Making This Deck Replacement WUI Compliant Was The Virtual Frosting On The Cake
Spicewood at Bullcreek is one of the more beautiful established neighborhoods in the highly desirable Westwood High School district. Easy to get to, it is located south of Anderson Mill Road between 620 and 183 in Northwest Austin.
Homeowners choose this neighborhood because of its unique homes, hills, mature landscaping and strong homeowners association that protect the better interests of all who live there.
Our newest client family there was having some issues with their existing multi-level deck design that needed to be resolved. That’s where our team of Northwest Austin expert deck builders comes in.
When A Ground-Level Deck Becomes A Haven For Wildlife
The wonders of Mother Nature abound in Northwest Austin; but at times, her roaming friends can be a challenge – especially while looking for a home of their own. And this is where replacing an old deck with a patio is a good idea – a very good idea indeed.
The challenge for Archadeck’s team was to come up with a design that would eliminate the issues the family was having with wildlife invading their ground-level deck space while making the backyard enjoyable. In doing so, we also made the new deck replacement space WUI-compliant.
The Beginning Of A Brand New Deck Replacement
Our seasoned deck-building team started the transformation by tearing down the problematic space except for the original deck substructure. Only the beams were preserved, and they installed new joists and support posts.
The lowest level of the previous deck space was replaced with a cement patio with a decorative TPC overlay. As with the second-story elevated deck, the upgraded replacement improvements were many.
The existing pressure-treated lumber posts were replaced with cedar, due to its incredibly resistant strength in braving outdoor elements. The deck itself was constructed with AZEK Vintage series composite decking in the color Mahogany.
An AZEK fascia board now runs around the perimeter of the deck for a seamless look. It covers the wood perimeter joist of the deck frame and is sometimes called “rim joist cover.” It was used as a fascia mount because the deck has a deck drain system underneath attached to a gutter installed on the beam. This decision also allowed the team to be able to use a Synergy wood ceiling under the deck.
Also under the AZEK brand umbrella, a TimberTech Expressions aluminum railing was installed atop the fascia mount to proactively define the deck space’s perimeter.
Doing What It Takes To Create The Ideal NW Austin Deck Replacement
This Archadeck team also relocated all the electrical, as well, as the previous deck had a hot tub, so if the family wants to install a new hot tub later for the new space, it is ready for it.
Also to note, the team had dryer vent, plumbing and electrical challenges on this transformation which they overcame with ease.
The new design also reduced the impervious footprint on the property.
If You’re Ready For That Long-Awaited Deck Upgrade, Redecking Or Deck Replacement, Call Us
We welcome your call for a complimentary deck consultation by calling us at 512-886-8367. Even easier, just click this link right here to connect with our team.
An Existing Patio Gets An Extreme Makeover With This Round Rock Outdoor Kitchen Transformation
Love to cook – but hate getting stuck indoors? No problem. Archadeck of Austin has you covered in Round Rock, Texas.
These homeowner clients had an existing patio, but its functionality was rather limited except for some black iron outdoor swivel chairs to relax in.
Before
The cure? An Archadeck outdoor kitchen upgrade using their existing Big Green Egg as an integral component of the patio upgrade.
A Turquoise Outdoor Kitchen Backsplash Adds Just The Right Touch Of Color
Upon stepping out onto this Round Rock backyard patio, it’s hard to miss the addition of this new Archadeck outdoor kitchen. To contrast the soft tones of the existing concrete patio foundation, we installed this stunning turquoise glossy subway tile in an intricate herringbone pattern.
The choice of color and pattern was deliberate to visually connect cohesively with the interior kitchen backsplash. It’s the details, folks!
The family loves this new outdoor kitchen, partially because we relocated one of the stars of this cooking “show” at far left – the renowned Big Green Egg – a favorite smoker and outdoor grill the family has enjoyed for years.
The chef’s ensemble was fashioned by our Round Rock installation team using white limestone with light gray buff Lueder’s stone on the kitchen countertop. The homeowners purchased the five-burner gas-powered grill and other kitchen implements from BBQ outfitters in Austin.
Outdoor Kitchens Have Seen A Surge In Popularity In Round Rock, Texas
Here in Round Rock, as well as across the United States, in recent years an increasing number of homeowners are opting for high-quality setups that can rival those of professional chefs in their new outdoor kitchens.
The appeal of outdoor kitchens in Round Rock can be attributed to several factors. First and foremost is the state’s warm and sunny climate, which makes it conducive for outdoor living year-round. Residents are keen on making the most of their outdoor spaces, and outdoor kitchens provide a seamless extension of their homes. It’s no surprise that the idea of having a fully equipped kitchen right in your backyard is appealing, especially for those who love to entertain.
In Round Rock, professional-grade outdoor kitchens have become somewhat of a status symbol for discerning homeowners. Many residents want to showcase their culinary expertise and entertain guests in style.
These outdoor kitchen professional installations typically feature top-of-the-line appliances, such as high-end grills, smokers, pizza ovens, and refrigerators, offering the same functionality as indoor kitchens. They are often constructed with premium materials, like stone countertops, weather-resistant cabinetry, and durable outdoor flooring, ensuring that they can withstand the Texas weather.
Outdoor Kitchens Are Not Just For Grilling Anymore
Outdoor kitchens of today are not limited to just grilling; they cater to various cooking styles, making them perfect for the aspiring home chef. Residents can prepare gourmet meals, smoke their own barbecue, or bake pizzas in a wood-fired oven. This versatility appeals to culinary enthusiasts who want to explore their cooking skills while enjoying the beauty of the outdoors.
The sense of community in Round Rock has also played a role in the growing popularity of outdoor kitchens. Neighbors often come together to share meals, making outdoor kitchens a central gathering place. These spaces foster a strong sense of camaraderie, with friends and family gathering around the grill to socialize, making memories while savoring delicious dishes.
Outdoor Kitchens Add Value – Now And For The Future
Another factor contributing to the surge in outdoor kitchens in Round Rock is the real estate market. Homes with well-designed outdoor kitchens are in high demand and can significantly increase property values. Prospective buyers see the appeal of having an all-inclusive outdoor living space, further fueling the trend.
What’s Cooking In Your Outdoor Living Future? Let’s Find Out.
To explore what outdoor kitchen options are now available for your home, call the Round Rock outdoor kitchen pros at Archadeck. You can reach us at 512-886-8367.
Since you’re already here on the Web, for your convenience you can also click this link right here to connect with us.
