This Montgomery Village redecking project provides more room for family, free time and fun!

Montgomery Village redeckingHave you been told by another builder that the ideal you have in your mind to upgrade your existing outdoor space isn’t possible? Maybe you have been told in order to make improvements to your deck, porch or even patio, you would be better off just tearing it down and starting anew. This was exactly what these Montgomery Village homeowners were told by multiple builders when they looked into redecking and improving their existing backyard deck. That changed once they consulted with Archadeck of Central MD…

When we initially met with the homeowners they told us that in their quest to improve their existing deck they had been told by several builders that due to the age of their deck, which was nearly 20 years old, in order to accommodate their needs and desires the deck would have to be completely torn down. As you can imagine, demolition and starting from scratch can not only interrupt your lifestyle for an extended period of time, it can also mean additional costs to the homeowner. Through our experience we realize that in many cases things aren’t always as they seem and even though a structure has some age doesn’t eliminate it as a redecking candidate. The key is to inspect the structure thoroughly to determine if it is structurally sound enough to facilitate the upgrades in mind. In the case of this Montgomery Village deck, it had aged gracefully and was deemed structurally sound enough to proceed with the project.

Plenty of space for outdoor dining

 

Montgomery Village redecking

The two main reasons the homeowner’s wanted to redeck their existing space was #1 to upgrade to a low maintenance material which would stay beautiful without the worry of constant cleaning and sealing and #2 to have their outdoor living space better accommodate spending time outdoors with their family.

Design rendering for Montgomery Village Redecking Project

Design rendering for Montgomery Village redecking.

Design rendering for Montgomery Village R\redecking project

2nd design rendering for Montgomery Village Redecking Project

As you can see from the design renderings we prepared for these Montgomery County homeowners, and the stunning images, this project promises to fulfill all their needs and desires. In addition to redecking the entire structure with low maintenance Fiberon Pro Tect decking in Western Cedar, we also accented the deck with a border of Fiberon Pro Tect decking in  Chestnut to add style and define the space.  This decking is capped on three sides with a protective PermaTech surface, making it highly durable and carries a 25-year limited warranty against staining and fading.

Plenty of space for outdoor dining

Archadeck of Central MD also faced the planter boxes with the same decking material in order to blend and unify them with the new look of the deck. We also enhanced the convenience of keeping the plants and flowers the homeowners use within the planter boxes by installing a hose extension to the existing hose bib near the deck directly within the planter boxes for easy access. In the coming weeks ahead, we will also be adding a paver patio complete with a fire pit purchased by the homeowner just off the deck to increase the outdoor enjoyment even further!

This project serves as a good example of our expertise and knowledge of the business, which speaks volumes about the way we do business. It’s one thing to say “we build beautiful decks or we can build what you want”, but it’s quite another when a company can show you a portfolio of their work as Archadeck of Central MD can.  If you’re meeting with multiple contractors to consult on your desired project be aware that not all builders will have the same opinion of what is possible or the experience or expertise to complete your project properly. Rest assured, we listen to your needs, desires and inspect the proposed structure you wish to upgrade thoroughly to explore all viable options available to you in order to bring your outdoor vision to life.

John Barrett Archadeck of MarylandIf you are considering updated an existing space, or staring an outdoor living space from scratch, contact Archadeck of Central Maryland today to learn more about our unforgettable designs and quality craftsmanship. Call us at (301) 926-3001 or email us at centralmaryland@archadeck.net. Our consultations is free but the results can be priceless!

 

 

Potomac, MD, outdoor space adds modern flair and serious outdoor entertainment value

Potomac MD urban oasis

Our recent project in Potomac, MD, is an urban oasis!

