood Evolutions and TimberTech XLM have changed the way many of us think of the synthetic decking arena. Archadeck of Columbus uses both Evolutions and XLM. With our experience, we wouldlike to share about how each perform.

Now that TimberTech Evolutions and XLM have been out for a couple of years, we have placed enough down to provide feedback and the long term pros and cons for both product lines. In case you aren’t familiar with the components of Evolutions and XLM, though both are synthetics, each is different in their general makeup. TimberTech XLM is a solid PVC product with a PVC foam core and PVC cap. Evolutions is what is referred to as capstock composite. Capstock consists of wood and plastic composite core wrapped in a PVC cap that extends around the entire board.

Powell OH TimberTech XLM Harvest Bronze with TimberTech Radiance rail
This deck in Powell ,OH is built with TimberTech XLM Harvest Bronze.

TimberTech XLM Review

Because XLM is solid PVC, it is non-porous meaning dirt and grime cannot penetrate the boards. XLM performs really well in most outdoor structure installations. Any of your solid PVC materials are going to have a higher price point than other low-maintenance decking materials. The negative side of XLM is of course, the higher price, but also that the material is very pliable. Because of the pliable nature of XLM there is an expansion and contraction that takes place when the product gets hot which can cause slight waving of the product. I like to explain the waving like that of a rubber band that becomes even more pliable when heated. Add XLM’s pliable nature to the fact we are attaching it to wood, which already has a tendency to move, and that is the scenario you may be faced with. For most homeowners choosing to use XLM it is not a big deal, but we alert them of the possibilities of this happening.

columbus-timbertech-Earthwood Evolutions teak with white vinyl Pergola and white vinyl rail
This deck is built using TimberTech Evolutions.

TimberTech Evolutions Review

In our opinion, Evolutions is a much stronger product than XLM because it has a wood/plastic core and is not as pliable as XLM. There is no risk of the product becoming wavy in the future. Evolution’s performance is just as good as that of its solid PVC counterpart XLM, because it too cannot be penetrated by dirt or grime. This product comes in a wide range of color choices from the hues usually only seen in tropical hardwoods to traditional natural wood colors. Evolutions is also moderately priced in comparison with XLM. TimberTech provides a 25 yr. no fade, no stain warranty on their Evolutions line along with the 25 yr. warranty already provided in their entire product line which covers against bulging, splitting, cracking and board defections. To better show you how Evolutions stands up to normal wear and tear I allowed my sons to experiment with a few of the Evolutions decking boards. They had a really great time doing it and this demonstration speaks volumes about how the product would perform under normal everyday conditions on your deck. If it can get past Jake and Kyle, it can get past just about anything!

Earthwood Evoutions line
This chart shows the profile difference of the new Terrain line compared to the Natural and Tropical line of Evolutions.

Archadeck of Columbus has installed close to 200 projects using Evolutions, and we have not had one problem. This proves the integrity and quality of the product. In addition to XLM and Evolutions, TimberTech introduced a new line of synthetic this year called TimberTech Evolutions Terrain. Terrain debuts a different profile to their board in this line which comes in two neutral colors; Silver Maple and Brown Oak. Terrain is the least expensive product in TimberTech’s line of decking and should prove to be a winner in the years to come.

If you foresee a deck in your future and like the idea of having a stunning space with low-maintenance benefits, contact Archadeck of Columbus to learn more about the TimberTech line of quality composites- you’ll be glad you did.

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

You can visit our decks photo gallery and our composite and vinyl ( PVC ) deck photo gallery located on our website for more examples of decks we have built using TimberTech XLM and TimberTech Evolutions.

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.

Choose the right hue for your Columbus deck and create a fabulous outdoor space

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.

TimberTech XLM Harvest Bronze deck with TimberTech Radiance Rail Columbus
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.

 timbertech-earthwood-evolutions-walnut-columbus-oh.
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.

Azek Brownstone colored multi-level deck with Gazebo and Vinyl Rails, Reynoldsburg, OH, Columbus, OH
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-deck-archadeck-of-columbus
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

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

You can see great examples of the magic of color by visiting our composite and PVC deck gallery, and our wood deck gallery, located on our website.

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

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

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

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

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

Capstock is a term that depicts a synthetic board with a composite core which is wrapped (hence the term capped), with a PVC shell. According to a press release from TimberTechIn 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
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.
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
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.

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

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

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

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

TimberTech XLM Harvest Bronze deck with TimberTech Radiance Rail Columbus

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.

TimberTech golf course deck Columbus Muirfield Dublin OH

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.

TimberTech Earthwood Evolutions Teak with Walnut Border

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.

Timbertech Earthwood - Walnut with Black Aluminum Railings

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.

