When Nature Runs Its Course, Archadeck Comes To The Creative Rescue
Wow. The Before images of these majestic dual-facing elevated structures are pretty impressive. Unfortunately, those two second-level deck balconies were about to go kaput. Who to call? Why Archadeck of Austin, Texas, of course.
Before we arrived on the scene of this Westlake home, both high-rise deck balconies were done in tile. They were rotting due to the seal plates underneath them.
Our solution was outdoor living surgery and rescue. It was a large demolition, as you can clearly see from the girth of the structures. We strategically and carefully removed it all and began the project of restoration and rebuilding.
Two Heads May Be Better Than One, But For Expansive Outdoor Living Functionality, One Is The Right Number
With a backyard home exterior this vast, our thinking was that one expansive outdoor living deck balcony would be in the best long-term interest of the family.
Instead of the original floor foundation of tile, we thought about combining low maintenance and long life, so AZEK PVC decking was the winning solution. Meticulously manufactured from a PVC resin and a harder PVC shell, these materials are extruded together to create a truly beautiful deck board.
With a beautiful grain and assortment of variegated colors, AZEK is the carefree decking master choice among discerning home improvement experts like Archadeck.
A Dozen Colors To Choose From, And Countless Benefits With This Low Maintenance Decking Wonder
At a time when homeowners are extending their living space to their exterior balconies, front porches, screened porches, and covered outdoor living rooms, the visually inspiring colors from AZEK Deck’s Vintage collection are sure to add richness and design interest.
The latest addition of AZEK decking colors includes Mahogany, Dark Hickory, Coastline and Weathered Teak – all variegated colors, inspired by exotic hardwoods, with a wire-brushed, natural matte finish.
Manufactured with a tongue-and-groove design, AZEK PVC decking creates a very small, consistent gap between the surfaces of the boards, while only requiring one fastener per joist, after the starting board is installed. AZEK low maintenance and high-performance decking is protected by Alloy Armour Technology, enabling it to withstand harsh weather and resist stains, scratches, fading, mold, mildew, and moisture damage while providing a slip-resistant surface.
In fact, the material is covered by a best-in-class 30-year limited fade and stain warranty and a limited lifetime warranty. Also, unlike wood outdoor living structures, no annual sealing or staining is required with AZEK.
Quality Finishing Touches Complete This Transformation Story
Our construction team also replaced the homeowners’ existing rail with a new custom horizontal iron railing and balusters, simply stunning and sleek in rich black.
The area under the double-wide deck is a dry deck area and here, along with the dry deck system, we also installed a beautiful Synergywood ceiling in the color Ebony.
Due to the slope of the existing space, we used a new under-deck system called DEK Drain.
Why DEK Drain?
This innovative rubberized membrane with sloped valleys in between each joist proved to be the ideal foundation for this build.
Protective panels – custom fabricated from a long-lasting, thick rubber membrane material and pre-cut to match your deck’s specific measurements – are attached to the bottom of your deck’s joists, capturing water that slips through the surface boards.
This proprietary deck drainage system creates dry, functional space below your deck that has virtually unlimited uses, while mitigating damage from precipitation and moisture.
Whether you plan to use your under-deck area for storage or to expand your living space with furniture, a finished ceiling, and more – DEK Drain ensures that you won’t have to strip everything bare in 20 years and start all over again.
DEK Drain is the only deck drainage system on the market offering a fully transferrable, limited lifetime warranty – which complements the outstanding one offered by AZEK.
It is interesting to note that DEK Drain systems have been successfully installed in all 50 states and 7 foreign countries, and not a single claim has been filed to date. And that is what we call true peace of mind in material selection.
All This – And More – Can Be Yours With Archadeck Let’s put our creative minds together and brainstorm about your next outdoor living space. To get started, all you need to do is click here.
Round Rock Custom Deck Builder Creates An Outdoor Living Masterpiece
From a distance, this multi-level sprawling outdoor living creation is what deck and porch combination design is all about.
So, what else would you expect except perfection from this deck and porch combination builder?
To create a wide-open patio, deck and covered porch combination space, Archadeck started at the far left rear of the home by installing a concrete overlay patio that has the luxe look of travertine. It accommodates an outdoor barbecue and alfresco dining area, with generous room for seating many family and guests.
To the immediate right, you’ll find a two-step rise to a lower level deck which is a great way to handle guest overflow when entertaining at that backyard level.
Continuing to the far right is the Holy Grail of this stunning outdoor transformation – a majestic covered porch, accessed by a 3-tier staircase.
The interior of this open space is the stuff rustic dreams are made of. Cedar is the exquisite material of choice used here by this covered deck builder.
Like a row of soldiers at attention, the beams in the ceiling reflect and pay homage to the incredible richness and beauty of this treasured wood.
Notice the stunning and captivating open rafter design on the interior porch ceiling starring our perennial favorite tongue and groove cedar. The gable roof porch extension for this project with beam/kind truss detail defines it as a unique custom design for this most deserving family.
In addition to crafting the ceiling from cedar, it was also used for the deck floor, as well as for the deck skirting.
Less expensive than teak and lighter than oak, cedar possesses many major advantages that make it suitable for outdoor furniture, as well as building outdoor structures. One of its strongest benefits over time is its ability to resist insects, rot, termites, and Powder Beetles.
With its natural resistance to rot and decay, a protective finish is an optional choice. But if you want to enjoy the aroma of varieties such as Western Red Cedar and Incense Cedar, leave the wood unsealed and bask in the multi-sensory experience of this amazing wood.
Creative Storage Solutions With This Round Rock, TX, Deck Builder
In addition to designing and meticulously building this beautiful backyard oasis, outdoor living builder Jim Schallon was forward-thinking enough to include storage.
The height of the deck left plenty of room underneath for dry space storage – great for garden tools, lawn equipment, and other outdoor living and upkeep necessities. The great thing about it from an aesthetic perspective is that it is out of sight, secure, and totally sheltered from the weather. For access after dusk, there is even a light installed conveniently in this area.
It is attributes like intelligent design, flawless craftsmanship, and attention to detail that make this Austin outdoor building team so highly regarded. For more exciting features about this premier Archadeck of Austin location, visit us on Facebook and check us out on Google, too.
Backyard Bliss Like This Can Be Yours For The Asking
Contact Archadeck of Austin today to schedule your free design consultation, with no obligation to commit whatsoever. Your design consultation is free, but the results are destined to be priceless!
New Low-Maintenance Deck Provides Open Area Where These Falconhead West Homeowners Can Enjoy Their Fabulous Canyon View
Once in a while, a client requests the opposite of a typical Archadeck of Austin project. We are always happy to work out a great custom design for them! So often, our clients have an open outdoor living space like a patio or a deck, and they are looking for a shade solution. Frequently we design a new covered porch to work in combination with a homeowner’s existing patio or deck. In many other cases, we replace an existing patio or deck with an entirely new covered porch and open patio or deck combination.
It all adds up to the same thing, no matter the starting point. Homeowners who enjoy spending much of their time outdoors, at home, love having both a shaded and an open outdoor living space. The same is true for homeowners who love to entertain outdoors. The versatility you gain when you have an open and covered outdoor living combination is immeasurable.
Our clients at this home in the Falconhead West neighborhood in Bee Cave, TX, had the opposite problem of most. They have a beautiful covered porch at the back of their home. And they have a magnificent view across the canyon below. What they needed was an open-to-the-sky outdoor space where they can enjoy that wide-open view, day or night. Given the slope of this property, a deck was a better option for them than a patio.
Austin’s Low-Maintenance Deck Designer Helps You Enjoy Your Hill Country View!
At Archadeck of Austin, we absolutely love helping you enjoy your marvelous view! What good is a great view if you don’t have the perfect place to enjoy it? For these Falconhead West homeowners, we designed a beautiful deck using TimberTech/AZEK low-maintenance decking. They selected two colors, Weathered Teak for the main deck surface and English Walnut as an accent color. Our custom deck design incorporates the darker color for picture framing, a parting board, and stair risers.
Archadeck’s high-quality work shines through in the details of this custom deck design. Picture framing refers to the darker boards that form the outer edge of the deck surface. We also picture-framed the small landing on the deck stairs. The parting board is the dark board that runs straight through the middle of the deck from the steps across to the far side. In addition to adding visual interest, the parting board provides a tidy way for the diagonal decking boards to meet in the deck’s center. No one likes to see the raw ends of two decking boards meet up with each other, if we can prevent that. As you can see, inserting a parting board allows for a cleaner design.