A Pergola Redesign Is Just The Beginning Of This Pflugerville Backyard Transformation
When A previously installed backyard pergola by the homebuilder started to sag, shift, and become damaged. Jim Schallon, and his Archadeck of Austin team, sprang into action with a comprehensive remedy to replace the pergola and more.
The homeowners told Jim, “We are interested in a good design that is more cohesive, nicer, and provides added shade.” They also wanted a design that tied everything together with their home.
Jim’s reply: “No problem – we’re on it.”
From The Ground Up, A Transformation Made To Order
Our first order of business was to demolish the existing patio. We replaced it with a new foundational pour.
We increased the footprint of the new patio making it deeper in order to keep the hot tub at least 5 feet away from the service panel.
Since the family also desired a new level of privacy, we built the cedar privacy wall on the far left side of this transformational build.
As for the new pergola shade cover, it was built from cedar and stained in Sherwin Williams Mountain Ash color.
To the right of the new pergola, we installed a new interior ceiling crafted from Synergywood in an interesting combination of two colors: Ebony (darker brown) and Bordeaux (a contrasting lighter brown – very unique.
Above the ceiling area is a room the Pflugerville homeowner uses as his home office. Even after running the AC, it still stayed very warm as the heat rose to the ceiling. So we took the ceiling out and had our foam insulator come and spray this area. Now that it is all adequately blocked, it keeps that room much cooler. And for project cohesion, now the ceiling matches the ceiling that was on the porch cover, too.
A Wonderful World Of Outdoor Living Colorful Accents
One of the most significant and memorable aspects of this project is the Color.
The homeowner wanted the new colors to coincide with the colors of their hot tub, so our team made sure to install a decorative TPC patio in two-toned gray – stunning at any and all angles.
The TPC surface protector (Transparent Polymer Coating) is a water, soil, and stain-repellant coating that durably seals and protects glass, porcelain, and ceramics with an invisible coating. It actually seals the pores of glass, porcelain, ceramic, plastics, polished metals, fiberglass, and marble to make the surface water, soil, and stain resistant.
This clear coating guards against the adhesion and build-up of dirt, grime, mold, mildew, rust, and mineral deposits. Environmentally friendly and non-toxic, the TPC surface protector permits the practice of preventive maintenance, reducing costly cleaning, repairs, and replacement.
To further accent the overall sensory experience, Silvermist chopped stone was used in the creation of the outdoor kitchen, complemented by a buff Leuder stone top. By design, it was installed in an intricately interesting Roman stone pattern to highlight the casing of the spa and the stone of the outdoor kitchen area. To ensure that the new patio surface stays resilient and performs well over time, the new patio surface is all hand stained.
Add An Outdoor Kitchen, And Outdoor Leisure Living Reaches New Heights
As part of this backyard transformation, the Pflugerville homeowner also wanted an outdoor kitchen. With our typical eye for architectural continuity and functionality, the new outdoor kitchen has extra burners and a Timberline infrared pellet grill by Traeger, protected with an easy-glide domed cover to survive any weather condition while making opening the grill easy and fluid.
So What’s Cookin’ With Your Plans For A Patio Upgrade, Pflugerville?
Not sure? That’s where Archadeck can help.
Call our outdoor living craftsmen team for a complimentary design consultation; and let’s explore all of the possibilities. Dial 512-886-8367. Even better, just click right here, right now, to instantly connect with us.
From Dated To Dynamic, This Outdoor Space Is Uniquely Stunning In Every Direction
When we arrived at this well-seasoned family home in the Highlands of the Crystal Falls neighborhood inside Leander, Texas, we needed to put on our proverbial thinking caps to design a plan that would resurrect this backyard and bring it to new, vibrant life.
Originally, there was a small existing rear covered porch on an existing slab. Unfortunately, it wasn’t well done and was showing the rigors of time. It had cracks, breaks, and a multitude of imperfections.
When In Doubt, Tear It Out
Rather than try to remedy a host of sins, our best course of action was to carefully remove the aged covered patio system that was there and start fresh.
Our refreshed design resulted in a gorgeous new concrete patio with a TPC overlay in a rich and fluid Roman Slate pattern in a blend of soft beiges, corals, and cocoa.
We built this new concrete patio around the old original slab which resulted in a whole new patio system.
Archadeck of Austin specializes in decorative concrete patios. Limitless options are only the beginning. We offer multiple different decorative concrete finishes: Stamp, textured, acid stains, vertical stamps, overlays, countertops, and metallic products, for outdoor living areas.
These can all be produced with different color palettes, to achieve amazing results that reflect your unique personal style preferences. Among our claims to outdoor living space fame is that we are the masters in concrete patio stamping.
How To Throw Shade In The Best Way Possible
With our outdoor living design projects, throwing shade is 180º from its contemporary use of the word in today’s vernacular.
Rather than cast negative sentiments and dispersions, our kind of shade is the good one. Our shade from covered patios protects and provides comfort from elements of nature that interfere with outdoor living luxury.
To cover the new patio, we built a gable roof that extends 5 feet past the side of the house. Of notable interest is that there are no posts on any house walls so it ties seamlessly into the original home.
Notice how beautiful the covered patio roof interior is, made warm, rich, and elegant with a Synergy Wood ceiling.
100% Real Sustainable Wood
The leading expert in prefinished wood for outdoor living structure ceilings, Synergy Wood is proudly made in the United States of America and boasts 5 stunning products:
1. Southern Pine: Premium, handcrafted, prefinished Ponderosa Pine tongue and groove ceiling boards. Southern Pine, also known as Southern Yellow Pine, is versatile and strong making it a great choice for outdoor building roof interior perfection.
2. Red Grandis: This premium hardwood is highly valued for its consistent color and durability. It has a naturally beautiful grain pattern with a uniform texture that our homeowner clients love.
3. Eastern White Pine: Popular in the greater Austin area, these handcrafted, prefinished Eastern White Pine tongue and groove boards feature light coloring and a medium grain which beautifully complements backyard landscapes and vistas.
4. Rustic Barnwood: Texas true to the core, the timeless, rustic beauty of reclaimed barn wood brings the strength, longevity and natural beauty of wood boards front and center. Rustic Barnwood is the ultimate in handsome, handcrafted, prefinished rustic tongue and groove ceiling boards.
5.E-Peck®: When “something different” is what our clients are looking for, premium, handcrafted, prefinished E-Peck tongue and groove ceiling boards recreate the rare “pecky” look of older, revered Cypress trees.
