Archadeck invites you take the plunge with a stunning hot tub or spa deck
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This hot tub deck has the added luxury of a bar
When those chilly autumn winds start to blow, thoughts turn to cozy and unique ways to get warm but still enjoy the scenic panoramic views and crisp, clean air of the season. One way to knock off the chill of fall and take advantage of mother nature’s beauty is to take a dip, or two, in your very own hot tub or spa. The soothing warm water and sound of the bubbles can not only work wonders on your muscles but your spirits as well. Imagine soaking in your spa with the harvest colors of autumn as you backdrop enjoying a glass of your favorite beverage while wafts of steam mingle into the cool air that surrounds you. This imagery sounds tantalizing enough to the senses but the location and surrounding area around your hot tub or spa can really make or break the whole experience. Incorporating a deck or patio into the design of your hot tub’s location can really improve the appeal and aesthetics of your entire backyard.
This Archadeck hot tub deck has adequate and convenient bench seating built into the deck's design
Hot tub decks and spa decks help turn the functionality of the hot tub or spa into a total experience. A deck can add valuable outdoor living space for entertaining , grilling and dining as well. When you think in terms of how you will use your spa or hot tub deck it is important to factor in the little nuances that will add to your enjoyment of the spa. Hot tub and spa decks can be built to include storage areas for towels and other accessories you will need when the spa is in use as well as built-in bench seating for sitting and removing your shoes so, if you so choose you can just dangle your feet over the side of your spa if you don’t feel like taking the whole plunge. The variations and range of hot tub decks and spa deck design is endless. We pride ourselves on thinking outside the box when it comes to getting the most out of your deck’s design even moving the hot tub or spa out of the usual centered location on the deck and placing it in a location within the deck that will give you better views while using your spa and create more usable deck space for other outdoor living endeavors.
If you are considering a hot tub or spa deck one important consideration is the decking material and the underlying strength that is needed to properly house a hot tub or spa. When the spa or hot tub is filled with water it will add a tremendous amount of weight. Archadeck pays close attention to these needs and added requirements and builds a spa support deck with many of our hot tub and spa deck installations. The use of a support deck will take the excess load off the deck itself and make the deck and the hot tub or spa safe and free of any areas that might compromise your structure. Archadeck of Fort Wayne recently installed a spa deck for homeowners that wished to incorporate a Micheal Phelps swim spa into the decks design and as you can tell by reading the article about this particular installation, that if you are thinking of buying a spa strong enough for Micheal Phelps then it is important to have a deck that is equally as strong. When considering materials for your hot tub or spa deck you want to choose a material that is kind to bare feet and will not splinter or retain an excessive amount of heat. Another key factor is reducing or eliminating slippage when those bare feet exit the hot tub and are wet. There are many high quality decking choices available for use on spa decks that offer little or no heat retention and decrease slippage.
Archadeck Greenville Spartanburg Gazebo and Hot Tub Deck
Some key considerations to remember when you make the choice to build a hot tub or spa deck are you want the hot tub or spa to be where it is 18″ above the deck and not flush to the deck so you will be able to sit on the sides and swing around when necessary. You also want to ensure you can enter and exit the deck from all sides with adequate walk-around room at a minimum of 4 feet , by having 6 feet you will have room for bench seating to sit down and remove your shoes, etc. Another key element in good spa deck design is never place your spa deck under a window because it will become an eyesore when looking out from the interior of your home.
This hot tub deck by Archadeck is an oasis of relaxation
If you are ready to take the plunge by building a hot tub or spa deck then contact Archadeck to learn more. We can design and build a hot tub or spa deck that will make you never want to leave the comforting warmth of your hot tub or spa when it is surrounded by the beauty of one of our masterpieces of deck design.
info@archadeck.net
To see more delectable pool, hot tub and spa decks visit our photo galleries
Archadeck of Charleston breathes new life into this deck in Summerville, SC
Archadeck of Charleston was able to breathe new life into this deck with new supports, re-decking and new railings.
