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 This years Tampa Home Show has spawned several projects that seem to have very similar characteristics . Since this years show, we have been asked to design seven projects that although different in design have most of the same elements. (Paver Patio, koi pond, screen enclosure, retainment, outdoor lighting, landscaping). Several also had hot tubs designed into them. At this point, we have completed three of them, are in the middle of construction on a fourth, and waiting approval from H.O.A.’s on two others.
One such job was a project completed for John and Kate (and their two yellow labs Brutus & J.J.) Step one was to install a large koi pond with two waterfalls. Our larger koi ponds are usually hand dug to a depth of 3′ to 4′. The upper lip is framed using concrete block than a 4″ to 6″ rock ledge is formed. A buffer of padding is laid in then a 45 mil. U/V protectant liner is fitted into position.
Our standard construction of a koi pond involves installing three different types of filtration systems. First a skimmer is installed which filtrates all surface debris. A basket, or net depending on the model fits inside this skimmer and is the first stage of the filtration system, collecting larger debris such as leaves, twigs, etc. This filter requires only a few minutes of your time every other week to empty. It may require more frequent changes in the Autumn depending on the amount of foilage in the area that may be dropping leaves. A filter mat is fitted in the bottom of the skimmer, above the pump, acting as the second stage of the filtration system. This mat will filter out smaller debris that makes its way past the net or basket. The mat requires less frequent changes than the net or basket.
For maximum koi pond circulation, the skimmer should be positioned on the opposite end of the pond from the waterfall. This is also where the submersible pump is housed, there for acting as the flow intake for the entire system. The exception is a system where an external pump is used and/or a bottom drain is added in addition to the skimmer. We have also been installing automate fill valves in our jobs, These are ran from a hose bib, and housed in the skimmer.
The second filter is a biological filter/waterfall. The entire body of water is filtered through the biofalls. In addition this filter is mainly designed to create and colonize the beneficial bacteria necessary to help clean the ponds water, as well as create an ecosystem necessary for healthy koi as well as other fish. To accomplish this the water is plumbed into the bottom if the filter and then flows upward through a series of mats and/or mesh bags containing either lava rock or bio balls. This filter should only need to be cleaned out about once annually simply by removing the bags and mats andthen hosing them off.
A check valve is installed in line with this filter so that the water inside the filter doesn’t drain back into the pond if the pump to the waterfall is shut off. (If the koi pond is already at it’s maximum water level, the additional water will overflow the pond). A ball valve is also added in line to this filter to allow us to control the amount of water flow to the waterfall. Although I usually like to have the maximum amount of flow over a waterfall, we do find it necessary sometimes to cut the flow rate back, often to divert water to a second waterfall or another filter, such as an ultraviolet clarifier, as in John and Katie’s situation, one in the same, the water that was diverted through the ultraviolet clarifier was the same water that would form our secondary waterfall.
This leads us to our third filter. The ultraviolet clarifier is basically an in-line, ultraviolet light that cleanses the ponds water of such things as parasites and insects, but mainly the microscopic organisms that tend to discolor the water. The ultraviolet clarifier basically does for a koi pond the same as shock and chlorine will do for a swimming pool, but is completely harmless to koi and other fish or other water life and aquatic plants.
To install this filter a tee is installed in the main line from the pump to the biofalls. A ball valve to control water flow is installed in-line to this filter also. The flow rate to this filter is somewhat important. The formula for flow rate for most ultraviolet clarifiers is approximately 50 percent of your ponds volume per hour (example: meaning a 1000 gallon koi pond would require 500 gallons of water to cycle through this filter every hour). If the flow rate is too great the ultraviolet light will not have enough time to kill the micro-organisms adequately. If the flow rate is too slow the ultraviolet light will not kill the organisms as fast as they can reproduce.
There are other filters that are optional, but that we have installed in koi ponds on different occasions or situations. One such filter is the bead filter. The bead filter is a pond filter very similar in design to a pool filter. It is made to filter out solid debris as well as create the beneficial bacteria needed for a healthy pond. Another, relatively new filter, is the ‘Iongen Electric Pond Clarifier’ made by Aquascapes out of Illinois. One function of the Iongen clarifier is that, like the ultraviolet clarifier, it is an in-line filter providing clear water without the use of chemicals. Although I do not feel that this filter is as efficient as the U/V; one positive side is that it will filter a koi pond up to 25,000 gallons in size, where as an ultraviolet clarifier in the same price range usually is made to filter a pond up to 4000 gallons in size. This filter also controls the build up of other algae that the U/V clarifier does not. This filter works by having a microprocessor inside the Iongen control panel causing the outermost atoms of copper, silver and zinc to lose an electron creating a positiveion. The positive ions are swept from the filters zinc probes into the pond where they can begin to treat the water.