When We Say, “Let There Be Light”, We’re Not Kidding
To heighten the aesthetic excellence and innovation in this covered patio design scheme, those stunning sconce lights you see were done by a local artist.
The fluid horizontal dark bands provide a secure method for attaching to any vertical outdoor surface. The pin dot pattern within the brown scalloped waves casts stunning luminary effects all night long.
Add Functional Style And A Ton Of Character With An Archadeck Transformed Outdoor Living Covered Patio
Your path to a new backyard starts with one conversation with us. Schedule your complimentary design consultation right here, and let’s explore how we can create your ultimate outdoor living sanctuary.
Vizcaya Outdoor Fireplace Builder Delivers Cozy Comfort
Archadeck of Austin is proud to be recognized as the finest Vizcaya outdoor fireplace builder serving homeowners in the Heritage at Vizcaya neighborhood in East Round Rock, Texas.
With price points ranging from a starting $300,000 to $700,000, the Heritage at Vizcaya is a neighborhood in Round Rock, Texas, that mostly features midsize homes that are competitively priced.
With new-construction homes available, this community is great for buyers seeking a more recent build.
A New Home Deserves The Finest Outdoor Living Spaces For This Active Adult Community
The majority of homes in the Heritage at Vizcaya feature brick exteriors, with a few that are stone and stucco. Inside, you’ll find a lot of grey and white tones, shaker cabinets, quartz or granite counters and open floor plans.
Community leisure and lifestyle amenities include a fitness center; an aerobics room featuring Zumba, yoga, tap and cardio fitness classes; a game room with card tables, billiards and a poker table; an event center, a heated pool, a hot tub, 2 bocce courts, 2 tennis courts and 4 pickleball courts, plus a wide variety of social groups and clubs to enjoy.
But when night falls and homeowners still want to enjoy their outdoor spaces, they turn to Archadeck of Austin, more notably recognized as the Vizcaya outdoor fireplace builder – and for good reason.
Vizcaya Outdoor Fireplaces Are A Hot Commodity – No Pun Intended
As the demand for professionally designed and built outdoor living spaces in the Vizcaya area shows no sign of slowing down, homeowners are showing increased diversity in regard to the features they want.
As we venture into 2023, homeowners now see their yard as an extension of the inside of their home, and they are increasingly seeking ways to convert their backyards into comfortable living spaces so they can spend more time outside – especially after sunset relaxing near the glow and warmth of an outdoor fireplace.
Outdoor fireplaces and fire pits provide the diversity, coziness and ambiance Austin-area homeowners are seeking in their outdoor living spaces. Not only do our custom fire features make a stunning focal point within an outdoor living space, but they also make a perfect accompaniment to a patio, deck, porch or screened porch.
Here at Archadeck of Austin, we pride ourselves in creating unique, one-of-a-kind outdoor living spaces that complement your home and elevate your outdoor enjoyment. Take a look at some of the custom backyard fireplaces and custom fire features we have created for our Vizcaya clients.
About This Vizcaya Outdoor Fireplace Custom Addition
Leaving no stone unturned, our team had to run more than 100 feet of gas line to get the gas to this new outdoor fireplace from the meter.
This full masonry fireplace project features a direct vent system fireplace that is vented off the back, and as such did not require a flue.
We built the concrete masonry unit structure and installed all of the critical components connected with the fireplace installation, namely we did the gas, electrical installation, and all the stone surrounding it.
We even took care of the TV mount and installed the beautiful mantel.
Using a perennial Austin favored material, the fireplace is chopped block stone with a Lueders limestone hearth.
For this installation, our outdoor living construction team preferred working with natural stone tiles over artificial alternatives. We know full well how important it is to choose the best type of natural stone, options of which often include Lueders limestone as is featured here, as well as marble, slate, Silverdale limestone, or granite. Because of its many natural qualities, Lueders stone tiles are a construction favorite.
In Praise Of Lueders Limestone For Fireplace Construction
Lueders limestone is a highly durable stone with the strength and load-bearing capacity to last. Additionally, it has a hardness rating between 3 and 4 on the Mohs scale, making it resistant to scratches without becoming brittle. These qualities mean that limestone tiles will beautifully stand the test of time.
While softer stones like marble can be scratched and are prone to weathering, this is not the case with Lueders limestone tiles. This stone’s formation process, combined with its strength and durability, allows it to withstand harsh conditions and the wear of regular use.
The Low Maintenance Fireplace Construction Choice
A distinct and appreciated benefit that results from limestone’s strength and durability is its overall ease of maintenance. The tiles will not crack, chip, or otherwise break due to use. This stone further reduces maintenance time as it requires only minimal, occasional cleaning to stay beautiful.
Because of its natural formation process, there are many different variations of Lueders limestone, so there is sure to be an ideal color for any fireplace project. Two of the most popular tile varieties for residential projects are Charcoal Lueders and Buff Lueders limestone, both of which are readily available here.
Build It Once, Build It Right, With Archadeck
We look forward to meeting with you to discuss how this Vizcaya outdoor fireplace builder can reinvent the way you spend your leisure time outside. Click here to schedule your complimentary outdoor fireplace design consultation.
Outdoor Living Access And Luxury Balanced With The Practical Consideration Of Adequate Outdoor Drainage
In a house that was brand spanking new, something was missing in the Travisso neighborhood in Leander, TX. Although the rear of the home had an open porch area with a single set of stairs leading to the rear landscape, that was about the size of it.
What the family really wanted was an outdoor living space that checked several boxes, so they came to Archadeck of Austin.
Practicality Was One Of The First Considerations
As everything drained from above down to the new home, we had to compensate for that in the building of the new structure. All of the home’s downspouts now run into a drain tile system and out into the yard. Details like this are what our Better Building mantra is all about.
That box being checked, this ambitious construction proceeded.
We started by removing the old stairs and railings and added a new concrete patio in a light broom finish with stone benches and integrated under-ledge lighting. The electrical conduit to achieve this was run under the patio and to the power source so no wires are exposed.
A Stunning Backyard Enclave For Relaxing, Entertaining, And A Beautiful Vista View
Fresh backyard breezes with a covered porch patio. Check.
Outdoor seating with an alfresco dining area. Check.
An outdoor kitchen area. Check.
An integrated hot tub. Check.
3 sets of stairs for access from multiple points surrounding the space. Check.
Secluded privacy when it is desired. Check.
Two sets of retractable screens for protection from outdoor nuisances when they occur. Check.
