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SPECIALIST Ideas & Strategies for Outdoor Living Professionals
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DESIGN TRENDS • NADRA CROWNS ITS WINNERS • THE WATERFALL DECK
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March/April 2026
SPECIALIST Ideas & Strategies for Outdoor Living Professionals
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CHANGE OF ADDRESS Send address label from recent issue, new address, and 9-digit zip to address below. POSTMASTER Send address changes to Deck Specialist, 151 Kalmus Dr., Ste. J3, Costa Mesa, CA 92626. Deck Specialist (USPS 224) is published six times a year at 151 Kalmus Dr., Ste. J3, Costa Mesa, CA 92626 by 526 Media Group, Inc. Periodicals Postage paid at Santa Ana, CA, and additional post offices. It is an independently-owned publication for U.S.-based builders and contractors that specialize in decking and other outdoor living projects. Copyright®2026 by 526 Media Group, Inc. Cover and entire contents are fully protected and must not be reproduced in any manner without written permission. All Rights Reserved. We reserve the right to accept or reject any editorial or advertising matter, and assume no liability for materials furnished to it. Opinions expressed are those of the authors or persons quoted and not necessarily those of 526 Media Group, Inc. Articles are intended for informational purposes only and should not be construed as legal, financial or business management advice, nor an endorsement of any company, product, service or individual referenced. March/April 2026 • Volume 10 • Number 2
DECK
SPECIALIST
Ideas & Strategies for Outdoor Living Professionals
SPECIAL SECTION
PROTECT THE DECK
Moisture Flow 12 Controlling Drainage is no longer treated as an optional upgrade. Builders are now planning for water movement at the same time they plan framing layouts
the Boards 18 Below Protecting the deck starts from the ground up,
34
with early decisions about foundations and framing shaping how a structure performs over decades
PROJECT PROFILES
Deck 22 Waterfall Fraser Decks and Patio Covers explains their waterfall deck project
Deck 24 Hummingbird OSB built their deck project to promote
ON THE COVER: Outdoor projects have evolved way past “just a deck.” In 2026, homeowners expect outdoor spaces full of personality that blend with their home. MoistureShield 2026 photo by Oldcastle APG, Inc.
ALSO INSIDE
hummingbird watching
NATIONAL DECK CONTEST
American Deck & Railing Association 30 North crowns its 2025 champions
INDUSTRY LOOK and high-tech materials are reshaping 34 AIdecking in 2026
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8 Editor’s Note 10 Industry News 36 Parks & Deck Creation with Bobby Parks 40 Set the Standard with Brendan Casey 44 Tool Reviews with Andy Henley and Mike Mitchell
48 Market Yourself with April Edwards 50 New Products 56 Date Planner 57 Ad Index 58 Before You Dig
22 6 | Deck Specialist | March/April 2026
EDITOR’S NOTE • Sara Graves
Keep It Clean
A
friend of mine recently wrapped up a major bathroom renovation. It was the kind of project that she knew would disrupt her life and require a level of patience right up until the final invoice was paid. She carefully timed the start of the work, expecting it to be finished well ahead of the holiday season. To be fair, the work itself was solid. Clean lines. No shortcuts behind finished surfaces. On paper, it was the kind of job most contractors would be proud to showcase on their website. But here’s where things started to get messy. On the first day of the job, workers tracked white drywall dust across the red-bricked front entry and onto the adjacent concrete. My friend raised the issue with the general contractor that night. It was cleaned the next day. The project progressed slowly. Four months later, at the height of the Christmas season, it was already two months past its expected completion date and unfinished. While a few delays were unavoidable, most stemmed from the lackadaisical way the project was managed. Unless my friend complained, nothing was done. Days stretched into weeks. Then, almost predictably, the day after she raised an issue with the GC—poof—subcontractors appeared the very next morning. The holidays came and went before the project was completed. The finished bathroom looked great, but everything around it did not. Dust and residue coated surfaces throughout the space and along the pathway leading to it. Before the room could be used, everything had to be thoroughly cleaned. After tens of thousands of dollars had changed hands, my friend felt that the builder should’ve ensured the jobsite was cleaned after the work was done. The next day, she turned to Yelp to share her experience. The review was honest, acknowledging the quality of the work while calling out the slow pace and the unclean jobsite. Her review wasn’t about craftsmanship or price alone. It was about responsiveness. About cleanliness. It highlighted the gap between good work and a good experience. The very gap where reputations quietly erode. In this era where Yelp reviews live forever and recommendations travel fast, one negative, but honest
Her review wasn’t about craftsmanship or price alone. It was about responsiveness. About cleanliness. It highlighted the gap between good work and a good experience. review, can mean the difference between landing the next job or not. Most builders understand how to build. Fewer fully appreciate how homeowners experience the build. Homeowners aren’t evaluating tolerances or techniques; they’re living with the delays. They’re living with the mess. They’re worrying about the rest of their house. So the question worth asking during a job isn’t just, Is the work solid? It’s, What is the homeowner experiencing every day?