Multi-level Timbertech XLM Deck in Sandridge with Mountain Cedar trim low to grade Columbus OH

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.

Timbertech Earthwood Walnut with a Stained Cedar Rail and 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.

Archadeck of Columbus TimberTech XLM Walnut Grove deck vinyl rail Dublin

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.

Columbus low to grade Timbertech Twin Finish gray composite deck multiple levels and Gazebo for hot tub

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.

TimberTech XLM rustic bark with TimberTech Radiance Rail Columbus

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

TimberTech Twin Finish Cedar color deck with curved TimberTech ornamental rail

Michael Reeder, Archadeck of Columbus
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.

This stunning outdoor combination in Dublin, OH proves that an area doesn’t have to be large to be functional

An eye catching design, quality materials and functional space make up this TimberTech deck and paver patio combination structure in Dublin, OH that we recently unveiled.

Archadeck of Columbus TimberTech deck Dublin
Our recent project in Dublin, Ohio is full of functional space that is easy on the eyes.

This stunning hardscape patio and TimberTech deck combination in Dublin, Ohio is proof that a functional addition to your outdoor living doesn’t have to be huge nor does it need to cost a fortune. Many times lot constrictions, setbacks and a lack of usable space create a scenario where an expansive space isn’t possible. It is possible however to create a space that is simple, effective and pretty in spite of limitations. Take a look at this finished outdoor project.

These homeowners wanted a space that would allow for some relief from the sun for their child, as well as an area where they could enjoy their beautiful backyard as a family. We came up with a combination structure design that provides both. The family’s new backyard space now consists of a low maintenance composite deck and paver patio, with a hardscape path that ties the two structures together an provides a way to and from the outdoor area from the side of the home.

paver path walkway Dublin OH by Archadeck
Notice how the soldier course border gives the pathway a unified, finished look.

The new deck was built using TimberTech XLM in Walnut Grove. We installed the boards using a unique pattern and finished the design with a picture frame border that spans the entire outside perimeter of the deck. It adds visual interest when we are able to work in a unique pattern or design into a deck, a step beyond your normal everyday deck. The railings were done in white vinyl to compliment the windows of the home and they also help bring the rich Walnut Grove color of the deck into the spotlight. We also built a wide-angle step box which leads down to the paver patio below.

On the paver patio we used Unilock Camelot pavers in Coffee Creek, this color palette leads down to the walkway and around to the driveway as well. We accented the Camelot pavers with a Holland Stone soldier course edge to add contrast. The entire area is conducive to good traffic flow which will make both areas more functional for everyday enjoyment. The homeowners are elated with the finished project and are looking forward to enjoying their new outdoor area for many years to come.

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

Contact Archadeck of Columbus to learn more about how we can make your backyard a prime destination for relaxation, fun and family times, even with a limited budget or limited space.
Call for a free consultation: (740) 879 – 3730
Email: westcolumbus@archadeck.net

See more backyard combination ideas by visiting our composite and vinyl deck gallery  and our patio and hardscape gallery located on our website.

Composite vs. synthetic decking for your Columbus deck or porch

Archadeck of Columbus explores the world of synthetic decking products, from the original composite to the newer capstock decking.

Upper Arlington Columbus OH screen porch TimberTech
Synthetics are for more than just decks. This screened porch in Upper Arlington was built using a gorgeous TimberTech floor.

The term composite is used to describe a broad spectrum of low maintenance materials. Because of the new introductions to the market, there are other low maintenance products that are actually not composite materials. Many people are familiar with composites or the idea of composites and that has become the Coca-Cola of the low maintenance materials. Because of the new and improved low maintenance materials, we now call this category synthetic decking and composites are just one of the materials in this synthetic category.

Multi_level_TimberTech_deck_with_outdoor_fireplace_Columbus_Archadeck
This TimberTech deck and outdoor fireplace by Archadeck of Columbus is the perfect spot for entertaining this spring.

Composites are a mix of materials including wood fiber and plastic.  Product lines such as the TimberTech Twin Finish, and Trex Accents are good examples of traditional  wood/plastic composites. Traditional composite has now become the value oriented decking board because of the new products that have joined the category. Wood particles are still part of the makeup of the product which makes it porous. If you spill coffee, wine, or grease on the deck you will want to clean it up quickly just as you would inside your home. Other environmental factors such as bird droppings can lead to staining if now cleaned properly. We expect that in the next 5-6 years these composite products will fall by the wayside, they will still remain available but will probably not experience any dramatic growth in the popularity of these products with the other newcomers that are making their way into the spotlight.

Azek Brownstone
This deck was built with AZEK in brownstone from their harvest color collection.

