Archadeck Archives - Archadeck of the Piedmont Triad

December 2, 2013February 14, 2023

Saying this screened porch conversion was a change for the better for these Oak Ridge, NC homeowners would be an understatement indeed

View into backyard from Oak Ridge NC screened porch by Archadeck of the Piedmont Triad — View into backyard from Oak Ridge, NC screened porch by Archadeck of the Piedmont Triad

These Oak Ridge, NC homeowners were tired of getting sunburn and fighting insects in order to use their backyard deck. They decided to contact Archadeck of the Piedmont Triad to make a change for the better. Following a consultation with these Arbor Run residents, we were able to come up with a design that would put an end to their backyard woes.

By adding a screened porch to their existing deck we were able to accentuate the positive aspects of their outdoor living experience while eliminating the negative. Not only does the new screened porch provide a haven from the hot sun, the screened-in porch also provides a protected, bug-free spot to enjoy the outdoors. The screened porch gives the homeowners a plethora of outdoor living possibilities. The homeowners now view their outdoor space in a different light since the addition of their screen porch has been completed. To say converting their existing deck into a screened porch was a change for the better would definitely be an understatement. The new space has added function and beauty to their backyard and lifestyle.

Arbor Run screened porch ceiling in Oak Ridge NC — To enhance the beautiful cathedral ceilings we finished them with plybead that has been stained, which adds depth.

We used a combination gable roof and flat roof design with a screened-in gable. The interior of the screened porch is finished with a plybead ceiling which was stained to add depth and contrast to the soaring cathedral-height ceiling. The interior also includes a ceiling fan to promote even better air flow for keeping the space cool and comfortable. Another eye-catching feature of the porch are the black belly rail pickets used in the room. The pickets add character and elegance to the space.

The entire project came together beautifully, from start to finish. The homeowners are looking forward to the upcoming outdoor living season and to being able to enjoy their backyard in peace without the sunburn and the mosquitoes!

Screened porch builders Oak Ridge NC — The homeowners are looking forward to the upcoming outdoor living season and being able to enjoy their backyard in peace minus the sunburn and the mosquitoes!

If you are thinking about making a change to your backyard, contact Archadeck of The Piedmont Triad today. We specialize in creating unforgettable outdoor structures. Call us today for a free consultation (336) 664 – 1332
piedmonttriad@archadeck.net

See more examples of screened porches and deck-to-screened-porch-conversions by visiting our screened porches photo gallery, and our 3 and 4 season room gallery located on our website.

October 7, 2013February 14, 2023

This Summerfield, NC outdoor living combination gets a facelift and so much more!

Summerfield NC screen porch, deck and patio combination in Lennox Woods — This Summerfield, NC backyard is now the epitome of low-maintenance.

One of our specialties here at Archadeck of the Piedmont Triad is taking an existing outdoor space and improving the quality, beauty and function in order for the homeowner to make better use of their space. That is exactly what happened when we were referred to these Summerfield, NC homeowners to work with them on their space.

These Lennox Woods homeowners were hoping to use their screened porch more months of the year.

Summerfield NC AZEK decks by Archadeck of the Piedmont Triad — We expanded the existing deck and resurfaced it in ultra-low-maintenance AZEK decking and railing.

They wanted a larger deck and they wanted both spaces to utilize low-maintenance materials. This would allow more time to enjoy the spaces and less time maintaining it. Last but not least, accessibility was a concern as their existing space had only one set of stairs.

Archadeck of the Piedmont Triad began the project by wrapping their screened porch in white aluminum and adding an Eze Breeze window system, also in white, to the screened porch. Eze Breeze windows enable you to turn your screened porch into a 3-season room to utilize the space for more months of the year. Eze Breeze is a convenient sliding window system that works by allowing you to control the amount of screen you leave exposed. The sliding panels can close completely creating a room with the feel of a sunroom. With this versatile enclosure system, these Summerfield homeowners can make use of their screened porch many more months of the year.

