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
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 reaps multiple design awards at annual event
Each year a nationwide group of Archadeck offices come together to share their best practices, ideas, new products and to review outstanding leadership in design. This year, like others, the locally owned and operated Austin location performed very well. We are very proud to have scooped up on four of twelve design awards, plus a distinguished Customer Satisfaction Award which reconfirmed Austin’s place as the 2nd best producing Archadeck location in North America.
Archadeck of Austin prides itself in being “all about design and customer experience”. Here are some of the ‘Best of Show’.
Decks
Austin won second place for this project outside the Craig O’s restaurant in Lakeway, TX. This deck uses TimberTech Earthwoods Evolutions composite decking in walnut designed in quadrants of diagonal board placement converging to the center. The deck is designed for 100 lb/sf commercial loads and has a massive concrete footing hidden behind an attractive cedar skirt. A powder coated Fortress railing system surrounds the deck and is capped in the same composite. Stairs descend down to the parking lot and play area. Patrons will enjoy many meals overlooking the serene hills East of Lakeway atop this deck.
If you are curious, the following deck from outside Boston won 1st place…
Our friends at Archadeck of Ft. Worth placed 1st for this pool-side cabana.
Porch Enclosures
First place went to our friends at Archadeck of Ft. Worth for a fabulous pool-side cabana. The Austin entry took third place, under some tight competition, with our pool-side cabana constructed in Round Rock, TX. Both of these projects are indicative of a growing trend to move the living room outside complete with integrated kitchens, outdoor fireplaces, television; everything you need to entertain outdoors.
Denver Hardscape award winner
Hardscapes
Demonstrating the diversity of Archadeck’s designs, the Austin hardscape project took the 3rd place award vs. a really unique and innovative project outside Denver that took home 1st place. The Austin hardscape project is located in the Steiner Ranch community of Austin and includes a covered tile patio up top for visiting, lunch or even coffee. The project includes stone steps that lead down to a stained concrete lower patio perfect for every facet of entertaining. The project also includes integrated lighting so it looks spectacular day and night.
Our combination outdoor structure in Riverplace stole the spotlight.
Combination Award
This new award category reflects the fact that great projects are rarely one-dimensional. Every year the very best projects combine multiple elements into a cohesive design that may include a shade structure, decking. masonry, and other elements to provide the homeowners with a complete backyard with multiple uses and gain the maximum added value to their home. We are excited that our project constructed in Riverplace took the spotlight for #1. The project was designed by our own Mark Mommsen, whom was also the winner of #1 design representative. The project brings together a very unique stand-alone roof structure with Permacast columns which are mounted on an elevated Tigerwood deck beside the pool and outdoor fireplace with stone benches on the opposite side of the pool. All this is designed to face the canyon/green belt and golf course located behind the residence.
Archadeck of Austin receives the Customer Satisfaction Award, among others.
If the customer isn’t happy, nobody’s happy!
As the owner of Archadeck of Austin, I’m very pleased to say we won the coveted Customer Satisfaction Award. To win this award there can be no, and I mean ‘zero’ negative responses in post-construction surveys. Last year we built 133 residential projects. We are not perfect and are always improving, but to have absolutely no negative responses is a testament to our desire for excellence in customer service. We were also recently added to the Angie’s List Honor Roll and we strongly encourage people to submit reviews to Angie’s list.
Jim Odom, Archadeck of Austin
We are looking forward to a great 2012 season, with more great work in Austin,TX. If you’re on the fence, the time is really good to remodel your outdoor space the way you’ve always wanted. It is a great investment.
(512) 259 – 8282
Austin@archadeck.net
We don’t just build structures to fit the way you want to live, we build structures that support the big moments in your life.
The addition of an outdoor kitchen can make your holiday, or special event hassle free with the convenience of a secondary food preparation area.
When you think about what motivates homeowners to make the decision to add an outdoor living area to their home and backyard, in many cases the motivating factor that drives them to act upon their decision is a holiday, party or event they have planned for the near future. Let’s say for instance with the holiday season just around the corner, a homeowner may decide to go ahead and add on that new deck, covered porch, or outdoor fireplace with a custom stone patio surround in anticipation of family and friends that are planning to visit and having the structure up and running will create a great place to relax and spend time with family and friends within a unique outdoor setting to make new memories together. It’s almost as though you have the indulgence of an extra “family room” with a unique outdoor setting. Could you imagine having an outdoor kitchen incorporated into your deck or patio that could serve as a secondary food preparation area on Thanksgiving? The hubby can fry the turkey in the outdoor kitchen, and be out of the way, while the lady of the house prepares all the sumptuous side dishes in the house. Having the function of an outdoor kitchen to take some of the stress out of the kitchen, especially if you prepare Thanksgiving dinner for a large crowd, can make “Turkey day” run as smooth as a french silk pie.
