Generated by All in One SEO v5.0.0.1, this is an llms.txt file, used by LLMs to index the site. # LT Decks A Custom Deck and Porch company serving the north metro Atlanta area since 1989. ## Sitemaps - [XML Sitemap](https://ltdecks.com/sitemap.xml): Contains all public & indexable URLs for this website. ## Posts - [Blog](https://ltdecks.com/blog/) - BLOG - [4 Popular Ways to Light Your Deck or Outdoor Living Area](https://ltdecks.com/4-popular-ways-to-light-your-deck-or-outdoor-living-area/) - With our busy schedules, more people want to be able to use their decks even after the sun goes down. Nighttime should not be a deterrent to relaxing or entertaining outdoors. With the right lighting, you can have the ambiance you want for any type of activity in your deck or outdoor living area at - [What Type of Base do I Need for My Hot Tub?](https://ltdecks.com/what-type-of-base-do-i-need-for-my-hot-tub/) - The following blog post was originally written and posted by Precision Pool Construction https://www.precisionpool.net/ and re-posted here with their permission. I found it to be very informative. I hope you do as well. One caveat, most modern residential decks in Georgia are built to support a 40 pound per square foot live load, not 100 - [Splurge on These Outdoor Items and Watch Your Happiness and Home’s Value Increase](https://ltdecks.com/splurge-on-these-outdoor-items-and-watch-your-happiness-and-homes-value-increase/) - Spending time outside is something that we all like to do during the summer months. While you may have a deck and a few chairs out there, imagine how much more you will want to use this space if you splurge on a couple extra items. The good news is that many of these splurges - [5 Budget-Friendly Fixes to Get Your Small Space Organized](https://ltdecks.com/5-budget-friendly-fixes-to-get-your-small-space-organized/) - Guest post by Julian Lane 5 Budget-Friendly Fixes to Get Your Small Space Organized Having an organized home can help you lead a happier life. That may sound a little crazy, but it is very true because studies have shown that a cluttered home can cause you to stress more. But staying organized can be - [How to Choose Stylish and Functional Furniture for Your Outdoor Living Spaces](https://ltdecks.com/how-to-choose-stylish-and-functional-furniture-for-your-outdoor-living-spaces/) - Now that you have finally created an amazing outdoor living space, we are fairly certain that you are more than ready to fill it with some furniture! However, what type of furniture do you want in this space? We are hopeful that you want something more than basic resin or wicker chairs, because those are - [When Do I Need a Building Permit for Home Improvements?](https://ltdecks.com/when-do-i-need-a-building-permit-for-home-improvements/) - When Do I Need a Building Permit for Home Improvements? When it’s time to remodel or make improvements to your home, you may wonder when you need a building permit. How do you determine which remodels and renovations require permits? Most contractors will know ahead of time, but it’s good for homeowners to have a - [Make Your Deck More Inviting With the Right Lighting](https://ltdecks.com/make-your-deck-more-inviting-with-the-right-lighting/) - As attractive as any deck looks, it can be so much more if you add the right features. Deck and patio lighting can be the perfect enhancement, but you will have to make the right choices for your particular area. Lighting not only makes it possible to use the deck at night, it also creates - [Why You Should Add an Outdoor Fireplace or Pit to Your Deck, Patio, or Pergola](https://ltdecks.com/why-you-should-add-an-outdoor-fireplace-or-pit-to-your-deck-patio-or-pergola/) - Anyone with a deck, patio or pergola, should consider including a fireplace or fire pit as part of the structure. Not only will this add warmth on cool nights; it can greatly enhance the beauty of the structure and increase the value of the property as well. You need to know what you want and - [Considering a Pergola: What You Need to Know](https://ltdecks.com/considering-a-pergola-what-you-need-to-know/) - A pergola is a nice outdoor structure for many homes. If you have been thinking about getting one constructed, you need to decide between a readymade one, or a custom built one. The beauty of having a contractor build your pergola is that you have a major say in the design of this structure. There - [3 Elements to Spruce up Your Deck](https://ltdecks.com/3-elements-to-spruce-up-your-deck/) - Homeowners today are always looking for that one extra thing that they can add to their home to make it stand out. You may have thought about this from time to time, and you may not know how to spruce up your home or what you could do to make it better. If you have - [Turn Your Existing Deck into Your Dream Deck with These Great Ideas](https://ltdecks.com/turn-your-existing-deck-into-your-dream-deck-with-these-great-ideas/) - Everyone wants a deck that they can sit on to relax and enjoy the beautiful weather throughout the year. You can turn your existing deck into the deck of your dreams very easily with a little help. We also have several DIY ideas that will transform your deck. Here are 7 ways to turn your - [Building the Outdoor Kitchen You Really