Revisting this NW Winston Salem home the second time around resulted in an outdoor living combination loaded with charm

Deck and patio combination in NW Winston Salem
Our recently completed outdoor living combination in NW Winston-Salem includes a deck, patio and under deck space that functions like a covered patio.
Here is a photo of the backyard before we began the project.
Here is a photo of the backyard before we began the project.

Archadeck of the Piedmont Triad initially met with these Northwest Winston-Salem homeowners a year ago for a consultation to discuss the outdoor living space they had in mind. The homeowners conveyed to us their love for grilling outside and in general, their love for the outdoors. They enjoyed sitting outside and making the most out of the warm afternoons and spring to fall breezes our region is known for. Their existing outdoor space did not look or function the way they wished. At the time, they wanted the new design to be built using composite and not wood and they also were thinking of screening part of the deck so they could still enjoy the outdoors when it rained. We went over all the options shortly after our consultation, but a decision was not made at that time.

NW Winston Salem patio and deck combination by Archadeck of the Piedmont triad
This photo shows the new and improved outdoor living space in NW Winston-Salem by Archadeck of the Piedmont Triad.

Recently, we were contacted by these homeowners to discuss putting their plans for an updated outdoor living space into action. Even though it had been a year since we last spoke with them, they were exuberant and excited to pick up and go ahead with the project they had considered the previous year. The time was right, so we carefully went over all the specifications for the project which included refurbishing their existing deck with wood, adding a functional under-deck living space and patio with seating wall.

NW Winston Salem patio builders
View from deck into the patio space below, notice the way the curved seating wall ties the design together perfectly.

The outdoor living combination they ended up deciding upon added function, beauty and tremendous charm to their home and landscape. In essence, these NW Winston-Salem homeowners were on target to get the backyard of their dreams this season. We began the project by refurbishing their spacious deck with wood and stunning contrasting black aluminum rails. Under the deck we installed a Dry Snap under-deck system which allows the homeowners to utilize the space similar to a covered porch or patio. Archadeck of the Piedmont Triad uses the DrySnap under deck rain carrying system on many of our projects. We have found that the DrySnap system works best and is the easiest way to create functional space under your raised deck. DrySnap® is made of vinyl ceiling panels that collect and drain water away from your new dry space. It provides a maintenance free ceiling that covers the unsightly underside of your deck, turning it into a clean, bright, dry outdoor space. Having a covered under deck space opens the door for endless outdoor living possibilities.

View onto patio with curved seating wall by archadeck of the piedmont triad
View from the patio into the beautifully landscaped backyard.

The coup de grâce to this outdoor living combination was the addition of a gorgeous stamped concrete patio with curved seating wall and outdoor lighting. The patio area adds the final touch to this outdoor living space and extends the homeowner’s enjoyment past what they initially thought was within their budget to achieve. The finished project looks as if it came out of the pages of one of those glossy outdoor living magazines and the homeowners are elated with their new backyard space.

If you are on the fence about breaking ground on your outdoor living space project, know that now is the best time of the year to get started on your outdoor living dream. Contact Archadeck of the Piedmont Triad to learn more about our versatile outdoor space designs. We can accommodate your vision to suit your individual needs and budget. Call us for a free consultation (336) 664 – 1332
piedmonttriad@archadeck.net

Archadeck of The Piedmont Triad ponders the question: Build a new deck or re-deck?

Would it be better to build a new deck or redo your existing deck with new decking boards?

Now is the time of year we imagine ourselves outdoors, whether on a new deck or an existing outdoor living space. Springtime is often the time of year we consider home upgrades. After all, it’s the time of year our porches, decks, and patios will be put to the test. Homeowners want an outdoor living space that is packed with functionality and style, but have you considered whether your deck is structurally sound?

Copy of Copy of archadeck pics for web 071
Beautiful new deck by Archadeck of the Piedmont Triad

Building a New Deck vs. Deck Renovation

Archadeck of The Piedmont Triad takes all your existing deck circumstances into consideration when evaluating whether it is a good candidate for re-decking. We consider the age and structural integrity of your deck before deciding whether a new deck or deck renovation is the better course of action. Other High Point deck builders will meet with a client and automatically suggest new deck construction. Our deck safety inspection offers homeowners a professional inspection during which we will determine whether a new deck is necessary.