A spa deck such as this one by Archadeck of Austin can make your holiday party merry and bright
The beauty of our business is when a homeowner approaches us and needs their outdoor endeavor completed within a specific time frame most of the time we are able to accommodate their request. We do absolutely everything we can to accommodate it. We always quote a lead time to begin and give an expected completion date and 90% of the time we meet it with 2 or 3 days. Just this month we had a deck that was needed for a wedding, a restaurant deck for an opening last week, and a cabana finished for a party. This week we engaged on a job for a Christmas party mid December. In most cases, if you need it, Archadeck of Austin can have it ready for you within the time frame you need it.
This cabana style patio cover makes the perfect spot for entertaining with an outdoor fireplace, and outdoor kitchen built right in.
Many outdoor structure builders hesitate to make these kind of promises to homeowners because they lack the project management that is necessary to make sure every aspect of your outdoor structure is run in a professional, timely manner. We make certain on all of our jobs that each specific layer of the building process is set up in the order it needs to be accomplished to avoid delays, and have wiggle room if a problem arises. The keys to being able to deliver what we promise are superior project management, frequent and effective communication with the homeowner, a solid design, and good weather.
Ring in the New Year in style with a covered patio, deck and pergola by Archadeck of Austin
Wouldn’t the thought of having your New Year’s Eve bash under the cover of the warm Texas evening on your new deck sound enticing this year? If you dream it, we can build it. The bottom line is that if you need to get a job done to fit your individual schedule we can do it. Contact Archadeck of Austin to learn more and remember, we take care of everything but the weather. (512) 259 – 8282
Austin@archadeck.net
Jim Odom Archadeck of Austin
To see more awe-inspiring images of decks that are perfect for your next big outdoor event visit our deck photo gallery located on our website.
You can also see more of our delicious outdoor kitchen designs be visiting our outdoor kitchen photo gallery also located on our website as well.
A Delectable Deck Tempts the Palette for this Upcoming Lakeway City Restaurant.
Archadeck of Austin begins construction on this commercial deck in Lakeway City, TX.
Everybody knows that when you go out to dinner, the setting and mood of the restaurant are just as important as the cuisine. Fine dining should trigger all your senses – what you see, how it makes you feel, what you hear, and most importantly what aromas are wafting their way from the kitchen to your nose. Of course, your senses should reach their crescendo when you take your first bite of the dish you have ordered. But in order to make that crescendo really memorable, all your senses have to come into play. A well designed, and well-built restaurant can actually make the food taste better by the sights and views before your food ever reaches the table. Many restauranteurs consider setting the mood before you take that first bite as important as the food itself.
Here is a sample of the "hill country views" that will be visible from the new deck.
Setting the mood is the reason this upcoming, Lakeway City restaurant decided to hire us to construct a large commercial deck at their establishment. The deck is still under construction, but we wanted to share the news and the gorgeous views that will be visible atop this fantastic deck when completed. The deck faces the hills and overlooks a canyon, these breathtaking Hill Country Views will offer a wonderful blend of natural imagery to compliment your dining experience.
The restaurant will have an inside and outside dining area once completed. Archadeck of Austin is constructing a 1,000 square foot high-end composite deck with railing that will sit 12 feet off the ground. The deck is being built to commercial grade standards which are designed for a higher pound load of 100 pounds per square foot as this meets the load requirements when building a commercial grade deck. Load requirements are very important in terms of safety and keeping the deck hefty enough to withstand larger weight capacity than those you would need for a deck this size in a residential setting. Archadeck of Austin always puts safety first, and obeys all guidelines and standards set forth within the requirements and building codes in the location we are building our outdoor structures.
Notice the support system involved in building a commercial grade deck.
The deck is being built with stunning Earthwood Evolutions walnut decking by TimberTech, and will prove to be as delectable as the cuisine at this upcoming Lakeway restaurant.We can’t wait to share the finished photos of this job with you and will do so once they become available. In the meantime, enjoy the appetizer of these stunning views, it is a mere taste of what is to come…
Archadeck of Austin specializes in creating unforgettable outdoor structures for commercial and residential customers. Contact us to find out more about building your unforgettable space at (512) 259-8282 or austin@archadeck.net
Jim Odom, Archadeck of Austin
Tigerwood becomes the talk of the town in this Bee Cave, TX community
It is clearly evident that style and elegance can be contagious. Within the Falcon Head West community of Bee Cave, TX nearly all the residents that live in the same cul-de-sac came down with the same symptoms, a yearning for the simple, elegant and classic sensibility which entails the desire to have a deck made of Tigerwood.
