Columbia City house now connected to pool with new decks

Posted on January 4, 2012 by
above ground pool

Hard to get to this nice pool

The owner of this Columbia City home had cut into his hill side a few years ago and installed an above ground swimming pool with the intent of putting a deck around it someday.

The owner decided they were ready to go forward with it, however, over the years the earth on the hill had continued to move and was threatening the integrity of the DIY block retaining wall.  There was also a wood retaining wall by the house that was starting to fail, so one of the first things we wanted to consider was a stabilization of the hillside through the construction of proper concrete retaining walls.

retaining wall, pool deck

Retaining wall and initial pool deck work

The owner had given a good deal of thought about how they wanted to use their new outdoor living space, so our job was to present design alternatives that would accomplish those objectives.  They picked one design that matched what they really had in mind and then we modified it a few times, until we had it just the way we all wanted it.

pressure treated, under deck storage, vertical board skirting, pool deck

vertical board skirting with 3 storage access doors

Although it was getting late in the season, we felt confident we could complete before the bad weather set in, so we started in late October.  As luck would have it, we encountered what would turn out to be the 2nd rainiest November in recorded history.  Thus, an anticipated 3 week job, stretched to almost 6 weeks, and we ended up doing more damage to the lawn than we would have ever anticipated.

But in between the rains we forged on, and the results were worth the effort.

pressure treated, pool deck, multi level deck

stairs from lower level to entertainment deck

We created a multi level deck that accomplished all the owners wanted from it and it is a visually exciting addition to the home and the site.  There is an ultimate play area around the pool, protected by a double gate when not in use, connected by wide stairs to an entertainment deck, complete with pergola for relief from the afternoon sun, and transition to a deck which allows for functional access to the garage.

pressure treated, pool deck, pergola, multi-level deck, deck stairs, deck gate

Now the pool can be accessed and enjoyed

Additionally there was no good way to get from the lower level of the house to the pool or the top of the hill, but now there are stairs connecting both the lower and upper levels to the entertainment deck and then to the other outdoor activities.  Finally, we took advantage of the areas under the deck by providing access doors to store pool toys and patio furniture, and to service the pool mechanicals.

The results were stunning and the owner is very pleased with the result.  He has gotten

pressure treated, pool deck, pergola, stairs, railing, gate

A great place for a party!

many positive comments from family and friends and is looking forward to next spring.

A great project that took advantage of a nice hill side setting to create an area where both the adults, kids and grandkids can enjoy countless summers.

Contact us to find out how we can help with your outdoor living space.  Call us at 260/969-8663, or email neindiana@archadeck.net, or http://fort-wayne.archadeck.com/.

Baron Biedenweg of Archadeck of Northeastern Indiana

Baron Biedenweg of Archadeck of Northeastern Indiana

Posted in Archadeck of Fort Wayne Northeastern Indiana, deck addition, Pergola, pool deck, Wood decking | 1 Comment

These Fort Wayne homeowners get new deck and patio

Posted on January 3, 2012 by
replacement deck, low maintenance decking, AZEK, patio, Belgard,

An old wood deck in need of replacement

The well built, old wood deck had served this house for over 20 years, however it was starting to weaken and the wood no longer held a finish, requiring more and more maintenance.  Their goal was to reduce the size of the deck, improve the view from the family room windows and provide a contained area for their small dog. The use of low maintenance materials was also on their wish list if the budget allowed for it. We presented concepts that incorporated a smaller deck surface, with low maintenance decking and rail, adjacent to a new patio.

AZEK Decking, AZEK Premier Railing, AZEK gate, Belgard, Dublin Cobble

New Azek deck with Azek rail and gates

After talking about the advantages of a interlocking paver patio versus stamped concrete, the cost differences, and the site issues, they decided that because the soil was usually very wet and subject to movement, pavers would be the best alternative.

Belgard, Interlocking concrete paver patio, Dublin Cobble

Belgard paver patio- Dublin Cobble

Working through the design alternatives they eventually settled on one that reduced the footprint of the old deck on one side and increased the footprint on the other with the paver patio.  A double gate was incorporated so that the family pet could enjoy the outside, and yet be constrained. The wider opening facilitates moving furniture from deck to patio. We removed the old deck and then put the patio in so that everything would work together.  The pavers the owners selected were Belgard, Dublin Cobble, in the Harvest Blend color.  This choice worked nicely with the gray/brown house color.  Someday, they may want to create a larger patio surface and incorporate a gas fire pit, so we made sure that the current design would allow for that and we extended the gas line so that an easy connection could be made, if and when the time came.  The gas line to the grill area was also extended so that the grill could be fueled by natural gas, rather than propane. We then started construction on the deck, with all new posts and footings.  Because we were using composite decking (Azek PVC-Harvest Collection- Slate Gray), we placed the joists at 12″ on center and utilized hidden fasteners.