Sara Graves is the managing editor of Deck Specialist. Reach her at sgraves@526mediagroup.com
8 | Deck Specialist | March/April 2026
INDUSTRY NEWS
Envision Adds Wallace in Eight States
TimberTech Named Manufacturer Partner of the Year Palmer-Donavin, a leader in building material distribution, named TimberTech its 2025 Manufacturer Partner of the Year, recognizing the significant impact it has had on the industry. “We really had a phenomenal year with TimberTech in the Midwest,” said Josh Thompson, VP of product management at Palmer-Donavin. “We’ve been in business together for nearly three decades, and we continue to see growth year after year.” Based in Grove City, OH., Palmer-Donavin operates 13 distribution centers from Wisconsin to South Carolina.
Envision Outdoor Living Products, manufacturer of Envision composite decking and the Fairway Railing collection, has added Wallace Distribution Co. as its newest distributor. From its headquarters in Morristown, TN., Wallace will sell Envision’s aluminum railing to dealers throughout most of Tennessee, Kentucky, Virginia, North Carolina, and South Carolina, all of West Virginia, and northern Alabama and northern Georgia. “Envision will be the exclusive railing sold through Wallace, and this new partnership will help us tap into new dealer markets and strengthen our portfolio in the region,” said Adam Caplinger, director of sales for Envision Outdoor Living Products.
Trex Honors 2025 Stellar Service Winners Trex recently named its Stellar Service Award winners of the year. The highest honor bestowed by the company to professional deck builders, the award recognizes outstanding contractor performance, customer service and brand partnership. The Trex Stellar Service Award winners for 2025 by region were: Central: Rick Neff of RN Construction (Michigan); South Central: Tony Clem of Add-a-Deck of the Rockies (Colorado); Northwest: Tana Mallory of Three 60 Decks (Washington); Northeast: Jay Oliver of Long Island Decking (New York); South: Adam Kristofco of Precision Deck & Patio (North Carolina); Southwest: Guy Zrachyaof Palm Construction (California); MidAtlantic: Nir Elimelch of Samsol Decks (New York); International: Phil Wright of Wirral Decking Company (United Kingdom).
10 | Deck Specialist | March/April 2026
March/April 2026 | Deck Specialist |
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Controlling the WATER IS UNAVOIDABLE. How a deck manages it determines whether the structure quietly performs for decades, or slowly begins to fail. While surface materials often receive the spotlight, most moisture-related failures begin below the deck boards, where water collects, lingers, and finds its way into framing. Manufacturers across multiple categories point to a few consistent danger zones: horizontal surfaces, transitions, and areas where airflow is restricted.
Designing for Water Before It Shows Up Drainage is no longer treated as an optional upgrade. Builders increasingly plan for water movement at the same time they plan framing layouts. “Real performance lives below the surface: loads, spans, connections, drainage, maintenance access. A solid workflow is to lock in a code-compliant structural model first (beams, joists, posts, connections), then layer on decking, railing, and finish options—rather than the other way around,” says Martin Crepeau, sales and business development specialist for EstimCAD, which assists builders in creating detailed drawings of their decking or outdoor projects. There’s immediate value in planning drainage early, especially if there will be a dry area below the deck. “Water diversion products protect fasteners and ledger connections,” says Pat Flynn, owner of Top Deck and RainShed Decking. “It provides a far more stable environment for the wood, decreases frame deflection, and slows the aging of the lumber in general.” Builders are now designing the full vertical space, says Heath Bowman, owner of Haven Underdeck. “Instead of just designing a deck, forward-thinking builders are designing the entire vertical space,” he says. By integrating underdeck systems early, builders can double usable outdoor square footage while protecting framing through controlled water management and airflow. Richard Bergman, president, Titan Building Products, agrees, stressing the importance of footings as a starting point of the entire underdeck system. “When the foundation is aligned with framing layout, drainage, and moisture management from day one, everything above installs cleaner, drains better, and performs
12 | Deck Specialist | March/April 2026