What does a deck safety inspection include?

We will check all existing decking boards and scrutinize hardware and connectors, noting their condition. We will evaluate the structural framework of your deck, including posts and joists. Additionally, we will inspect the deck’s attachment to the home, as well as the foundation, footings, railing and deck exits.

Redeck Archadeck of the Piedmont triad
Re-decking may be a viable option for you if your decking framework is structurally sound.

During this deck safety inspection, we will discuss necessary updates, as well as your desires. If your deck is in good structural condition, perhaps you only wish to upgrade your decking boards to a composite material. Or you might consider upgrading your deck railing. Updated deck railings can really improve the look and function of your existing deck. If the configuration of your deck is the issue, we can often move stairs to a more desirable location. We can expand your deck’s footprint, and eve add more stairs. We can even convert your stair to bench steps to add extra seating. Finishing touches, such as deck lighting will also improve the safety of your deck, and provide ambiance to boot.

Long for the low maintenance of composite decking?

Azek decking with floating bench
Custom features such as this floating bench design make your deck a true outdoor living room.

If you long for low maintenance, we can replace your existing deck with a composite deck. If your deck is structurally sound, simply replacing the decking boards using the existing footprint and framework that you have may be a viable  and more affordable option. There are many low maintenance decking brands to choose from such as TimberTech AZEK and Trex. We’ve had great success with these composite brands over the years. There are also many grades of low maintenance decking to choose from including solid PVC, synthetic, composite and capstock. Each of these types include many color and finish choices and are made to suit nearly any budget and design taste. Having a low maintenance deck, whether we build it from scratch or just replace your decking boards, will deliver a deck that will look and function beautifully for many years to come.

Get more room with a deck expansion.

Composite deck with custom rail
Synthetic decks such as composite and PVC require less maintenance than a wooden deck.

When more room is needed, expanding your deck space might work. If you are adding onto your deck with a different building medium we can also re-deck the older deck to ensure both decks match.

Looking for a Greensboro, High Point, or Winston Salem deck builder? Choose Archadeck.

Whatever you envision as the deck of your dreams Archadeck of The Piedmont Triad can bring them to life. Perhaps the deck you always imagined is closer at hand and more affordable to achieve than you think. Get in touch with us for a complimentary deck design consultation at (336) 664 – 1332 or email us at piedmonttriad@archadeck.net .

Also read: When is the best time of year to build your deck?

Greensboro Deck & 3-Season Room Add Cozy Charm to Sunset Hills Bungalow Backyard

This beautiful 3-season room and deck project in Greensboro, NC is located in the relaxed community of brick bungalows in Sunset Hills.

Sunset Hills 3-season room by Archadeck of The Piedmont Triad
This lovely 3-season room and deck addition in Sunset Hills adds charm, beauty and function to this backyard.

When we initially met the homeowners, their only outdoor living space consisted of a worn out deck. The deck was located on the rear of the home and was covered in moss, looking much  worse for wear. After consulting with several other contractors, the homeowners called us. Their objective was to transform their backyard with a new deck and a 3-season porch. The obstacle was that they had a large oak tree sitting in the middle of the space where they wanted to build. They didn’t want to remove the tree and they were looking for a contractor that could work with the tree. Other contractors told them it had to come down to build their outdoor space. Archadeck of The Piedmont Triad designed a space that would save the tree and fulfill their wishes to save the old majestic oak.

Sunset Hills before
Backyard before we began the project. Notice the majestic old oak tree.

The reasons the homeowners wanted to save the aged oak tree were twofold. One, the tree served a dual purpose of providing shade and adding charm to the backyard. The other reason was cutting the old giant down would be costly with a price tag of $8,000. We were able to take all these factors into consideration when we designed their new outdoor space.

Greensboro 3-Season Room Adds Beauty and Function

Greensboro NC 3 and 4 season room builder -
Notice how the new design incorporates the majestic oak an an aesthetic feature of the new space.

Our design began with a 3-season room complete with aluminum framed, vinyl glazed windows. The choice to use this window system took the space from a screened porch to a room they could use for extended outdoor living. The 3-season windows allow the homeowner to choose how much protection they want in their space. This innovative system consists of high quality vinyl glazed windows on a convenient sliding panel system. The sliding panels allow homeowner’s to utilize as much or as little window as they want, allowing them to take advantage of fresh air on a hot day or slide all the windows into place for protection on a cooler day. The addition of these 3-season windows brings versatility to many outdoor room designs.