When choosing the materials for your anticipated outdoor structure it is important to look at things from the “big picture”. I think a lot of times the homeowner makes decisions based on visualizing their completed outdoor structure from afar, like a distant wish or the way we perceive a star in the night sky when looking up above from down below. It is important to try to visualize your outdoor structure from the vantage point where you and your family are most likely to view the structure itself while in use. The main idea is to make design and material choices based on the inside looking out, rather than the outside looking in, after all you are the one who will be using and enjoying the structure. Case in point is a recent upgrade and re-decking that was completed by Archadeck of Charleston, which gives a perfect example of what a huge difference detailing can make.
Clyde Hess and the crew from Archadeck of Charleston were able to breathe new life into this 20-year-old deck for these Summerville, SC homeowners. Their deck not only had a little age on it, it also had been the victim of many amateur repairs during it’s lifetime. The existing deck was treated wood decking as well as the framing which was attached solely with nails. This situation of using “only nails” had turned into a constant problem of having to continually re-nail the structure to try to compensate for the fact it was coming apart. The structure had no joist hangers, no bolting of any manner and no columns to joist. The railing was only tied in by toe nailing and had become dangerous to lean on. This dilemma was not only structurally inept, it carried the potential to become a safety hazard.
This image shows the deck before Archadeck of Charleston began.
Archadeck of Charleston efficiently addressed all the issues present with the existing deck and set out to make it structurally sound and also make it a feast for the eyes. Using 2×10 drop beams for the front and back for free-standing, we began adding support and strength to the deck in anticipation of the re-decking. The beams were supported and double bolted onto notched out 6×6 posts secured in a 16″ concrete footing. We then added Cox columns as rail posts in line on the deck, double bolted to the deck band and blocked. We then added stairs out to compensate for the property line setbacks and water runoff due to the steep grade of the lot. We then re-decked the entire structure with #1 premium grade Yellow Pine pressure treated wood. The homeowner decided to upgrade the wooden railing to a metal railing for aesthetics as well as strength, this decision also opened up the view where the homeowners can now take in all the lovely vistas of their backyard. These views were not as visible before with the old wooden railing.
Making the decision to replace the old style railing with the metal railing opens up a world of possibilities for these Summerville, SC homeowners and they are elated. By changing this one simple element of the deck, they feel like they have more room and definitely more of a view. This is a fine example of looking out as opposed to looking in at your outdoor structure. The new railing and new deck is certainly beautiful from the outside, but from the inside it is breathtaking and adds more style and functionality as well. Making sure your outdoor structure is structurally sound from the bottom up is crucial, as is the little nuances and changes that can certainly breathe new life into your outdoor structure. Making elemental changes within the design when re-vamping an existing deck can make a world of difference as to how you use and perceive your deck. The addition of railings, directional changes in a staircase or even using built-in benches or planters in lieu of railings if you have a low-to-grade deck can really change the feel and personality of the entire structure.
Clyde Hess owner, Archadeck of Charleston
If you are ready to transform your existing deck into a masterpiece of strength and design contact Archadeck of Charleston to learn more. Get the most out of your outdoor structure today at (843) 873 – 6236
charleston@archadeck.net
You can also take a tour of other beautiful decks by our Archadeck locations all over the country by visiting our galleries http://www.archadeck.com/pickYourProject/Decks.html
804.353.6999 • info@archadeck.net
Skylights that have come full circle and inspire us to let the sunshine in
This beautiful covered porch by Archadeck of Fort Worth takes advantage of the light afford by the addition of skylights.