Most of our pond supplies, as well as our stone is purchased through Wesley Chapel Landscape Supply. There are many different types of stone that is available to us, but the only stone that is indigenous to Florida is lime rock, and we rarely seldom like to use that in our ponds or waterfalls. Most of the stone available at the local nurseries, landscape suppliers, and stone yards is imported from Arkansas, Tennessee, North and South Carolina. Unless we are trying to match an existing design or medium I usually tend to use Pennsylvania Antigue fieldstone and boulders in our ponds and waterfalls. Even though the travel distance is further, the price is comparable, and I feel the Pennsylvania stone has a lot more character and looks much more natural in ponds and waterfalls than the others.
The next phase of this project was the installation of the interlocking paver patio. Our patios have been constructed using natural stone, travertine, or brick, but usually are constructed using interlocking concrete pavers. Although pavers are used throughout the country, I would have to say that they seem to be more indigenous and prevalent here in Florida. Because of the materials used in the make up of concrete pavers being so readily available in Florida, the cost of manufacturing as well as installation of Pavers is extremely reasonable. The cost of the installation of interlocking concrete pavers in the northeast part of the country is 2-3 times more than that here in Florida. In addition, concrete pavers seem to be a better match with the style of home built in Florida. A concrete paver may blend better with the facade of a stucco faced home on the beach than it would on a mountain side in Tennessee.
 Thirdly, one of the main considerations one must think of when choosing the installation of a stone or paver patio versus a wood or composite deck is elevation. Besides the option a railing or a bench, a wood deck stays relatively the same in price until you get into the second story range (with the exception of a slight raise in cost due to each additional riser in staircase). A patio that is raised due maybe to a drop in elevation of ones yard would require retainment. Most of our retainment walls are constructed using 6″ x 6″ timbers, or ornamental concrete block, such as the Highland Wall Series. Natural rock, brick, or stucco are other options and can be viewed on our website under retainment systems. Unfortunately, depending upon the amount of drop in elevation, the retainment wall in many cases can cost as much or more than the patio itself. Being as Florida is the only state of all 50 that does not have one area that exceeds 500 feet above sea level, elevation and retainment is seldom a variable. Many of the backyards that I look at here in Tampa seem to be flat blank canvases, actually making it more challenging to create a unique outdoor living space. With John and Katie’s project we did have enough of a pitch in elevation to allot us the opportunity to install a two-tiered patio, adding a little more character.
The process and procedure of installing a patio is pretty standard and is usually followed by most legitimate or quality paver companies in the Tampa area. After deciding on and laying out the design, the first step is excavation. Usually it will take approximately 6″ of excavation below the desired height of the patio, provided standard 23/8″ thick pavers are being used. Even if the existing grade is greater than 6″, all grass or sod should be removed. Next, a minimum of 3″-4″ of base is laid in, graded and then compacted using a vibratory plate compactor. Crushed concrete or crushed asphalt is the usual base of choice. In almost all of the patios that we have installed, a soldier row is used as a border. A soldier row is where a series of a full concrete paver (usually a 4″ x 8″ or 6″ x 9″) is used to outline the patio. This can be viewed on our website under the hardscape heading. The soldier row may be a different color (often solid) complimenting or pulling out some of the color used in the patio. In some case we will take the brick used as the soldier row and drop a percentage of them into the patio as highlights. Next, unless butting up to the home/building or a retainment wall) a bead of portland cement is poured in and beveled, preventing the pavers from shifting or pushing outward. When installing a driveway the portland cement should be poured underneath the soldier row also to compensate for the added weight and use of automobiles. Finally sand is brushed or washed into the uniformed gaps between each paver. At an additional cost Polymeric sand can be used instead of the basic masonry sand. Applied correctly polymeric sand will set up more like a grout and is essential when using some of the higher end hardscape lines such as the Belgard Series. We suggest and offer the option of sealing your pavers, but it is recommended that a wait time of at least 60-90 days be given from time of install before sealing your pavers. There are several manufacturers of Interlocking pavers in Florida, and we have worked with all of them, but as with John and Katie’s job, they chose to use Old Castle Pavers. They have a large office, brickyard, and display here in Tampa on Busch Blvd. and have a vast variety and selection. They also carry the Belgard Series as well as different lines of some of the retainment systems we use, including the Highland Wall which was used on this particular job.
The next phase of this project was to construct a screen room/enclosure. Actually the footer for the screen room is poured before the patio is installed so that the pavers can be laid over the footer. I feel that this is a cleaner look when the screen room is bolted through the Interlocking pavers showing no exposed concrete.