Design rendering prepared for these homeowners in Bee Cave, TX depicting their future tigerwood deck
These homeowners in Bee Cave, TX contacted Archadeck of Austin when they initially built their home and once they closed on the house we began work right away on the deck when they moved in. It is always nice to have your entire home ready and waiting when it is time to move into your new house, including any outdoor structures. The Falcon Head West community is an upscale neighborhood in Bee Cave, TX and has a very hilly terrain. These homeowners decided upon a tigerwood deck because of its classic beauty and sensibility. We built a two-story deck and decked over an existing patio with sleeper framing. The final dimensions in length on this new deck came to a substantial 48′ long.
This photo shows the diagonal design and custom railing on this tigerwood deck in Bee Cave, TX
We installed the decking in a stunning diagonal pattern and alternated 4″ and 6″ boards for even more of a custom look to accommodate the varying widths. The railing is a tigerwood Deckorator panel rail which we constructed on site with black aluminum pickets. We finished up the structure with lattice skirting because this is a requirement within the neighborhoods HOA (Home Owners Association) guidelines. The homeowner opted to stain the new deck himself.
Upon completion of the new deck, four of this homeowners neighbors decided to add a tigerwood deck to their home as well. What is it they say about first impressions? Choosing a tigerwood deck not only adds beauty to your home with the woods natural rich and exotic hues, tigerwood is an example of classic fine wood at it’s best.
Tigerwood's contagious rich hues and elegance are apparent in this photo
If you are considering a new deck or a re-deck, tigerwood is a stunning option. It is durable, resilient and has rich hues that exude elegance and refinement. Contact Archadeck of Austin to learn more about decks and other outdoor living structures. Call us at (512) 259-8282 or email us at austin@archadeck.net
You can see more or our breathtaking tigerwood deck designs by visiting our photo gallery at http://www.archadeck-austin.com/gallery.asp?selpics=Decks&subcat=Tigerwood
This community pool in Steiner Ranch in Austin, TX gets a new pool deck worth bragging about
This shows the beauty of TimberTech Reliaboard in Steiner Ranch, by Archadeck of Austin
Here in Austin, the Steiner Ranch community is known as “The land between the lakes”. Situated beautifully between Lake Travis and Lake Austin this neighborhood boasts upscale living with an enormous amount of amenities. This community has many pools for its residents to cool off from the Texas sun. Archadeck of Austin recently re-decked a 4,320 sq. ft. pool deck for the Steiner Ranch community that met with rave reviews from its users. We had previously written an article about this re-decking when it was in the planning stages which you may read about at http://austindeckandpatiobuilder.com/2011/01/11/re-decking-or-adding-a-new-deck-to-your-hoa-or-commercial-pool-in-austin/
Steiner Ranch residents love their new pool deck
We rebuilt the majority of the structure using TimberTech Reliaboard in Cedar. This particular color of Reliaboard is clean and at the same time has a rustic essence. Since one of the areas of the pool surround was not level, we added the level decking surface. Some of the existing material was reusable but we had to add some masonry work to the pool surround and build a limestone partition to avoid tripping hazards.
New pool deck for Steiner Ranch by Archadeck of Austin
Among the obstacles to overcome with this re-decking was a tree that came up through the deck. Steiner Ranch is known for its beautiful old trees. So encountering a tree poolside was no surprise. This unique feature required us to create a hexagon type ring made from decking boards which surrounds the tree at the deck level but is not attached to the deck surface. This allows room for the tree to grow, but not enough room to leave a gap that a child could possibly lose a toy in under the deck. Safety is always important at Archadeck of Austin and is priority number one on all our constructions.
Pergola alongside pool deck in Steiner Ranch
Since the structure had previously been constructed of plastic it had become brittle and wavy from exposure to the sun. The new composite decking material we used is easy on the feet on those hot summer days and is also extremely durable and low maintenance. This composite has the realistic appearance of beautiful cedar as well. The supports of the existing pergola had been damaged by carpenter ants and required re-enforcement while we were completing the re-decking on the pool area as well.
The residents of Steiner Ranch love the new re-decking. It has all the beauty of real wood without the headaches. Now residents can kick back for an afternoon by the pool surrounded by the same quality and beauty that is visible throughout this entire community.