Summerfield NC low maintenance deck and patio combination in Lennox Woods Subd. — Archadeck of the Piedmont Triad added an additional stairway that spills into the stunning patio below the deck.

Archadeck of the Piedmont Triad then expanded and resurfaced the existing deck with beautiful, low-maintenance AZEK decking in Morado. We also added black AZEK railing to compliment the hue used on the decking and to make the entire space cohesive. AZEK is at the forefront of low-maintenance decking. It’s engineered to withstand everyday traffic and weather. This material is stain, scratch and split resistant and is impervious to mold, mildew and insects.

We took the design of this outdoor living combination a step further by adding an additional set of stairs. The space now has two sets of stairs. One leads to the existing patio and the other leads into the spacious backyard. The new design completes the feel and flow of the outdoor oasis they always wanted.

Summerfield NC AZEK deck builders — By expanding the existing deck, the homeowners now have more space for entertaining and other outdoor activities.

The homeowners are elated with their new and improved outdoor living space. By adding valuable square footage and low-maintenance materials, these homeowners can get more enjoyment out of their backyard for more months of the year and many years to come!

Choosing the right upgrades to complement your home and to enhance function is important. Archadeck of the Piedmont Triad has been in the business of building and improving existing outdoor structures such as these for over 20 yrs. Here in the Piedmont Triad area. We can help you choose the perfect resurfacing material and outdoor room conversion for you with our expert design team and our experience in building. Call for a free consultation:(336) 664 – 1332
piedmonttriad@archadeck.net

August 26, 2012February 13, 2023

Archadeck of the Piedmont Triad reminds you that deck safety is no accident

Piedmont triad deck safety — Archadeck of the Piedmont Triad reminds you that deck safety is no accident.

If you are one of the 40 million homeowners in the United States that are still using a deck that is over 20 years old it is time to take a step back and assess the general safety of your deck. According to NADRA, The North American Deck and Railing Association, deck failures that result in injury are increasing at an alarming rate. Most of the reason for this is the number of decks still standing that are over 20 years old and in dire need of retirement. Outdoor living trends began to escalate during the mid-1980’s and as a result homes were almost always built with a deck. The most prevalent material used on all those decks was pressure treated lumber. Without regular maintenance, pressure treated wood will rot, cup, warp, split and become a dangerous liability for you and your family. A deck that is in bad shape is like a house or cards. You never know which time or event will push your tired deck over the edge resulting in a failure. Though a deck may look alright from the top, the skeleton of your deck is the glue that holds it all together. When one part of your deck’s substructure begins to fail, it is only a matter of time before other problems arise. Many of these problems go unnoticed because they involve the portion of the deck that most homeowners rarely see on a regular basis.

To ensure your deck is safe and structurally sound Archadeck of the Piedmont Triad urges you to have a licensed deck professional thoroughly inspect your deck. As a proud participant in the Archadeck “Be Safer” deck safety program we also recommend that you follow a few tips and suggestions on the home front to make sure your deck is safe.

Check the decking boards – over time most wood decks will show some cracks and splits, the main concern with the decking boards is splintering and rotting. A deck that is not safe to walk on is a safety hazard.
Check the connections – a properly constructed deck is built with fasteners and other metal hardware connectors to make your deck stable from the bottom up. Check the fasteners to make sure they are in good working order, or are in need of replacement. You would be surprised at the calls we get from homeowners whose deck is missing pieces of vital hardware that were never properly installed when the deck was initially built.
Check the structure – check the posts, beams and joists if visible for inconsistencies. Check to see if there is any noticeable sagging between any of the supports.
Check the attachment to your home – the area where the deck attaches to your home is called the house band and this is where most deck failures can occur. Inspect this portion of the deck to make sure all screws and bolts are present, nails should never be used in the house band. Upon inspection also make sure the area is flashed properly to aid in water protection from this important connection site.
Check the foundation and footings – foundations and footings are important because they support the weight of the deck. A sinking footing can cause a dangerous separation of a column from a beam and must be addressed immediately.
Check the exits – check the stairs that are used for exits from your deck, make sure they are in good working order and structurally sound. It is very possible to have a deck that is sound only to have a rotting staircase that could endanger you and your guests upon entry and exit to your deck.
Check the rails– always make sure the railing is secure and that the pickets and balusters are fastened properly. Keep in mind code dictates that rails should be spaced no more than four inches apart, a deck with non-conforming railing is a danger because small children and even pets can sometimes fall through the railing and get hurt.
Synthetic decks such as composite and PVC require less maintenance than a wooden deck.