Notice the black railing around this deck – it practically disappears when you look out at the view. The homeowners have placed decorative black bollard lights at each railing post, inconspicuous because they blend in with the black posts. The beautiful, ornamental detail of these lights will provide amazing ambiance on this deck at night.
From the ground, looking up, you can see that the deck itself is cantilevered over the under-deck storage area. We built the solid board deck skirting with cedar. The homeowners have plenty of storage space under the deck, an excellent use of this space. Contact Archadeck of Austin today to schedule your free design consultation.
Low-Maintenance Deck Replacement in The Hills of Lakeway, TX, Suggests Déjà Vu!
Replacing a deck at your Austin-area home doesn’t mean you have to make a lot of changes. Our clients in The Hills of Lakeway, TX, liked the deck they had. They liked the color, the size, the shape, and the way it hugged the back of their home. The deck was built with cedar, however, and what the homeowners did not like was the way their wood deck was starting to deteriorate. The deck was low to grade, exposed to moisture near the ground, and the wood was beginning to rot. It was time for a deck replacement.
Will a Low-Maintenance Deck Rot Like Wood?
Not likely! One of the reasons many homeowners choose low-maintenance decking today is for its moisture-resistant properties. Composite and synthetic decking is capped with polymers making it extremely resistant to moisture damage. You can tell by these products’ lengthy warranties that they’re made to last a very long time—without rotting. At Archadeck of Austin, we recommend synthetic (PVC) decking if your deck is low to grade.
Like many of our clients, these homeowners in The Hills of Lakeway wanted a new deck that would look great without a lot of upkeep. For their deck replacement, they selected AZEK low-maintenance decking from TimberTech’s Harvest Collection in Slate Gray.
Your Austin Deck Replacement: What to Keep, What to Change?
Since the homeowners liked so much about their original deck, design decisions for their deck replacement were easy! That’s the great thing about replacing a deck—you don’t have to make a lot of changes if you don’t want to. In this case, our clients wanted us to use the same footprint for their new deck’s scale and size. They chose a similar shade of gray, too, and they wanted similar benches along the sides of the new deck.
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- Before
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- Before
We laid the decking boards out in a picture-frame design. Since the decking is monochromatic, the picture-framing is not as noticeable here as it would be on a deck with contrasting board colors. Picture-framing gives the deck a smooth edge, which is especially significant at the location of the step down to the yard.
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- After
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- After
We also built the new benches with AZEK. We used low maintenance PVC for the deck skirting, too, so the mulch around the deck will never cause rotting in the future. The Hardie stucco-finish board we used on this project is a low maintenance material as well.
And the Rest of the Story …
The scope of this job included a side project in addition to the deck replacement. The clients had a little walkout/stoop at a doorway elsewhere on the home that was built with the same cedar boards as the original deck. Archadeck of Austin removed the cedar stoop and built a new one with concrete.
Has the time come to replace a deck at your home? Whether you are replacing a deck or interested in adding one for the first time, call Archadeck of Austin today at 512-259-8282 or email us to schedule your free design consultation.
Jim Schallon, senior designer Archadeck of Austin.
Under-Deck Project in Georgetown, TX, Demonstrates Dry Storage Space
Do you have an elevated deck with usable space beneath it … going unused? If you don’t need the space, that’s fine, but many Austin-area homeowners find it quite valuable. Some use the space under a deck as a covered porch or patio – and, of course, that depends on the height of your under-deck area. Others, like these Archadeck of Austin clients in Georgetown, TX, use it for outdoor storage. Who doesn’t need more storage space?
Archadeck of Austin designed and built this beautiful deck and covered pergola some time back. You could call this more recent project Phase II – installing an under-deck system to keep everything dry down below. The homeowners had been storing a few items under the deck already. Because rainwater drips down between decking boards, however, they had to be sure their items were covered or sealed up in bins.
An Under-deck Space That Stays Dry and Looks Good, Too
The first order of business was to seal off the under-deck space so it would stay dry. Decks are designed for drainage, which is why there is always a bit of space between decking boards. Without a way for water to drain off, the deck would pool with water whenever it rained. No one wants to slosh around on a wet deck!
To keep the space dry, we installed a pan system secured to the underside of the deck frame. The pan channels water as it runs through the deck and funnels it away through gutters. It’s an efficient way to create dry space below without hindering drainage above.
With an effective drainage system in place, we added walls around the under-deck storage area. We purposely designed plain walls that won’t attract attention. The homeowners’ lawn mower and other backyard items are safely tucked out of sight and secured with a padlock on the storage room door. Now they have ample outdoor storage space. With this type of enclosure, you are actually adding dry space to your home.
Two Benefits of an Under-deck Dry Space
Converting the space to dry storage and closing it off with walls serves two purposes for these Georgetown TX homeowners. First, their stored items stay dry. Second, the walls keep everything out of sight so the yard looks tidy regardless of what’s tucked up under the deck.
Notice we didn’t enclose all of the under-deck area. At a certain point each day, the deck provides shade over the area that is not closed off for storage. You don’t need the full trappings of a porch or patio to make good use of it. Just pull up a chair!
If you have usable, dry space under your deck, how would you like to use it?
If under-deck drainage is preventing you from using the space under your deck, let Archadeck of Austin design a dry porch, patio, or storage space under your deck. Call Archadeck of Austin today at 512-259-8282 or email us to schedule your free design consultation.
Jim Odom Archadeck of Austin
Soil Amendment Will Ensure New Sun City Deck in Georgetown, TX, Has a Long and Healthy Life
When premium deck builder Archadeck of Austin removes a deck that’s sick and replaces it with a healthy one, we feel satisfaction approaching that of a transplant surgeon. Of course, we don’t have to source our healthy decks from deck donors. We custom design and build each one from the ground up, including this deck replacement project in the Sun City community of Georgetown, Texas.
What’s unusual here is that the ground was part of the problem. It’s what made the first deck sick, so it was our job to ensure the new deck wouldn’t meet the same fate: mold, deterioration, and rot.
This Georgetown TX Deck Tells a Story We Don’t Want to Repeat
The clients’ original deck included two pergolas attached to a canopy with built-in benches. We had to remove the deck, benches and pergolas because they were deteriorating. The deck had been built so low-to-grade it had started sinking.
— Before: the existing deck was sinking due to rot.
When we took out the old deck, we found was it was rotting underneath. While pressure-treated pine is rated for ground contact, moisture can intervene and cause severe problems. This deck was in contact with the moist ground, hence our discovery of mold and degradation on the underside. In a case like this, a deck rots from the bottom up because the underside is not stained or sealed.
Design, Prep, Build. And Don’t Forget to Prep …
Knowing the ground under this deck stays moist, we took extra precautions to prevent the same damage from recurring. This illustrates one reason Archadeck of Austin has become such a trusted deck builder. We go the extra mile to make sure our projects last and look great as long as possible.
First, we excavated the soil under the deck’s location since we were building the new deck on the same moist spot where the prior deck had stood. Then we applied a 3″ gravel base before erecting the new deck. This system will allow more air flow under the deck and prevent the humidity level from rising enough for rot to occur.
Designing, Building Custom Decks and Pergolas for Austin and Georgetown TX Clients
We custom design every project we build because each client is unique and each home is unique. You could say it goes without saying, but not every deck contractor does this. For this Sun City project, we redesigned the space by installing a proper beam system across the posts supporting the pergolas.
Another example of the custom work we did here is the spacing of the slats atop the pergola closest to the home. The homeowner had commented that the previous pergola blocked the light coming into the home through the windows. We were able to customize the new pergola to remedy that situation.
As you may know, adjusting the spacing between slats across the top of a pergola will affect how much shade the structure casts. For this Georgetown TX deck, pergola and bench project, we spaced the slats at the front of the pergola (farthest from the house) 3” apart for adequate shade. Toward the back of the pergola (nearest the windows), we spaced the slats every 6″ apart. The homeowners will enjoy shade on the deck where they want shade and light inside the home where they want more light – thanks to the new customized design.