The outdoor structure has evolved, now I don’t mean a “Darwin” type of evolution but rather an evolution of style and luxury. Many of the same pampering elements we enjoy within our homes is available in our outdoor rooms as well. Screened porches, covered porches and patios, sunrooms and 3 and 4 season room have begun to receive the royal treatment in terms of the accoutrements that are now commonplace among professional outdoor structure builders. Features such as wrapped beams, decorative columns, detailed ceilings, ceiling fans, recessed lighting and all the outlets, plugs, areas reserved especially for your HD flat screen TV’s, and more multi-media hookups than you could ever imagine are being seen within today’s outdoor structures. These features, make for convenience and are oh so easy on the eyes to boot.
This magnificent screened porch by Archadeck of Maryland uses skylights to add additional height to the vaulted ceiling, this result is open and airy.
One such element that we often install in our outdoor structures is the skylight. Gone are the days of the skylight just simply being a skylight. Sure, they allow for your structure to receive more sunlight, which really opens up your space and gives the space a feeling of airiness. But today’s skylights offer many other features as well. Velux skylights are the skylight of choice for many of our Archadeck locations throughout the country, and for good reason. They offer high quality skylights with a myriad of available features with your convenience in mind.
The Velux skylight slogan is “add drama to any space”, and Velux definitely delivers on that promise. With a 10 year no leak warranty and features such as remote control operation, insect screens and blinds that are built right with choices like classic venetian blinds to systems that block the light entirely. Velux skylights also offer an open and close feature that comes with a sensor that detects the first raindrop and automatically closes the skylight so you don’t have to. Imagine sitting on your lovely screened porch enjoying a mild autumn afternoon with your skylights open enjoying the fresh air and the blue skies. A scene like this is reminiscent of that first drive in a Corvette with the T-tops down, a “wind in your hair” kind of freedom that is unforgettable.
If you are ready to let the sunshine in on your outdoor room, contact Archadeck to learn more. We can help you pick the right spot, the right accessories and the right angle to best suit you and your families needs. Skylights not only look the part, they will make you feel the part as well. 888.687.3325
info@archadeck.net
Archadeck and Eze Breeze enclosures give you a breath of fresh air without the headaches
TimberTech Screened porch with and Eze Breeze system and Pergola by Archadeck
We’ve all been there. We eagerly await going out on the screen porch for some morning coffee or to do our daily crossword puzzle or relax for a few minutes and grab the sports scores or weather before heading out for the day. Only some days, mother nature puts a damper on those plans. Maybe you live down south and are greeted with a yellow covering of dust all over everything. Maybe it rained last night and there’s a faint moistness to your fabric-covered chairs. Maybe it’s just too darn cold out there.
There is a way to “convert” your screen porch without having to sink a fortune into windows.
There is a company called Eze Breeze that has a convertible enclosure system allowing you to convert your screen porch into more of a multi-season room. These screens can add protection from temperature as well as the elements.
We have been using this system for homeowners who want to get access more time on their screened porch. Eze Breeze systems are easy on the eye and on your wallet in terms of adding more seasons that you can spend on your porch.
Extending the time frame for use in your screened porch is not the only reason many homeowners are using the Eze Breeze system, other factors are influencing their decision as well. Let’s face it, sometimes you want the freedom of the screen but you don’t want the negative things that can still get through that screen. Screens keep out the insects and the harmful direct rays from the sun but pollen still comes through a screen, as does the wind, some the rain and the cold. Eze Breeze makes it possible to enjoy your porch without those negative factors getting in the way of your enjoyment. When the weather turns cold, you can also add the use of a space heater within your porch with Eze Breeze and turn your structure into a 3-season outdoor living room as well. The beauty is that anytime you want to take advantage of the favorable weather or an unobstructed view, this system can be slid out-of-the-way either horizontally or vertically, depending on which system you have, to get you back to the very reason you wanted a screened porch in the first place – to be closer to mother nature and take advantage of all that fresh air.
Our Archadeck location in Charlotte sums it up in this short clip about the Eze Breeze system :
Eze Breeze is strong and durable.