A fireplace to provide warm glimmers of atmosphere for those times when there is a chill in the air. Check.
It’s All About The Details
It may sound like it was all easy to achieve this configuration, but that’s because our expert team knew precisely how to achieve it all – in perfect balance.
We had to remove part of the original ceiling of the existing porch created by the homebuilder for the necessary electrical rework, most notably to power the retractable screens and the surrounding lighting.
Down at ground level, the hardscape accents were achieved with white chopped block in light nicotine, exquisitely brushed in a Roman stone pattern.
Below that, the exterior foundation of the new outdoor space perimeter was painted to complement the surrounding home exterior.
The enclosed ventless fireplace to the left of the retractable screens is a stone corner unit, powered by gas, to eliminate the muss and fuss associated with natural wooden logs.
To beautifully define the new outdoor area, and provide protection while in the space, as well as accessing it from the rear landscape, a black Fortress railing was added to the upper porch landing and stairs.
Much Ado About Something – Really Something
A feast for the eyes – as well as the soul – an outdoor home improvement of this style, scope, and magnitude is something we’d love to discuss with you at your convenience.
To schedule your complimentary design consultation and talk about what you’d like to achieve, just click here to connect with us.
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.
Creative Thinking And Better Outdoor Living Space Design Focuses On Sun Protection
Simply put, the rear of this home had a screened door and a swimming pool. Period.
Before we arrived with our outdoor living space design solution, the family just walked straight out of the home into the pool area. There was no strategic pathway and certainly no protection from the rays of the afternoon sun.
A Rustic Porch Cover Design Made Truly Exquisite With The Earth Tone Mosaic Splendor Of Visual Texture, Depth, And Richness
This backyard transformation is truly much ado about something – every way you look at it.
The previous flat exterior of the rear of this Anderson Mill-area home was enlarged with a generously-sized new porch cover with screened walls on all 3 open sides.
Cedar is the star of this backyard magic with its intense color values of red and rich brown.
Those color values set the tone for the interior of this new outdoor living space poolside covered porch with a dramatic flagstone-like floor design – which transcended the interior and flowed out onto the new patio.
The new patio was raised from ground level to allow more convenient access to and exit from the new covered porch. The visual difference of this before and after transformation attests to the creative design minds at Archadeck. It is simply a work of art.
Designing Outdoor Living Comfort And Function For The Long Term
In addition to installing the porch cover with screened walls and raising the patio, we included a roof tie-in and added a drainage system underneath.
The decorative concrete floor and patio finish is one of our favorite foundational ideas.
Back inside the poolside covered porch, a glance upward reveals a Synergy Wood interior ceiling. This leading expert in prefinished wood for ceilings and walls provides a ceiling surface of the highest quality and durability. Crafted meticulously from 100% real sustainable wood and American-made in Florida, Synergy Wood ceilings carry a 37-year heritage of prefinished wood excellence and dependability. Its tongue and groove, end-match boards result in less waste during the construction process.
A New Poolside Pathway That Is A Pleasure To Walk On And Delivers Greater Accessibility
Carrying out the interior porch floor design onto the exterior patio creates a visual picture reminiscent of luxury cabin resorts.
Those deep earth tone colors of the materials used are accented by our black aluminum framing methodology.
To create more than one access point to and from the new outdoor living structure, we added a door where there was once a window. With this comprehensive screening on all three sides, the need for a window is now totally obsolete.
Powered Up For Comfort And Greater Functionality
As part of our transformational design and construction execution, we also did all of the electrical work here, as well. Ceiling fans, interior lighting, exterior lighting accents and electric outlets were incorporated to make the space multifunctional and highly useable.
Could There Be A Shaded Oasis In Your Outdoor Living Backyard Future?
With Archadeck at your service, the answer is a resounding “Yes!”
Let’s connect and start that conversation right now. Just click here to arrange your personal complimentary design consultation.
How To Update Your Existing Outdoor Living Space Instead Of Starting From Scratch
Yes, we love those larger-than-life outdoor living space transformations that have made us a household name here in Austin. But sometimes, our clients simply need a touch or two to create a better, more desirable, and appealing outdoor leisure environment.
Meet The Small Outdoor Living Project With Big Results
The homeowners wanted to add some functional pizazz to their existing covered patio area in the Vizcaya neighborhood of Round Rock, TX.
The first order of this home improvement project was to extend the footprint of the front exterior foundation of the patio to give it more dimension and interest – as well as adding a wraparound garden bed for perennials along the rear perimeter of the space on either side of the new stone stairs leading into their backyard.
To do just that, we used white limestone with nicotine on the planter façade, creating a stunning plateau of form and function. We also used chocolate Lueders limestone as the cap atop the limestone planter wall – a rare find indeed in today’s materials market.
The finishing touch? Fortress aluminum railing in black for privacy and protection was used. Durable, affordable, and memorable, Fortress aluminum railings allow us to build smartly and boldly.
The railing’s aluminum foundation isn’t susceptible to corrosion or rust. It can easily hold up to tough weather, including ice, snow, rain and UV rays. And if that isn’t enough, aluminum railings won’t splinter, twist, shrink or warp and they require little upkeep. It’s a great way to enjoy elegance and style without excessive weight or expense surrounding your outdoor living space.
Proud To Be All Things To Some People
We are often asked the question, exactly what does Archadeck of Austin build?
Our answer is we are ALL things outdoor living.
Regardless of the size or scope of the project or outdoor living space enhancement, we build decks, porches, poolside structures, outdoor kitchens, outdoor fire features, pergolas, and much more! We specialize in designing and building custom outdoor living structures for the way you want to live outdoors. From high-quality, low-maintenance composite and PVC decks, to perfect porches, patios, and pergolas, we do it all.
With an expansive and extensive selection of premium building materials to choose from, our goal is to bring only the best to our clients and that includes not only the best design and craftsmanship but also the finest materials available.
What Kind Of Outdoor Magic Can We Custom Create For You Today?
Explore everything that is possible in your backyard with a complimentary design consultation with a member of our design team. Click here and let’s get started.
Patio Gets Premium Upgrades for Family’s New Swim Spa in Mayfield Ranch, Round Rock, TX
The purchase of a swim spa was the inspiration for these homeowners in the Mayfield Ranch area of Round Rock, TX, to call Archadeck of Austin. They needed an extra-strong concrete pad for their new swim spa. It was the perfect opportunity to extend and upgrade their existing patio. Now they enjoy a much larger patio while they wait for their swim spa to be delivered. When it finally arrives, they will be more than ready for it!