AZEK Deck, AZEK rail, AZEK gate, parting board, diagonal decking, hidden fasteners

AZEK decking, rail and double gate

The railing was also composite (Azek-Premier-Slate Gray).  The new Azek gate system which provides for a gate that matches well and is very robust, without the need for bracing and cross ties, was utilized A running change during construction replaced the railing surrounding the window well with a fiberglass grating. This provided the necessary safety feature without compromising the view from the family room window. The tradeoff meant slightly less light reaching the basement windows, but also less accumulation of leaves and debris. The homeowners were very pleased with the results and said “we don’t know why we didn’t do this sooner, it’s so elegant.  We love being able see our back yard from the family room window.  What a difference.” As is evident by the first snow on the ground, this job was started late in the season, but it turned out well and the homeowners will be able to dream about using it this spring, and enjoy the view all winter. Combining traditional deck design with a hardscape is a great look, and adds another dimension to outdoor living enjoyment.

Baron Biedenweg - Archadeck of Fort Wayne and NE Indiana

Baron Biedenweg - Archadeck of Fort Wayne and NE Indiana

For a free consultation, call us at 260/969-8663, or email neindiana@archadeck.net, or visit our website fort-wayne.archadeck.com

Posted in AZEK, Decks, Patios, Paver patios | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , | Leave a comment

This Aboite Township home gets a whole new backyard courtesy of Archadeck of Fort Wayne

Posted on November 21, 2011 by
Custom patio and gas fire pit in Aboite township

Custom patio and gas fire pit in Aboite township by Archadeck of Fort n which also included a deck expansion and revitalization.

The owners of this Aboite Township home had a tired deck that was in need of an upgrade. The railings were failing, the layout did not flow well, the lattice was requiring constant maintenance, and there was a lawn space in between the entertainment deck and the spa deck that was in need of something better and far fresher.

This image shows the concept Archadeck of Fort Wayne came up with after careful design and deliberation.

This image shows the concept Archadeck of Fort Wayne came up with after careful design and deliberation.

We worked through several possible solutions with the homeowners and they decided to expand the existing deck slightly, replace railing, add a stair, relocate a stair, and to replace the lattice skirt. Additionally, a ground level patio, natural gas fire pit and improved lighting were incorporated to expand and enhance their outdoor living space.

before we broke ground to start this project in Aboite township

Before we broke ground to start this project in Aboite township

We utilized AZEK Premier composite railing to minimize future maintenance requirements. We also replaced the lattice skirting with Permalatt PVC lattice for the same reason. LED lighting was incorporated into the rail posts, the stair risers and the patio seating to improve night-time safety and to add ambiance.

during retaining wall and patio construction in Aboite township

This photo was taken during retaining wall and patio construction in Aboite township.

The patio was constructed from Belgard Dublin Cobble, with a short retaining wall, which also doubles as a bench seat surrounding a natural gas fire pit. We also constructed a bench seat with back opposite the retaining wall for an accent, as well as additional seating.

The results were outstanding and when the deck is refinished in the spring, the homeowners will have an outdoor retreat they can truly be proud of, with many levels and facets. They exclaimed as we were wrapping up that is was like “having a whole new back yard”.

Fire pit and patios by Archadeck of Fort Wayne

Fire pit and patio by Archadeck of Fort Wayne

With the warranties that Archadeck, Belgard and AZEK provide, they can be assured that their outdoor experience will be a good one, for a long time to come.

Ft. Wayne Archadeck Baron BiedenwegTo learn more about improving the way your backyard looks and functions, contact Archadeck of Fort Wayne today, to create an outdoor oasis all your own.

