Contractor’s Corner

Technology has introduced new methods and tools for bending composite deck boards, including heat-and steam-bending technology. These technologies make composite pliable enough to bend without breaking, resulting in smooth and uniform curves, expanding the possibilities for creating complex designs.

Our friend from across the pond, Simon Thomas, Swansea, Wales, U.K., has mastered this technology.

“My Trex custom curve oven completely changed my business. I bought it in 2018 and since that time, I have built a lot of curved decks; not just curved perimeters, but curved inlays and unique designs. I use a forming table to shape the boards and calculate my radius. Composite decking has some really striking colors and bending boards has given me a unique option in the U.K.,” said Thomas.

For more information on Custom Curving technology and techniques, reach out to Simon Thomas on FB and Instagram @simonthomasdeckanddesign or @DeckingTNT (Tools & Technology).

but it will be a top tool in my toolbox for any of those irregular shapes. It is also must-have for designing a new space from a blank slate, above ground pool decks, or any measurements with elevation change.

Andy: I agree with Mike, I have found that this tool best suits my design process when designing an above ground pool deck. With the elevation changes and sometimes difficult layouts, Moasure has helped make this process easier.

Here is where we think it could use some improvements: where I am standing (I’m pretty short). This is helpful to gather existing wall or eve heights when measuring up for covered porches or pergolas.

Mike: It is very sensitive and at first I got several alerts that I moved too fast, or too slow, or was too rough with it (oops). Even after many uses, it still yells at me! At least the alerts I am getting now don’t affect the accuracy as much. I will just say there is a bit of a learning curve.

It doesn’t have any buttons on it which was a little hard to get used to. To turn it on you have to tap on it (but not too hard). Then it must be connected to Bluetooth before it shuts itself off. This might be good for battery life for those who forget to power the device off when done, but we found it timing out before we got it connected a few times. Speaking of the battery life, unfortunately there is no way to see it on the device. You must first connect it to the app and find it in there.

Andy: Since I wasn’t paying attention to it on the app, I did end up with an unexpected dead battery more than once.

Also it would be nice if the collapsible STICK was included, or wasn’t so expensive because it seemed to complete the tool.

Andy: Moasure is also incredibly user-friendly (once you get the hang of it). Using their app, most of us deck builders can easily take measurements, save the data, and share it with our team members. This helps streamline the building process and reduces the time and effort required to complete a project. However, for me it did take a minute to see how I could utilize this tool to my benefit. One of the best features that Moasure offers is easy-to-follow, how-to videos, and a responsive customer service, which is important these days. When I found myself struggling with using the tool, they quickly put me in the right direction.

Mike: There’s not a lot of payoff using this for measuring a 16x20 rectangle deck on a flat property,

Overall, this small but mighty tool will help save time and money for most deck builds. It will also set you apart from your competition. When the other guy is still out in the yard for over 20 minutes with his laser level (or guessing with his super accurate “laser eyes”), you’re walking and talking with the customer while measuring—instantly showing their personally created designed space. This will also show your commitment to accuracy, attention to detail, and your investment in your craft.

Pros: Versatility, convenience, accuracy and a great app on a smart device.

Cons: Learning curve, battery life, stick sold separately.

Overall TNT rating: 9.6/10

Andy Henley is the owner of Hen-House Decks, Uniontown, OH. Mike Mitchell is the owner of Mitchell Construction in the Chicagoland market. Andy and Mike can be reached online @DeckingTNT.