Screen enclosures obviously are very popular here in the Tampa area as well as the rest of Florida. Usually they are screen constructed around the swimming pools, but we do get a lot of inquires to install screen rooms over decks, patios, ponds, etc. Folks that would like to have the same luxuries that a screen room provides without the desire of a swimming pool. A screen room does provide many positive benefits. They provide more privacy as well as security from neighborhood children and pets as well as wild animals. On a comfort level a screen enclosure will allow you to enjoy your outdoor living space while providing protection from bugs and mosquitoes as well as excess heat and ultraviolet rays. Lastly a screen enclosure will keep your outdoor living space considerably cleaner, which is especially nice when a koi pond has been installed.
The finishing touches on this job would be irrigation, outdoor low-voltage lighting, and landscaping. As was the case with John and Katie’s job, a lot of homes will have an existing irrigation system. Rerouting or modifying a system is very simple, and in most cases there is little or no charge. We usually include it as part of the job. With John & Katie’s job, approximately 1,200 sq. ft. of paver patio was added in addition to the 3,500 gallon koi pond. Therefore several heads needed to be capped off and eliminated from the system. Other pop up heads are usually re-routed to the newly designed and formed beds.
A full outdoor Lighting System was installed on this project. Two brands of low-voltage outdoor Lighting were used to complete this project. Spotlights were used to uplight a few small specimen trees within the screen room and an existing Live Oak that was outside the screen room, as well as both waterfalls. ‘Miami Pathway’ lights were used to accent the planting beds. These lights as well as the transformers we use are supplied by Garden Light Inc., one of the premier lighting manufacturing companies in the country, and who just happen to be located here in Tampa. The other style of light is a paver light manufactured by Kerr Lighting. This is a light that resembles a paver in shape and form (coming in 4″x8″ and 6″x9″ sizes) Usually a paver will be removed from the soldier row and substituted with the light, illuminating and accenting as well as outlining the patio while still keeping a flush and level profile.
I can’t emphasize enough how key an outdoor lighting system is, and how much a lighting system enhances our work. In most cases I feel our outdoor projects take on an entirely different look in the evenings. Another thing to think about when designing an outdoor living space is what time of the day as well as the season will the space be being used. In many situations, including my own, the adult or adults of the household are working during the day, and the only time besides weekends that they have to enjoy their outdoor living space is in the evenings. This holds especially true in the winter months when it is already dark and most folks are just getting home from work.
Last would be the landscaping, which tends to tie all the mediums together. I will usually design specified planting beds into our plans and have a pretty good visual idea of how I want to use them, but in this area I like to get as much of the customers input as I can, being as we all have different tastes, likes and dislikes. In many instances, as I did with John  and Katie, I will take the customer with me to the wholesale nursery we use the most and tour it in a gold cart. This way I can get a better feel for the customers taste as well as talk with them about the characteristics of the different shrubs and trees. Due especially to the severity of the past two winters, I do try and steer customers towards lower maintenance and more cold tolerant species. Upon agreement and imposing a plant and shrub specimen list intoour landscape plan, the plans are purchased and installed by our crew. Once again any grass or sod that wasn’t removed during the excavation for the patio or koi pond is now removed. The shrubs are installed sometimes mixing in a few large ornamental boulders to add balance and flow with the koi pond. Two types of fertilizer are added to the soil, 10-10-10 and milorganite. Landscape fabric is then laid down and a ground cover laid down after that. We leave the choice of ground cover up to the customer, but my preferences are pine bark or river stone. The pine bark is considerably cheaper, but the benefit of stone is that it is a one time install, and there is a variety of stone that can be used.
I may have left out a few things, but I believe I covered most of the aspects, process and procedures of taking a job such as this (from the production side) from beginning to end. The one thing that must be shared and is the single most important part of a job is why I do what I do is the experience, friendship and gratitude that one receives when having an opportunity to meet and work with two wonderful people like John and Katie. I can only hope that myself and my employees have made an impression in their lives as well. Thank you John & Katie.
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 This is a job we had recently done in collaboration with Collins Construction. I consider owner Dean Collins the other great deck builder in the Tampa Bay area. Besides being a master of his trade, Dean has become one of my best and dearest friends. Our companies have collaborated on various deck projects over the last few years, and it has always been a pleasure working with him.
This particular project was a second story composite deck with glass panels for railing giving an open and unobstructed view to the bay. After the deck was constructed, our first job was to repair and reconfigure the existing interlocking pavers. In addition, two additional paver patio areas were added.
The next phase was to add a low voltage lighting system. To start with 12 micro LED lights were built into the railing cap (1 per section). The intent and end result was that these hidden lights would shine down illuminating the glass panels.  Next, two post lights were added to each 6″x6″ post supporting the upper deck. These lights were mounted at eye level, shining down illuminating the interlocking paver patio beneath the upper deck. The third phase was to add 14 flush mount inset deck lights along both sides of an existing composite decked deck. Fourth and finally, several 50 watt spotlights were ran out into the landscaping. These spotlights were used as up lighting to accent many of the beautiful larger palms on the property.