Within a six-year period in the U.S., 33 people were killed from deck failures and 1,122 were injured. Archadeck of the Piedmont Triad offers a thorough deck safety inspection for a modest fee. We can also provide a free consultation on what would be involved with replacing your deck with an updated design that meets or exceeds all building code requirements and complements your outdoor living objectives. When it comes to keeping you and your family safe from a deck disaster, an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.

Contact us to schedule your deck safety inspection today. Instilling the expertise of one of our deck experts will give you peace of mind in knowing you can enjoy your deck this season without worry. (336) 664 – 1332
piedmonttriad@archadeck.net

August 13, 2012February 10, 2023

Winston Salem gazebo taking shape

One of the reasons I love being a builder is watching projects take shape from the first design meeting through to the finishing detail. During the design planning, we listen to the homeowners’ wants and desires and translate those into structures and roof shapes, materials and finishes. When we hear things like “I don’t want to paint and stain every year”, we begin to think about the myriad of synthetic materials that are available and which best fit the homeowners’ aesthetic and functional needs. When we hear things like “We want a bright and airy room”, we begin to think about roof shapes, open gables, room positioning on the house and possibly skylights.

Looking for a Deck Builder Winston Salem? Call Archadeck of the Piedmont Triad!

AZEK Morado deck Greensboro Triad NC Archadeck — This deck in Winston Salem is being built with AZEK Morado PVC decking for the ultimate in performance and low maintenance.

This project in Winston Salem’s Buena Vista is just beginning to take shape so you can see how it’s coming together. These homeowners were looking for an elevated gazebo so they could enjoy the view of their backyard while enjoying relief from the sun. They wanted low maintenance materials so they can clean up easily with water or soap and water. Their new deck that also runs under the gazebo is made of AZEK Morado. AZEK is a PVC decking board that has all the performance characteristics of composite decking but in addition will not fade or stain. The Morado color is very popular because of its warm chestnut color.

As this project is in construction, the gazebo and rails are not yet in place. The rails will be powder coated aluminum and the gazebo columns will also be wrapped in a low maintenance material.

One thing you will note from this picture is the varying direction of decking boards. There are a few reasons why we do this. One reason is it adds a great deal of visual interest. In addition, there is a constraint to the length of decking boards. If you close your eyes, you can conjure up a vision of where decking boards are laid end to end leaving an unsightly gap where one board ends and the next begins. A creative solution for abutting boards end to end when one board isn’t long enough is to use what’s called a parting board. You can see a parting board in the forefront of the picture to the right. The parting board separates boards where they would come together in a beautiful and visually interesting way.

2nd story AZEK gazebo Greensboro Winston Salem High Point — This second story gazebo is coming into shape

In this next in-progress picture, you’ll see the way the octagonal structure is coming together. The gazebo shape is carried through on both levels and the gazebo will be situated under the vaulted roof on the second story. In this picture you can also see the beautiful warm chestnut brown color of the AZEK decking.

This project is nearing completion and I look forward to sharing the finished pictures as soon as we’re done.

Hire an experienced deck builder for your Winston Salem home!

If you’re considering adding an outdoor living area to your home, give us a call for a free consultation. We’ve been building decks, porches, outdoor rooms, pergolas, gazebos, pergolas and other outdoor living areas in the Greensboro/Winston Salem/High Point area now for over 20 years. That experience goes a long way both in tested and true design ideas and also in giving you confidence that you’re choosing a builder that will still being in business long after the economy improves.