Need](https://ltdecks.com/building-the-outdoor-kitchen-you-really-need/) - Building an outdoor kitchen is not considered an essential home renovation, but it can be an enjoyable one that adds an attractive and utilitarian feature to your yard. Since it is not something you absolutely have to do, you should definitely maintain control of the project in terms of the scale and the budget. There - [Create Paradise in Your Backyard with These 5 Tips](https://ltdecks.com/create-paradise-in-your-backyard-with-these-5-tips/) - Sitting outside enjoying the slight afternoon breeze is the perfect way to spend any day of the spring, summer, or fall. If you have been working on creating an outdoor space in your backyard, but you haven’t finished it yet, this is the year! Here are 5 tips to create paradise in your backyard: Create - [Getting a New Deck – Design Ideas and Tips for a Great Upgrade](https://ltdecks.com/getting-a-new-deck-design-ideas-and-tips-for-a-great-upgrade/) - A deck is an incredible element to add to your home. Whether you look at it in terms of entertainment or you consider the value of your home, an amazing deck is great to have. Over time, even the best-maintained deck will succumb to the elements, and will need an upgrade. You can take that - [5 Ways You Can Enjoy Your Deck More During the Cooler Months of Winter](https://ltdecks.com/5-ways-you-can-enjoy-your-deck-more-during-the-cooler-months-of-winter/) - Your deck is a highly desirable living space for a few reasons, with the main reason being access to nature. It is generally associated with warmer months, but there is no reason why you can’t enjoy it in cooler weather as well. Here are some ideas that will help your outdoor living space to evolve. - [15 Deck Upgrades that Add Functionality and Value](https://ltdecks.com/15-deck-upgrades-that-add-functionality-and-value/) - The north metro Atlanta area is an amazing place to live. We have the convenience of the city nearby, the quiet countryside within driving distance, and the ability to enjoy the best of both worlds right in our back yard. We build a lot of decks and porches and outdoor living spaces throughout the year, - [9 Ways to Add Style and Functionality to Your Deck](https://ltdecks.com/9-ways-to-add-style-and-functionality-to-your-deck/) - More and more people are being drawn to the outdoors and the deck is becoming more like an extension of the house instead of simply an exterior spot to relax. Everyone wants to be able to be comfortable while they are sitting outside, so more homeowners are trying to incorporate the style of their house - [Unique Deck Features to Personalize Your Atlanta Area Deck](https://ltdecks.com/unique-deck-features-to-personalize-your-atlanta-area-deck/) - Building a deck is a wonderful way to add a new, beautiful, usable space to your home. Like any addition or remodeling project, one of the most fun things about designing your new deck is personalizing it. Adding unique features to your deck can add style suited to your personal tastes. Today we’re going to - [Is it Time to Expand Your Deck?](https://ltdecks.com/is-it-time-to-expand-your-deck/) - Deck design is an art form. Each element must be given thought and the careful planning it deserves. The structural integrity of a deck must be present even if it is not immediately seen. The design elements that create a truly unique wood deck should be essentially what people really notice; not the structural stuff. - [How to Hire a Deck Builder in Atlanta](https://ltdecks.com/how-to-hire-a-deck-builder-in-atlanta/) - A deck is a great addition to any home. Whether renovating an existing deck or making a new one, homeowners need to find just the right contractor to get the job done. Many contractors offer this service, and it can become a daunting task to just select one. However, there are ways in which you - [How to Build an Eco-Friendly Deck](https://ltdecks.com/how-to-build-an-eco-friendly-deck/) - You need a deck builder who is on board with eco-friendly materials and building practices if you plan to build an eco-friendly deck. Hire a contractor who specializes in custom buildings and outdoor living spaces. Leisure Time Decks, in the North Atlanta metro area, is just that type of company. We strive to use sustainable - [Tips for Maintaining Your Custom Deck in the Atlanta Area](https://ltdecks.com/tips-for-maintaining-your-custom-deck-in-the-atlanta-area/) - Everyone understands that in order for a deck to stand the test of time, it must be properly maintained. A deck is a very valuable investment, and must be treated as such. Proper maintenance means more than regular cleaning. Let's take a look at the typical year with your deck. Winter Atlanta winters aren't usually - [Does a Deck Really Add Value to Your Home?](https://ltdecks.com/does-a-deck-really-add-value-to-your-home/) - Any type of home improvement requires careful consideration, especially where the budget is concerned. As the homeowner, you want your remodeled home to do more than just look pretty. You want something that adds value, even if you have no immediate plans to sell. If your next home improvement phase involves building a deck, there - [August is Curb Appeal Month: Is Your Home Ready?](https://ltdecks.com/august-is-curb-appeal-month-is-your-home-ready/) - You