Eze Breeze enclosures are easy and affordable, here’s how they work- the system is made from 10-mil vinyl glazing that gives you the same clarity of glass. This innovative material is not susceptible to cracking or breaking and with many mishaps will return to its original shape within minutes. The enclosures can be installed either horizontally or vertically and the panels can be slid out-of-the-way to obtain a unobstructed view and take advantage of the “feel” of nature. Eze Breeze presents homeowners with a win/win answer to having your cake and eating it too!
Contact Archadeck to learn more about Eze Breeze enclosures and start maximizing your outdoor structures function and beauty. If you are interested in turning your outdoor structure into a safe haven from the elements, the insects and the pollen and don’t want the expense or building constrictions that are present with glass, contact Archadeck today 888.687.3325 or 804.353.6999 • info@archadeck.net
Outdoor Fireplace or Outdoor Fire Pit? Some Considerations.
This custom fireplace is big on style and has plenty of radius for entertaining by the firelight.
Fall is in the air, maybe you have noticed it in the wisp of the wind that seem a little crisper than usual, or the way night is upon us sooner with each passing day. There is no denying that the masterpiece that mother nature paints for us each autumn is just around the corner. With cooler temperatures come less insects, less humidity and more time to enjoy the outdoors. Certain outdoor structures just seem to be tailor-made for the fall. Custom outdoor fireplaces and fire pits are among the best candidates for fall focal points within the landscape. Imagine the crackling fire, roasted marshmallows, hot cocoa and conversation. Even though both of these structures offer the warmth and glow of one of natures most intoxicating elements, they differ in many aspects. Deciding which kind of structure is right for you all depends on what you most want to get out of the structure in terms of functionality.
Even though it might seem simple, there is a lot more to it. Most folks think in terms of their budget, they assume that if they have more to invest they will go with the custom outdoor fireplace as opposed to having less, in which case they assume that a fire pit is the lesser investment. Both structures have their advantages, and both structures can be constructed as elaborate or as simple as you wish.
This screened porch by Archadeck of Maryland incorporates a beautiful stone fireplace in its design.
An outdoor fireplace makes a statement within the landscape, or when used in conjunction with another outdoor structure such as on a patio or even a covered porch. The fireplace offers a more intimate setting to its users with a typical 90 degree radius of room for entertaining, or to gather around the structure. Outdoor fireplaces require the use of many elements such as design, position, stonework, masonry, gas and plumbing. An experienced licensed builder can assist you in making many of the decisions, but there are many options available with today’s fireplace that can make a simple fireplace an amazing fireplace. From customized mantel pieces, to compartments custom-built within the fireplace to store wood and accessories. Fireplaces can be built in all shapes and sizes and in a variety of beautiful hardscape mediums such as brick, natural stone, and man-made hardscaping materials such as those offered through Belgard. The source of the fire itself can be obtained through gas or propane with a ceramic log that looks like real wood without the messy cleanup , or in some cases a wood burning fireplace may be your best option. Your fireplace design is only limited to your imagination, whether you choose a modern streamlined fireplace with no hearth, or a rustic beauty of natural stone, an outdoor fireplace can really heat up the conversation and the intimacy when entertaining, as a focal point of beauty and relaxation.
This fire pit by Archadeck of Fort Worth makes for unforgettable evenings among family and friends.
Custom fire pits have become a work of art within the world of outdoor structures in their own rite as well. A fire pit can offer you that same ethereal glow and ambiance , and can lend itself to dazzle a larger crowd. Fire pits offer a typical radius area of 180 degrees for entertaining and enjoyment. The addition of a ledge can add seating and a vantage point to enjoy the glow of the fire without having to purchase additional furniture. Fire pits can also be constructed with a large selection of materials, much like the fireplace but can also serve double and even triple jobs that can change from season to season. A fire pit can be easily equipped with a drain which makes it possible to be used as a planter during the summer. It can even serve as a tranquil water feature as long as there is an exterior outlet nearby. Archadeck of Austin wrote a story about a homeowner who created an “all season” structure with her fire pit, you can read the story by visiting http://austindeckandpatiobuilder.com/2011/03/14/a-flame-of-many-colors-a-fire-pit-with-multiple-personalities-integrated-into-the-design/ Custom fire pits can also be equipped with a dazzling array of glowing glass fire rocks that come in a wide variety of colors. Fire pits that are powered by gas can even have a gas star installed where the flame is emitted in a unique star pattern.