A Greensboro NC Deck Design with Purpose

Part of the design of this space includes a bridge walkway that begins at the door of the 3-season room. This walkway was designed with the purpose of saving the oak tree. It extends 7 feet past the tree to the newly designed deck.

Greensboro NC 3 season room with stamped patio
We added square footage to extend the existing patio, and installed a new stamped concrete patio with brick border to tie all the design elements together.

An existing patio increases the outdoor living area, which we extended and added stamped concrete. The 3-season room also includes a cozy electric fireplace. The space is built with both safety and beauty in mind.  The interior walls and ceiling are covered in stain-grade Ply-Bead and the outside is finished with cement lap siding, which ties into the existing house. The window frames are white, which contrasts beautifully with the beaded Ply-Bead.

Greensboro deck,patio and outdoor room combinations
This backyard is improved with three distinct living spaces, beautifully and thoughtfully planned to accommodate the homeowners’ needs.

The Greensboro, NC homeowners are elated with their new space. Where other contractors did not want to take the time or make the effort to incorporate the tree into the final plan, we did! The moral is to never settle for second best in your outdoor living space. Archadeck of The Piedmont Triad will make every effort to make your vision work. We specialize in designing creative ways to address unusual circumstances and challenges.

Contact Archadeck of The Piedmont Triad today to learn more about our unique outdoor living structures and how we can enhance your lifestyle and your backyard at the same time. Call us today for a free consultation (336) 664 – 1332 or email us at piedmonttriad@archadeck.net.

Also read: 3-Season Room Builder Shares Value of Custom vs. Kit

The deck is the glue that holds your outdoor living area together

When you imagine the perfect outdoor living structure what comes to mind?

Do you think of only a deck? Most would agree that no backyard is complete without a one. Decks have been around a long time. They have become the epicenter of spending time with family and friends. Decks have the capability to transform your mood and offer a place to relax and rewind.

Have your deck and screen porch too!
This deck and screen porch create an outdoor living oasis.

What if we told you that decks are more often a part of a multi-space outdoor living design?

Most of our customers opt to build decks with other outdoor living structures such as porches, patios, and even pergolas. For example, a screened-in porch, like the one above, wouldn’t be complete without a deck to spill onto for grilling out. A pergola looks perfect paired on a deck to offer shade on a hot sunny day. We build custom decks using a myriad of materials based on what fits with your individual needs but one material that is perennially popular is composite or synthetic decking.

Composite decks in Greensboro are here to stay.

TimberTech AZEK composite deck with floating bench
Custom features such as this floating bench design make your deck a true outdoor living room.

Composites come in all grades, colors, and price ranges. Tried and true is AZEK composite decking. AZEK is made from cellular PVC material and stands the test of time. It resists scratching, stains, splitting, is mold and mildew resistant and resists insects that can invade wood decks and destroy them. Their color choices are vast and they even make railing that is designed to complement your deck perfectly. It is also backed by some of the most comprehensive warranty in the industry.

Save on your deck construction project with a deck renovation.

Azek deck with aluminum picket rail
This AZEK deck with aluminum picket rail is a beauty to behold, and enjoy.

You may feel like composite is out of your reach because of the cost. Archadeck of the Piedmont Triad wants you to know that if your existing deck is structurally sound adding a low-maintenance material when re-decking, refurbishing or upgrading your deck may be more economical than you might think. The payback in the long run to using a material such as AZEK pays for itself quickly without the added cost of replacing boards and painting. With a composite or cellular PVC deck from us you will be sitting pretty on a beautiful, low-maintenance deck for many years ahead.

Deck Builders in Greensboro NC Since 1991

Contact Archadeck of the Piedmont Triad to learn more about our incredible outdoor living designs. We have been in business for since 1991, and have the expertise to make sure your backyard is your own outdoor oasis.

Call today for a free consultation : (336) 664 – 1332
piedmonttriad@archadeck.net

Also read: Can I add a screen porch to my existing deck?

March is the time to prepare for outdoor living!