Another important reason to choose Archadeck is our warranty. Not only do we guarantee project completion, we also provide one of the top warranties in the industry.

Give us a call today for your free consultation at (336) 664 – 1332 or send us an email at piedmonttriad@archadeck.net.

Visit our website for literally hundreds of pictures of our work in the Piedmont Triad area. We look forward to your call.

April 20, 2012November 8, 2023

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 30, 2012February 15, 2023

Archadeck of the Piedmont Triad explores the many facets of the pergola

archadeck greensboro winston salem white pergola — This octagonal white pergola in Winston Salem, NC features roman columns and delivers an elegance into this unique design.

Pergolas have been around for many hundreds of years. We can trace the origins of the pergola all the way back to the 1654 when it was borrowed from the Italian word, pergula, meaning a projected eave. Of course, the Italians were assumed to use the pergola from a functional standpoint for growing grapes and other climbing vegetation. The modern pergola has moved out of the vineyards and into the backyard as an elemental design piece that is not only beautiful but also multi-functional.

Pergolas come in all shapes and sizes and can be built from many different materials. They can be outfitted with accoutrements such as hammocks, benches, and even swings as well as wired for a ceiling fan or even speakers. It’s also a great shade structure. We can even install a tinted polycarbonate to further block the suns harmful rays, if these are installed on a slight slant they will allow water to drain properly.

archadeck-greensboro-shade-pergoa — A fine example of what a chameleon the pergola can be, here in Greensboro it serves as a patio cover offering shade and solitude.

Another innovative use is the pergola that doubles as a stylish patio cover or deck cover. This adds not only charm and beauty and function to your deck or patio, it offers shade and sun protection as well. Depending on how closely the upper portioned slats are constructed will determine how much of each the pergola will offer. the pergola also makes a perfect companion spa or poolside and offers a certain degree of privacy within the structures individual design. As you can see, the list of function the pergola can serve homeowners in their backyards is endless.

The posts of the pergola can even be decorative or wrapped to match the architecture and style of your home. This ensures a one of kind pergola custom-built just for you

greensboro winston salem archadeck deorative free standing pergola — This freestanding pergola is the perfect spot to take in the beauty of nature with someone you love.

Pergolas are a cost-effective way to add character, style and function to your yard. Contact Archadeck of the Piedmont Triad to learn more about our stunning custom pergola designs today. Call for a free consultation: (336) 664 – 1332 piedmonttriad@archadeck.net

March 11, 2011August 8, 2019

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 14, 2010

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 3, 2010

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.

July 8, 2010

Hot Weather Outdoor Living

The hot temperatures outside don’t have to be an issue and keep you indoors. We are so acclimated to having the AC blasting during these “hot spells”; we forget that lots of us grew up during a time when central air conditioning was not readily available. Most families sought outdoor living to escape the long hot summers; sitting, rocking on the front porch, watching the fireflies come out and visiting with the neighbors. In our “gotta have it now” world so many of our summer memories are just that, memories. I wonder what the young generation of today will reminisce about when they think of their summers. Sitting in front of the TV or computer, playing a video game?

I still enjoy sitting outside in the evenings under our shade pergola with the fan stirring up a little air, reading, sipping a cold drink and chatting with my spouse. You are really fortunate if you have a screened porch with a ceiling fan to escape the insects and the sun. I think retreating to the outdoors and sitting on you front, side or screened porch is great idea. Bring out a couple of portable fans, give the kids a popsicle and turn on the sprinkler. The kids won’t complain and you’ll enjoy watching them play in the water. You just might want to run through the sprinkler a time or two yourself. In other words, if you have outdoor living space use it, enjoy it and stop having “reverse cabin fever”. Reclaim your youth and summer. When you walk back in the house you might even feel chilly because of the air conditioning setting, and go a little green by setting up the temperature a degree or more.

Don’t waste time complaining about how hot it is. Try to find some ways to recapture those summer memories. Besides before you know it winter will come and you’ll be wishing for hot weather again.