Archadeck of Central MD is proud of the project we recently completed for our clients in Potomac, MD. They challenged us to create a custom outdoor living oasis to serve a multitude of functions. The homeowners wanted a back deck to have an open area, but also a screened in one as well, to have a protected space when the weather wasn’t cooperative with their outdoor plans. Another important aspect to the project was that the house is contemporary in style, so the new deck had to have a sleek appearance to look as if it was original to the home and not an appendage. After analyzing the three-level property, we knew that we could pull off an amazing 3-tier outdoor entertaining deck addition that would step down to the family’s pool and beautifully landscaped yard in a truly elegant way.

Potomac MD proposed design

Potomac, MD, proposed design shown to clients through rendering.

We wanted to take advantage of the steep drop in the property by connecting all the levels with a series of stairs that would easily flow down to the yard, give a significant wow factor and really tie everything together. We started with the upper deck that promises stunning views and conversational seating for a quiet get together or even reading a good book.  Aluminum railing by Nexan with glass panels allows the view of the grounds below to remain uninterrupted and would capture that modern feel the homeowners were after. Everything is structurally supported by two engineered beams that are cleverly clad in PVC so they can’t be seen and blend into the configuration seamlessly and require little to no maintenance. Then just a few steps down showcases a sun deck that is perfect for relaxing on the lounge chairs with a margarita in the sunshine.

Potomac MD deck builders

Another curving flight of stairs reveals a patio where friends and family can enjoy cooking at the grill, dining or hanging out on the comfortable chairs just above the pool. We added custom overflow bench seating would help bring additional seating to the space without disrupting the traffic flow.  Thanks to the ingenious use of the Trex Rain Escape system paired with hidden gutters, we were able to give the customers a roomy screened in porch under the main two-story deck.  The family can still enjoy al’fresco fun if it rains or even retreat from bothersome insects if they start biting. It’s not a bad spot for an afternoon snooze in the outdoors either!

Potomac MD sun decks

 

We were truly fixated on the details of this project, and the deck was entirely built using Trex Select decking in hues of gray to match the home exactly—even the PVC that covers the 1×6 posts was meticulously color matched. The deck is also picture-framed in a darker tone border to define it and add heaps of visual interest, too. I’m so proud to say that the design team and our builders pulled off some serious magic with this one; and these Potomac, MD homeowners are delighted with the results which is steeped in high-end urban flair and is entirely low maintenance thanks to the use of high quality materials.

Potomac MD screened porch builder

The deck not only adds value to the home, but it enhances the way our customers live outdoors. They can take advantage of all the benefits that the fresh air and sunshine provide, and spend quality time with their friends and family entertaining in style with little fuss in their new backyard oasis.

Potomac MD screened porch builder

Archadeck of Centrail Maryland would be happy to chat with you about your backyard project and how we can help you create the deck of your dreams. Call us at (301) 926-3001 or email us at centralmaryland@archadeck.net. Our consultations is free but the results can be priceless!

John Barrett Archadeck of MarylandYou can view more stunning images of this project, and many others by visiting our project galleries on Houzz!

 

The design consultation that spanned halfway around the world!

Hyattsville, MD, outdoor living space builder

Our most recent project in Hyattsville, MD.

In my line of business I get the opportunity to meet many wonderful homeowners. Some of my fondest memories have been made in working with customers toward reaching their goal of outdoor living happiness. Every client is unique in their own way as are their outdoor living needs. One of our most recent projects, located in Hyattsville, MD,   we transformed an entire outdoor living area. This fascinating story began when the homeowners contacted us to improve their existing outdoor space. Their goal was to improve the beauty, versatility and functionality. Their existing space included a hot tub simply placed on a concrete slab patio. Although they thoroughly enjoyed using their hot tub, the space and its surroundings lacked any additional functional area and quite frankly was rather bland and lacked aesthetics worthy of their lovely home and property.

Hyattsville, MD, under deck systems

After our initial on site assessment and in-depth conversation with the homeowners to get a better understanding of their wants, needs and budget, we began some preliminary drawings for their anticipated remodel. In these  renderings we were able to give this couple a look at our suggested design layout. The new proposed design would transform the entire outdoor living area into a space that not only integrated their hot tub, but allowed them a stunning vantage point of their beautifully wooded lot.