The month of March;  when March comes in like a lion it goes out like a lamb, mad as a March hare, beware the ides of March, March madness and my favorite March winds and April showers bring forth May flowers.   Almost everyone is ready to celebrate the arrival of Spring on March 20 and we at Archadeck are ready to help you get that great outdoor structure you need to make sure you get the most out the beautiful spring and summer days that lie ahead.

Archadeck of the Piedmont Triad is your choice Winston Salem and Greensboro area deck builder.

Archadeck can help you in a variety ways.  We custom design and custom build.  We can help you get some shade with one of our pergolas.  Stay away from the pesky bugs with a screened porch.  Replace that tired old deck with a new one build out of a variety of choices such as composites or tropical hardwoods.  Jazz up your deck with custom rails, benches and planters.  We also can add a patio with an outdoor kitchen.  How about waterproofing the underside of your current deck and making it in to a screened room?  There are numerous options and our designers are ready to help you realize your dream for more outdoor living.

Let’s get started soon so we can help you  be ready to relax and enjoy the great outside.  Contact us and one of our design consultants will be happy to work with you and yours to get your outdoor dream realized. We will look forward to hearing from you soon.

September and Fall Outdoor Living.

Supposedly the calendar reads September but with exception of the cooler nights and the yellowing of the poor trees looking for a little rain not much seems to have changed weather wise.  Yet we are only 1 week away from the official Autumnal Equinox.  This started me musing about the equinoxes both Spring and Fall and that twice yearly 24 hour span of equal amount of  night and day.  In Autumn the days then become shorter and obviously the nights become longer. There are lots of folks who begin to vocally dread the coming of fall and then worst winter; perhaps they are thinking of being trapped indoors in the colder months. I, however, embrace the beginning of the shorter days for many reasons; the sky is much bluer with wispy clouds and cool breezes.  Mother Nature starts her last arboreal fashion show with all the gorgeous yellows, oranges, and reds she will dress her tree children in.  Sunsets are stunning in the fall, the best of the year, and the night stars seem to twinkle and sparkle with glee.

There is still plenty of time for outdoor living this year.  We humans have become oh so inventive and creative with all things to keep us warm and cozy outside on chilly nights.  Outdoor fireplaces, fire pits, chimineas, and decorative propane table top heaters all add warmth to the surroundings.  Lots of options exist for specialized outdoor lighting.  The list goes on and for all the ways you can continue to experience the glorious days remain this year.

The also good news is if you have a deck, screened porch, covered porch, pergola with a polycarbonate roof or sunroom you can make it cool weather ready with the addition of some type of heater and enjoy in the fall.  Plus there is an added bonus in it is much easier to sweep those leaves rather that rake then.  More time to enjoy outdoor living.  See you on the deck  looking at that amazing sunset.

August and Outdoor Living

Well, we have made  it  to the last month of summer,  August.  August has always seemed a paradoxical month to me.  It is still officially summer but  many of us with children in school are cramming in that last bit of vacation before the back to school rush begins.  The weather starts to show a little hint of change, one day blazing hot and then a refreshingly cool day. It is a month that makes one start thinking of Fall. There is an old saying that if you count the foggy mornings in August they equal the number of snows in the coming winter.  Whether that is true or not it, I got to thinking about the changing of the seasons and knowing that is always one part of life you can count on in these unstable times.

Here at our Archadeck office we offer a product to our customers that takes them from season to season, allowing them the comfort and enjoyment of outdoor living  year round.  Eze-Breeze offers a unique, custom-designed window system that creates more livability on your screened porch, deck or gazebo.  A window system which is versatile, attractive, rugged and simple to use.  Open, they let the breeze in while keeping out the bugs and debris.  Closed, they offer protection from summer sun and changing weather.  Other features and benefits include:

  • Maintenance free aluminum framework
  • Lifetime limited warranty
  • Panels lift out for easy cleaning
  • Tint options to give shade and privacy
  • 4-Track windows with screens that open 75% to allow great airflow
  • Affordable alternative to a costly glass windows

So this August think about extending your outdoor enjoyment and livability into the changing season and give us a call and ask us about Eze-Breeze windows.  We will be happy to tell you more.

Designing a Screened Porch with a Professional Porch Builder

Archadeck has been a trusted Greensboro porch builder for over three decades, and we are ready to help you design and build your ideal porch.