The Details: Materials Used for This Deck and Pergola Project
For the deck’s surface and benches, the clients selected low-maintenance capped PVC decking from TimberTech AZEK’s Vintage collection in their weathered teak color. We rebuilt the twin pergolas – including posts, beams, slats and trusses – with cedar and applied a solid-color custom stain on all of the wood surfaces. We were able to retain the original deck railings, and we didn’t need to modify the roof structure for this project.
Not only was the new deck prepped thoroughly, it’s also solid, sound, more useful and beautiful! Can you make out the triangle dinner bell hanging from the pergola’s beam? These Sun City homeowners can enjoy dining on their deck safely once again.
Whether you want a new deck, replacement deck, custom pergola or more, Archadeck of Austin is ready to design and build the outdoor living space that will make your home complete. Contact us today at 512-259-8282 or via email at jim.odom@archadeck.net to schedule a free design consultation.
Jim Schallon, senior designer Archadeck of Austin.
Sierra Arbor Estates Redecking Project Saves Clients’ Deck and Gazebo, Too!
Here’s a tip: if you don’t have your aging deck replaced, you may never know your gazebo is in danger of collapsing. In North Austin, TX, the Sierra Arbor Estates deck project you see pictured here illustrates that point.
Before — aging deck in need of a refresh!
After Archadeck of Austin redecked this space with AZEK low-maintenance decking.
You’ve heard the expression, “One thing leads to another,” right? Sometimes homeowners are very, very glad one thing led to another when Archadeck of Austin comes around to create (or recreate) an outdoor living space.
After Archadeck of Austin redecked and refreshed this space.
These clients wanted to replace their small deck that wraps around the side and back of their house, bordered by a charming stone wall. Made of wood, the deck had decayed. Time for a replacement.
Good fortune was on their side; the deck was a good candidate for redecking. Not all homeowners are aware that redecking is an option – and one that can save them money. Until we inspect your deck, we won’t know if redecking will work for your project, though.
Why is redecking possible? The sun’s UV rays cause a wooden deck’s surface to deteriorate over the years. Meanwhile, the deck’s substructure is protected from the sun and doesn’t suffer the same damage.
Before committing to redecking, Austin deck builder Archadeck of Austin will examine the support structure under your deck. If that structure is not compromised – if it’s still in good shape and can support a new deck surface for a good many years – we can use it again. That saves you some of the cost of materials and labor to build your new deck.
For their new deck surface, these homeowners chose AZEK synthetic decking boards in the popular weathered teak color from their Vintage Collection. With an AZEK deck, these homeowners will not have to worry about deterioration. These decking boards will resist splitting, cupping, splintering, blistering, peeling, flaking, cracking, rotting and structural damage from termites or fungal decay, and they are covered by an excellent manufacturer’s warranty.
So … about that gazebo we mentioned earlier. One end of this deck extends out to a gazebo in the back yard. We found that the gazebo hadn’t been built correctly. It was actually bowing, its support piers sinking into the ground because the concrete footers could not carry the weight of the gazebo. Honestly, this might have been a disaster in the making.
Archadeck of Austin to the rescue! We removed all the skirting and were able to pull out the original support posts and install a proper footing system under the gazebo. In that process we leveled the surface, so everything is level now.
Finally, we wrapped up this project by replacing about 15-20 feet of the clients’ wood fence, gates and hardware because the original fencing that bordered the yard had also seen better days.
These North Austin homeowners are happy now that peace and safety have been restored to their pleasant getaway-at-home.
Could you save money by having your older deck redecked instead of replaced completely? Let Archadeck of Austin take a look at your deck to determine if it is a candidate for redecking. Call us today at 512-259-8282 or email us to schedule your free design consultation.
Jim Schallon, senior designer Archadeck of Austin.
New deck in NW Austin gives new life to porch cover, thanks to Archadeck of Austin
To borrow from Forrest Gump, a deck replacement can be “like a box of chocolates. You never know what you’re gonna get.”
When this NW Austin homeowner hired Archadeck of Austin to replace her existing wood deck, she didn’t know that her porch cover was in need of shoring up. In the process of removing the old deck, we discovered that the porch cover was no longer structurally sound. The beam that was holding it up was not strong enough to support the roof load it was carrying. See a picture of the deck and porch cover before we began the project below:
Since being advised prior to ordering the materials that she should fix the porch at the same time as the deck we included the materials needed as part of the total work order.
We conferred with the homeowner about this issue because replacing that beam and adding new support posts were tasks not included in the scope of our project. The homeowner agreed that replacing the porch roof’s support structure — while we were already in the same spot building a new deck — was a good idea. This was definitely a safety issue.
Now the homeowner has a sweet new deck with a sturdy and well-supported porch cover. For the new deck construction, she selected low-maintenance AZEK composite decking in Mahogany. Notice the deck board at the end, the way it runs perpendicular to the other boards. This is called picture framing, a method Archadeck of Austin uses now on most of our composite and PVC decks.
Picture framing allows us to provide a nice, clean, finished edge around the deck perimeter. It creates an even edge for the fascia and deck boards so debris and dirt won’t accumulate between those components. That kind of debris accumulation can rot the substructure.
We had room to expand the depth of the deck by about four feet, which may not sound like a lot, but it does make the deck feel much more spacious. While a portion of the deck is covered for protection from sun and rain, a significant portion remains uncovered for those beautiful days when nothing will do but to sit out in the open.
To support the porch cover, we added a new Glulam beam along its front edge. If you’re not familiar with Glulam beams, let’s just say this beam is a workhorse. Technically, Glulam is glued laminated timber. It’s “pound for pound” stronger than steel and much stronger than regular, comparably-sized lumber. And the adhesives used in the lamination process are moisture resistant.
We supported the new overhead beam with pressure-treated wood framing, and we wrapped the new support posts with cedar. Instead of using lattice screen under the deck, we used Hardie skirt board for a cleaner, more streamlined appearance. We shifted the stairs away from the building to improve traffic flow to and from the deck.
The homeowner selected the Fortress rail system in the black sand color with 2″ posts because they allow more of the view of the sloping back yard. She plans to fill the hillside with landscaping, using only plant material native to Austin.
Are you thinking of replacing your aging deck or other outdoor living structures? If you want the job done professionally, contact Archadeck of Austin today at (512) 259-8282 or via email at jim.odom@archadeck.net to schedule a free design consultation.
Jim Schallon, senior designer Archadeck of Austin.
Spiral staircase is a winner for this just-right Steiner Ranch combo deck-patio-pergola affair
Can an outdoor living space be small in scale and still be GRAND? You’d better believe it! Today’s project, located in the Steiner Ranch community of Austin, TX, drives that point home with certainty. This may not be the largest outdoor living space we have designed, but it’s unique — and one of our favorites.
This Steiner Ranch homeowner was referred to Archadeck of Austin by a previous client of ours who was thrilled with the project we designed and built at their home. And you know we love it when new clients find us through word of mouth. (If we have completed a project for you, don’t forget to tell your friends about it!)
To start, a basic concrete patio was the only outdoor living space existing at the home. Standing in the back yard, facing the patio and the back of the house, the homeowner looked up … and knew she wanted to add a pergola over the patio and a deck off of the second-floor bedroom. She also knew she didn’t want a typical deck staircase extending from the deck out into the yard. Whether a straight staircase or one that turned at a landing, either kind would be too prominent, visually, and would take up way too much space. It would stick out.
A spiral staircase was what she wanted. OK! Archadeck of Austin is all in favor of spiral staircases, but they can be expensive. We did some research online and finally located an affordable spiral staircase by Salter Spiral Stairs. We were hesitant to order it, though, because it comes as a kit. First you go through Salter’s design consultation process, giving them the measurements of your space. Then Salter creates your staircase and ships it to you in pieces — along with installation instructions. If you have any trouble with it, they provide customer service reps who can answer your questions by phone.
Based on our experience in the world of DIY, some kits are good and some are not. We decided to take a gamble that this spiral stair kit would be satisfactory. It was GREAT! The staircase installation was seamless, and we are all pleased with the staircase quality. We even got an upgrade to include welded stair treads, which add a great deal of character to the stairs.
We built the second-story deck with AZEK low-maintenance composite decking in a dark hickory color. The deck railing is a black metal railing from Fortress, and it goes perfectly with the black metal spiral staircase. Finally, we custom-made a bench using AZEK dark hickory composite decking to provide additional seating along one end of the patio.