Multi-tiered Patio Extends this Mayfield Ranch Family’s Outdoor Options
Our clients had a covered patio at the back of their home and wanted to extend it. We added what is essentially a second patio, just a few steps down from the first. The result is one big, multi-tiered patio that extends from the house out to the new swim spa location. The original patio is the family’s shaded area, and the new section is open to the stars. They will especially enjoy this open patio after dark.
Before 
Before
In preparation for the new patio area and swim spa support pad, we did a lot of digging! The early stage of installing a concrete patio involves digging trenches and laying steel rebar. The rebar stabilizes the concrete floor to give the patio a longer life. On this project, we also used the trenches to bury conduit so the client’s electrician can run power to the swim spa when it arrives. They will install outdoor electrical outlets, too, so the homeowners will have electricity on the patio for their convenience.
After 
After
The new patio surface features a beautiful flagstone pattern overlay. To create this surface, we used a mixture of quartz and concrete that is 8 times stronger than the concrete surface it is binding to. We etched the flagstone pattern into the surface of the overlayment, completing the grooves and grout work by hand. Then we hand-stained each individual piece and sealed the patio surface.
Turning Patio Steps Into an Art Form
Tying the new patio area into the existing patio, we rebuilt the patio steps more to the clients’ liking. These new steps leading from the covered patio to the open patio are wider and deeper than the original, increased from 12″ deep to 18″ deep. They are also shallower than the original steps, creating a more graceful transition from the upper to the lower tier.
As a finishing touch, we built a bench of chopped stone with a smooth stone cap for seating. Much like a seating wall, a bench like this saves space on the patio because it can seat more people than a row of bulky chairs. It’s perfect for additional seating. The homeowners can also use its surface as a place to set out refreshments.
Now the clients’ remaining task will be to install the swim spa on its new concrete pad at the end of the patio. With dimensions of 16’ long x 7’ wide x 60″ tall, this swim spa will be big and heavy. The concrete pad we have prepared for it will stand up to the test, we are certain.
Do you need a larger and more beautiful patio and a place for your hot tub or swim spa? We would love to create a custom solution to meet your outdoor living needs. Contact Archadeck of Austin to schedule your free design consultation.
NW Austin Homeowners Love their Delightful Patio and Covered Pergola
When you have a covered outdoor space suitable for entertaining, you’re ready for anything! These NW Austin homeowners originally had a tiny covered area at their back door, with room for three or four chairs and a tiny table. It wasn’t enough! They seriously needed space to move around in—and space for actual tables where they could sit outdoors and enjoy a meal. Space where they could celebrate every occasion, large or small. That’s why they called Archadeck of Austin, the Austin patio builder, to design and build a patio and covered pergola combination.
NW Austin Patio Delights the Senses
When we design your outdoor living project, we collaborate with you to design a functional space that meets your needs and suits your tastes. Here you can see this NW Austin patio addition is a pleasing combination of colors and textures. Our clients chose this side-by-side combination of the lighter stonework for their seating wall and the darker flagstone pattern overlay for the patio. Not only do our eyes see the contrasting color patterns, we “see” the contrasting textures as well.
As you pull back from the scene, you’ll notice the additional contrast of the pergola’s dark cedar beams and posts. And that’s not all! The homeowners were in the process of adding festive string lighting for nighttime ambiance. As darkness falls, the playful illumination of this covered patio will sweetly beckon the homeowners and their guests outdoors. Two ceiling fans will wrap them in a gentle breeze. This outdoor living space offers plenty of versatility, day or night. From intimate family dinners to an all-out party on the patio, our clients now have the perfect outdoor setting for whatever they can dream up.
Details of this Patio and Pergola Combination
The patio’s size, extending a spacious 20′ out from the house, meets the clients’ first priority for a larger outdoor living space. The covered pergola fills their priority for a covered space they can use rain or shine. Speaking of sunshine, bring it on! Our clients chose to add a TopGal polycarbonate cover atop the pergola that will protect them from the sun’s heat and damaging UV rays. This is not just any ordinary sheet of plastic. TopGal is multiwall polycarbonate system that provides thermal insulation for the area by reducing solar heat gain.
The patio itself is concrete with the addition of a flagstone overlay, rich in texture and color variations. We constructed the seating wall with white limestone, and the smooth bench surface is made of Lueders limestone. We built the large custom pergola with cedar. Creature comforts for this covered patio include two ceiling fans and plenty of lighting with electrical outlets for additional creature comforts as needed.
Plenty of lighting? Our clients can adjust the outdoor lighting levels according to their needs and the mood they want to set. For ambiance, we installed subtle LED lighting all along the seating wall, just under the bench surface. The effect of this lighting at night is stunning. Then, the clients have the festive string lighting they added themselves. In addition, two of the pergola’s posts feature lanterns that illuminate the covered patio for dining. The two outermost posts have spotlights that illuminate the yard. And if they want more light, the ceiling fans include light fixtures as well. The only way the homeowners will be in the dark is if they choose to be!
Perfectly Versatile Covered Patio Design in NW Austin
The versatility in this patio comes from its size, its protective cover and the low seating wall that surrounds it on three sides. The seating wall adds coziness and a hint of privacy for relaxation and intimate gatherings. It also provides additional seating for larger get-togethers. On nights when they choose to stay indoors, the family can enjoy the ambiance of their patio’s illumination as they look outside from within the home. Call Archadeck of Austin today at 512-259-8282 or email us to schedule your free design consultation.
Archadeck of Austin Makes Complicated Leander TX Pergola Look So Easy
Sometimes even the simplest freestanding pergola turns out to be so much more complicated than meets the eye. This is one of those times. Our Leander, TX, clients wanted to add a large cedar pergola over their concrete patio. The patio fit neatly into one corner of the lot, and the pergola needed to fit neatly into the same corner. Simple, right?
Not so fast! Because of the property’s setback requirements, we needed to have a survey company mark the build lines prior to starting this project. The pergola had to fit within the footprint indicated by the surveyor, meaning we could not cross the lines marked by their stakes.
Ordinarily, Archadeck of Austin would have designed this Leander TX pergola as a rectangle. But the shape of the lot, the pour of the concrete and the setback lines intersecting in the corner of the site affected the pergola’s shape. The pergola design changed from a basic rectangle to … a trapezoid. Yes, a trapezoid. That’s a pergola you don’t see every day.