It was at this point, just prior to their scheduled final consultation to review and approve the new design plan, that the husband was deployed to an undisclosed station in Afghanistan. Wanting to move forward, so the space would be completed by the time he would return, we worked out a way using the marvel of modern technology so both he and his wife to be able to view our design presentation via the internet…just as if he was in the room with us! I must confess that this was a first for us, an Archadeck design consultation via half way round the world! As always, it is a  pleasure for Archadeck of Central MD to work to accommodate those who serve in our military!

Hyattsville, MD, Timbertech Deck Builder

The new outdoor living space accentuates the homeowners’ beautiful wooded lot perfectly!

 

Having seen and fallen in love with contrasting decking material colors in a photo of a TimberTech deck the homeowners made this their primary material request — so that is exactly what we did. The main part of the deck was built using TimberTech Earthwood Evolution Legacy in Tigerwood and the picture framing border was built-in TimberTech Legacy in Mocha. The contrast gives the deck a truly custom look and  exotic feel too. We also used white posts alongside a dark-toned rail, which helped picture-frame the backyard view.

Hyattsville, MD, underdeck outdoor livingWith this beautiful raised deck, the opportunity to double their outdoor living space was irresistible so we installed a Trex Rain Escape deck drainage system with hidden guttering and a hidden water collection system in order to deliver a completely “finished” under deck space where they could enjoy their beloved spa with the added enhancement of a walkout patio. The patio was built using Belgard Holland Stone pavers in Fossil Beige. To further finish the under deck area we installed low-maintenance 1×6 tongue and groove PVC in order to give the space a charming “porch” feel.

The ultimate finished outdoor living area we created for this wonderful military couple who both are actively serving our country, included quite a unique barbecue area with a descending stair access to their new hot tub pad. As you can see in the pictures this stunning new multipurpose design exceeded their desires and needs. This completed project exudes the pleasure and honor we feel in being asked to bring these homeowners’ outdoor living dreams to life!

Hyattsville, MD, patio and deck builders

John Barrett Archadeck of MarylandOur commitment to excellence in outdoor structure design and building is unmatched, ensuring your unique project will bring enjoyment and pride for many years to come! We invite you to see for yourself, how we make outdoor living environment dreams a reality. Contact Archadeck of Central Maryland to learn more by calling (301) 926 – 3001 or via email at centralmaryland@archadeck.net.

Gravity…awesome to experience on a roller coaster or slide…not so great on you deck!

Roller coasterKnowing that gravity is an unfailing force is comforting, usually. It makes anything not firmly planted beneath the earth’s surface or properly attached to a stable structure eventually tumble to the ground. This thought doesn’t pop into your head until the moment you step onto something that wobbles or moves, even one that does it ever so slightly…such as walking across a swinging bridge in the mountains or while boarding a plane or ship…all of which you know to expect some movement. You should absolutely never experience this is when stepping out onto your deck; the most beloved spot for entertaining and relaxing. A well maintained, routinely inspected deck is one that gives you peace of mind each and every time you step on to it.

Logo - Deck SafetyMay, in the building industry is recognized as National Deck Safety Month and even though Archadeck of Central Maryland and Montgomery County helps to increase deck safety awareness during May, we feel deck maintenance should actually be conducted year-round to ensure safety. With a large portion of the approximately 40 million decks over 20 years old in the US, not being properly maintained or routinely inspected, it isn’t surprising that in a six-year period there were an estimated 179 deck failures resulting in 1,122 injuries and 33 deaths. What is startling, however, is the fact that according to NADRA, The North American Deck and Railing Association, deck failures that result in injury are increasing at an alarming rate and are mostly due to non-maintained, aged decks or just shoddy workmanship of a cut-rate builder.