Altogether, this combination outdoor living space now includes the original patio plus a new cedar pergola and composite deck — topped off with a spiral staircase, which is like eye candy! To support the pergola and deck, we built sturdy cedar posts matching the cedar pergola. We also added a Polygal cover on top of the pergola to protect patio sitters from sun and rain. The scene is complete with ceiling fans over the patio and light fixtures for nighttime use.
Taking it all in at once, you can see we packed a lot of outdoor living design into a relatively small space! It all works together well without crowding or giving you that penned-in feeling. This Steiner Ranch combination deck and pergola project, with patio, demonstrates that an outdoor living project doesn’t have to be massive in scale to be effective.
Let us show you how to make the most of the outdoor space you have. And if you want a spiral staircase for your deck, we know just the one! Contact Archadeck of Austin today at (512) 259-8282 or via email at jim.odom@archadeck.net to schedule a free design consultation.
Jim Odom Archadeck of Austin
Hudson Bend homeowners find deck satisfaction — and more! — with a new deck design
Sometimes, fixing one thing gives you the opportunity to fix a few others as well, taking you from good to GREAT! For example, take this deck in the Hudson Bend area on Lake Travis. The aging cedar deck was worn, weathered and due for replacement. Meanwhile … hmmm … how about eliminating those troublesome steps down from the breezeway to the deck. And … hmmm … what if the new deck could hold a hot tub … and what about those old railings …?
Archadeck of Austin addressed several issues by designing a new-and-improved outdoor living space for these Hudson Bend homeowners:
- Because we replaced the wood deck with AZEK composite decking, the new deck won’t fade and weather like the old one did.
- The deck is on the same level with the breezeway now, as well as the doors to the house and garage, so several inconvenient steps have been eliminated.
- The deck was extended to include an alcove for — yes! — a hot tub.
- The updated railings are sleek and allow a better view.
Here is a look at the deck before Archadeck of Austin began the project:
In the new deck design, we were able to match the deck’s elevation with that of the breezeway, not only eliminating the awkward “step down” but also making the space more open and functional. To bring the two surfaces to the same level, we raised the new deck up to the level of the breezeway. This adjustment makes the whole deck area look bigger because the breezeway and deck blend together now, creating one larger space. Also, the new deck design, level with the doors on the back of the house and level with the garage door, works much better for the homeowners.
Ready for the low-maintenance lifestyle, the homeowners chose AZEK composite decking in the mahogany color. We installed a triple parting board in the deck pattern, which is fairly unusual, because the client didn’t want any deck boards visibly meeting end-to-end. We engineered the design to use as many full pieces of the decking boards as possible. That’s the kind of challenge we enjoy tackling.
To make the deck sturdy enough to support a spa, we installed additional cross bracing and substructure underneath to accommodate the weight of it. No one will need to worry about the support there!
Finally, the sleek, new railing runs horizontally, giving the deck an urban edge. The homeowners wanted a low-profile railing in order to have full access to the spectacular view.
The new deck is beautiful and much more functional now that the breezeway and deck are on one level. The homeowners are quite pleased with the results and are asking, “Why did we wait so long to do this?”
Jim Schallon, senior designer Archadeck of Austin.
If you would like to learn more about updating your deck and gaining an outdoor living space that’s functionally better in the process, contact Archadeck of Austin today at (512) 259-8282 or via email at jim.odom@archadeck.net to schedule a free design consultation.
Archadeck of Austin asks: Are you ready to drive home a new deck?
Replacing a deck at your northwest Austin home can be somewhat like getting a new car. Your old one seemed fine; you have a history together and you’ve overlooked its quirks. However, as soon as you step into the new one – wow! The difference is astonishing, and now you can see what you’ve been missing.
That comparison comes to mind when you see the before and after pictures of this large outdoor living project that Archadeck of Austin recently completed in the Cat Mountain North area. The original deck was split into two levels overlooking the back yard and swimming pool. The homeowners had decorated each level attractively with potted plants, and overall the space had a comfortable appeal. The deck was “fine” over the years, but there were three problems with it that we were able to address when we designed the replacement deck.
First, neither of the two deck levels was quite large enough. The two separate spaces were a little cramped and not conducive to entertaining or sitting and visiting with family. The homeowners weren’t able to move furniture around easily or add more chairs for a larger group.
Second, the wooden railing of the original deck actually obscured the view of anyone seated on the deck — and also obscured the view of those looking out through the house’s many windows. The pickets, or balusters, were thick at 2×2″, and there was a 6″ horizontal board along the top of the railing, just at eye level for a seated person.
Third, the homeowners were ready to switch from natural wood decking boards (theirs were cedar) to a synthetic composite material. After years of performing deck maintenance, they welcomed the idea of a low-maintenance deck. The composite materials on the market today are as attractive as wood but require less upkeep; at the time when the existing deck was built, fewer options were available.
Premier deck builder Archadeck of Austin drafted a large, sweeping deck design that combined the two levels into one to achieve a much larger usable deck space – almost 1,400 sq. feet. The angled shape of one side of the deck was designed to clear the root zone of a nearby live oak to ensure the deck will not impact health of the tree’s root system.
Austin has “Critical Root Zone” mandates in place to protect trees of a certain size, called heritage trees. We were required to measure any trees near the deck construction. A tree with a circumference of 60” or more is considered a heritage tree, and as it turned out, the live oak next to this deck is large enough to be considered a heritage tree.
The tree’s Critical Root Zone (CRZ) is calculated by a formula, and the CRZ is indicated on the engineer’s drawing by three concentric circles around the tree. The innermost circle indicates the first quarter of the CRZ. Within that inner circle, the new deck construction cannot impact the soil in any way. Between the first and second circles, called the second quarter zone, the new deck construction can impact the soil up to 4″ deep, but no deeper. Finally, between the second circle and the outermost circle, another formula determines the depth of soil impact allowed. As you can tell from the drawing, every inch of the Critical Root Zone was mapped out in the design of the new deck.
Because the entire deck structure needed to be replaced, including the footings and support beams, we performed a huge amount of demolition before we could install the new materials.
The homeowners selected AZEK, a cellular PVC decking product, for their new decking material. To complement the Autumn Chestnut color deck boards, they selected a Solutions aluminum railing system in bronze. What a difference! The new railings and pickets are darker and thinner, allowing a clean view from the deck and from within the house. The Solutions aluminum railing is an excellent choice for another reason: it will never rust and has a lifetime warranty (as opposed to a 15-year warranty for steel).
This extensive outdoor living project included these elements as well:
- Retaining wall: We removed the original brick retaining wall and added a new wall in white limestone to match the house stone.
- Under-deck storage: Instead of building a typical wood skirting around the deck, we framed out the deck’s underside, built a solid wall from AZEK and installed a door. Now the homeowners have lots of storage adjacent to the pool, and it’s invisible to onlookers – no clutter!
- Poolside hardscape: A concrete overlay was applied by another company to cover the existing concrete surround in order to create a durable and attractive limestone effect.
- Poolside fencing: We replaced the existing wooden privacy fence with a board-on-board design, in cedar, and added custom gates. The board-on-board design keeps pickets from bowing, creates a sturdier fence in case of wind and is more attractive.
Deck lighting: Twelve LED lighting fixtures were incorporated into the aluminum railing posts along the deck and beside the stairs for ambiance and safety. Each small, teardrop fixture projects light in two directions – up the post and down onto the deck surface – and each LED uses only 1W of power!
Is it time for a deck replacement at your house? If you are ready to explore ideas for redesigning your outdoor living space, contact Archadeck of Austin today at (512) 259-8282 or via email at jim.odom@archadeck.net to schedule a free design consultation.
Jim Schallon, senior designer Archadeck of Austin.
Can a new deck really preserve the charm of an Austin vintage home?
You love your eclectic, urban-chic neighborhood, and you love your charming, vintage home, but maybe your home’s vintage deck has seen better days. Is it time for an upgrade to a better deck? Archadeck of Austin, premier deck builder across many Austin neighborhoods, has the design sensitivity to create a custom deck that will not look out of place for your area.
Take a look at this unique home in the city of Austin near Mopac Expressway and 38th Street. Homes here have character, and the area is undergoing extensive revitalization. The homeowner engaged Archadeck of Austin to replace an existing deck that was aging, nondescript and lacked any shade cover.