work hard around your house all year long, but during the summer, your focus always turns to the outdoors. That’s probably why August has been deemed curb appeal month. You always want the outside of your house to look nice since you are spending time out there. However, you probably don’t realize that you - [Add Contemporary Style to Your Outdoor Space](https://ltdecks.com/add-contemporary-style-to-your-outdoor-space/) - Adding contemporary style to your outdoor space is quite easy, which is a wonderful thing if you want to carry that style from your home to your backyard. You will even be able to add your own personal touches to make your outdoor space extremely comfortable and enjoyable for yourself and your family and friends. - [Why Deck Maintenance Can be Challenging](https://ltdecks.com/why-deck-maintenance-can-be-challenging/) - When you build a new wood deck, one of the first things you will be told is how important it is to maintain it. This helps to keep it looking good, but it also ensures that you get many years of enjoyment from it. As your deck ages, it will require more attention, and in - [Remodel Your Outdoor Living Space to Improve Functionality and Style](https://ltdecks.com/remodel-your-outdoor-living-space-to-improve-functionality-and-style/) - Many families are choosing to spend most of their time outside, which is why we believe that it is important to bring the inside out. We know that you will be more comfortable in your outdoor living space if you create it just like you would a room inside your home. Here are 5 ideas - [Transform your Backyard into a Relaxing Oasis](https://ltdecks.com/transform-your-backyard-into-a-relaxing-oasis/) - If you have a backyard that you have not been paying much attention to, now is the time for a change. We’re just getting ready to go into another hot and gorgeous summer here in Roswell, GA and the surrounding areas. You can make your backyard into the best place to relax or entertain with - [Six Features to Consider for Your New or Existing Deck](https://ltdecks.com/six-features-to-consider-for-your-new-or-existing-deck/) - Winter has come full force, and many of us are longing for the sun and sweet breezes of summer. Atlanta area winters aren’t usually horribly cold, but remember last year’s cold snaps; this year is proving to be just as cold. Now is the perfect time to begin searching for ideas and planning for your - [Tips for Remodeling a Small Bathroom Space](https://ltdecks.com/tips-for-remodeling-a-small-bathroom-space/) - Most of our recent blog posts have focused primarily on decks, so we decided to shake it up a bit and talk about remodeling a small bathroom today. We are a fully licensed, bonded and insured contractor serving the greater Atlanta area and we do build more than decks – so let’s talk small bathroom - [How to Winterize Your Pergola and Deck](https://ltdecks.com/how-to-winterize-your-pergola-and-deck/) - As the summer ends and we march towards winter, it’s time to start thinking of winterizing your pergola and other outdoor structures. You may be curious as to why we’re talking about winterizing your Atlanta-area deck, but remember winter 2014? Early predictions for winter 2015 indicate more snowfall for northern states, and we may even - [Deck Care and Maintenance Part One: Cleaning and Sealing](https://ltdecks.com/deck-care-and-maintenance-part-one-cleaning-and-sealing/) - Your deck is a major part of your home. You spent time and money on creating the perfect deck so we want to make sure that you understand how to properly take care of it. Proper care and maintenance will help you avoid major costly repairs later. Let’s discuss some tips on how to maintain - [5 Features Your New Dream Deck Must Have](https://ltdecks.com/5-features-your-new-dream-deck-must-have/) - You love spending time outside and your old deck has seen a lot of use over the years and that is why you have finally made the decision to build your dream deck. You know what you liked and didn’t like with your old deck and you know how you will be using your new - [Local Atlanta Contractor Wins Nationwide Wood, Naturally Build and Design Sweepstakes](https://ltdecks.com/local-atlanta-contractor-wins-nationwide-wood-naturally-build-and-design-sweepstakes/) - CHICAGO, March 4, 2015 /PRNewswire/ -- Atlanta-based contractor Joel Harper was named the winner today of the Wood, Naturally Build and Design Sweepstakes, a nationwide call for submissions of outdoor living and interior design projects using softwood lumber. Wood, Naturally, a campaign funded by the Softwood Lumber Board, presented Harper with a lease on a - [5 Mistakes You Can Avoid by Hiring Deck Building Professionals](https://ltdecks.com/5-mistakes-you-can-avoid-by-hiring-deck-building-professionals/) - The outdoors offer another way to enjoy your home, but it also expands your design options as well. Many homeowners do not realize that industry codes have evolved over the years. Sadly, this is true for a few deck contractors as well. Technology has contributed to the development of new deck materials, making these structures - [Make a Signature Statement with a Two Story Deck](https://ltdecks.com/make-a-signature-statement-with-a-two-story-deck/) - If you are building