Maryland_Bethesda_Baltimore_Best_Deck_Builder_Contractor_Outdoor_Living_SpecialistIf a deck is built by a reputable experienced builder, it will be built correctly meeting or exceeding building codes, and give you peace of mind in knowing your deck is safe and structurally sound from the ground up. A well-built deck that is both structurally sound and safe also includes the following components: ledger boards that are either bolted or screwed securely to side of the house; support posts that are mounted to concrete footers; diagonal and/or lateral post braces, proper railing and stairs as well as connectors and fasteners (such as galvanized or stainless steel bolts, screws, nails and joist and post connectors) specially designed for deck construction.

Just as it is with yours or your loved ones’ health (keeping an eye out for potential symptoms or health issues), when it comes to your deck’s safety, YOU are its first line of defense as well. And, since each of your family member’s health is directly affected by the safety of the things you use, you are killing two birds with one stone, so to speak. It’s as simple as doing a visual inspection of the deck each time you use it or are outside near it. If you see any rotten, cracked or damaged wood, or any loose, missing or corroded metal bracing or parts, it is recommended to have a structural engineer or an established, well-respected contractor evaluate your deck before its next use.

hassle-free no textDeck safety is a top priority and we want to ensure you or a member of your family doesn’t become a casualty as a result of an unsafe deck. Archadeck of Central Maryland and Montgomery County offers a thorough, certified deck safety inspection for a modest fee. You’ll receive a detailed checklist that highlights any necessary or suggested repairs or maybe your deck is good for a couple more years; we’ll let you know that too. Here are just a few of the critical areas our deck safety inspection covers: foundation and footings, the attachment to your home, decking boards, connections and fasteners, the posts, beams and joists (if visible) of the structure, any sagging between supports, as well as stairs and rails.

While we’re there to perform the inspection and upon your request 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 is best suited for your outdoor living needs.

composite_deck_with_Pergola_in_Maryland

John Barrett Archadeck of MarylandIf you feel it’s time for your deck to be inspected for safety or are considering a new deck, or re-deck in the future, Archadeck of Central Maryland is the right choice for you. Our professional and talented staff members are experts at producing beautiful, quality outdoor living structures which are well designed and structurally sound. Contact us to learn more or to schedule your deck inspection or new project consultation today at (301) 926 – 3001 or email at centralmaryland@archadeck.net or montgomeryco@archadeck.net.

When considering options for your Central MD deck, do you bamboo?

BambooUsed to create everyday objects for over 4000 years, bamboo’s long life makes it a Chinese symbol of longevity. Although most people think of it as a hardwood, it is actually a natural grass. A highly stable material, it is stronger and more durable than nearly all wood. All of these desirable attributes combined with its amazing longevity quite simply make it an ideal building material for outdoor living spaces, such as decks and patios, with a luxurious and exotic flare.

Highly sustainable, bamboo is one of the fastest growing plants on the planet and can be harvested approximately every four to six years. Even though it is considered to be a very invasive species, a strong, dense and difficult to control plant with the ability to take over an entire lot (acreage) over time from just one sapling, it is environmentally friendly. It doesn’t require pesticides or other harmful chemicals for protection, it captures carbon effectively and doesn’t endanger hardwood forests like other natural materials (pine, hardwoods, etc.)

Tranquil bamboo deck alongside a Zen inspired water feature. Photo courtesy Dasso XTR.

Tranquil bamboo deck alongside a Zen inspired water feature. Photo courtesy Dasso XTR.

Over time, it’s inevitable for weather, sun and moisture to cause wooden boards to warp and twist. Wood will swell as it absorbs water and then shrink as it dries out again. Some types of boards are less likely to be seriously affected by the changes and some are drastically affected. Bamboo has a natural resistance to these elements and in comparison, will not swell or contract with moisture in the air. With its hard exterior and cellular interior, it is both flexible and elastic, making it very resilient without breaking. Bamboo does not have rays or knots the way wood does, so when stress is applied, it is evenly distributed over the surface.