Before we began the project:
This job was actually a redecking and expansion project rather than an entirely new deck. Once we determined that the existing deck’s foundation was strong and had not been compromised over time, we were able to use it again, with reinforcement. We needed to replace the decking boards as well as the wooden skirting that surrounds the deck and shields the underdeck area from view. Oddly, there was a gap between edge of the existing deck and the front porch stoop, so we were able to expand the deck by about two feet. Finally, the client wanted to add a pergola over the deck for much-needed shade.
Since natural wood was the client’s choice for decking material, Archadeck of Austin recommended clear cedar for the deck surface and the skirting. Clear cedar is a select grade of cedar lumber milled from the heart of the tree, and it is higher quality than the wood many other deck builders work with. For even greater quality, we used 5-and-a-quarter-inch boards as opposed to the competition’s nominal 2×6″ knotty pine. The clear cedar boards display a light wood grain with minimal (if any) imperfections such as knot holes.
Archadeck of Austin offers a choice of standard or premium pergolas, and this client selected the premium pergola, our most popular option. For our premium pergolas, we use 4×12″ beams, 6×6″ posts and 2×10″ boards for the rafters with 16” on center spacing. In contrast, our competition uses 2×8″ beams and posts and 2×8″ rafters that are 24” on center, resulting in a pergola that is less sturdy and provides less shade. The Archadeck of Austin premium pergola looks beefier, is stronger and will last longer than those built by our competition. Plus, our 16” on center spacing provides the optimum amount of shade on a hot Texas day.
For the finishing touch on this combination redecking and pergola project, we installed a metal screen on one side of the pergola to establish a privacy barrier. Vines and flowers will climb the screen to naturally obscure the view of the deck from the nearby downtown traffic. This innovative privacy screen was built using Cattle Guard panels.
If you are looking for a creative way to upgrade your existing deck while keeping it in character with the neighborhood, contact Archadeck of Austin today at (512) 259-8282 or via email at jim.odom@archadeck.net to schedule a free design consultation.
Jim Schallon, senior designer Archadeck of Austin.
Archadeck of Austin showcases its award-winning deck design in Round Rock, Texas
You want the very best builder for your Austin-area outdoor living project. You also want a builder who will work with you, no matter how long it takes, to design and build the deck, porch or patio that is perfect for your home. Want more? How about a national award-winning deck designer and builder right here in Austin, TX?
Archadeck of Austin answers “Yes!” to all of the above. We are very proud to have received Archadeck Outdoor Living’s national Design Excellence Award in the deck category. We are also very proud of the award-winning project we designed and built – a unique deck, pergola and outdoor kitchen combination in the Forest Creek neighborhood of Round Rock, TX. Take a look at these photos and a 3-D rendering, and let us tell you why we’re so pleased with this special outdoor living space. The homeowners are pleased, too!
The winning project, completed in January, is an exquisite AZEK PVC deck with stone skirting, outdoor kitchen and oversized, freestanding pergola. The 12-foot kitchen counter accommodates a built-in propane grill, Big Green Egg smoker, in-counter cooler and built-in trash container. The deck also features flush-mounted low-voltage lighting.
Before:
The clients first contacted us for this project three years ago. They had a well-lived deck, and we agreed it was past time to replace it. Our initial design featured a concrete patio, roof extension and pergola. The homeowners took their time making a decision while they considered several builders and designs. Later we circled back to propose an alternate design, a deck with an outdoor kitchen and a large, non-conventional pergola that covered the entire deck. Bingo! Archadeck of Austin had the right design at the right time.
Despite this being a relatively low-risk deck, we faced several design challenges. First, the pergola took considerable thought because we wanted to use as few posts as possible. Fewer posts in the traffic areas allow maximum usable space for furniture without crowding. Then, cedar spans would not work with conventional dimensions, so we upsized all the structural elements and used a polycarbonate cover over the pergola to get the shade required.
The home had an original concrete patio off the back door for which we ripped framing boards for the structure. There was just enough space to get adequate framing down between the deck board and the patio.
Next, we had to completely close off the under-deck space because the clients had previous issues with animals nesting under the old deck. By surrounding the new deck with a stone skirt over concrete footings – nothing will get under this deck. However, the stone skirt itself presented two complications. The stone had to be ground flat to allow for the deck boards to die seamlessly into the stone and not look jagged. And we had to complete all the electrical wiring before we could install the decking.
Finally, the kitchen and the stone column bases also had to be constructed prior to the decking. All have concrete footings, so staging of construction was interesting.
The results are beautiful. The homeowners chose Azek Harvest cellular PVC decking in the new Autumn Chestnut color, and we laid the boards diagonally with a parting board for visual interest. The stone used for the deck skirting and the pergola’s column bases is white limestone, and the caps on the column bases are brown Lueders limestone. The same brown Lueders stone tops the 12-foot kitchen counters, tying it all together visually as one great outdoor room. Finishing off the space are three Aurora Phoenix flush-mount low-voltage sconce lights, the Pyxis Recessed Louvered Step Light and the Mercer transformer/timer. Archadeck of Austin installed electrical connections for two fans, three lights and six outlets for the homeowners’ convenience.
To be recognized for this project by Archadeck Outdoor Living at the national level as an award-winning deck builder means a great deal to the Archadeck of Austin team. The project was very well thought through, and we had a lot of fun building it. The structure itself was not complicated, but we packed in a lot of design considerations and features to make it a wonderful place for entertaining family and guests. We were able to integrate the new structure seamlessly with the existing home, which is what the homeowners were looking for all along.
Jim Odom Archadeck of Austin
If you are looking for a creative design for your new outdoor living space, and a hard-working team to bring it to life, contact Archadeck of Austin today at (512) 259-8282 or via email at jim.odom@archadeck.net to schedule a free design consultation.
Breathtaking Ipe Deck and Porch on Rob Roy at the Lake in West Austin, TX
Rob Roy on the Lake is located north of Bee Cave Road in beautiful West Austin. The neighborhood is known for its stunning homes and spacious picturesque landscapes making it ideal for someone who likes to spend time outdoors. Archadeck of Austin has built many outdoor living structures within this neighborhood, our most recent is this beautiful deck and porch combination:
The homeowners had an existing cedar deck but were looking to not only expand their view into the valley below, but also wanted a space that offered shade to escape their super sunny location. Archadeck of Austin came up with a deck and porch combination design that entailed expanding across the roofline on the back of the home with a hip design roof tie-in to accommodate their project. Take a look at this before & after image:
The project features warm, inviting natural Ipe hardwood decking on the floor of both the deck and covered porch. Ipe is a favorite among Central Texas homeowners as a material for outdoor living. The material is valued for its density, strength, longevity and beauty. Ipe is dense enough that it sinks in water. Its density requires that it be pre-drilled in order to be fastened. When fastening an Ipe deck we use stainless steel screws called head coat screws, which are brown to blend seamlessly with the decking itself. The ends of the Ipe boards need to be treated when they are cut during installation to avoid cracking. If you are dealing with a contractor that is not familiar with working with Ipe then you usually end up with split ends, yes in much the same manner your hair can get split ends, from not treating the ends of the boards. Ipe density is also such that it doesn’t absorb much water resulting in a lack of the normal expansion and contraction evident with other wooden decks.
As you move beyond the flooring used on this combination project, there are many stunning details throughout the space. We used black Fortress vertical cable rail that allows clear views into the valley below. Additionally, the beauty continues as you enter the interior of the covered porch area. The ceiling was built using a Synergy tongue & groove prefinished wood in Auburn Pine. The large king beam that runs the expanse of the porch cover is a focal point but it also serves a valuable purpose of helping to support the weight of the roof cover.
As is the case with all our outdoor living structure projects, none of the creature comforts were overlooked when completing the space. We installed recessed lighting in the ceiling of the porch cover and mounted the elegant sconce lighting the homeowners had purchased for the project. We also installed a pair of Minka 72″ ceiling fans the homeowner’s had chosen, adding an extra layer of cool comfort and air flow to their enjoyment.
Needless to say, the clients are elated with their new outdoor living space. It embodies all the qualities they love about the area, and now they can enjoy it to its full potential! If you would like to learn more about how Archadeck of Austin can transform the way you live outdoors, contact us today at (512) 259-8282 or via email at jim.odom@archadeck.net to schedule a free design consultation.
Jim Schallon, senior designer Archadeck of Austin.