your first deck or replacing an old one, among your first thoughts will be what kind of deck to build. A two-story deck is worth considering for more than one reason. Not only is it aesthetically pleasing, you don’t have to limit yourself to one deck style. It might also be - [Let Us Help Transform Your Property into an Outdoor Living Oasis](https://ltdecks.com/let-us-help-transform-your-property-into-an-outdoor-living-oasis/) - Georgia is one of the most beautiful states. We have a very rich history here of lemonade and cookies on the front porch, and grandmas and grandpas sitting in rocking chairs watching the sunset. Some of the best movies have been filmed in Georgia, and some of the best books are set here. Gone with - [Decks Don’t Have to be Simple – Ideas for the Ultimate Deck](https://ltdecks.com/decks-dont-have-to-be-simple-ideas-for-the-ultimate-deck/) - Many homeowners assume that it’s better to keep it simple when having a deck built. That’s ok, a simple deck allows you to have a small raised entertainment area and that is not a bad thing. But if you want something more than that, you can definitely find a lot of ideas for multi-level decks - [Examining the Issue of Safety When Using Your Deck’s Fire Pit](https://ltdecks.com/examining-the-issue-of-safety-when-using-your-decks-fire-pit/) - Another beautiful Georgia summer is upon us! Most people who own decks spend a lot of time there at various times of the day. To make these structures even cozier, some people install fire pits, which also add an interesting visual element to the structure. According to the American Society of Landscape Architects, this is - [Difficult Deck Options: Semi-transparent Stain or Solid color Stain or Paint?](https://ltdecks.com/difficult-deck-options-semi-transparent-stain-or-solid-color-stain-or-paint/) - Choosing whether to stain or paint your deck can be very intimidating. When you want to refinish and get back original looks of your wood deck, consider stain. On the other hand, if you want to completely change the coloration, you may consider paint. You may even consider combining the two methods; stain the flooring - [Step by Step Guide to Clean and Repair Your Deck before Summer 2016](https://ltdecks.com/step-by-step-guide-to-clean-and-repair-your-deck-before-summer-2016/) - Decks are the highlights of many people’s homes and a lot of time and money goes into building them. It is important to clean the deck regularly, so that it looks beautiful for a long time without any major repairs. Deck maintenance is as important as maintenance for your health or your vehicle’s oil changes. - [Create the Perfect Multi-Tier Deck for Your Home and Landscaping](https://ltdecks.com/create-the-perfect-multi-tier-deck-for-your-home-and-landscaping/) - Every home is not created equal. This is one of the reasons we love the North Metro Atlanta area so much. We enjoy the diversity of architecture we see throughout the city and surrounding neighborhoods. We have built amazing multi-tier decks on multi-level homes and single-story homes as well. The type of home you have - [Choosing Outdoor Furniture for Your Custom Deck or Outdoor Living Area](https://ltdecks.com/choosing-outdoor-furniture-for-your-custom-deck-or-outdoor-living-area/) - Atlanta is hot, humid, and downright muggy. We have mosquitoes that you can hear coming at you from several feet away. How on Earth do people choose gorgeous outdoor furniture that looks great year after year without seeing it destroyed by the heat and humidity? We love the Atlanta area, we love Georgia weather, and - [Build a Custom Deck for Outdoor Living at its Finest](https://ltdecks.com/build-a-custom-deck-for-outdoor-living-at-its-finest/) - Every home is different, so why do so many people build the same wooden deck? Sure, there may be a few differences here or there, but many homeowners build a rectangular wooden deck with a regular wooden rail. That's all just fine if you have no desire to create a new standard for decking. Our - [Adding Interest to Your Deck with Plants](https://ltdecks.com/adding-interest-to-your-deck-with-plants/) - Plants and flowers can be a wonderful addition to any deck. They add life and color, and there are many ways to incorporate them into your deck design. Today we’re going to talk about some great low maintenance options, as well as container gardening and other ways to make your deck beautiful. Beautify Your Deck - [Deck Care and Maintenance Part Two: Repair and Prevent](https://ltdecks.com/deck-care-and-maintenance-part-two-repair-and-prevent/) - I hope you’re enjoying this two-part deck maintenance series. We discussed how to clean your deck thoroughly and how to stain and seal a wood deck in part one. Now we are going to discuss how to repair and take preventive measures against rot, staining, and other mishaps that often happen to decks. Ready to - [Add an Amazing Fire Feature to Your Deck to Increase the Wow Factor](https://ltdecks.com/add-an-amazing-fire-feature-to-your-deck-to-increase-the-wow-factor/) - Fire features add a lot of character to any type of outdoor living space. The Northern Atlanta area is such an amazing place to live because of the incredible history we can easily see in every neighborhood. It’s only fitting that your home, deck, and