Can you tell this pergola is shaped like a trapezoid? Most people will never notice the unusual shape unless they peer down at it from above. It’s a beautiful all-cedar pergola, custom-designed for this client and for this property.
We have to admit, designing this custom pergola project was more of a challenge than usual. Not because of its size, although it is a large pergola with big beams and big posts. The challenges arose when we had to make design adjustments in the field—unusual with a “simple” pergola project.
You could say the art of this pergola is its appearance of simplicity. The structure we designed and built here was more complicated than it looks. The homeowners know it, and we know it. Now, you know it, too. At the end of the day, all that really matters here is the pergola’s beauty and the statement it makes. The big cedar pergola defines this “simple” outdoor living space and casts some shade, providing our clients with exactly what they wanted.
Whether your outdoor living project is going to be complex or simple, make sure it’s done right. Call Archadeck of Austin today at 512-259-8282 or email us to schedule your free design consultation.
Want Your Pflugerville TX Screened Porch Done Right the First Time?
The owners of this Pflugerville, TX, home learned the hard way that if you want your outdoor living project done right, you call Archadeck of Austin. There’s no reason you can’t add a flat roof porch cover over the patio on the back of your home. You just have to make sure that flat roof can drain properly.
Screened Porch Needs a Good Roof
Our clients originally had someone else try to build a flat roof porch cover off of the back of their house. Unfortunately, they had done a poor job using a standard shingle, which was not sufficient for this type of flat roof to drain properly. To add insult to injury, the patio had no foundation, so the first porch roof wasn’t supported adequately.
This is where we say, “If you want your outdoor living project done correctly, call Archadeck of Austin.” That’s just as true for a Pflugerville porch as it is for a delightful NW Austin patio.
What these homeowners ultimately wanted was to convert this open porch to a screened porch. Their goal was to add more functionality to their back yard and to have a properly functional screened patio cover. This time, they wanted the work to be done right! This time, they called Archadeck of Austin.
Before we could start building a screened porch, we had to dig under the edges of the existing patio to install a footer system. Only when the patio had a reliable foundation could we set the posts that would support the new porch roof.
For the new flat roof we used a TPO roofing system. It’s completely watertight, so the homeowners will not have to deal with drainage issues. This roofing material is an upgrade from a modified bitumen roof, which is often used on a flat roof installation.
Screened Porch with Winning Details
By adding a footer system to the original concrete patio, we were able to use the existing concrete without having to replace it. We did add a texture coat surface to the patio. Then we built knee walls of sandstone and added the aluminum screen walls.
For ultimate protection, the homeowners chose solar screens that block solar heat. These screens are denser than traditional screens, and they also block UV rays. With solar screens the family will get more use of the screened porch during the hottest months.
The porch ceiling is tongue-and-groove cedar stained in a clear finish. On the porch exterior, we stained all the cedar to match the color of the house trim. This choice goes a long way toward ensuring the porch looks original to the home.
Does Your Screened Porch Need a Kitchen?
The clients originally wanted to include a kitchen in their new screened porch design. Then they decided against it, and then they changed their minds again. They wanted the outdoor kitchen after all. When we say they wanted to add more functionality to their back yard, an outdoor kitchen adds a LOT of functionality.
With the outdoor kitchen, this project included custom cypress cabinets, fridge, cooktop and hood. Amenities included those wonderful “soft touch” cabinet drawers that glide to close on their own. Cypress is a sturdy, marine grade material that’s perfect for use with an outdoor kitchen. We also built a full privacy wall for one section of the porch. And with the sandstone knee wall system, they also have stone bench seating inside the porch if they need it. When they don’t need to use the low stone walls for seating, they can be used for plants.
With the outdoor kitchen, this project included custom cypress cabinets, fridge, cooktop and hood. Amenities included those wonderful “soft touch” cabinet drawers that glide to close on their own. Cypress is a sturdy, marine grade material that’s perfect for use with an outdoor kitchen. We also built a full privacy wall for one section of the porch. And with the sandstone knee wall system, they also have stone bench seating inside the porch if they need it. When they don’t need to use the low stone walls for seating, they can be used for plants.
Life is good at this Pflugerville home with a top-quality screened porch, heat-blocking screens, a trouble-free porch roof and an amenity-rich outdoor kitchen.
Are you looking for the functionality that a screened porch and outdoor kitchen would bring to your back yard? Whether you are screening an existing patio or adding one for the first time, call Archadeck of Austin today at 512-259-8282 or email us to schedule your free design consultation.
Patio, Pergola, Fire Pit Combination Transforms Liberty Hill, TX, Back Yard
A wise man once asked, When you have a big ol’ back yard, why be satisfied with a teeny-tiny, little patio? We like where he was going with that thought! And we would add, Especially here in Texas!
While it’s not entirely true that EVERYTHING’S bigger in Texas, Archadeck of Austin is doing our part to make it so, one patio at a time. The project we’re featuring today is a perfect example. The homeowners had a small patio at their back door. The door to the patio was also small, just a single door. The homeowners had big dreams of a better lifestyle that included a whole lot more patio enjoyment. To remedy the situation, they called Liberty Hill patio designer Archadeck of Austin.
Take a look before we began the project:
Our mission: increase the patio size, build a total shade pergola over most of the new patio area, add a fire pit, and install larger patio doors. Patio enjoyment would be theirs in no time.
Patio Builder Archadeck of Austin Makes Little Patios Bigger
Our first order of business was to increase the patio size. Hardscapes and patios are some of our specialties! For this project, we built the additional patio areas with concrete, and we added a nice stamped overlay finish. We kept the patio width the same on one side, but on the other side we extended the patio along the length of the house. We extended the middle section of the patio out into the yard, the perfect spot for a fire pit. We ended the middle section with a rounded shape where we nestled the round fire pit. The patio encircles the fire pit beautifully with room for family and guests to pull up chairs all the way around the entire circle.
The homeowners wanted a custom wood-burning fire pit, and for their fire pit materials, they selected white limestone with nicotine. The stone stands out nicely against the new, textured patio surface. It’s clear that we designed the rounded patio section and the fire pit to complement each other perfectly. The homeowners and their guests will spend many relaxing hours under the stars, mesmerized by the fire in their new fire pit.
Shaded Patios are the Standard in Liberty Hill, TX
The tiny, original concrete slab patio was covered by a roof, completely shaded, and that was the one thing about the original patio the homeowners liked. They definitely wanted the extended patio to be shaded, too – except the end that would be reserved for fire-gazing and star-gazing.