Pure PVC products came onto the scene about 5-6 years ago. Lines such as AZEK, and TimberTech’s XLM, and Fiberon are great examples of pure PVC decking materials. They consist of PVC foam and a hard PVC cap that is non-porous. They are non-porous and accordingly will not stain permanently however when they become soiled, they will need to be cleaned with soap and water. Just because it’s low maintenance doesn’t mean it’s self cleaning.  PVC comes in a host of colors and new color introductions are made onto the market almost every year, so the selection is vast. You can get solid colors such as the TimberTech Natural Collection, or the TimberTech Tropical collection which has more streaking to replicate the look of real tropical hardwoods. These PVC products are oil-based so the natural colors are the least expensive, and the tropical collection forges into the higher end of the synthetic cost spectrum.

TimberTech earthwood evolutions new colors 2012 Archadeck Columbus
TimberTech earthwood evolutions new colors 2012

The newest synthetic product came onto the scene 2-3 years ago. This is called capstock. Capstock is a third generation synthetic which is also referred to as capped PVC. This product contains a composite core which has been capped, or wrapped in PVC. TimberTech Evolutions and Trex Escapes are good examples of capstock. In the Columbus market, Fiberon is the most costly because it is not stocked locally. The TimberTech capstocks are popular in this area because they are good products and the close proximity to their national office makes them easily obtainable. TimberTech now has a capstock line called Evolutions that has a realistic look of tropical hardwoods with streaking, and color variations that mimic the real thing. TimberTech also offers a line of natural color capstock as well. The beauty of capstock is the performance and the price point. Capstock is less expensive than pure PVC and performs beautifully.

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

No matter which synthetic is right for your deck and your budget, Archadeck of Columbus can answer any questions you have about any of the decking products we offer. We also build wood decks as well. Whatever your function or  fancy, we can build it. Learn more about all our wonderful deck designs by contacting us today. Call for a free consultation: (740) 879 – 3730
westcolumbus@archadeck.net

See more great examples of synthetic decks by visiting our composite and PVC deck photo gallery located on our website.

The grand finale to this Arlington, OH includes an outdoor fireplace and plenty of Zen

Archadeck of Columbus delivers an update on this project in Arlington that mimics the feel of an urban oasis complete with an outdoor fireplace and spiral stairway to breathe in the spectacular views.

outdoor fireplace on screen porch columbus oh
The stunning outdoor fireplace within the screen porch uses mixed medias for a breathtaking design.

Not too long ago, we highlighted this project as a “coming soon” story while the screen porch was still under construction. Take a look.

We have since completed this stunning multifunctional outdoor structure and we want to share the grand finale with you. This new screened porch is in Arlington, OH. We removed a deck that was built in 2002 to accommodate the homeowner’s wish for a larger area that includes a screen porch to better suit their lifestyle.

The screened porch boasts an abundant 16 x 22 feet of useful space which includes a shed porch as well.  The homeowners used their own home’s unique blend of contemporary Frank Lloyd Wright  inspired design that includes large soffits with flat rubber roofs to pave the way for the outdoor room’s distinctive flair. The flooring is TimberTech’s XLM Walnut Grove flooring. We also used Screen Eze for the porch screen which is a durable and tough screen and can be used for extremely wide openings.  The finished ceiling is done in Paulownia tongue and groove and we also used the same roof columns to make it look 12″ x 12″ . To add to the zen effect that the structure and the house provide, we also added a spiral staircase exiting down to the existing deck that is on the docket for replacement by us for later this year. Since the rear of the house is situated on a ravine, the spiral staircase provides a dramatic effect.

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Last but certainly not least, we also constructed a beautiful custom outdoor  fireplace to the screened porch to finish out this outdoor masterpiece. The fireplace is built with split stack style cultured stone on the veneer and topped off with a limestone mantle. The design includes a Rumford style firebox which is 36″ and is a taller firebox which projects more heat.

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This image shows the grandeur of this screened porch in Arlington from the exterior.

The design’s  coup de grâce is the exterior wall  finished in tile and the Feeney aluminum railing system with  Feeney cable rails. The clean lines, paired with the contemporary furnishings the homeowners chose makes this outdoor structure the very definition of zen in outdoor design.

Find out more about our specialized outdoor room designs by contacting Archadeck of Columbus. We can design a screened porch, or outdoor oasis that reflects your personal style, and function in every inch.

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

Call for a free consultation: (740) 879 – 3730 westcolumbus@archadeck.net  or visit our website to view more stunning images of screened porches, and outdoor rooms, sure to leave you inspired.

Archadeck of Columbus scores a triple-play on this screen porch, patio and deck combination

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.

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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.

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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
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