This unique custom fire pit by Archadeck of Austin, is a chameleon in its ability to transform each season.
Even though both these fireside outdoor structures differ greatly, they both have the ability to set a mood and change a mood for the better. Archadeck can plan, design and build a custom outdoor fireplace or fire pit that is ablaze with quality and style, and can turn your autumn into something really “wonderfall”. Contact us today to learn more 804.353.6999 • info@archadeck.net
You can also see more tantalizing outdoor fireplaces and fire pits by visiting our photo galleries at http://www.archadeck.com/pickYourProject/PatiosAndHardscapes.html
Patios Covers that deliver function and style
Brick Columns, ceiling fans, and a stone retaining wall are just of the few gorgeous details of this porch cover by Archadeck of Fort Worth.
Imagine having that one spot in your landscape that you can retreat when the day has been long and you need to renew yourself. Imagine an area that offers shelter from the elements, the wind, and the sun, and a place that offers shelter from the storms of a stressful day. Having a special spot of your own is easy with a patio cover from Archadeck. A covered patio, also referred to as a patio cover can transport you to a place of relaxation and refreshment. Patio covers are also a good way to show off the beauty of your home and landscape, by introducing elements to compliment both. Patio covers can be constructed with a mixed medium of materials that include natural stone, tile, hardscape materials such as pavers, composite and PVC materials, hardwoods, brick and concrete. Planning a new patio cover by Archadeck can turn the blank canvas of your existing backyard and transform it into a masterpiece with beauty and quality that will make your structure a feast for the eyes as well as the senses.
At Archadeck we keep receiving more and more requests for patio covers. Many patio covers you see at the “do it yourself” big box stores are aluminum and lack the quality or beauty that Archadeck is renowned for. Now that being said, Archadeck patio covers not only talk the talk, in terms of aesthetic appeal, but they walk the walk as well with functionality, by broadening the spectrum of uses for your outdoor space.
" This is the life", with a patio cover by Archadeck of Fort Worth which encompasses an angled pergola, and custom fire pit into the design.
Patios in their own rite, are still a stunning and useful way to add livable outdoor space to any home or landscape. Patios can be used in conjunction with other outdoor structures such as decks, pergolas and much more. Is your patio able to be used on hot days when the sun is beaming down on you? Are you forced off the patio and indoors whenever the clouds thicken and the sky threatens rain? If you answered yes to either of these questions, then maybe a Patio cover is an ideal way to get more hours of enjoyment out of your patio. Maybe you are “on the fence” as to build a patio that is covered or uncovered. Archadeck wants to make your patio decision an easy one, with your comfort and lifestyle in mind.
Archadeck of Fort Worth and Archadeck of Austin are both heavy hitters when it comes to building patios, covered and uncovered. Here are some photos of both locations stunning work to serve as an inspiration when deciding what path to choose for your new patio. Archadeck can take your existing patio and add a cover to create an outdoor room great for entertaining, or just reading a good book. With a patio cover you can enjoy the beauty of a summer rain while having a glass of your favorite beverage without the worry of getting wet. How many living rooms can offer you that kind of versatility?
Austin concrete patio with pergola and patio cover
This patio cover by Archadeck of Austin serves as a triple threat with the clever and unique use of twin pergolas encompassing the central patio cover.
This detached patio cover by Archadeck of Austin has natural rustic detailing and includes a fully functioning outdoor kitchen and dining area, perfect for entertaining, or a simple dinner date for two.
This patio cover by Archadeck of Austin has all the comforts of home, enjoyable outdoors. A great place to watch the summer rain or maybe the football game on your TV which is mounted in your patio cover.