longer,” he says. “The more adjustability and minimal ground disturbance you build into the footing stage, the easier it is to create a dry, durable, and precisely aligned deck structure.” Deck2Wall president Joe Ghiringhelli highlights the importance of airflow at the ledger connection. “A separation between the ledger and the house is important because it provides a path for the water to exit the connection, and a space for air to circulate and promote drying,” he explains. Without that space, trapped moisture accelerates rot and corrosion. The Top of the Joist Is Ground Zero “The most common moisture-related issues show up at the top of joists,” says Michelle Hendricks, director of marketing at Deckorators. Horizontal surfaces tend to hold water and debris, slowing drying and creating conditions for warping and decay. That assessment is widely shared. Stuart Dimery, product manager at Oldcastle APG, parent company of MoistureShield, describes joist tape as “an umbrella for the deck frame,” preventing water from pooling on joists or seeping into connection points. Even with high-quality deck boards, he notes, exposed wood joists remain susceptible to water infiltration and repeated wet-dry cycles. The key is understanding that joist protection is part of an overall moisture-management strategy, not a standalone solution. According to Dave Kile, owner of IBP, LLC, the manufacturer of deck waterproofing and protection products including Trex RainEscape, Trex Protect and Trex Seal, top-tier builders typically treat joist protection as non-negotiable. “They don’t present it as an optional upgrade because they’ve seen firsthand what happens when it’s omitted, and they won’t put their name on a project without it.” Moisture damage often starts where water can sit or sneak in, explains Christopher Case, vice president of product development at CAMO, particularly at exposed edges of framing and transitions and at fastener penetrations. Once moisture becomes trapped beneath decking, rot can take hold over time.
flow
BY SARA GRAVES
While pressure-treated engineered options continue to evolve, Luke Snyder, product manager at ProWood, emphasizes that treated lumber performs best when moisture is addressed early. “If water is allowed to sit on surfaces or remain trapped between deck boards and framing, it can shorten the lifespan of the entire structure,” he says. Layered Protection Works Best Most contributors caution against treating any single product as a standalone solution. Joist protection, flashing, drainage, and ventilation all need to work together. “Joist flashing tape is most effective when it’s used as part of a coordinated moisture-management system,” Hendricks says. Proper joist spacing, ledger flashing, and deck tape allow water to move away from framing and dry efficiently. Cameron Climo, Mitsubishi’s national account manager, G-Tape, says the added cost of flashing tape is 1-2% of a build and is fairly quick to apply, so taking this precautionary measure ensures added quality and a longer life span for the deck. “At the end of the day, it improves safety, supports long-term use, and reduces potential added costs.” From a tape manufacturer’s perspective, Andy Mandel, senior product manager at Shurtape, frames tape as a proactive step rather than a finishing touch. “By integrating high-quality protective solutions early, builders create more durable structures from the ground up, which is far more effective than addressing moisture damage after it occurs,” he says. CONTINUED >> TOP RIGHT: The most common moisture-related issues show up at the top of joists. Horizontal surfaces tend to hold water and debris, slowing drying and creating conditions for warping and decay. Photo courtesy Deckorators. BOTTOM RIGHT: Products like FrogTape Pro Grade Deck and Joist Flashing Tape provide waterproof barriers on joist tops and ledger boards at critical moisture entry points. Photo provided by Shurtape.
March/April 2026 | Deck Specialist |
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Ledger Areas and Transitions Ledger connections remain one of the most failureprone areas in deck construction. Deck2Wall’s Joe Ghiringhelli explains that traditional Z-flashing often traps water, diverting it down the face of the ledger and accelerating corrosion. “Spaced ledgers direct the path of the water to flow behind the ledger and provide airflow for drying,” he says. “Airflow and drying helps prevent wood from rotting,” Ghiringhelli adds. “Not only is rot costly to repair, it’s often a contributing factor to ledger failures because rotted wood loses the ability to retain fasteners. A ledger bolted into a rotten rim or band joist cannot support the load it was designed for.” Substructures that constantly cycle between wet and dry will splinter, warp, and deteriorate far faster, says Dakota Perock, director of marketing for AmeriLux, master distributor of DuxxBak. And the real risk, he notes, is at the ledger board connection, where trapped moisture can migrate into the home’s foundation and create problems far more expensive than the deck itself. “After all, if someone is going to purchase an expensive composite deck thinking they will get years and years of usage out of it, they need to prioritize the substructure just as much to ensure the decking lifespan is maximized,” he says. David Paul, CEO of LedgerShield, a new product on the market designed to make adding ledger flashing
14 | Deck Specialist | March/April 2026