landscaping reflect that type of southern character and charm. - [It’s September – Time to Throw an End of Summer Deck Party](https://ltdecks.com/its-september-time-to-throw-an-end-of-summer-deck-party/) - As summer of 2014 is coming to an end, shouldn't we make time for one last hoorah on our beautiful decks? Of course we should! The weather is not going to be as warm in the upcoming months so let’s use what warm weather we have left of this year and throw the perfect - [Should You Choose to Build a Wood or Composite Deck?](https://ltdecks.com/should-you-choose-to-build-a-wood-or-composite-deck/) - Congratulations! You have decided to build a deck onto your home. What a wonderful choice this was since they can add beauty to your home and give your family a nice place to gather during nice weather. And we see a lot of weather here in Georgia! Now the question is, will you use - [Take Your Pergola to the Next Level with the Right Lighting](https://ltdecks.com/take-your-pergola-to-the-next-level-with-the-right-lighting/) - Even the simplest pergola can add a lot to a home. Owners of these structures sometimes go all out to decorate them to suit their tastes. However, one thing that some owners ignore is what an impact the right lighting can make. Lighting not only makes a pergola more inviting at night, it works as - [Increase the Value of Your Home with a Multi Level Deck](https://ltdecks.com/increase-the-value-of-your-home-with-a-multi-level-deck/) - There’s always something nice and southern about building a quality deck. Decks can give you a leg up on entertaining, dining, and relaxation. There are a lot of ways you can customize your new deck when you choose to work with us at Leisure Time Decks. We work with north metro Atlanta area homeowners on - [Four Questions that Will Help Solidify Your Decision to Remodel](https://ltdecks.com/four-questions-that-will-help-solidify-your-decision-to-remodel/) - Home additions are an excellent way to increase the square footage of your home and increase the monetary value as well. Some homeowners feel that it is better to sell their existing home and buy a bigger one, and that’s perfectly okay, too. Today we’re going to go over four questions that every homeowner should - [Build an Amazing Front Porch that Fits Your Lifestyle](https://ltdecks.com/build-an-amazing-front-porch-that-fits-your-lifestyle/) - Front porches are making a comeback and they are being used for more than keeping the rain and snow off of people as they are waiting to enter your home. A front porch can be utilized as an extra sitting area, family room, or outdoor seating space. If you do not think that you would - [Design a Beautiful and Functional Deck for Your Atlanta Area Home](https://ltdecks.com/design-a-beautiful-and-functional-deck-for-your-atlanta-area-home/) - Successful deck designs serve many functions. Adding value and aesthetic interest to your home, creating a relaxing retreat, building a space to entertain, or creating a safe place for small children to enjoy the summer can all be great purposes for a deck. One of the most fun things about designing your deck project is - [The Most Common Causes of Deck Problems](https://ltdecks.com/the-most-common-causes-of-deck-problems/) - A deck is a beautiful addition to any home, and it serves a number of purposes. If you own a deck, you already know that regular maintenance will keep it strong and preserve its appearance. Anybody who invests in a deck is looking for long-term performance, but sometimes a few problems may develop regardless of - [Six Ideas for Remodeling Your Bonus Room](https://ltdecks.com/six-ideas-for-remodeling-your-bonus-room/) - Many homes come with extra rooms, sometimes called bonus rooms. The bonus room may be used as the homeowner sees fit. Many times it becomes an additional bedroom, an office, a nursery, or anything the homeowner needs. As life changes, so do our needs, and a great way to meet those needs is remodeling that - [Considerations You Should Make Before Adding a Deck to Your Home](https://ltdecks.com/considerations-you-should-make-before-adding-a-deck-to-your-home/) - One of the best things that you can do for your home’s value is adding a good functional deck. This may seem like something that is a given, but you will find that there is a lot more to this notion than just throwing up an elevated space and calling it a deck. When you - [Remodeling a Small Bathroom Makes a Big Impact](https://ltdecks.com/remodeling-a-small-bathroom-makes-a-big-impact/) - Bathrooms can be one of the hardest spaces to remodel. Though a large bathroom is nice, it’s not always in the cards, especially because of considerations with plumbing and drainage. Having a small bathroom in your home doesn’t mean you can’t create your dream space. Here are some tips for turning your small bathroom into - [Local Contractor Wins Contest](https://ltdecks.com/local-contractor-wins-contest/) - [Reprinted from The Gwinnett Daily Post, March 7, 2015] Gwinnett contractor Joel Harper of Leisure Time Decks recently won the Wood, Naturally Build and Design Sweepstakes, a nationwide call for submissions of outdoor living and interior design projects using softwood lumber. Harper has been in the construction industry for 30 years, specializing