Another view of this patio cover by Archadeck of Austin shows just how much versatility this space offers. An outdoor bar and gully functioning outdoor kitchen are built right into the structure which showcases the beautiful spa area as well.
This patio cover in Southlake, TX by Archadeck of Fort Worth shows the attention that was paid to every detail of quality through the materials chosen and the design itself.
Archadeck is America’s premier builder of outdoor structures such as these. Imagine a patio that becomes an extension of not only your living space, but an extension of your personality and tastes as well. From dining and seating areas, to outdoor kitchens and ceiling fans, Archadeck can plan, design and build a patio cover that will leave you breathless.
Contact Archadeck to learn more 804.353.6999 • info@archadeck.net
Archadeck lays the foundation to your fantasy with the perfect patio.
This patio and hardscape wall by Archadeck of Atlanta encompasses the essence crisp and clean style.
There is nothing quite like summer. We all wish for an endless summer of sunshine, a landscape of forever green, flowers that never stop blooming and cherished time spent with family and friends among the great outdoors. With a beautiful custom-built patio by Archadeck you can make this wonderful time of the year even more special. Whatever your mood, walking onto a stylish patio by Archadeck can turn even the cloudiest day into sunshine.
This patio by Archadeck of Fort Worth includes a covered section as well as a fire pit.
The origins of the patio come from deep within the history of Spain. The actual word itself was borrowed from Spain and means “an inner courtyard or paved area that is adjacent to the home”. With today’s homeowners discriminating tastes, we offer patios custom-built in a manner to express your individuality . From scored and stamped concrete, natural stone and hardscapes such as Belgard pavers. From modern to rustic we can build a patio to suit your needs and complement your homes integrity, creating the kind of backyard you dream about.
This gorgeous covered patio by Archadeck of Austin is finished out with stunning furnishings.
Of course, today’s patios wouldn’t be complete without the proper accoutrements to define and complement your space. The perfect patio furniture and accessories create the perfect way to turn up the style on your patio by Archadeck. Patio furniture such as those seen in catalogs like Frontgate offer European inspired outdoor furnishings, and those in Grandin Road offer a more casual, contemporary feel. From Teak, to wrought iron to the elegance of wicker, the choices are endless.
If modern, clean, crisp lines are your style imagine a stain and stamp patio finished with a stunning suite of contemporary metal furnishings with a sleek design. The pairing of carefully chosen outdoor furnishings on your patio can pull everything together like a harmonious work of art.
Maybe a laid back rustic country chic attitude is more your choice. The vision proceeds with rustic old world hardscape detailing underfoot along with washed wooden furniture with overstuffed cushions to wisp you away to comfort. Whatever your taste, whatever your fancy Archadeck can lay the foundations to your fantasy with a custom-built patio or outdoor structure.
This stone patio by Archadeck of Charlotte portrays a gracious, old world feel.
Patios, whether covered or uncovered create the perfect place for entertaining, cooking, relaxing and spending quality time with the ones you hold close to your heart. Not only do they provide function, their form provides the perfect complement to your home and landscape. A patio is a wise investment in terms of adding value to your home. Constructed of durable and long-lasting materials that withstand the elements better than wood, a patio is a solid choice in terms of materials and as an investment.
Contact Archadeck today to find out more about creating the perfect patio to fit your lifestyle. 804.353.6999 • info@archadeck.net
You can see more beautiful patios in our photo gallery by visiting http://www.archadeck.com/pickYourProject/PatiosAndHardscapes.html
Archadeck of Des Moines makes a stay away from home a little more beautiful with this breathtaking courtyard pergola.
This Pergola built by Archadeck of Des Moines is breathtaking and truly unforgettable.