Jim Odom Archadeck of Austin
If your neighborhood pool is in need of a facelift or upgrade, give Archadeck of Austin a call. We work with HOA’s every day and can create a masterpiece for your community as well. Call (512) 259-8282 or email us at austin@archadeck.net
Archadeck of Austin walks away with gold
Austin deck with stucco skirting
Each year owners from Archadeck’s around the country, now numbering 58 locations, assemble for a national conference. One of the exciting things we do is have a design contest.
Design consultants from offices across the country enter their best projects for decks and porches , which were scrutinized by the toughest judges we know – our peers. The Austin Team has been the recipient of many of these awards in years past and this year was no exception. We took first place on the deck design with a beautiful 3-level composite deck with Fiberon Ipe decking and stucco skirting to perfectly match the house exterior.
Austin Fiberon IPE deck with planters
No project is worth its salt if it does not look like an original part of the home. The Austin Team strives to make this a reality in every job we undertake. When finished, this deck provided the owners with additional living space that opened up a lovely back yard view, bringing the outdoors in as a significant addition to their living space. Who wouldn’t enjoy relaxing in some cushy outdoor furniture, drinking a cool beverage, at the end of a hectic day?
Austin deck seating area made with Fiberon Horizon Ipe Composite
Austin covered porch – Tigerwood Deck with T1-11 pine siding under the roof, exterior to match the
This is proof positive that design excellence is forefront in our mind. Our customers get a beautifully crafted, custom designed outdoor living space; professionally managed with a superior level of customer service, and backed by a strong warranty. For Archadeck of Austin, it’s all about making design a reality and making that lifestyle you want come true.
Archadeck | Outdoor Living – the way you imagined it
Like what you see? Give us a call and we will be glad to meet you for a free consultation to discuss your design ideas. Contact us at:
(512) 259 – 8282 • email: Austin@archadeck.net
More pictures of our winning designs:
Austin deck multi-level IPE deck with planters and stucco skirting
Here’s another picture of the second place winner:
You don’t have to achieve your dream all in one effort
Pacing yourself is very important. It’s everything when running a race, when doing a big project for work and can also be important when you’re remodeling your backyard space.
Archadeck deck design rendering Austin
Archadeck deck design rendering Austin
What is your dream for your backyard? Close your eyes for a couple minutes and concentrate on all the things you want that space to do for your family and what it might look like. Think about the landscaping, the furniture and whether the furniture sits on a deck or hardscape patio. Does your dream backyard include a spa or a pool? Do you need more shade like a pergola or covered porch? Do you need space to cook and entertain guests?
As a practical person, I too have a tough time with this question. As soon as I start envisioning the dream, the other side of my brain starts nagging at me to tone it down and be realistic. This mental tug-a-war can actually stop you from making progress toward the dream for years. It doesn’t hurt to envision the perfect backyard oasis. Mine would definitely include an outdoor fire pit with lots of room around it for many Adirondack chairs to sit in the evening with friends or family and enjoy hot chocolate in the colder months and an iced cocktail in the warmer months. That’s the thing about fire pits. They have a romanticism and mystique about them.
After capturing the dream, and if the dream is more than you can afford, then consider pacing the development of your dream backyard. A lot of my customers don’t realize that we actually can build outdoor living spaces in phases. For example, we can build a deck and go back a year later to add a patio. Maybe the ultimate plan has a outdoor kitchen on a wider section of the patio. You now have the opportunity to lay out the electrical and gas line for the kitchen under the patio, build the patio now, but hold off on the cost of the kitchen until next year. We do this with a number of our customers. After several years they look up and realize that their dream has been realized. Phased development makes a lot of sense for a lot of people.
The picture of the project you see above represents an addition to a multi-level deck. We build the top level and the mid level already. Now the customer is ready to add a spa deck so we are going back to add the 3rd tier of the deck which will include the spa. It’s been a couple years and the family loves their deck and spends so much time out there that they want to add more “rooms” if you will to their deck.
Austin elevated deck with pergola
You can see based on the furniture that the family really lives on their deck. The advancements in outdoor furniture and fabrics even allow comfy couches and plush pillows that can survive year-round outdoors.
Here is another picture of the unique gable pergola we built for above their main deck.
Austin gable pergola
Adding a gable to your pergola is a great way to enjoy the benefits of a pergola by add a little more design flair to it to complete an outdoor room area.
So, if you have the vision of your backyard dream in mind but want to talk to us about building it in phases, give us a ring.
Austin Decks, Pergolas, Covered Patios, Porches, more 