in decks for - [Indisputable Reasons to Create Outdoor Living Spaces in the Greater Atlanta Area](https://ltdecks.com/indisputable-reasons-to-create-outdoor-living-spaces-in-the-greater-atlanta-area/) - People who own decks and outdoor living spaces already know how incredible it is to be able to entertain, or simply unwind, outdoors. Sure, you can just sit on the porch in the rocking chair for some fresh air and peace and quiet; but why stop there? Today I’m going to give you five undisputable - [How to Effectively Rid your Deck of Pet Odors](https://ltdecks.com/how-to-effectively-rid-your-deck-of-pet-odors/) - Pets don’t often realize the difference between going to potty outside vs. going on your deck, which happens to be technically outside of their normal living space. The best-behaved dog may even find the idea of an outdoor living area confusing. So you’re not alone if your dog goes out on the deck. We do - [History of Leisure Time Decks](https://ltdecks.com/history-of-ltdecks/) - Leisure Time Decks designs and installs high-quality custom decks and screen porches and outdoor living areas. We are your outdoor living specialist. “Think Outside the House” Established in 1989 Leisure Time Decks started out as “Harper Construction”. Two brothers framing houses, siding houses, and building decks. Soon it became clear that we loved building decks - [Choosing the Best Materials for Your Deck](https://ltdecks.com/choosing-the-best-materials-for-your-deck/) - There are many materials that you can choose from when you are building your deck and you will want to choose which material you use wisely. While each material is great, some of them will cost more or last longer. Here are 4 of the more common deck materials that you can choose from for - [Designing the Perfect Outdoor Living Spaces](https://ltdecks.com/designing-the-perfect-outdoor-living-spaces/) - These days, there is a lot of emphasis on making outdoor living spaces more comfortable and functional. As people seek to expand their available living space by using the outdoors it makes sense that they would apply this thinking here as well. The approach to the design of an outdoor space may be different, but - [5 Items Every Backyard Oasis Needs](https://ltdecks.com/5-items-every-backyard-oasis-needs/) - Your backyard oasis is where you sit and relax after a long day at work and where you spend most of your weekends as you are hanging out with family and friends. Since you are spending so much time outside, we recommend that you incorporate these five items into your backyard oasis. Low maintenance materials - [Consider Building an Elegant Pergola to Deck Combination for Impressive Southern Charm](https://ltdecks.com/consider-building-an-elegant-pergola-to-deck-combination-for-impressive-southern-charm/) - Georgia sunshine gets hot, especially here in the north Atlanta metro area. A pergola leading from the door to the deck is a great way to limit the amount of sun that shines through the doors and makes your heat pump work harder to keep things cool. The rest of the deck will still be - [Create a Screened Area on Your Deck to Enjoy Bug Free Georgia Evenings](https://ltdecks.com/create-a-screened-area-on-your-deck-to-enjoy-bug-free-georgia-evenings/) - A deck is the perfect place to sit outside on a warm Georgia evening, drinking your favorite beverage, and letting the worries of the day disappear from your thoughts. Until the mosquitoes realize you're there. Mosquito repellent only works so well, and really, who wants to smell like mosquito repellent all evening? Candles and other - [Five Updates Your Home Probably Needs](https://ltdecks.com/five-updates-your-home-probably-needs/) - One of the top remodeling questions facing homeowners is where to start. This question is a little easier to answer if you are renovating specifically for putting the house on the market. In these cases it is usually easy to identify the areas that need work. A kitchen might be outdated or have damaged cabinets, - [Cover Your Porch or Deck for the Ultimate in Outdoor Living](https://ltdecks.com/cover-your-porch-or-deck-for-the-ultimate-in-outdoor-living/) - If you want to spend a lot of time outdoors, you will need to be as comfortable as possible. One drawback to being outside is that you have to deal with rain or the glare of the sun. You can make your stay on your porch or deck much more comfortable with the right type - [Deck Design Ideas that Will Improve Your Outdoor Entertainment Possibilities](https://ltdecks.com/deck-design-ideas-that-will-improve-your-outdoor-entertainment-possibilities/) - Spring is here and summer is quickly approaching; are you ready for the 2016 outdoor entertainment season? Every Atlanta homeowner knows that outdoor entertaining, Atlanta summers, and decks go hand in hand. Spring has sprung. Shortly we’ll see Mother’s Day gatherings, graduation parties, Father’s Day celebrations, and an entire summer’s worth of made-up reasons to - [Design Ideas for Your 2016 Outdoor Entertaining Areas Part Two](https://ltdecks.com/design-ideas-for-your-2016-outdoor-entertaining-areas-part-two/) - We hope you enjoyed part one of our design ideas for your 2016 outdoor entertaining areas series for this month. We really enjoy helping people come