For shade, we designed a custom pergola made of cedar that does more than just provide shade. It transforms the concrete patio from “a place in the sun” into “the place to be.” The big, sturdy pergola, with ornamental cuts on the ends of the support beam and the rafters, makes a statement! It is boldly decorative, and it also provides shelter. The homeowners wanted complete shade as well as protection from inclement weather, so we added a polycarbonate sheet on top of the pergola to make the patio weatherproof.
Patio Windows Can Easily Become Patio Door
The homeowners wanted bigger patio doors, and they wanted those doors to offer a view of the back yard. Their original patio door gave them a view of a brick wall. Meanwhile, they had two nice-sized windows overlooking the patio and the back yard. Yes, these windows were occupying the space nature had surely intended for the placement of doors. Big doors that were also windows! The solution: remove the windows and install a pair of sliding glass doors.
Archadeck of Austin was up to this challenge. We removed the brick below the windows, removed the windows, and created a new door opening big enough for a set of sliding glass doors. Once we installed the new doors, we rebricked around them so you can’t even tell work has been done there. On the interior, we put in new drywall and headers above the doors. Our standards are high, and we do very good interior finish work when it’s called for. Inside and outside, the area surrounding the new doors looks impeccable and undisturbed. The homeowners have the bigger doors they wanted and a better view of the amazing new patio and the back yard.
Is There Anything Else We Can Do for You?
Clients are accustomed to seeing the “pretty” side of the work we do, but sometimes there’s another side, too. As part of this project, we also installed a drainage system for the yard. The homeowners had found that water running off of the house wasn’t draining well due to the slope and topography of the lot. We used a catch bucket and basin system to distribute any water from left to right to prevent rainwater from flooding the patio.
Now these Liberty Hill TX homeowners have a much bigger patio with plenty of shade and room for grilling and dining outdoors. After dinner, they’ll enjoy their new fire pit. They couldn’t be happier with their combination patio-pergola-fire pit outdoor living project.
Are you ready to transform your outdoor living area? We can custom design and build a covered patio, fire pit, or whatever it will take to improve your outdoor living space. 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.
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.
What a difference an Archadeck of Austin porch cover can make!
Ah, the sun, glorious sun! When we feel chilly, sunlight warms the skin and thaws the chilly spots. But when we’re already warm … that big Texas sunshine can be downright uncomfortable. Escape is all we can think of. A sun umbrella? Not big enough. A porch roof? Aha! That’s the ticket. A new porch cover built by Archadeck of Austin? The best!
Archadeck of Austin was able to help these North Austin homeowners reclaim their backyard patio. The family enjoyed using their backyard pool, but the adjoining patio, uncovered, seemed to be a magnet for blistering sunshine that made sitting outside unbearable. They wanted to turn their unusable patio into an area where they could relax outdoors without being driven inside by the hot sun. A new porch roof would provide the comfort they craved.
The homeowners first met with Archadeck of Austin a year ago. In terms of ideas, they were ready to proceed with a covered patio/porch project, but their budget was not. They estimated they would be ready in early 2017. Fortunately, they were able to start a little sooner; they called us back in December 2016, ready to roll.
Before
Our first task was to repair a large crack in the existing concrete patio. We cut out that portion of the concrete and filled it back in, and at the same time we added two more feet to the patio’s depth. The patio is now 24′ x 14′ — more space for outdoor living! While we were working with the concrete, we added a conduit so the homeowner could hook up his gas line with a flex line to grill out beyond the patio. That’s a convenience he will appreciate for years to come. Of course, the concrete cut-out/replacement and the additional square footage blend in seamlessly with the original patio surface.
After repairing and enlarging the patio, we were ready to build the all-important porch roof. The addition of a roof is what changes this area from a simple patio into a porch — and into a new-and-improved outdoor living space. We were able to match the style and color of the home’s existing shingles so it all blends nicely.
Under the roof is a vaulted ceiling made of beautiful Synergy Wood, hand-stained and prefinished wood with warm, rich tones. At the back of the porch, a ridge wall and flat ceiling/soffit, also built with Synergy Wood, provide a handsome transition from the painted porch wall to the vaulted wood ceiling. We added a full electrical package with a ceiling fan and built-in recessed lighting, and the homeowner mounted a flat-screen TV along the back wall. In the soffit area, we made sure to place the recessed lighting behind the TV so the images on the screen are not diluted when lights are on and the television is in use.
While the back of the porch roof is tied into the home, the front rests on Hardie-wrapped beams and columns, which we painted to match the home. We added stone coping at the bottom of the columns to match what had been used around the hot tub and pool.
At the very end of the project, Sundek (the company that originally surfaced the home’s concrete pool surround) applied a cool-coat finish to the concrete. This finish provides a comfortable walking surface for bare feet by reducing heat build-up. It’s cooler than regular concrete, brick or tile, and it’s slip resistant, too!
The homeowners added comfy porch furniture and, voila! They have a comfortable, inviting covered porch enhanced by a ceiling fan, lights and TV. Gone is the blistering heat of the uncovered patio, a place no one wanted to be! They love, love, love their new outdoor living space and look forward to spending many relaxing hours there.
If you would like to learn more about turning your patio into a porch fitted out for relaxing and entertaining, or about combining a porch and patio with other outdoor living structures, 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 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.
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.
This covered porch promises to increase poolside pleasure exponentially!
When Archadeck of Austin began work on this project it was a diamond in the rough…
The homeowners had an existing porch that was nearly void of space to extend outdoor living activities. Their goal was to not only extend the existing space to enhance versatility but to also create an area that was more conducive to use alongside their newly installed backyard pool.
The project posed some difficult roofline obstacles due to the pitch of the roof of the existing home. Archadeck of Austin was able to come up with a final design that flows perfectly as if the new porch was original to the home.
before and after
The space is finished with HardiePlank siding matching the home on the exterior, along with a seamless gutter system. For aesthetics, the post system utilizes larger than normal posts which we wrapped in Cedar. We also created a wall that features a Touchstone drop down TV lift for easy access. The interior of the covered porch glows with beautiful details such as the Synergywood ceiling in Pine in Auburn. Take a look at the beautiful transformation in our project focus video from our YouTube channel:
These homeowners are beyond satisfied with their final project. Now they can enjoy their new backyard pool along with the covered porch simultaneously. If you are ready to make the most out of the time you spend outdoors, 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.