Baron R. Biedenweg 260/969-8663 bbiedenweg@archadeck.net www.northeastern-indiana.archadeck.com

Posted in Archadeck of Fort Wayne Northeastern Indiana, AZEK, AZEK, Belgard hardscapes, Belgard pavers, Composite wood building materials, deck addition, Decks, Low maintenance building materials, Outdoor fire pits, Patios, Paver patios, Spa deck | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , | Leave a comment

These Aboite Township homeowners get a deck worthy of praise thanks to Archadeck of Fort Wayne and NE Indiana

Posted on October 3, 2011 by
Fort_Wayne_decks_builder

Low maintenance, structural security and stunning beauty encompass this deck upgrade in Aboite Township by Archadeck of Fort Worth

The owners of this Aboite Township, Fort Wayne home just had their decks resurfaced and renewed about a year ago. However the wood that was used did not hold a finish well and had required constant maintenance and still looked bad, and thus, they had not enjoyed the deck nearly as much as they would have like to. Additionally, the rail system had already started to fail. The deck structure itself was sound, so other than adding some reinforcements and rail posts that were better secured, we were able to salvage the structure.

Deck_designer_Fort_Wayne

Archadeck of Fort Wayne, TimberTech and Azek make a winning combination for these Aboite Township homeowners.

As the homeowner did not want a repeat to this maintenance problem and wanted a deep color with black accenting that was low maintenance, we proposed replacing the wood deck with TimberTech Earthwood Evolutions in the rich “Pacific Walnut” color  and the rails with Azek Premier railing in Black. Additionally the proposal included replacing the existing 110V  rope lighting with 12V LED post, riser and accent lights. The only thing the homeowners liked about their current deck were the 3/4″ square aluminum rail balusters, so we included their reuse in the new project.

deck_builder_fort_wayne

Beauty, safety and functionality are abound in this deck by Archadeck of Fort Wayne

The job ran smoothly, except for a couple of rainy days, and the final results were stunning. The homeowners were very pleased and complimented our efforts. They will look forward to many more years of low maintenance entertaining and enjoyment, while knowing that their decks are safer and more stable than they were, after our involvement.

TimerTech as well as AZEK are great products, backed by great warranties- Archadeck brings the design and construction. Combined, they make for a great combination and value for the homeowner. Contact Archadeck of Fort Wayne and  NE Indiana and see what we can do for you. (260) 969 – 8663
neindiana@archadeck.net

Baron Biedenweg - Archadeck of Fort Wayne and NE Indiana

Baron Biedenweg - Archadeck of Fort Wayne and NE Indiana

Posted in Archadeck of Fort Wayne Northeastern Indiana, AZEK, AZEK, Composite wood building materials, Decks, Low maintenance building materials, re-decking, TimberTech, TimberTech, TimberTech decks | Tagged , , , , , | Leave a comment

Incorporating your MasterSpa Swim Spa into your Fort Wayne deck

Posted on September 26, 2011 by

These homeowners in a Fort Wayne golf course community purchased a MasterSpa Michael Phelps Signature Swim Spa and needed a new deck to accommodate it.

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We worked on several different layouts and reviewed material choices to arrive at a deck design that satisfied the needs and wants of the homeowner.  They wanted the tub recessed into the deck so that it would not obstruct the view of the golf course from the windows, they wanted a place for the grill, they wanted room to move around the perimeter of the tub and they wanted a bench to be able to sit and dry off.

We worked with MasterSpa to coordinate the delivery and to accommodate their requirements for a successful installation.

The first part of the construction was a spa support deck. When filled with water, this deck will need to support 10,000 pounds. Thus the structure was designed for 110 pounds per square foot.

We then built the main deck structure around the spa. Pressure treated wood was the deck material choice and Westbury Riviera C33 Rail complimented the look they were trying to achieve.

Since we were extending the deck, we suggested that we extend the exterior faucet piping to the edge of the deck and the homeowners appreciated that suggestion.

No skirting was specified as there is a need for access to the tub, and while not shown, large ornamental grasses were cut back to facilitate construction, and they will grow back next spring to cover the underside of the new deck.

This is a very nice project that the homeowners are very happy with.

Call us to discuss building a new deck, porch, sunroom or patio for your home. Or visit our Archadeck of Fort Wayne website.

Posted in Spa deck | Tagged | 1 Comment

These Northeastern Indiana homeowners get a deck with safety, comfort and convenience in mind.

Posted on August 1, 2011 by
Fort_Wayne_AZEK_brownstone_deck_with_white_railing

A perfect spot to enjoy the lake views for these homeowners in Northeastern Indiana

The owners of this new Northeastern Indiana lake house wanted to complete the deck area outside of the patio door they had installed. As you can tell by the house that they had built, they have discriminating taste and wanted their deck to be just right.