up with great ideas to enhance the exterior areas of their homes. Here are several more great design ideas for your outdoor entertaining areas. Gazebo: Everyone thinks gentle southern - [Our Diverse Portfolio Includes More than Decks](https://ltdecks.com/our-diverse-portfolio-includes-more-than-decks/) - Most of our blog posts focus on decks because we really enjoy designing and building them and helping people learn best practices in deck maintenance. But we handle so much more than deck building in the Atlanta area. Today we wanted to give you a brief overview of the other types of home improvement projects - [Ideas to Cycle Through When Building a New Deck](https://ltdecks.com/ideas-to-cycle-through-when-building-a-new-deck/) - There is just something grand and southern about having a deck built on your property. You will be delighted by the way it turns out once we’ve finished the build. Whether you want a place to entertain guests, or you want to sip something cold on hot days, you will delight in the opportunities that - [Another Amazing Georgia Spring and Summer Are on Their Way](https://ltdecks.com/another-amazing-georgia-spring-and-summer-are-on-their-way/) - Here we are three months into 2015 and our spring building season is already underway with some amazing decks and more outdoor projects planned throughout April. What are your outdoor plans for this spring and summer? How would you like to include the addition of a deck or some other outdoor living projects to your - [15 Awesome Ways to Enjoy Your Deck in 2016](https://ltdecks.com/15-awesome-ways-to-enjoy-your-deck-in-2016/) - The deck has so many potential uses that we can’t list them all, but we have come up with a list of 15 ways you can enjoy your deck this year. Everyone deserves that special place where they can do what they love to do. We like to think that the deck can provide that - [How to Properly Care for a Wood Deck in Georgia](https://ltdecks.com/how-to-properly-care-for-a-wood-deck-in-georgia/) - If you have a wood deck then this post is for you! Most people agree that a wood deck is a beautiful addition to any home, and they are right. Whether it is painted or stained to reveal the lovely natural grain of the wood, a deck adds an entirely new dimension to a home. - [Your Outdoor Kitchen Can be as Grand or as Simple as You Wish](https://ltdecks.com/your-outdoor-kitchen-can-be-as-grand-or-as-simple-as-you-wish/) - You can't really just put your grill out on the deck or patio and call it a kitchen; or can you? I suppose so, because technically that's where you're preparing food. But that's not what I'm talking about today. I'm talking about big cooking areas complete with an oven, burners, deep fry pans, and a - [Need More Space for Your Outdoor Living Space? Remodel the Deck!](https://ltdecks.com/need-more-space-for-your-outdoor-living-space-remodel-the-deck/) - It’s a new year and everyone is busy again after the holidays. Do you already have big home improvement plans for 2016? Is this the year you build or remodel your deck? Nail down your 2016 New Year’s Resolutions for home improvement with some of these great deck remodeling ideas. Add Charm No one knows - [LT Decks at Extreme Makeover Home Edition](https://ltdecks.com/lt-decks-at-extreme-makeover-home-edition/) - Here is a gallery showing our team’s contribution to home construction for the Williams family on Extreme Makeover Home Edition. - [Issues to Consider Before Building a Deck](https://ltdecks.com/issues-to-consider-before-building-a-deck/) - Are you thinking about having a deck built for your home? Decks are amazing and provide many different fun features; it all depends on what you want out of your deck. Maybe you would like a deck that is perfect for outdoor parties, or maybe you would like the perfect deck for relaxing. No matter - [Fantastic Design Ideas for an Outdoor Entertainment Area in Roswell, Georgia](https://ltdecks.com/fantastic-design-ideas-for-an-outdoor-entertainment-area-in-roswell-georgia/) - August is here! The end of summer is approaching and school has started back in many parts of the greater Atlanta area. That means sports celebrations, holidays, and other school parties and events will soon be in full swing. Families that entertain a lot absolutely need outdoor areas for entertainment. I’m going to go over - [Build an Extensive Multi-Level Deck with Different Entertainment Areas](https://ltdecks.com/build-an-extensive-multi-level-deck-with-different-entertainment-areas/) - Who says all decks have to fit into a single category? Most of the decks I've seen lately have been rectangular with standard railing, and steps that lead to the ground. Don't get me wrong, they're beautiful decks with what appears to be great workmanship. They're just - boring. Your deck doesn't have to fit - [Design Ideas for Your 2016 Outdoor Entertaining Areas - Part One](https://ltdecks.com/design-ideas-for-your-2016-outdoor-entertaining-areas-part-one/) - Outdoor entertaining is something people in north Georgia really know how to do. We love our bonfires and cookouts on a lazy sultry evening. We also love entertaining guests on special occasions like birthdays, weddings, or special sporting events. Graduation time is coming up in a couple of months, so take