The ultimate outdoor living destination could be no further than your backyard!
When you imagine the ultimate outdoor living destination what comes to mind?
Is it a tropical beach that seems miles away from reality? Or maybe a lavish all-inclusive spa resort designed to pamper you in luxury? These are all viable candidates for an ultimate outdoor living destination, but did you ever think that maybe you could have all that and more right outside your back door?
With an outdoor living combination space from Archadeck of Austin, you can!
One of our recent projects in Austin, TX, encompasses almost every element of beauty, relaxation and convenience possible through an outdoor living environment. The design includes a spacious low maintenance elevated deck, covered porch and versatile poolside pergola. These Austin homeowners sure don’t have to travel far to enjoy all the benefits either!
This particular project began with the removal of an existing cedar deck and hot tub area that provided little to no privacy and shade for the homeowners. Their desire was to have a space that spoke to their desire for more space, more shade and more opportunity for enjoyment. The multi-faceted space we designed has not just met, but exceeded their expectations in this regard. Here’s a detailed look at each layer of this project:
The elevated deck and covered porch was built using AZEK low maintenance decking in Cypress and includes integrated low voltage deck lighting. By choosing to go with a composite deck, the homeowners can enjoy very little maintenance as AZEK only requires soap and water cleanup on occasion and a quick rinse from the garden hose. This decking is engineered to last beautifully and unlike wood, AZEK decking resists scratches, stains, insects, moisture, mold, and mildew, and protection from cupping, cracking, and more with a 30-year limited fade and stain and lifetime limited warranties.
The covered porch also features an open end gable with all the porch beams wrapped in cedar. The interior of the covered porch features a stunning Synergy prefinished wood ceiling with recessed can lighting so the space can be enjoyed day or night. The homeowners supplied the amazing and super-efficient Haiku ceiling fan which came from BigAssFans.com.
As we move beyond the deck and porch combination space, Archadeck of Austin also designed and built the freestanding poolside cabana/pergola. Also finished with rustic cedar to mimic the look and feel of the other components of the project. having the benefit of a roofed structure poolside serves as a respite from the sun and a ceiling fan encourages air circulation increasing the cooling power of this spot.
You can see more images of this amazing outdoor living space by visiting our Houzz galleries.
If you would like to learn more about creating the ultimate outdoor living destination in your backyard, contact Archadeck of Austin today at (515) 259-8282 or via email at jim.odom@archadeck.net.
Jim Schallon, senior designer Archadeck of Austin.
This East Austin Outdoor Living Environment Defines Upscale Urban Elegance
Have you ever perused through your favorite home & garden magazine and come across that one outstanding outdoor living space that exemplifies everything you dream about? For these East Austin homeowners, that dream is now a reality thanks to Archadeck of Austin.
This property is located just one mile from the heart of downtown Austin. An area that is alive with renewal, energy and urban vibes. When we initially met with the homeowners they were only looking to design a sunken area to house their hot tub. After exploring this option, and the criteria and costs involved, the conversation broadened as the homeowners expressed their desire to unify the rear area of their home with the detached garage apartment that is just a stones throw from their back door. They were also keen on the idea of having a space that could function as an extension of the home. A place where they could open the doors and the outdoor living area would just naturally flow with no barriers. This is when the design ideas began to come to fruition…
We began perfecting their vision by transforming the area that was previously just a concrete patio. We expanded this area and installed an Ipe hardwood deck to join the backyard of the home with the detached garage/structure as one cohesive space. We then designed and built a versatile outdoor kitchen, gas-burning outdoor fire pit and one-of-a-kind custom vine wall. Each element in the design adds functionality and contemporary styling to the overall project. The vine wall in particular is ingenious as we used 2 x 2 metal tubing and cattle panels welded together, customized and powder coated as the final touch to deter rust.
The customers are over-the-moon about their new outdoor living environment and are looking forward to many years of enjoyment.
Contact Archadeck of Austin today to learn more about our innovative, unique outdoor living space designs. You can reach us at (515) 259-8282 or via email at jim.odom@archadeck.net
Revisting Arcahdeck of Austin’s Deck Renovation Project at The Mansion at Colovista
Recently, while in route from returning from a consultation with a client in the Lost Pines region I came upon the Mansion backing up to the Colovista golf course. The gracious two-story Georgian estate sparked a fond memories as some time back Archadeck of Austin completed the upgrade and redecking project to bring the wraparound deck to the standards in keeping with this eloquent home. Feeling nostalgic and a little hungry, I decided to stop in and visit for lunch knowing the location was now operating as The View at The Mansion restaurant and special event venue.
As I sat outside on the deck and enjoyed one of the best burgers I have ever had, I pondered the images in my mind of the condition of the deck when we were contracted to complete the renovations. When we began the project the home had sat for 10 years and the existing deck was covered in plywood with posts created from timber collected from the property.
Archadeck of Austin totally revamped the spacious deck with low-maintenance Timbertech Terrain decking and finished it off with Fortress black iron railing in black sand. The Terrain Decking Collection’s earthy, adaptable tones embody the spirit of the outdoors — making it the perfect accompaniment to such venue with scenic views of the Colorado river and rolling landscape. The new deck, which is now used as dining, event space is even featured on The View’s website and on the cover of their brochures. This in itself, speaks volumes about how the current owners regard the space and we are humbled and proud.
Archadeck of Austin totally revamped the spacious deck with Timbertech Terrain decking.
Image of the existing deck prior to Archadeck of Austin beginning the project.
Image of the deck overlooking the Colovista gold course used on The View at the mansion’s website.
I also reminisced about the adversity the property has overcome over the years, from being spared from the wrath of the 2011 Bastrop County Complex Fire which engulfed Bastrop, Texas and destroyed 1,645 homes, burned 34,068 acres, and killed two people. The fire is regarded as the most catastrophic wildfire in Texas history.
Overlooking the Colovista Golf Course, The View at The Mansion serves gourmet flatbread pizzas, steaks, salads, burgers and alcoholic beverages. It’s the perfect spot for lunch or brunch with friends or for catching a sunset dinner with a fairway view, the restaurant has a country club feel in a comfortable, friendly atmosphere. The property also serves as an event facility for weddings and special events.
The View at The Mansion restaurant and special event venue.
If you have an existing deck or outdoor structure that is in need of a makeover. Contact Archadeck of Austin to make your commercial or residential outdoor space all it can be! You can reach us at (515) 259-8282 or via email at jim.odom@archadeck.net.
Jim Odom Archadeck of Austin
Our Recent Project in SW Austin Proves Archadeck of Austin Moves and Evolves With Our Customers
Our latest project for these wonderful clients includes a low maintenance deck and custom pergola.
Our recent project in Travis Country West subdivision in SW Austin tells a story that is worth reading for those actively searching for a builder for their outdoor living space project…
In our business we meet many wonderful people from all walks of life, different tastes and varied ideas about what they want from their outdoor living space addition. It gives us great pride and speaks volumes to have the opportunity to work with a client not just once, but twice. As is the case with many of our clients that become “repeat” customers our recent project in SW Austin was completed for homeowners who moved and brought us, their builder, with them.
We originally met with these homeowners some five years back when we built a beautiful deck on their previous home. Their satisfaction in the deck we built for them led them to contact Archadeck of Austin again, upon moving to a new home, when they were ready to enhance their outdoor living space.
Their new deck was built in beautiful, low maintenance PVC AZEK decking in Kona from the Harvest Collection with a custom horizontal railing system. Whereas the norm in deck railing is often the use of vertical railing, Archadeck of Austin turned up the urban appeal of the space and opened up the views by utilizing a horizontal railing design.
The new deck also features a custom cedar freestanding pergola adding a shady spot and loads of charm to the space! To the farthest left side of the deck we also designed and installed a cedar privacy wall that helps subdue the neighbors view into the backyard and vice versa. All the framework of the pergola, and the deck posts are finished in rustic cedar adding warmth and richness to the entire space. Deck lighting by TimberTech and HardiePlank siding skirting finish off the perfection of this backyard space to a “T” and much to the happiness of the homeowner.
We are elated to have the opportunity to work with repeat customers and look forward to evolving with our customers as their lifestyles and outdoor living needs change.
Contact Archadeck of Austin today to learn more about why we are the outdoor living structure company you keep. You can reach us at (515) 259-8282 or via email at jim.odom@archadeck.net.