My thanks to all my employees who contributed to this project, Dean for all the faith and the referral, and Beth and Eric for allowing us the opportunity to work with them.
Tags: Custom Decks, Dock, Exterior Concepts, Interlocking Pavers, Landscaping, Low Voltage Lighting, Outdoor Lighting, Outdoor Living Space, Patio
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The following article was published in the Tampa edition of the duPont Registry:
Living in Florida offers the perfect opportunity to make our backyards into something more than a big expanse of green grass. Why not create an attractive outdoor living space that invites you to get out and relax for a while?
After a tough day at the office, having a private secluded retreat in the backyard for unwinding while you sip a glass of wine and watch the sunset can be heavenly. And what could be better than early evening al fresco dining by the pool or in the garden. Order a catered picnic from your favorite restaurant.
The type of outdoor space that’s right for you will depend on what you want to accomplish, says David Hetrick, of Exterior Concepts in Tampa, a company specializing in custom outdoor living spaces. Do you need share from the sun or protection from the rain? How are you going to use the space? Will you be installing lighting or overhead fans? Is your style simple or more sophisticated?
Gazebos, pergolas, pavilions, cabanas and arbors are some of the choices to consider as you dress up your backyard to better suit your lifestyle. Each of these structures offers something different, but their primary goal is to serve as an important architectural design element that draws you outside into the fresh air.
More aesthetic than functional, an arbor placed over a mulch or paver sidewalk can serve as an attractive entryway to your outdoor space or it can stand alone as visually attractive focal point, especially if covered with a flowering vine.
Pergolas have an open-frame structure with slats, latticework or a commercial-grade shade cloth cover and can serve as a walkway to the garden or as a sitting area. They let in filtered light but offer no protection from the rain. For one homeowner, Hetrick designed a pergola shade structure that wrapped around three sides of a pool, and for another he enclosed a spa with a pergola that features a built-in misting system. It’s all about style, vision and purpose.
Gazebos and pavilions are larger structures that serve as outdoor rooms with a cover and flooring. “They provide protection from the elements, give people more usable living space outside and they can add value of the home,” says Daniel Conover, of The Carpentry Hut in Sarasota, which specializes in fine exterior woodworking and design. Gazebos are typically six-sided or eight-sided, which pavilions are more rectangular or square and are very functional when you’re trying to make best use of the space.
Cabanas often have an elevated floor a few feet higher than the pool or sun deck and can be covered with everything from canvas fabric to match the Bimini top or with a metal or shingle roof to match the house, says Conover. Free-flowing sheer curtains can be added for privacy in the style of South Beach Resorts.
So when it’s too hot to cook, or a beautiful, tropical evening beckons, grab a picnic and retreat to your favorite outdoor space right in your own backyard.
Written by Janan Talafer
Tags: Arbors, cabanas, Exterior Concepts, gazebos, misting system, Outdoor Living Space, Pavilions, Pergolas
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The following article was published in Issue 2.08 of Brandon Magazine:
It’s a hot, humid afternoon when I meet David Hetrick at one of Exterior Concepts’ latest job sites, an outdoor living space in the backyard of a home in Pasco County. As I step out of my air-conditioned car, the wall of heat is stifling, and I prepare to endure one of the hottest days of the year.
As I walk through the gate into the backyard, however, the temperature drops noticeably. Two grandfather oak trees spread their canopies over the space, blocking the full strength of the sun, and a pleasant breeze picks up, rustling the leaves high above my head and stirring wind chimes hanging from a branch, cooling the whole yard.
I’m greeted by Luke, Hetrick’s golden retriever, who tags along on many of his trips to job sites, and Hetrick and I sit in rocking chairs on the nearly finished deck to talk about his latest design. Monarch butterflies flutter through the air, passing right by my face as we talk. It’s a serene setting, and it’s only half finished.
A large wood deck is adjacent to the house, and it leads to a screened wooden pavilion complete with a ceiling fan. The foundation has been framed for large stone steps, which will lead into the upwardly sloped backyard. Under the large oak trees, an area has been prepped for a blue stone patio and fire pit, and already the stacked stones are taking shape in an area the family will enjoy when the nights grow cooler. A water feature starts at the top of the yard and works its way down through four tiers of stacked stone, where it drains into river rocks in front of the deck. Each stone has been carefully placed to shape the water as it falls, and the sound is melodious as the water dances from stone to stone. Soon the water feature will have yet another tier and landscaping will fill in the empty spaces, blending each of the mediums and spaces together. There is something special about the environment Exterior Concepts has created here, and when it’s finished, it will be magical.
