Our most recent project in Blythewood’s Cobblestone Park explores a common issue many homeowners have – the builder-grade concrete patio. Here in the Columbia area, and all across the country, it is not uncommon to see newly-built homes equipped with minimal outdoor living space. We often receive requests to upgrade these tiny spaces.
Many builder-grade patios are just too small for multiple functions like entertaining, grilling and relaxing, and therefore they often go underutilized. As a solution, we can usually extend an existing patio or deck to add more functional living area. We can also add a cover to the patio for shade, protection and extended functionality. Whether it is a small walk-out concrete patio or a tiny deck, Archadeck receives numerous inquiries about improving builder-grade spaces.
Read our feature story When it Comes to Outdoor Living, Size Does Matter.
These Blythewood homeowners came to us looking for a larger outdoor living space that would also provide shade and protection. With an artful eye for design, Archadeck of Central South Carolina was able to come up with the perfect solution for the clients’ builder-grade woes.
Builder-Grade Concrete Patio Extension
First, Archadeck extended the concrete patio substantially in length and depth. This expansion provides additional square footage, which translates into more room for recreational activities. In addition, the larger patio also helps define the back yard and is better suited to the footprint of the existing home. The original small builder-grade patio did not balance well with the scale of the large two-story home.
Upgrade to Covered Patio/Porch Design
Once we completed the patio extension, we then added a nifty porch cover over the space. The cover extends nearly the entire back of the home, although we left a portion of the patio uncovered for open air activities at one end. The covered addition transformed the patio into a shaded and protected outdoor living space that is quite versatile! Archadeck of Central SC chose a shed roof design to complement the home’s existing roofline while not interfering with the second-story windows. The wooden posts supporting the shade cover have been stained a deep, warm wood tone for added appeal. We also installed gutters as part of the project.
Notice how we left a portion of the patio uncovered, an open-air space with versatility.
The interior of the covered patio/porch is easy on the eyes and will require little maintenance on the homeowners’ part. The interior ceiling is low-maintenance white aluminum. We added three ceiling fans to help cool the space on hot summer days. Archadeck also outfitted the porch with a TV mount so the homeowners can enjoy movies and sports outdoors.
Making the decision to upgrade an existing patio or deck can enhance your lifestyle and beautify your home. An outdoor living upgrade can add monetary value to your home, as well! These homeowners are elated with their new outdoor living space. They are looking forward to endless good times with family and friends as this project helped their house truly feel like home.
Read more in our feature story Upgrading Your Deck or Patio to a Covered or Screened Porch or Sunroom.
If you find yourself in the same situation as these Blythewood homeowners, give us a call! Archadeck of Central South Carolina can expand or convert your builder-grade patio or deck into a true outdoor living destination. You can contact us by phone at (803) 784-1566 or email us at centralsc@archadeck.net.
The Archadeck of Central SC team – Mike Reu, Marshall Reu and Tucker Reu.