Jim Odom Archadeck of Austin
Archadeck of Austin transforms this Brushy Creek backyard from plain to perfection!
This project is located in Brushy Creek which is the area between Round Rock and Cedar Park, TX, and it serves as the perfect example of a complete backyard transformation. When we initially met with the homeowners their outdoor living space consisted of little more than a builder-grade concrete patio off the rear of the home. Not only was the patio too small for the functions they had in mind, it also lacked pizzazz.
The dynamics of the Texan architecture of their home included both a stone facade and a metal roof. Both of which begged for a better interpretation of outdoor living Texas style. Upon consulting with these wonderful clients, they indicated their adoration for the aesthetics of deep-toned woods, however they did not wish to use cedar. After exploring the elements of many hardwoods they decided their preference really leaned toward the exotic look of Tigerwood and Ipe.
The completed space was built from Ipe hardwood decking and extends off the homeowner’s existing patio. Ipe is among the strongest and most beautiful of all the hardwoods we use here in the Austin area for our custom outdoor living designs. Ipe comes from South America and is classified as an exotic hardwood. Ipe’s rich, dark tone varies from board to board giving it an exotic look. The real advantage to using Ipe is its density and strength which make it a solid material to use on decks, porches and other outdoor structures.
Ipe is dense enough that it sinks in water. Its density requires that it be pre-drilled in order to be fastened. When fastening an Ipe deck we use stainless steel screws called head coat screws, which are brown to blend seamlessly with the decking itself. The ends of the Ipe boards need to be treated when they are cut during installation to avoid cracking. If you are dealing with a contractor that is not familiar with working with ipe then you usually end up with split ends, yes in much the same manner your hair can get split ends, from not treating the ends of the boards. Ipe is so dense that it doesn’t absorb much water which results in a lack of the normal expansion and contraction evident with other wooden decks.
For this project, we used a complimentary black iron railing made by Fortress. We also oiled the decking planks following installation because Ipe requires oil so it can penetrate the wood surface. Frequent oiling is recommended to maintain the rich wood look Ipe is known for, or it may be left untreated allowing it to turn a silvered patina look. The deck extension/addition makes the space a spacious 10 feet deeper and enables them to enjoy the beauty of the native trees within their landscape and there was even room for the homeowner’s to add their own fire pit table. Take a look at these amazing before & after images to see the transformation:
Needless to say, the clients are elated with their new outdoor living space. It embodies all the qualities they love about the Texas outdoors, and now they can enjoy it to its full potential! If you would like to learn more about how Archadeck of Austin can transform the way you live outdoors, contact us today at (515) 259-8282 or via email at jim.odom@archadeck.net to schedule a free design consultation.
Jim Schallon, senior designer Archadeck of Austin.
Top 6 Reasons a Professional Austin Outdoor Living Space Builder is Worth the Wait!
Choosing a reliable, professional outdoor living structure company can be difficult, and how can you really make sure they are the right company for you? Custom design, over 16 years in the Austin market and attention to quality and detail are all important factors to consider.
Rome wasn’t built in a day, neither should your anticipated outdoor living addition. Keep in mind, that quality and true craftsmanship require time and expertise. With this in mind, here are the top 6 reasons choosing Archadeck of Austin for your outdoor living space endeavor is definitely worth the wait…
Better Building by Design – The design of an outdoor structure isn’t just about a layout and the build. The design of an outdoor structure is a reflection of your personality. It is an extension of the way you live your outdoor lifestyle and see yourself living in that space. Choosing a builder that will custom design your project and match your needs to every last detail will have you feeling thankful you waited.
- Enjoy for years to come – Getting your outdoor space completed in time to enjoy the season is a common concern. But what about the following seasons and countless years to come? From graduations, bridal or baby showers to becoming the family gathering hub, this outdoor living space is going to be appreciated year after year. So give it the time it deserves to be built and know that it is all worth the wait to get the perfect family space to enjoy for many years to come.
- Outstanding Project Management – A project build has a lot of moving parts. With a experienced project manager your build will progress smoothly and on schedule. A lot of the time, other teams have to be brought in to get part of the job completed. This can include plumbers, painters, electricians, roofing contractors and many more. The right project management team will ensure your outdoor structure(s) are completed within the time frame of your build in mind.
High Quality Builders – Research to find a professional Austin deck, porch or patio builder is apart of the process. What do the most trusted sites have to say about the company? Do their reviews hold up to the standard you’re looking for in a builder? They absolutely should. Archadeck of Austin is proud to have an A+ rating with the Better Business Bureau and Archadeck of Austin was awarded a Best of Houzz service award in 2016.
- Understanding Restrictions and Keeping You Safe – A set back in design or build can always have a solution if you’re working with the right professional builder. Archadeck’s national design team assists in the engineering of your project. Keeping your safety as a main focus, assistance to determine how much weight a column or beam can hold based off the soil in your yard is just one example of how the national design team lends a hand.
- Whichever way you look; we’ve got your back – No matter the project, you –the customer will be in trusted hands with Archadeck of Austin. Your project will be backed by three national warranties. The first is the Workmanship Warranty which covers defects within the material used such as splitting, severe warping, leaking roofs or shifting patio pavers. The second warranty will cover defects within the structural components and is what we refer to as the Structural Warranty. Footings, patio base material, columns, beams and joint are a few structural components included on the warranty. Last but not least, any manufactured items will be covered under the terms of the Manufactured Warranty including pressure treated lumber, windows, pavers or any outdoor kitchen components.
Jim Odom Archadeck of Austin
Remember these top 6 reasons it is worth the wait when choosing an Austin outdoor living space builder. Contact Archadeck of Austin at (515) 259-8282 to schedule a free design consultation today or via email at jim.odom@archadeck.net.
A beefed-up deck design and gabled pergola make this SW Austin backyard a force to reckon with!
SW Austin multi-level deck with pergola.
When Archadeck of Austin initially met with these SW Austin, TX, homeowners their backyard consisted of a multi-level cedar deck that needed work. Where many builders might have suggested the exiting deck be demolished and a new one built in its place, we looked past the deck’s cosmetic flaws to reveal a vision of what the deck could become. With a little ingenuity, TLC and elbow-grease, we were able to transform the space into a huge asset as opposed to an eyesore.
We began by “beefing up” the existing cedar deck to make it structurally sound and safe. We then power-washed the structure bringing it back to the bare wood to reveal the beautiful grains of the cedar. After these steps we then began the addition of the gabled pergola.
The pergola is designed for versatility and engineered to ensure clearance of the top floor window of the existing home. The addition not only increases the aesthetics of the entire structure, it also serves as a refuge from inclement weather and sun. We also installed a Polygal cover for added protection. Archadeck of Austin installed the pergola cover in an ingenious manner that allows rainwater to drain into and through the existing gutters of the home. Multiwall sheets, often referred to by the brand name of Polygal, are a structured sheet product available in double and triple layered configurations and manufactured in various colors and degrees of transparency. Polygal allows sunlight in but provides protection from unwanted elements, such as rain.
Detail image of gabled roof on pergola.
To finish off the project we stained the entire structure in a dark cedar/walnut hue for cohesiveness. These SW Austin homeowners are elated with their new, old deck, that has added tons of enjoyment and satisfaction to the time they spend outdoors!
This project serves as a great example of our innovative design process. In certain scenarios, we can make your existing or aging outdoor structure like new again — or even better! Contact Archadeck of Austin today to learn more about revitalizing your backyard today! You can reach us at (515) 259-8282 to schedule a free design consultation today or via email at jim.odom@archadeck.net.
Jim Schallon, senior designer Archadeck of Austin.
Finding Outdoor Living Bliss in Lost Creek
This project takes us to Lost Creek, directly beside Barton Creek in Southwest Austin. These homeowner’s hold a special place in our hearts here at Archadeck of Austin as we have worked with much of their family on previous projects and as always, they are a joy to design and build for.
The design of this porch cover began to take shape after the homeowners requested a remodel to their existing elevated, back deck. They wanted a larger space that would accommodate family and friends and also a measure of shade. As part of their goal to revamp the entire home, they started with the area that they planned to utilize the most frequent — the rear deck.