“Our goal is to create positive living spaces,” says David Hetrick, owner of Exterior Concepts, a company specializing in mixed-medium outdoor living spaces. “When designing a project, my goal is to create three-dimensional art that is not only beautiful, but functional,” he says. “We constantly search for new and creative ways to bring harmonic balance and integrity to a home, while keeping in mind that function is also very important in our work. We encourage our customers to interact with their new outdoor spaces and truly use them as extensions of their homes.”
Exterior Concepts is so much more than your average hardscape company. Sure, they install pavers and build decks, but in addition to technical skill, they also bring a level of creativity and artistic talent to every project they undertake. The results are spectacular outdoor living spaces for their customers.
Hetrick brings both a bachelor’s degree and post-graduate work in fine arts to Exterior Concepts, which he founded 17 years ago. The artistic training he received in composition, balance and flow was easily transitioned from pencil, ink and paints to the wood, stone and water that he now uses to create his outdoor masterpieces.
Exterior Concepts designs elaborate outdoor living spaces for their customers, with elements including custom decks, patios, gazebos, pavilions, arbors, pergolas, ponds, waterfalls, spas, fire pits and outdoor kitchens. They also incorporate elements like interlocking pavers, stonework, misting systems, lighting, customized landscaping and retaining walls into their designs. “Our team is well-versed with a wide variety of building materials and project types,” says Hetrick. “While many companies specialize in one type of project, like decks or ponds, we can design and construct the entire project from start to finish.”
Hetrick is in the field on each project, lending his expertise and keen eye for design to each project the company touches. “Because I’m there for each job, the design process can evolve as the project proceeds,” he says. “Instead of sketching out a deck, handing it over to the crew and walking away, I’m able to see opportunities to expand the design as the project evolves. For example, this project started with only the deck and pavilion,” he says as he gestures around the yard. “But soon we noticed additional ways to increase the beauty of the site. We worked with the owners to create an elaborate backyard oasis.”
While each project the company creates is completely custom, water features are often incorporated as a central highlight of Exterior Concepts’ outdoor designs. “I like to appeal to as many of the senses as possible with our designs,” says Hetrick. “Water is not only a pleasing visual element, but it also brings a soothing sound into the space.”
Water also helps direct the flow of energy. “When I design a space with water features, I direct water toward each of the living spaces we’ve created,” he says. “There is a flow and balance to any area people spend time in, and every element we add to our designs is there to ultimately increase the energy and enjoyment of the space.”
Many of Exterior Concepts’ projects and the mediums he chooses to work with are influenced by Hetrick’s childhood in the Pocono Mountains. “We use a lot of stone imported from Pennsylvania, North Carolina and Tennessee,” he says. “However, we also incorporate some of Florida’s more traditional materials, including indigenous landscaping and interlocking pavers.”
Hetrick takes inspiration from Mother Nature when creating his designs. “Nature blends everything together,” he says. “When I’m whitewater kayaking, I pay attention to the way water moves and the energy it carries. I see how wind and water have shaped boulders, and I have an immense appreciation for the beauty of stone that has been around for thousands and thousands of years.”
Hetrick also enjoys life’s simpler pleasures, and he runs his company with a strong focus on good old-fashioned customer service. “It’s almost like I should have lived a hundred years ago,” he says. “I enjoy working with my hands instead of relying on technology and talking to people instead of relying on email. I enjoy going back to the roots and sculpting the environment in a way that is non-obtrusive to the earth while still making things accessible, functional and enjoyable for my customers.”
It’s the challenging projects that make Hetrick love his job so much, and whether it’s finding a way to integrate a waterfall into a deck, incorporating stained glass windows into an open-air pavilion or transforming an ordinary fountain into a giant, functional sundial, some of Exterior Concepts’ most memorable projects have allowed Hetrick to explore new ways of doing things.
“We created the sundial fountain for a couple with a large, circular driveway in front of their home,” he says. “I incorporated her love of water with his love of timepieces to create a creative, artistic piece for their home. We designed a 40-foot fountain with a large arm set at a specific angle to cast shadows on stones around the edge of the fountain representing each hour of the day. The result was functional artwork suited perfectly to the homeowners.”
Hetrick enjoys working with customers who are looking for something unique and different, and who want to use his creative talents. “People often have pre-conceived notions about outdoor spaces, like a deck has to be rectangular in shape, or a pond should go in the back corner of their yard,” he says. “I encourage my customers to think ‘outside of the rectangle’ to explore all of the new possibilities that exist when you approach a project with an open mind.”
The Exterior Concepts team is a tight-knit group of craftsmen who each bring unique talents to the company and take pride in the quality work they do for their customers. Lead carpenter and foreman Jonathan Deluca formerly owned Terhaar Construction and built homes in the Poconos. “I bring seven years of production experience to my job at Exterior Concepts,” he says. “As a project manager, I keep the jobs organized and running smoothly, making sure there are no mistakes and that everyone is working safely and to their full potential.” Another member of the crew, Andrew Musty, brings a degree in studio art and post-graduate work in furniture making to the table. The team constantly shares experiences, and Hetrick enjoys educating his crew members and passing along his trades to others. “We all have a sense of pride in what we do, and I am lucky to have such a strong team working for me,” he says.