Bamboo deck builder

Knowing all these benefits of bamboo, it’s easy to see why bamboo decking has become so popular in recent years. Versatile in terms of color, bamboo can coordinate with almost any exterior décor of your home, as it can be stained in a wide range of hues from light natural to dark chocolate tones, allowing you to create just the right aesthetic for your particular project. As for maintenance to keep its exotic appeal, it requires no more work than you would need to do for a hardwood deck and the actual maintenance is very similar.

Bamboo decking

This rooftop deck is built using bamboo decking.

Our most current deck project is under construction. We are using bamboo furnished through Dasso XTR bamboo decking. Dasso is the global leader in the development and production of innovative bamboo products and is manufactured with strand woven technology, a patented process that fuses carbonized bamboo to make it suitable for exterior use. These homeowners can rest easy knowing their deck will stand up to whatever Mother Nature throws at it. Be sure to check back with us to see the progress and the final reveal of this stunning outdoor living structure.

Archadeck of Central Maryland is a leader in outdoor design & construction in Montgomery County, Howard County, and the surrounding area. We strive to continue to offer our clients the most current design and most dependable building material options in the industry. Our professional and talented staff are experts at helping homeowners, like you, get the most out of every season. Contact us today to learn more at (301) 926 – 3001 or email at centralmaryland@archadeck.net or montgomeryco@archadeck.net.

John Barrett Archadeck of Maryland

 

How soon do you want to begin enjoying your new Central MD outdoor living space?

Screened Porch with Massaranduba DeckWhen you first begin planning your outdoor living space, you consider so many elements: the type of structure or combination of structures you desire, function, location and the preferred materials you wish to use. All of these are  important factors, but one of the biggest is often overlooked…how soon do you want to begin enjoying your outdoor living space addition? During our initial conversations with homeowners, they often ask us when is the best time to get their outdoor living space project underway. In all honesty, the best time to have your custom designed outdoor living area built, is right now, no matter what time of year “right now” may be.

There are construction benefits for every season, but here are just a few of the reasons you should get your project started now:

Wouldn’t it be nice to enjoy your outdorr space now rather than later?

Wouldn’t it be nice to enjoy your outdorr space now rather than later?

  • Shorter wait times – Summer is our busiest time of the year, and spring has just sprung, now is the perfect time to build! Obtaining required permits and HOA approvals will take less time as well. Making the decision to build now will ensure you enjoyment all the benefits of your new structure sooner and in plenty of time for warm weather. Wouldn’t it be nice to have a spacious deck or fabulous new outdoor room addition to take advantage of sooner rather than later?
  • More time to properly seal your wood structure – A structure built from wood needs to cure for a period of time before the sealer will properly adhere to the wood and promote beneficial protection qualities. By choosing to build during the least humid time of year, your wooden structure will have ample time to cure in preparation to accept the sealer you choose.
  • Greater valueGreater value for your budget dollar – Once your structure is complete, you’ll want to furnish and decorate it to your liking. The outdoor living season is just beginning with a bounty of deals on outdoor living accoutrements. These savings will allow you to splurge a little on some of the higher end must have items like outdoor sound systems, a flat screen TV for your porch and much more!

The versatility of a new outdoor living area is exhilarating! We can honestly say, upon the completion of a new outdoor living space we have never had a homeowner say, “I wish we had waited.” On the other hand, we almost always hear, “Why didn’t we do this sooner?!

John Barrett Archadeck of MarylandNow, with all these benefits in mind, what are you waiting for? Archadeck of Central Maryland can custom design and build your structure in time to take advantage of the full glory of the outdoor living season. Don’t wait any longer! Our professional and talented staff are experts at helping homeowners, like you, get the most out of every season. Contact us today to learn more at (301) 926 – 3001 or email at centralmaryland@archadeck.net or montgomeryco@archadeck.net.

 

Choosing the decking material that’s best for your outdoor living space is easy with Archadeck of Central MD!

AZEK deck by Archadeck of Maryland

This AZEK deck is accented with a TimberTech Radiance Rail.