Before:
Upon inspection, we determined that the existing decking or the original space was in poor condition. Archadeck of Austin then removed the old deck and extended the footprint to better take in the scenic hilltop views. We used Fiberon Horizon low-maintenance decking in Tudor Brown. Horizon decking boards are capped (or covered) on all four sides with a patent-pending PermaTech® surface material. Four-side capping increases durability, enhances stain and fade resistance, and ensures a more polished appearance all around. Plus, Horizon boards feature two different wood grain patterns on the top and bottom for more design options and less on-the-job material waste. Horizon Decking also never needs sanding, staining or sealing which will allow these homeowners less worry of maintenance and more time for enjoyment in the new space!
After — WOW!
In addition to upgrading the deck, we also installed an aluminum Structall patio cover with a stucco embossed finish to add shade and protection from the weather. Traditional wood frame covers require more maintenance and their construction can be costly, drawn-out and inconvenient. Structural aluminum covers install quickly, are more durable, require less maintenance, and can be easily converted to a room enclosure later. Structall covers are attractive. Their continuous textured surface is available in stucco or cedar embossed finishes, These enamel finishes are baked onto the metal surface, making them virtually maintenance-free. Structall covers are also durable and engineered to last.
To gain the desired height of the patio cover, Archadeck of Austin redesigned the placement of the addition by raising the beam 1.5′ enabling it to sit higher on the home’s roof. The original placement meant the structure would come off the home’s soffits, however through ingenious design we were able to provide the height the clients preferred.
The finished project is everything, and more, these Lost Creek homeowners had imagined. Now they can spend limitless weekends and afternoons with their close-knit family, grilling outdoors with a stunning view of the world around them —life is Good.
If you are interested in making the most out of your outdoors with a new or improved outdoor living space, contact us today to discover how our custom, one-of-a-kind outdoor living designs can make it happen! You can reach us at ( 512) 259 – 8282 or email us at jim.odom@archadeck.net.
Jim Odom Archadeck of Austin
Archadeck of Austin Explores the History of the Beloved Backyard Deck
Pressure treated deck Austin TX
“The more you know about the past, the better prepared you are for the future”
— Theodore Roosevelt
In much the same way our interior spaces are the heart of our home, the backyard deck is an outdoor living staple and remains the heart of the backyard. Today’s decks are not the one-dimensional “plain Jane” decks of the past. 21st century decks have become the centerpiece of the backyard the “glue” that holds the outdoor area together. The history of the deck itself is quite fascinating, and spans farther than you probably imagine. Its history and subsequent evolution have much to do with the industrialization and the post-war economy of America… and this is where our story begins…
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Ye’ old backyard outhouse.
Humble Beginnings
Interestingly enough, it wasn’t until the 1950’s and 1960’s that the backyard became the focal point of recreation and relaxation as it known for today. Up until this time, the backyard served a more practical purpose of sustaining and supporting the family. For example, families kept livestock such as cows, chickens and pigs in their backyard. This utilitarian purposed often resulted in a backyard filled with malodorous odors, from the livestock to — YES the outhouse, which made it less than attractive for relaxing outdoors.
Gradually, outdoor environments evolved into what had once been a place to sustain families to becoming a place of leisure and relaxation instead. This is because Americana itself changed. The evolution of the backyard happened when households shifted from being self-contained to supporting the local economy by becoming consumers of shops and stores. Once indoor plumbing and sanitation became more commonplace, gone were the animals and smells of the outhouse as well as the labor of toiling for that night’s dinner. Leisure suddenly became a popular concept as there was now actually time for relaxation.
Charting the changes of how Americans embraced their outdoor spaces began during the Civil War era, when families would relax after a meal on porches. Looking ahead into the early part of the 20th century, with the invention of the radio in the 1920’s, families would then gather in the living room to listen to the evening’s entertainment. Automobiles were prone to blowing up, so garages were placed to the rear of the lot taking up part of the backyard. The garage eventually became attached to the house in the 1950’s, freeing up space in the backyard. The backyard evolved from a practical space to becoming our refuge and haven from life. The new vision became the idea of having your own little piece of greenspace behind the house in order to relax and to play.
Civil War era photo of residential outdoor landscape.
While no one knows who actually invented or takes credit for the concept of the deck, evidence unearthed suggests that patios were used in ancient Israel, either in the courtyard or on the rooftop, as a place of leisure and entertainment. Necessity is the mother of invention, and entertaining in all kinds of weather, especially since the earth can become muddy and messy when it rained, became the impetus and thus, the American deck was born. Just as the porch did in the front of the house years earlier, decks became the answer to the problem and a key element to our homes, defining our backyards.
Ruins of the Fortress Masada in Israel.
Decks really started to come into their own in the early 1980’s when homeowners began to think about decks as an extension of their interior living space. Earlier decks were usually a simple 8 x 10 ft. platform. But, as the idea of bringing interior elements outside gained popularity Americans began having a more active, outdoor lifestyle. The popular trend of outdoor cooking made the deck an extension of the kitchen. Instead of a simple grill, the deck can now include an outdoor kitchen equipped with cooktops, refrigerators and warming drawers, not to mention the kitchen sink.
Outdoor kitchen in Red Rock, TX.
Today, backyards are customized to fit an individual’s artistic expression and style, just like any other space in your home. Decks can be designed to blend naturally with your home and surrounding property including natural elements such as rocks, trees and running water. Decks are so versatile in their design and entertainment value, that they have become the outdoor great room where one can curl up with a good book, swing in a hammock or soak in the hot tub. Today’s multifunctional deck does it all, from being a stand alone structure, to a key element in an outdoor living environment.
Zen-inspired deck in Austin, TX.
Let us build the deck of your dreams and let your imagination run wild. With so many options and amenities available to the homeowner, you can create your own style and have a truly unique outdoor living space customized specifically for you.
Jim Odom Archadeck of Austin
Contact Archadeck of Austin today to learn more about getting the most out of your outdoor living environment with a deck upgrade, redecking or new deck addition today.
Archadeck of Austin Transformed an Existing Concrete Patio into a Lavish Outdoor Oasis!
Our line of business not only entails providing high-quality designs and workmanship on each of our outdoor living structure additions and renovations, it also involves helping our customers “imagine” what their outdoor can be and making that vision come to life. This is where the expertise of a seasoned, experienced design and build team comes into play — making the unimaginable, a reality.
“Realizing the vision” is exactly what we did in one of our recent projects in South Austin, TX. We used an existing concrete patio as the base for a multi-functional outdoor oasis that includes a spacious deck with pergola, stone bar entertaining area and private spa area.
We began the backyard transformation by staining the existing concrete patio and building a low-maintenance AZEK deck just off the patio that extends off the rear of this South Austin home. The deck is quite spacious at 20′ deep and features a 20 x 20 overhead cedar pergola that anchors the space. The color the homeowner’s chose is Harvest Bronze. Fortress Sand Black rail. The sand finish is cooler to the touch and is a matte finish vs. a high gloss finish fitting with the rustic details present in the space. We also finished off the deck with a full privacy cedar skirt with a door for access to the under side. Archadeck of Austin also brought in electrical service to all the fans and hot tub.
The deck also includes a tranquil spa for the homeowner’s to enjoy. A versatile drop-screen was installed to create a privacy barrier so the hot tub can be used without the worry of prying eyes, and it does deliver an ample amount of shade, along with the pergola, if the homeowner’s choose to use the spa during the day.
Located just Northeast to the spa area, Archadeck of Austin created an outdoor bar entertaining area within the space. The bar is built using natural stone and features a Leuder’s stone top. The bar is built much like the bars seen in an interior “eat in kitchen” with ample room for bar stools and even an integrated ice bucket to keep beverages cool on the hottest of days! This custom entertainment area also features custom cabinets with plenty of drawers and clever storage.
Let us not forget all the creature comforts included within this versatile outdoor living space either; four ceiling fans are mounted to enhance circulation and keep the space comfortable for daily use, while sconce lighting and an LED light package on the face of the posts allows for evening enjoyment! This design literally has everything you could ask for in an outdoor living space, under one pergola!
If you would like to learn more about fulfilling your vision of the ultimate outdoor living space, contact Archadeck of Austin.Our talented team of designers and craftsmen can make your backyard dreams a reality! You can reach us at ( 512) 259 – 8282 or email us at jim.odom@archadeck.net.
Jim Schallon, senior designer Archadeck of Austin.
Austin Decks, Pergolas, Covered Patios, Porches, more 