Hetrick, who comes from a long line of master carpenters, has grown up with an appreciation of water and the outdoors, and his fine arts background and technical skill have matured through his experiences. As he looks back at some of the memories that have shaped his life, it’s not at all surprising that Hetrick does what he does today. “At age two and a half, I was already fishing on the Bushkill River with my father,” he says. “At four I learned to snow ski, and at six I learned to water ski. My first canoe was purchased for me at age 12, and by 14, I was camping and canoeing through the more remote and beautiful regions of the Pine Barrens and Pocono Mountains.” It’s no surprise that Hetrick’s first job at 15 was working outdoors for a landscaping company.
While his father instilled in him a love for the outdoors, his mother instilled her artistic talent, and Hetrick credits his mother’s genetic code with his own artistic calling. As he completed his art degree in college, he also worked in various fields of construction, building decks one summer and roofing another. “All of these elements combined led me to start Exterior Concepts in 1991, and I’ve been self-employed ever since,” he says. “We are the sum of our experiences, and I’m right where I should be, doing what I love to do.”
In addition to his work with Exterior Concepts, Hetrick also uses his fine arts training to create more traditional artwork. One of his pencil drawings is currently on display until September 29 in the TECO Gallery in downtown Tampa. Hetrick lives in South Tampa with his 13-year-old daughter, Brooklyn, who also shares a love for water with her father. “As a single father, I’m extremely proud of my daughter,” he says. “She truly grounds me, and she is one of the best parts of my life.”
Exterior Concepts has showrooms and displays in Wesley Chapel and Brandon. To learn more, call 813-877-2792 or visit their website, www.exteriorconceptsonline.com.
Article written by Jenni McKay
Tags: Custom Decks, Exterior Concepts, Fire Pits, FL, Outdoor Lighting, Outdoor Living Space, Patio, Pavilions, Pennsylvania Blue Stone, Screen Room, Stonework, Water Features, Waterfall
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 To date, in 20 years of business, my longest initial consultation. I believe the consultation started mid morning. I had to excuse myself briefly at lunch to give an estimate on a small deck, than came back for approximately four more hours (all good though, and appreciated greatly.) Needless to say at the end of that first day we did have a working design and an agreement to proceed with the project. It is a great feeling when a customer has that much confidence in you on an initial visit to give you the go ahead on a project of this magnitude. I really do appreciate Ed & Louise’s confidence in our company, and I believe that they were very happy with the services and final product.
I believe that the reason for the length of the consultation is that the design of the project evolved to completion that first day rather than as the project progressed, and we were very thorough in exploring all possibilities when finalizing the plans.
The initial project was to replace an existing wood deck that run along the length of the pool (approximately 80′ Lin ft. x 14′ ft in width) with a new composite deck. For interest we decided to split the new  deck into 3 terraces. An upper level composite deck was built with a 16′ x 16′ pavilion roof above. This deck has two built in wooden swings and a ceiling fan. This deck also has custom composite benches, planters, and a railing. The 2nd tier, which takes up approximately 50 Lin’ x 14′ W of the overall deck provides the majority of the decks living and sitting area. This deck also has custom composite wood benches and planters, as well as a composite railing. The third deck is a sunken deck 14′ x 14′ in size and solely dedicated to a six foot diameter stone fire pit that we had constructed and mortared together sunken into the center of the deck. Custom composite benches as well as composite storage benches were built around this deck for seating around the fire pit. A custom wood fence was built starting at this deck and running along the side of the pond and up to the house. Next to this deck an existing outdoor shower on the existing concrete pool deck was refurbished, building walls, a sitting area and a cabinet for soaps and shampoo, all out of composite decking. To provide shade, an ornamental pergola was constructed above.
On one end of the pool we choose to construct a large pondless waterfall (6″ in height) to emulate the stone in the fire pit and continue that theme throughout the design, Various matching stone retainment walls were  also installed to terrace the landscaping.
One aspect of the design that wasn’t discussed or foreseen on our first meeting was the quality of the existing pool deck. As the initial project was finishing up and looking very good, it was becoming more and more evident to Ed and I how aged and weathered the existing concrete pool deck really was. The price to replace a pool deck to interlocking pavers seems to usually be a lot less than most would think, and when I put the numbers together for refurbishing the pool deck, Ed was very relieved and very adimate about proceeding.