You’ve chosen the placement, the type of structure and the size of your new outdoor living space, so now it’s time to select which material to use for its construction. For today’s forward thinking homeowner, synthetic decking, the low maintenance green building material, is consistently a top choice. Contrary to popular belief, not all synthetic decking is the same. In fact, synthetic decking is broken down into three categories based upon its anatomy: composite decking, solid PVC and capstock decking, with manufacturers including TimberTech, Fiberon, AZEK and Trex. Although all three categories possess certain similarities, they also have distinct differences as shown in the detail of each below.

  • Composite decking
Composite deck by Archadeck

This deck by Archadeck shows the beauty that can be yours with a composite deck.

Traditional wood/plastic composite materials are available through many of the top brands we carry, such as TimberTech, Fiberon and Trex. Traditional composites consist of a combination of wood fiber and resin. This pairing of wood and plastic provides an impressive durability (the likes of which wood has never been able to provide), an uncanny resistance to splintering and rotting, never requires staining or painting and is extremely economical. The downside is the potential for discoloring; due to the presence of wood in its formula, wine, oil and grease can stain the deck because of the porous nature of the wood fibers. These high-quality composite decking materials are covered by warranties that exceed those of any wooden deck on the market.

  • Solid PVC decking

Solid PVC decking, such as AZEK, is impervious and offers superior stain, insect, mold/mildew, scratch, fade, and split resistance. Grease, oil, wine or fruit punch will not discolor this decking material and there’s never a worry regarding patio furniture or pet scratches with solid PVC. Disadvantages for this category include a potential for expansion in the heat due to the elasticity of plastic, a lack of a more authentic wood texture and with all of its high-tech resistance, comes with a higher price tag.

AZEK decking in beautiful "Redland Rose".

AZEK decking in beautiful “Redland Rose”.

  • Capstock decking
Fiberon-Horizon

Fiberon capstock decking.

One of the newest synthetics is a composite wrapped in PVC or other high performance shell, often referred to as capstock decking. The advantages of this combination include reducing the amount of maintenance required by the homeowner, and more specifically a decrease in the amount of cleaning required to keep the deck looking new. Capped composites, or capstock manufacturers include Trex, Fiberon and TimberTech. Capstock decking offers the best of both worlds through superior stain, fade, scratch, and insect resistance while still giving you the beauty of real wood with moderate pricing.  In addition, capstock offers warraties against fading and staining.

When comparing quality and performance of the manufacturers of synthetic decking materials, Archadeck of Central MD offers a diverse lineup of low-maintenance, high-performance wood alternative products which can handle the outdoors without depleting them. The long list of advantages of each brand far outweights any disadvantages, (as if there are any!) and include: high resistance to elements, impervious to mold, mildew and insects, wide spectrum of beautiful colors and grain patterns and affordability.

John Barrett Archadeck of MarylandNo matter if you are selecting the building material to re-deck your existing structure or for your new deck, you want one packed with versatility and beauty and choosing it shouldn’t be a hassle. Archadeck of Central Maryland is a trusted and respected industry leader. We have the experience to consult effectively with our customers on manufacturer and material selections. We can help you review and choose the right material to suit your needs, your lifestyle and your budget. Contact us today to learn more about synthetic and other outdoor living material options. Call or email for a free consultation: (301) 926 – 3001 or central-maryland.archadeck.com.

Are the winds of change taking over your outdoor living space expectations?

Winds of Change

Are the winds of change taking over your outdoor living space expectations?

As we change, so do our wants and needs. For instance, in the 90s when searching for homes, most buyers just “had to have” a master bath that included a garden tub and a separate enclosed shower. Today we often see those same homeowners upgrading to the larger all glass, enclosed walk-in shower mostly because they offer easier accessibility for everyone. Archadeck of Central Maryland and Montgomery County, over the years, has seen the same sort of thing happen with many homeowners’ outdoor living space needs. Similarly, where a large open deck previously served your entertaining needs well for the kids’ birthday parties when they were younger or a backyard barbecue, now your outdoor living needs may be different. Perhaps your children are all grown up and out on their own or maybe you no longer need an open space, but prefer a covered space which provides protection from the elements and insects. With these changing needs in mind, converting your deck into a screened porch, or even your existing screened porch into an outdoor room (such as a 4-season room, or sunroom)  may be the perfect solution and we can help.