This Spacious Cedar Park, TX, Patio-Pergola-Fire-Pit Combination Pairs the Natural Beauty of Flagstone and Cedar
What could be better than a big, beautiful flagstone patio just outside your back door? How about a double flagstone patio with a grand cedar pergola for shade at one end and a stone fire pit for warmth and ambiance at the other end? Archadeck of Austin recently completed such a combination outdoor living addition in Cedar Park, Texas, and the homeowner can’t wait to show it off.
The first two things you notice here are the spacious patio, with its unique curvy shape, and the beauty of the multi-blend Oklahoma flagstone. Equally as impressive is the rustic cedar pergola, and this pairing of natural flagstone and cedar is stunning. In character with its Texas setting, this pergola is stronger and “beefier” than some because it features big, 6″ x 6″ posts, exceeding the normal standards for pergola construction. Since shade is so valuable on sunny Texas days, we designed the pergola with 2″ x 2″ slats across the top spaced every 3″ apart to enhance the structure’s shade benefits. Strings of party lights hanging from the pergola’s rafters turn this section of the patio into the ideal spot for outdoor dining any time, day or night.
On cooler evenings, the family will be drawn to the opposite end of the large patio where a matching stone fire pit will provide warmth as well as cozy ambiance. This is a gas-burning fire pit with a 36″ burner that heats rock and blue glass stones. The result is a highly effective and beautiful fire pit with stones that glow with firelight and put off a lot of heat. Don’t you love the custom-designed Texas star pattern of the blue glass stones in the fire pit?
Family and friends will naturally gather around the fire pit to share stories, sing campfire songs or just get lost in the hypnotic glow of the flames. This Texas-size patio is large enough that quite a few people can gather by the fire for warmth and camaraderie. The homeowner chose to add a seating wall on one side of the fire pit while leaving the other side open for patio furniture that can be rearranged depending on the need. The seating wall was built with natural limestone that complements the flagstone patio but doesn’t compete with it for attention.
This patio floor is built to exceed the standards for patio builders in the Austin area. Most builders only use a layer of decomposed granite with grout mixed in as the base for their patios. Archadeck of Austin actually poured a solid, full-scale concrete patio to use as the patio’s base. This is because, over time, this patio will not sink, tile chip or joints crack with this method. This gives the patio a longer life with no chance of incurring structural issues due to weather conditions or time.
Archadeck of Austin started this gorgeous project with a “blank slate” because, before we built this addition, the rear of the house simply opened into the backyard. The finished patio makes great use of an area that was once void, so this project can serve as inspiration for anyone presently lacking an outdoor living space!
If you would like to learn more about creating such an inviting outdoor living space right outside your back door, contact Archadeck of Austin today at (512) 259-8282 or via email at jim.odom@archadeck.net.
Jim Schallon, senior designer Archadeck of Austin.
Our recent covered patio and pergola addition in Leander, TX, proves that a space doesn’t have to be large to have a BIG impact
I think, often times, when a client looks to us to improve their outdoor living space or establish a new one, the assumption is the project has to be large in order to be effective. This is certainly not the case. A good outdoor living space design should not only speak to the scale of your existing home and landscape, it should also speak to the function you wish to carry out within the space as well as your budget.
Here at Archadeck of Austin our goal is to provide you with the most value through an outdoor living space that is customized to fit your specific needs. Not a cookie-cutter duplication or design. One of our most recent projects in Leander, TX, serves as the perfect example of an outdoor space that delivers based on functionality and keeping in scale with the architecture of the existing home rather than sheer size.
When we first met with the homeowners to discuss their anticipated design, their only outdoor living space consisted of a small concrete builder-grade concrete patio. The homeowners wanted a space that was more conducive to the way they wanted to live outdoors. The patio has also been plumbed for the addition of a sink which influenced their desire to make sure their new space would include an outdoor sink.
Our completed design enhances the entire aesthetic and function of the backyard of this home. The new outdoor living space includes a gable roofed patio cover and freestanding pergola. To accommodate the needs of the client, Archadeck of Austin extended the existing patio with a curved orientation and added brick columns to match the masonry of the existing home. Cedar posts were used to support the roofed structures in unison with the brick columns. The pergola is supported by the roof extension of the covered patio portion of the design.
The interior ceiling of the patio cover features beautiful T1-11 with exposed rafters stained to add rustic flair to the area. An outdoor sink was installed, much to the owners pleasure, and this area includes a serving island and counterspace. Take a look at the before and after images of the transformation of this backyard beyond builder grade:
If you are ready to learn more about transforming your outdoor living space into the perfect backyard destination for you and your family, contact Archadeck of Austin to learn more at (515) 259-8282 or via email at jim.odom@archadeck.net.
Jim Odom 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
This Poolside Cabana in Leander, TX, Demands Attention!
Unlike many of the poolside structures and cabanas that we design and build here at Archadeck of Austin, this recent project in the Crystal Falls neighborhood in Leander, TX, is the focal point of this backyard. Most of the designs we build that incorporate a pool environment require a side or angular placement.
For this structure, the placement was best suited directly behind the home, and pool. Since the property is so spacious and the area behind the pool is destined to remain natural green space, making the cabana the focal point of this backyard was a no-brainer.
With a unique New England style roof pitch, this cabana is loaded with comfort and convenient amenities. Natural stone and cedar are fluent within the space as they work together to create a rustic retreat for guests to indulge in a poolside snack, or wind down in front of the large outdoor fireplace featuring an integrated flat screen TV.
The back wall and outdoor fireplace is built with Autumn blend Sandstone which was matched to the identical stone used on the primary home located directly across from the cabana. The outdoor kitchen is also built using the same Sandstone and features a Leuder’s stone cap which was also used on the hearth and mantle of the indulgent fireplace. For visual interest, we added openings to the back of the structure pictured framed in both stone selections. The ceiling of the cabana is finished with tongue & groove natural cedar, as are the trusses and posts seen throughout the space.
It’s clearly natural to see why the homeowner’s adore their new space. Since finishing the project, it has become a favorite destination for family and friends — even including a decorated holiday tree to add festive charm while using the space during the upcoming holidays. Nothing gives Archadeck of Austin more pride than to see how the addition of one of our custom outdoor spaces sparks excitement and anticipation of years of enjoyment…
Jim Odom Archadeck of Austin
Contact Archadeck of Austin today to learn more about why we are the outdoor living structure company you call when you want to create a backyard destination that commands attention. You can reach us at (515) 259-8282 or via email at jim.odom@archadeck.net
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.
Austin Decks, Pergolas, Covered Patios, Porches, more 