So began phase two of the project. We would cut out the existing pool coping, install a blended 1″ “Appian Stone” paver from Old Castle, and also cut in a 3″x3″ deco drain to run the entire length of the pool. We also replaced the tile pavers in the front entrance way with1″ concrete pavers. A matching interlocking oaver walkway was also installed leading from the pool deck to the horse field.
This entire project was lit up using a low voltage lighting system manufactured by Garden Light. Flush mount lights were built into all planters and benches, as well as the composite skirting where we had elevation changes in the deck. Post mount lights were installed around the pavilion and outdoor shower, and pathway lights and spot lights were installed in the landscaping and on the waterfall. The project was also entirely landscaped and all facets of this project were done in house. Many thanks to Tony, Steve, Andrew and the rest of the crew. Thanks to Louise and Ed most of all.
Tags: Composite Benches, Composite Decking, Composite Planters, Concrete Pavers, Deck, Exterior Concepts, Fire Pits, Interlocking Pavers, Low Voltage Lighting, Outdoor Lighting, Outdoor Living Space, Outdoor Shower, Pavilions, Pondless Waterfall, Ponds, Retainment Walls, Spa, Swimming Pool Restoration, Wood Fence
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 A series of three composite decks that we’ve just constructed in South Tampa. The first is a two tiered organic shaped deck skinned with ‘trex’ composite decking. The upper deck circles around a circular hot tub. The deck boards were out in wedge shapes to radiate outward from the spa. This deck also has two circular stairs.
The second was a second story deck that ended up being completely rebuilt and redesigned and an existing spiral staircase was also skinned with ‘Trex’ composite decking. A Trex composite railing system was also installed on this deck.
The third deck is the front and landing which is a small 6′x10′ deck with a series of pre shaped landing leading down creating a circular staircase. This deck also is skinned with ‘Trex’ composite decking, and has a ‘Trex’ composite railing system installed.
Tags: Circular Stairs, Composite Decking, Composite Railing System, Exterior Concepts, Hot Tub, Outdoor Living Space, South Tampa, Spa
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 This project is a full backyard renovation that we just completed in South Tampa. From my initial consultation with Tim and Leigh this was a project I was really looking forward to working on. To start with Tim and Leigh are both very kind and easy going people. They also had a pretty good concept of what they wanted to accomplish. They had just moved from Davis Island to the New Suburb Beautiful neighborhood of South Tampa. In the size of there home from 3800 to 1700 sq. ft; so one main objective was to add additional living space to the home and the most ideal solution was to work the backyard. They brought to the table some very good ideas and were also very open and receptive to mine as well. We started with a full backyard design with most of the variables incorporated, but as in some of our best works, the construction process proceeded in continuous stages, starting with the construction and installation of what we knew, than standing back, looking and evaluating before proceeding with the next phase.
One variable that always seems to enhance my designs is that we had a very small space to design and construct within. Having a list of objectives, than having margins to work them within always seems to add balance to a design. We had a main area approximately 50×20 that already had a guest house built within  that space. Within this space our goal was to integrate an in ground marsite spa with an adjoining koi pond and waterfall and a full outdoor kitchen. In addition we could redesign and install a brick clay paver patio and walkway, and convert an existing storage shed into a cabana with storage space. This was all built a midst an existing pergola that I was given the option to take down and redesign but chose to leave and work with.
Something that I enjoy with design and construction (as well as life) is trying something new or something that at least feels fresh and new. With this project I feel there were several aspects that felt new. To start with the spa. While we have installed many self contained spas (4 or 5 already this year alone) into our designs, it is rare that we have designed an in ground spa like this one. In addition, we abutted the koi pond up to the spa to give the illusion that the pond and hot tub were one, so they are literally separated by only 8″ of concrete,rebar, tile, and stone.
The second project, that really was a first for me was to take an existing 10′x10′ shed and convert it into a small converted pavilion, leaving the back and side for storage. Pictures may be the only way to describe the process, but in the end the result turned out exactly as we envisioned it.  The pavilion is compete with outdoor ; lighting, a ceiling fan and an outdoor flat screen television. The floor was decked with composite decking with an arched bridge leading over the koi pond. The carpentry project on this job was a custom built wood privacy structure that was constructed to hide the homes pump and air conditioning unit that would have been very visually obtrusive otherwise.
The existing clay brick paver patio was redesigned and enhanced, adding a wrap around brick walkway along one side of the house and an additional brick patio and walkway on the other.
A full outdoor kitchen was designed on one side of the main patio complete with a grill, sink, Green Egg Smoker, additional Dual side burners, along with storage underneath. A custom concrete counter was subbed to, designed and installed by Jeff Downing of Downing Designs.
A full Low voltage outdoor lighting system was installed (fixtures manufactured by garden light), as well as redesigning and installing the entire landscape. In addition these were many smaller variables that we had to work with, either adapting or redesigning them into our designs, including an existing drainage system, relocating a double wide aluminum gate, and working in the gas line installed for the spa and the kitchen.