  • Screened Porch with Massaranduba DeckDeck-to-screened porch conversion: Your spacious deck provides an area for outdoor dining, relaxation and entertaining, so choosing to convert that deck into a screened porch simply upgrades that area for the same activities, but without the hassle of pesky insects or the dangers associated with the sun. As an added benefit, during times of inclement weather, a screened porch allows you to continue the fun on your protected porch. Just think about the last time a sudden spring shower dampened your outdoor event on your deck, ultimately driving you all back into the house just in time for the rain to stop. Now imagine that same event continuing while that quick shower comes and goes, without your outdoor party missing a beat because your outdoor living space is now covered and protected!
  • Three season room with cedar ceiling and slate floor

    Three season room with cedar ceiling and slate floor.

    Screened porch-to-sunroom conversion: Your existing screened porch protects your outdoor events, but if you completely enclose that same space with glass windows and add a heating and/or air conditioning source, you will extend the livable area of your home as well as have an excellent space for entertaining.  When you get down to the logistics of it, a sunroom, or interior room addition is like having a screened porch with walls and windows which can be used year-round after all!

Just as we have done for many other homeowners in the Howard and Montgomery county areas, Archadeck of Central Maryland and Montgomery County can custom design and construct the conversion of your existing outdoor living space. We have extensive experience transforming decks-to-screened porches, creating an outdoor living area which allows you to enjoy the fresh air and wonderful view of your beautiful backyard while being shielded from the elements. Additionally, we specialize in screened porch-to-sunroom conversions, producing outdoor room additions which blend seamlessly with your home and landscape to meet or exceed your outdoor living needs.

Rockville MD custom upscale screened porch builder

Vaulted ceilings and Velux skylights open up this gorgeous bright and airy screened porch in Rockville,MD.

Though deck-to-screened-porch conversion or screened porch-to-sunroom conversions may seem like difficult projects, in many cases they are not. Prior to beginning either of these projects, we begin with an evaluation of the structural components of your existing deck or screened porch. A good majority of these existing structures, if not built by Archadeck, may not have been constructed to support the weight of a roof. Other elements we inspect and take note of during the onsite evaluation include: the method in which the deck or screened porch was originally built and the type of foundation and joists the structure has. Full knowledge of these items are part of the criteria that must be met to ensure your existing deck or screened porch can support the added weight of a roof and the additional standards required in making the conversion. In most cases, conversions are possible, but it is crucial to hire an outdoor structure professional with extensive knowledge about decks and outdoor structures. Hiring a professional ensures the safety and success of your intended conversion.

Versatile screened porch and deck combination in Central MD.

Versatile screened porch and deck combination in Central MD.

As your outdoor structure professional, we highly recommend reinforcing any existing structure’s foundation when converting it to a roofed structure. We can retrofit most existing structures by installing new footers (as long as we can get underneath the structure to reinforce it), which reach all the way to the corners of the structure, to support the new weight of a roof.

If you are considering a conversion or upgrade for your existing outdoor living space, contact Archadeck of Central Maryland and Montgomery County today. We’ll not only inspect the structural soundness of your existing deck or screened porch and determine if it’s a candidate for an upgrade, we’ll also custom design and build your new converted structure to bring added function and beauty to your backyard and lifestyle. Call us for a free design consultation, or to schedule a deck inspection today at (301) 926 – 3001 or via email at centralmaryland@archadeck.net.

John Barrett Archadeck of Maryland

Explore the benefits of working with a experienced, upscale builder that builds year round!

Mahogany deck Bethesday Maryland

If you have been dreaming about that perfect outdoor living space for your backyard, but putting it off until the time was right…well the time is right, RIGHT NOW! Continue reading