Archadeck is so proud to highlight the accomplishments and milestones of our many valued locations across the country. Today we turn that focus onto Archadeck of Central Iowa with the gorgeous pergola they completed for Holiday Inn & Suites in West Des Moines, Iowa. The pergola itself, in its classic white and crisp architecture goes a step further in its design with the magical radius angles. This project takes pergolas to a whole new level and the customers were so delighted they called Archadeck of Central Iowa back for a second helping of quality, beauty and design on another project.
This Pergola creates a courtyard perfect to soak in the afternoon sun.
The developer for the Holiday Inn & Suites in West Des Moines contacted Archadeck of Central Iowa and hired them to build a pergola in the courtyard area of their newly built hotel. This is not your average, run of the mill courtyard though. The wall of the hotel itself is curved and the hotel’s initial requirement is that the beams of the pergola be radiused as well, to stay in line with the design of the wall. After careful consideration and a lot of communication with the developer, Archadeck of Central Iowa decided that ultimately straight beams following the arc of the wall would be just as effective. The rafters coming off the wall give the impression of a true radius look that is more noticeable than the beam. They were able to deliver an unforgettable structure with creativity, ingenuity and a little magician-like creative design.
Pergola by Archadeck of Des Moines for Holiday Inn & Suites of West Des Moines
The developer has another hotel in the works to be built and have asked Archadeck to build another pergola on the upcoming hotel. The new hotel will have the same radius wall design as part of their courtyard feature as well.
Attention to every detail and quality craftsmanship creates lasting ties.
The details of the pergola itself are that it was constructed of durable vinyl with 10′ tapered round columns. It also has 2×8 beams, 2×6 rafters and 2×2 strings all with vinyl as well. Archadeck of Central Iowa created a memorable structure, and in doing so, forged a positive relationship with this well-known hotel chain. They are looking forward to working with them again and continue to create beautiful, quality built outdoor structures for commercial venues such as this one, and also in back yards all across Des Moines.
Harold Cross of Archadeck of Des Moines and Central Iowa
To learn more about commercial and residential outdoor structures by Archadeck of Des Moines you can contact them at (515) 266 – 8844 or email them at centraliowa@archadeck.net
Another job well done for Archadeck of Des Moines.
You can also see more breathtaking pergolas in their photo galleries by visiting http://central-iowa.archadeck.com/pickYourProject/PergolasAndTrellises.html
Belgard introduces Archadeck as a new addition to their authorized dealer network with rave reviews.
With Archadeck and Belgard the possibilities are endless
Belgard recently introduced Archadeck as a new addition to their authorized dealer network and we couldn’t be more ecstatic. Belgard is one of the industry’s top manufacturers of hardscapes such as pavers and retaining walls. Archadeck is proud to be authorized dealers of Belgard in our locations throughout the country. Our partnership with Belgard reinforces our goal of using the finest materials to create America’s best outdoor spaces.
Belgard uses a multi-step design guidance presentation that incorporates design, color, shape and texture. Their motto is “be prepared for company”, and by using this design guide in preparation for having Archadeck build your outdoor structure, you can rest assured the structure you get will be the envy of the neighborhood.
The design guide helps homeowners with four basic steps.
What will your ideal outdoor structure be used for?
The first step is to decide what your outdoor structure will be used for. Will it primarily be used to entertain? Or will it just be used as a sanctuary for relaxing with the family? Considerations in your personal tastes and how you want your outdoor structure to impact your life will play a key role in what type of hardscapes will work best in your design.
The second step is to consider your owns home’s architecture. The goal with any good outdoor structure is to work in harmony with your existing structures and complement their differences and what they have in common. ” You want to work with the grain instead of against the grain” in terms of how your outdoor hardscape structure will affect what you already have.
Belgard pavers were used in this beautiful patio and fire pit combination
The next step when creating a memorable hardscape design is to extend the visual line from the corners, doors and windows in order to incorporate your landscape design into the big scheme of things by creating shapes to play up the landscape in your own backyard. The goal here is to see the package in its entirety and not draw the eye to one specific area, a good hardscape design harmonizes with your home, and your yard.
