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Our skilled trade, developed over generations

The story of The Exterior Living Company begins long before it opened its doors. Alex Chekanoff worked as a carpenter building furniture in Yugoslavia before immigrating to Akron, Ohio in the 1960s. His son, future ELC Owner, Mike Chekanoff, was "born with a hammer in [his] hand" and has been building things ever since.

Growing up, Mike got the kind of education that trade schools can only hope to replicate. From a young age, he got started building decks, running appointments, handling licensing and absorbing every aspect of the business alongside his father. It is precisely this early, ground-up learning experience that spurred Mike on to four long and successful decades in the industry.

In 2024, it was time to embrace the next challenge. Inspired to build on the multi-generational dynamic that brought him to where he is today, Mike launched his own operation — a true family business. The Exterior Living Company now spans three generations and serves Central Ohio as a highly regarded name in the world of residential outdoor living spaces.

Mike Chekanoff holding his newborn son.
Father and son shaking hands.

5 Steps to the Outdoor Living Space of Your Dreams

Complete our contact form to get the ball rolling. Once you submit, you'll be prompted to schedule an in-home appointment, where we'll discuss your vision and evaluate your space firsthand.

During our in-home visit, we discuss various design options and other possibilities tailored to your lifestyle, ensuring your goals and ideas remain at the foundation of all future project plans.

Based on the consultation, we will provide a detailed, no-obligation estimate. Should you choose to move forward, we’ll establish expectations, determine a clear timeline, and sign the standard contract.

At this point, our experienced team will handle all material ordering, permit acquisition, and installation scheduling. From there, we break ground on the project with a constant focus on delivering exquisite craftsmanship.

After installation, we'll conduct a comprehensive quality check and manage any and all required inspections. With the ELC Pledge, your continued satisfaction is a guarantee, ensuring total peace of mind along with the completion of your brand new outdoor living space.

The ELC Pledge

“We pledge to always honor the trust placed in our team through a commitment to consistency, craftsmanship, and integrity as we design, build, and follow up on projects around our Central Ohio community.”

Frequently Asked Questions

Where does ELC offer its services?

We serve Franklin and the surrounding Ohio counties.

Who is ELC?

ELC is a third-generation, family owned and operated team of deck and patio room professionals. As locally born and raised graduates of Olentangy and OSU, our Central Ohio roots run deep. That's part of why we love getting to know our customers (and they're pets) so much! Our fully bonded and insured team closely adheres to the Ohio Revised Code of Deck Building Standards to guarantee your new outdoor living feature remains safe, sturdy, and downright stunning for years to come.

Does ELC offer a warranty?

We offer a five-year structural warranty on all of our builds. Additional manufacturer warranties may apply. Vinyl windows and doors carry lifetime manufacturer warranties. Provia and Azek product warranties typically run between 30 and 50 years.

What is the ELC Pledge?

The ELC Pledge is as follows:

"We pledge to always honor the trust placed in our team through a commitment to the core operational values of consistency, craftsmanship, and integrity as we quote, design, build, and follow up on projects around our Central Ohio community."

What types of decks do you build?

We build pressure-treated decks, hybrid decks (pressure-treated decks with aluminum railing), composite decks, PVC decks, and hardwood decks (Brazilian, redwood, cedar, etc.).

Do you build second-story decks?

Yes.

How much does a new deck cost?

Depending on the project dimensions, materials, and features, decks typically range in price from $15k to $45k.

What are the differences between composite and pressure-treated decks?

There are three main differences between composite and pressure-treated decks: lifespan, maintenance, and affordability. Where pressure-treated decks provide a certain aesthetic at a lower initial cost, composite decks have a greater lifespan, lower maintenance, and the potential to increase in value over time.

How long does it take to build a deck?

From start to finish, a new deck project takes approximately six to eight weeks. This timeline accounts for the permit process and average waitlist times. Once our crew breaks ground, the deck should be finished in approximately one to two weeks.

Do you build sunrooms on a deck or slab foundation?

We build on both decks and slab foundations, depending on the situation and your needs.

How much does a new sunroom cost?

Depending on the project dimensions, materials, and features, a typical sunroom costs $50-85k.

Can you resurface my deck?

Almost always, yes. However, your deck’s framing must be sound. If this isn't the case, that's okay. We can often correct warped framing to allow for resurfacing.

What is the process of resurfacing a deck?

The process of resurfacing a deck can be divided into four essential steps.

  1. Remove all existing decking, railing, stairs, and apron.
  2. Inspect the framing, framing spacing, fasteners, flashing, and connection to the main home for signs of rot.
  3. Update or add items as needed.
  4. Install deck joist tape on all skyward surfaces to extend the lifespan of your existing framing.
How much does a deck resurfacing cost?

Depending on the project dimensions, materials, and features, a typical deck resurfacing project costs $10-35k.

Does my deck require reframing?

To make this evaluation, a decking professional needs to look at a variety of factors, including post quantity and placement, beam sizes and placement, joist spans and spacing, and the quality of all connections and fasteners.

An ELC crew member can assess your existing framing, determine if the deck is a candidate for resurfacing, explain your options, and advise you on an ideal time to resurface or replace.

Do you offer sunroom renovation services?

Yes.

What is the process of renovating a sunroom?

The process of renovating a sunroom begins with permit acquisition. Once that's in order, field measurements and product purchasing precede demolition and hauling. From that point, it's all down to handling any necessary electricity or framing alterations and then installing windows, doors, insulation, and all interior and exterior finishes.

How much does a sunroom renovation cost?

The price of sunroom renovation work can vary dramatically. Simple projects often come in under $10k, but more elaborate large-scale projects can reach up around $80k.

Can you convert my three-season room into a four-season room?

Yes.

How do I receive service on my project after its completion?

Simply contact our office. We will then schedule a visit to assess the situation and schedule any necessary work.

How do I file a warranty claim?

Call ELC or contact us via our website.

Get started today with a complimentary, no-obligation estimate.

An indoor/outdoor living space.