Thanks Leigh and Tim, it has been a pleasure. Enjoy those Auburn games while lounging in your new spa.
Tags: Brick Paver Patio, Bridge, Cabana, Composite Decking, Davis Island, Exterior Concepts, Garden Light, Hot Tub, Interlocking Paver Patio, Koi Pond, Outdoor Ceiling Fan, Outdoor Kitchens, Outdoor Lighting, Outdoor Living Space, Patio, Pavilions, Pergolas, South Tampa, Spa, Stone, Storage Shed, Walkway, Water Fall
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 Jeff and Josie called me shortly after completing the restoration of the interior of their home for a consultation on designing and constructing the exterior of their home (backyard only). What we had to work with was a very dated 60′s florida room witth a lenolium tiled floor, opache plastic windows, and very little outside of that other than a small concrete slab for a patio.
Jeff and Josie stated that there main objective was that they wanted what they wanted and that they wanted it to be absolutely beautiful. I really had no other restictions when it came down to designing. An ideal situation and couple for me to work with. Our initial consultation entailed making a list of  goals, needs, and objectives (both functional and aesthetically) and then I would incorporate them into a working design.
Upon consuming a design, construction then proceeded. Our first step was to remove the existing obtrusive walls to the florida room (leaving the roof and supports). Then an organically designed interlocking paver patio was installed that would not only cover the existing room, but would flow out into the yard creating outdoor living space, three Windsor Stone benches with built in LED lights were constructed along its perimeter, two of them emcompassing a Windsor stone fire pit. In addition one area of the patio was dedicated to grilling space with a free form pergola (emulating the contour of the patio) installed for shade. The opposite end of the patio was dedicated to the couples two pets, with a dog run and a dog door built into the new screen room.
 This leads to the new screen room which was installed with the intention of giving as open a look to the backyard as possible. To accomplish this no kneewall or kickplate was installed, and 5 4′ retractable sliders were installed instead of french doors or standard sliders. The end result is that the new screen room barely creates a barrier and the overall look is that the interlocking paver patio flows through into the backyard.
A three sided bar was constructed within the screen room, which consists of a sink, ice chest, and granite countertops trimmed with Brazilian Walnut (epel) The entire bar was faced with cultured stone as well as the wall in which it abuts up to. A flat screen television was installed within the cultured stone on the wall
This project was also completely landscaped and a full outdoor lighting system as installed. Thanks Jeff and Josie for the opportunity, it was a pleasure.
Tags: Cultured Stone, Dog Run and Door, Fire Pits, Interlocking Paver Patio, Interlocking Pavers, Landscaping, Outdoor Bar, Outdoor Kitchens, Outdoor Lighting, Outdoor Living Space, Patio, Pergolas, Retainment Walls, Screen Room, Shade Structure, Windsor Stone
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 This is maybe the 5th or 6th time in my 20 years of business that I have been asked to perform this task. Debbie came to me with the matter of wanting to dispose of her inground swimming pool. The pool was constructed within an existing Aluminum screen enclosure. Debbie’s first thought was to fill in the pool with base, and then go over the pool area and pool deck with the interlocking pavers. I informed her of a second option that we has done several times in the past, to cover the existing pool and concrete deck with composite wood decking.
The first step in this process was to drain the pool and drill 1′ weep holes through the pools foundation. This is actually not to allow water that builds up in the pool to seep into the ground, but actually just the opposite. To allow ground water the abilit to flow up through the pool rather than build up pressure underneath the pools foundation and lift the concrete out of the ground. The second step is to cut a square approximately 18″x18″ at the lowest point of the pool (usually where the bottom drain is). Dig out 12″ of ground and remortar, forming a small swell where all water coming into the pool will build up a sump pump with a float was then installed and plumbed to the outside of the pool enclosure, removing all standing water.
The next step was the actual construction of the deck. The first variable we had to contend with was that because of the existing door thresholds level, the composite decking would have to be postponed at the lowest possible level. The composite decking would sit on the coping edge of the pool, basically 1″ above the existing deck level. A standard deck framework was constructed within the pool basin, with the top of the joist being in level with the top of the pool coping. Next the pool decking would have to be modified to this level also. Most concrete pool decks are sloped away from the pool. To compensate for this the concrete was shot with transit and ferring strips (16″ ok) where cut to size to elevate and level the floor.
On this particular deck we constructed it dual level, skinned with the choice deck composite decking. A trap door was installed for access to the pump, and two ornamental diamond patterns were cut into the deck, one in the upper , and one in the lower deck.
Tags: Composite Decking, Deck, Interlocking Pavers, Outdoor Living Space, Screen Enclosure, Swimming Pool, Wesley Chapel
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