Finally, size matters. When you imagine your perfect outdoor hardscape structure in your mind once it is finished and every little detail is in place, do you see your outdoor furnishings? Are your chairs neatly tucked in? When considering what size structure is best for you always remember that you need ample space to move around when the furniture is in use. Take leg room into consideration, and pull out room for the chairs as well. This is a simple step, but a crucial one in how much enjoyment you get from your structure in terms of “real life” use. Those pretty pictures in magazines are depicting the area not in use. Thinking outside the box will help you achieve optimal pleasure when using your structure.
You can learn more about Belgard’s design guide at http://www.belgard.biz/
Tea for two on this beautiful patio constructed with Belgard pavers
If you are ready to enjoy your outdoor to the fullest with a hardscape outdoor structure custom-built by Archadeck and using the beautiful Belgard products contact us today to learn more. With Archadeck and Belgard you get quality and beauty underfoot. 804.353.6999 • info@archadeck.net
You can view our beautiful gallery of hardscape outdoor structures at http://www.archadeck.com/pickYourProject/PatiosAndHardscapes.html
A paver patio by Archadeck is built tough from the ground up.
This paver patio has detailing that will leave you breathless, finished with Belgard pavers
Paver patios can be simply extraordinary in terms of design and the rustic elegance they encompass. Paver patios are full of personality and the selection of patterns, textures and hues they come in can be customized to reflect a homeowners personal taste and style. Taking all this into consideration, pavers are even more amazing because of their strength. A professionally installed paver patio can withstand several thousand pounds of pressure. I am sure your average dinner party or family get-together outside on the patio would never put this to the test, but the fact of the matter is the cohesive combined strength which is evident in a paver patio is not only strong but it is versatile. A paver patio can be extended in the future if you so wish, and replacing an individual paver is easy. Many people don’t realize what elements go into constructing a paver patio, but I am here to tell you, they are built tough from the ground up.
Outdoor fireplace with paver patio
Archadeck begins by digging out the area where the patio will be installed. They do this by digging down about 9 inches. Then “roadbase” is brought in, which is basically a rock filler. It is then compacted down with a machine that will bring it to 6 inches of thickness. Once the roadbase is well compacted, sand is put down. The pavers are then placed atop the sand and compacted down using the compaction machinery again, this will cause the sand to come up through the joints of the pavers. Following this step a layer of Polymeric sand is put atop that, which is again compacted and the sand is brushed in. The top layer of sand has an added polymer which when water is applied, acts as a binder, which binds the sand so there is no loose sand. To ensure nothing washes away beneath these layers Archadeck installs a geo-grid to hold everything in place.
Belgard pavers were used in this beautiful patio and fire pit combination
In the case of a paver patio if there are any upward pressure points or issues this generally happens early on, within the first year following installation. If this happens it is an easy fix, by breaking out any area that is presenting a problem and fixing it. The key to a paver patio is the base, making sure it is leveled and properly compacted.
Paver patios also pack another punch, they are less likely to fade than a stain-and-score concrete patio and will not show signs of wear. Concrete patios such as a stain and score are also more likely to crack, whereas part of a paver patios charm are the cracks themselves (joints) and any give will affect the joint and the paver itself will not crack.
This paver retaining wall by Archadeck compliments the homes deck and sunroom
Pavers can be used in more designs than just patios. Today’s paver is not a one trick pony, it is used to build retaining walls, benches, fire pits, fireplaces and so much more. Archadeck uses Belgard pavers. Their quality, style, textures and color choices are unsurpassed in the industry. Most of the pavers sold in your “big box” home improvement stores lack the quality to withstand the test of time, and offer very little selection.
If you are ready to take the leap and add a patio to your backyard, contact Archadeck to get you started on your way to a real eye catcher with the muscle to match. 888.687.3325
You can also visit our photo gallery to view patio designs that will take your breath away http://www.archadeck.com/pickYourProject/PatiosAndHardscapes.html