some of these ideas ## Pages - [Home for Outdoor Living Projects In Atlanta](https://ltdecks.com/) - About us Design And Build With Leisure Time Decks We specialise in high quality outdoor living projects – we build beautiful custom decks, screen porches, front porches, pergolas, gazebos, outdoor kitchens, outdoor fireplaces, fire pits, retaining walls, and stone patios. We’ve worked on thousands of construction projects, meeting and exceeding our client’s expectations throughout the - [Porches](https://ltdecks.com/porches/) - Porches Enjoy your outdoor space more than ever before with a custom built porch. While our decks offer a wide open space, our porches are partially enclosed and come with a roof to protect them from sun and rain. Our porches are built to last, we take pride in the there construction in Atlanta. Our - [Contact Us](https://ltdecks.com/contact/) - CONTACT US Send mail to ADDRESS 527 Tom Smith RD SW Lilburn, GA 30047 Phone: 404-997-3325 Fill out this secure form and let us know how we can best serve you. "*" indicates required fields Name* First Last Phone*City*Email* Brief Project Description*Upload File Drop files here or Select files Max. file size: 50 MB, Max. - [Outdoor Fireplaces and Firepits](https://ltdecks.com/outdoor-fireplaces-and-firepits/) - Outdoor Fireplaces and Firepits Outdoor fireplaces are much liked home features and can be as minimal or as extravagant as you want them to be. They’re a cosy feature on cool nights and everyone loves to sit and chat around them. We know how to build them well and can help you decide what design - [Custom Decks](https://ltdecks.com/custom-decks/) - Custom Decks Custom designed decks are what we’re known for throughout the Atlanta area. There are numerous options available including locally grown pressure treated wood, to synthetic composites to suit all designs and price ranges. A popular finish is to paint or stain the surfaces to match the existing colors of the house. We’re always - [Our Reputation](https://ltdecks.com/our-reputation/) - Our Reputation Below is a list of reviews we’ve received Professionalism, Punctuality, Quality Leisure Time Decks completed a deck remodeled project for us several years ago, and working with them was terrific. They provided input from design through the construction and helped us to make smart decisions. We are thrilled with the results of our - [Gallery](https://ltdecks.com/gallery/) - GALLERY LTD Albums ← BeforeBeforeBeforeBeforeBeforePatio with outdoor fireplacePatio with outdoor fireplacePatio with outdoor fireplacePatio with outdoor fireplacePatio with outdoor fireplacecovered patio and outdoor fireplaceBead board ceilingCustom trim detailBack yardCovered patioCovered patioCovered patioCovered patio and screen porch with fireplaceScreen porch with fireplaceOutdoor fireplace in screen porchFlagstone patio in screen porchCovered back patioCovered back patio and screen - [Outdoor Kitchens](https://ltdecks.com/outdoor-kitchens/) - Outdoor Kitchens Outdoor kitchen are an excellent way to take your personal taste and extend it into you backyard. They’re also the perfect place for family get-togethers neighborhood gatherings, and parties for any occasion. We design and build perfect outdoor kitchens which allows you to cook, prepare food, and really enjoy the outdoor space. While - [Privacy Policy](https://ltdecks.com/privacy-policy/) - Privacy Policy Effective date: July 29, 2018 Joel Harper Construction, LLC dba Leisure Time Decks (“us”, “we”, or “our”) operates the https://ltdecks.com website and the Ltdecks mobile application (the “Service”). This page informs you of our policies regarding the collection, use, and disclosure of personal data when you use our Service and the choices you - [Client Feedback](https://ltdecks.com/client-feedback/) - Client Feedback Name* First Phone*Email* City*Your Feedback*CAPTCHA Submit Δ ## Categories - [Blog](https://ltdecks.com/category/blog/) - [deck building](https://ltdecks.com/category/deck-building/) - [deck maintenance](https://ltdecks.com/category/deck-maintenance/) - [general interest](https://ltdecks.com/category/general-interest/) - [outdoor kitchen](https://ltdecks.com/category/outdoor-kitchen/) - [outdoor living](https://ltdecks.com/category/outdoor-living/) - [pergolas arbors](https://ltdecks.com/category/pergolas-arbors/) - [planning](https://ltdecks.com/category/planning/) - [remodeling](https://ltdecks.com/category/remodeling/) - [screen porch](https://ltdecks.com/category/screen-porch/) - [outdoor furniture](https://ltdecks.com/category/outdoor-furniture/) - [Hot tubs](https://ltdecks.com/category/hot-tubs/) ## Tags - [deck](https://ltdecks.com/tag/deck/) - [extreme makeover](https://ltdecks.com/tag/extreme-makeover/) - [wood](https://ltdecks.com/tag/wood/) - [backyard improvements](https://ltdecks.com/tag/backyard-improvements/) - [backyard](https://ltdecks.com/tag/backyard/) - [outdoor living area](https://ltdecks.com/tag/outdoor-living-area/) - [living area](https://ltdecks.com/tag/living-area/) - [outdoor living space](https://ltdecks.com/tag/outdoor-living-space/) - [outdoor living](https://ltdecks.com/tag/outdoor-living/) - [backyard oasis](https://ltdecks.com/tag/backyard-oasis/) - [outdoor space](https://ltdecks.com/tag/outdoor-space/)