If you have always wanted a screened porch and are ready to build one, you might wonder how to begin.  When designing a screened porch, there are a few things to consider in order to achieve a beautiful porch design. As your Greensboro porch builder, Archadeck will help you arrive at your best and final porch design.

Greensboro porch builder
Screened porch design by Archadeck of the Piedmont Triad

Among these considerations is:

  • Size and orientation – Your intended usage is one key to determining the proper porch size. This can also dictate where you choose to build your porch. From where inside your home will your porch be best accessed? One room, multiple rooms, second story, or first floor?
  • Architectural compatibility with your existing home – Your home’s existing style will often help you decide on the materials used to build your porch. Will you paint it to match your home or the trim on your home? Will you use materials that complement, rather than match? What porch roof style will best accommodate your existing roof?
  • Amenities and upgrades – Would you like a low-maintenance porch with composite deck flooring and aluminum or vinyl railings? Would you like a porch fireplace and full electrical installation for lighting and fans?
  • Your budget – Budget will be a major determining factor in your final porch design. It can dictate size, materials, and amenities.
Greensboro porch builders
Rustic screen porch design by Archadeck of the Piedmont Triad

A well designed and well-built screened porch should add value, function, character, and enjoyment to your home.  It should invite your outdoors in comfort and style.

If you are searching for porch builders in Greensboro NC, Archadeck is ready to earn your business.

Since 1991, Archadeck of the Piedmont Triad has been building custom screened porches.  We are happy to guide you through the design and build process. Archadeck is North America’s leading builder of outdoor living spaces and offers the best warranties in the business. Call us today at 336-664-1332 for your complimentary design consultation.

Custom porch and deck by Archadeck of the Piedmont Triad

Also read: Can I add a screen porch to my existing deck?

Who is Archadeck?

Custom Design

Archadeck founded in 1980 in Richmond, Virginia is the largest builders of custom designed decks. With more than 45,000 projects built nationally, we’ve become know as “America’s Deck Builder.” Prior to Archadeck, homeowners had three choices: build their own deck;  hire a carpenter, often unlicensed and uninsured; or work with an architect.  By combining design and construction into one single source, Archadeck can offer you the best and most efficient choice for your new deck.

But we are so much more than decks.  Archadeck also designs and builds screened porches, 3-season rooms, sunrooms, trellises, arbors, docks,  spa and pool decks and much more.  Archadeck has been featured in numerous magazines including HOME, Remodeling, Gardens, Decks & Patios, Woman’s Day Home Improvements,  Woman’s Day Gardening, Family Circle, Success and on the covers of Decks & Backyard Projects and American How-To.  In addition Qualified Remodeler magazine recently ranked Archadeck in the “Top Ten” out of 500 remodelers.

What does this mean to you?  It means your local Archadeck is part of a nationally known and respected organization, and has stable, reliable management.  You will receive one of the strongest warranties in the business. By choosing Archadeck , you ensure that your new outdoor living space will be custom designed for your home.  Each design  will address the architecture and landscape of the site itself, your budget, and your personal needs and lifestyle.  These elements, combined with smart and innovative design will make your new outdoor living space uniquely yours.  Because your project is custom designed, you will have a wide selection of materials to choose from such as pressure-treated southern yellow pine, exotic hardwoods, composite materials and low maintenance materials like Azek, and more.

Our design consultation is always free, so let Archadeck visit  your home  soon.  You’ll be on your way to the custom designed project that best enhances your home, your ideas, and your budget.

Screened porch for Relaxation.

Will a deck really sell my home?

New deck

Every year Remodeling magazine puts together a survey/cost analysis of major home improvement projects, and how much money the homeowners expect to recoup from their investment when they sell their home.  In today’s buyers market, it goes beyond curb appeal.  Homes are scruntinized on all aspects.  A well designed deck will recoup 75% of  its cost right up there with a kitchen remodel or siding replacement.  Before potential home buyers would focus on the kitchen or location of the master bedroom.  These days they also want to see what is happening in the backyard and if there is a deck or screened porch.  Outdoor living spaces are buzz words .  Just watch a little HGTV.

So, if you are putting off that outdoor project–do it now!  Replace/refurbish an old deck; build a new one or turn that screened porch into a 3-season room or sunroom. You will enjoy it while you live in your home, and will get a great return on your investment when your are ready to sell!