Fort_Wayne_AZEK_deck_in_Brownstone_color

This photo shows one of the design renderings prepared for these homeowners

Fort_Wayne_house_before_new_deck

Northeast Indian home before the deck was added

We developed several 3D renderings and concepts of different decks and paver patios until they found the one that would fit all their needs and wants.
The result is a deck that will allow them to sit and watch the lake from the deck as well as have a place for the grill, with the safety, comfort, convenience and style that they desired.

Fort_Wayne_AZEK_deck_with_siding_style_skirting

This deck addition by Archadeck of Fort Wayne and Northeast Indiana shows that the difference is in the details

The deck was constructed on a framing system that featured 12″ on center joists, supported by 6×6 posts that were footers below frost line. AZEK harvest collection in “Brownstone” was the homeowners choice for the decking and AZEK white premier railing. The handrail and post caps were finished in the “brownstone” color as well. The skirting is AZEK trim boards in white.

The owners are very pleased with their new deck, as well as their experience with Archadeck of Northeast Indiana.

Ft. Wayne Archadeck Baron BiedenwegContact Archadeck of Fort Wayne and Northeast Indiana to find out more about how much enjoyment adding a deck to your home can bring you. We can plan, design and build a deck to fit any lifestyle. Call us at (260) 969 – 8663 or you may email us at neindiana@archadeck.net

You can also see photos of some of our other beautiful decks at http://fort-wayne.archadeck.com/pickYourProject/Decks.html

Posted in Archadeck of Fort Wayne Northeastern Indiana, AZEK, AZEK, Composite wood building materials, deck addition, Decks, Lakehouse decks IN, Low maintenance building materials | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , | Leave a comment

This Re-deck for a golf course home by Archadeck of Fort Wayne makes everything new again

Posted on July 25, 2011 by

Sometimes your existing deck can be re-decked. Read about this golf course re-decking.

Fort wayne deck overlooking gold course

Re-decking breathed new life into this deck by Archadeck of Fort Wayne which overlooks the golf course

The owners of this golf course community house had a problem, the deck that was built with the house had composite decking that was sagging in-between the joists and the grill occupied so much of the deck space that they felt the deck was too small. The cedar rail required almost annual maintenance and the deck developed “spots” every year. However, the house and deck were only 7 years old, and it would seem to be wasteful to tear the deck down and start over.

We proposed the following solution:

1) Remove the old composite decking and discard it. It was a “big box store” type of inexpensive composite that was subject to the “get what you pay for” syndrome.

2) Add additional joists so that the joist spacing would be 12″ on center or less. This is recommended for most composites when the decking is laid diagonal to the joists.

3) Eliminate the landing at the top of the stairs and make that area on the same level as the main deck.

4) Make the deck 2.5′ larger at the landing to provide space for the grill to set, out of the main deck.

5) Replace the decking with AZEK cellular PVC decking. The homeowners chose the “Morado” color in the AZEK Arbor Collection, lending a natural wood grain effect to the deck.

6) Replace the rail with AZEK Premier railing, in the “Clay” color to compliment their house.

7) Utilize “Deckorators” 3/4″ round aluminum rail balusters to maximize the view of the golf course. The homeowners chose the “clay” color for these as well, also to compliment the house.

8) Add LED lighting to the stair treads and posts to enhance safety and night time enjoyment.

Fort_Wayne_NE_Indiana_golf_course_deck_design_rendering

This 3-D design rendering was prepared for the homeowners to demonstrate the concepts and colors in unison for the re-decking

We developed 3-D renderings which demonstrated the concepts and colors, so that the owners could confirm their decisions. The result was a beautiful project that seems so much larger, but yet on a nearly identical footprint as the old deck. These homeowners put a lot of thought into the material and color choices, and it was well worth their effort.

Indiana_deck_overlooking_golf_course

The re-decking allows unobstructed views of the golf course and compliments the homes color palette as well

This AZEK deck and rail, along with the proper support structure Archadeck of Fort Wayne provided, should last a long time and will require only minimal maintenance to keep it looking like new.

Ft. Wayne Archadeck Baron BiedenwegIf you are considering a re-deck, deck update or new deck contact Archadeck of Fort Wayne to learn more. (260) 969 – 8663
neindiana@archadeck.net

To see more stunning photos of re-deckings and new decks by Archadeck of Fort Wayne visit our photo galleries at  http://fort-wayne.archadeck.com/pickYourProject/Decks.html

Posted in Archadeck of Fort Wayne Northeastern Indiana, AZEK, AZEK, Composite wood building materials, Decks for gold course homes, Low maintenance building materials, re-decking | Tagged , , , , , , , , , | Leave a comment