simpler, points to a broader issue: testing standards for ledger flashing haven’t kept pace with real-world conditions. He argues that many existing products are certified under protocols that don’t reflect actual deck fasteners or assemblies, allowing moisture intrusion to go undetected until structural damage appears. “Most contractors know of the problem, but there hasn’t been an effective solution or change to the Code to prompt better products,” he notes. Builder Kevin Choquette of Ravin Builders, Wood River Junction, R.I., has recently begun using LedgerShield in his recent builds because “We often find rot hidden behind existing decks—damage that’s completely avoidable.” Coatings and Full-Frame Coverage Beyond tapes and flashing, some builders are turning to framing coatings for continuous protection. Shaun Jennings of FastenMaster describes coatings as “the foundation of a broader moisture-management system,” offering coverage across cut ends, fastener penetrations, and hard-to-reach areas. “Protective framing coatings give builders a clear, tangible way to explain why what’s beneath the deck matters just as much as what’s visible on top,” he says. Rather than addressing isolated problem spots, coatings reduce gaps in protection and help builders seal entire framing assemblies efficiently before decking is installed. Explaining the Value to Homeowners Across the board, manufacturers report that builders are becoming more comfortable framing substructure protection as a long-term investment, not because it
WHY FASTENERS FAIL BEFORE DECKS DO
adds cost, but because it reduces risk. That shift is pushing builders to rethink when and how water management decisions are made, moving them earlier in the build process instead of treating them as finishing details. Jennings says professional builders have become far more intentional about protecting the deck structure itself, not just the surface materials. “The conversation has shifted from reactive fixes to proactive planning,” he adds. The most common mistake, Perock cautions, is treating water management as a finishing detail rather than a proactive part of the build. Traditional approaches often rely on layering multiple products—joist tape to protect framing, secondary drainage systems to catch water, and protective coatings on cut ends. “Each product addresses a piece of the problem, but you’re dealing with several materials, several installation steps, and too many potential failure points,” he says. “More materials means more potential failures due to the complexity of a typical water management solution in the industry.” Water may be inevitable, but failure isn’t. By focusing protection where moisture attacks first, and being intentional about how those solutions work together, builders are creating decks that last longer, perform better, and deliver confidence. DS TOP LEFT: Ocean Decks, when installed properly, can eliminate the need for additional deck drainage systems. Photo by Ocean Decks. BOTTOM LEFT: Top Deck’s Rainshed Decking under a custom Swooshola composite pergola protects the deck year-round. Photo by Top Deck. ABOVE: Properly coated fasteners prevent moisture from weakening connections and opening pathways into wood. Photo by Midwest Fasteners.
Fasteners rarely get credit when a deck performs well, but they’re often the first component to signal trouble when moisture management breaks down. As decks become more complex and exposure conditions more aggressive, builders and manufacturers are paying closer attention to how fasteners interact with framing materials, protective barriers, and long-term moisture. According to Mark Hepler, associate category manager for construction fasteners at Midwest Fasteners, corrosion begins earlier than many builders expect. “When combined with the high levels of copper found in treated lumber, moisture in the environment from rain or even humidity will rapidly corrode poorly and/or uncoated fasteners,” he explains. As corrosion progresses, fasteners lose metal mass, weakening connections and opening pathways into the wood for additional moisture intrusion. “Since this can increase moisture content beyond 20%, the lumber used is more prone to decay,” Hepler says. That interaction between fasteners and moisturemanagement systems is often overlooked. Even when builders invest in high-quality framing materials or drainage systems, fasteners remain exposed. “Fasteners are still subjected to the elements and inferior coatings are subject to flaking and UV degradation—potentially resulting in failed connections even if high-quality building materials are used,” Hepler notes. From DeckWise’s perspective, fasteners are part of a larger performance ecosystem beneath the deck surface. Roderick Kabel, marketing director for DeckWise, says builders have long seen the consequences of neglecting what happens below the boards. “Joists start to rot early, fasteners rust before the deck surface wears out, and goodlooking decks hide serious problems below,” he says. As moisture management becomes more intentional, fasteners are no longer treated as interchangeable components. “Builders now understand how moisture trapped between the deck boards and the framing shortens the life-span of the deck,” Kabel explains. Protecting framing with tapes and finishes is only part of the equation if fasteners aren’t designed to withstand the same conditions. Fastener selection also influences long-term deck performance in subtle ways. “The wrong deck clip or fastener screw in a wet environment will fail early, leading to stains, swelling, and loose connections,” Kabel says. When hardware deteriorates, movement increases, noise develops, and structural integrity suffers, even if surface materials still look intact. What resonates most with homeowners, Kabel adds, is clarity. “Water doesn’t destroy decks overnight, it causes damage slowly over time,” he says. When builders explain how corrosion-resistant fasteners work alongside joist protection, drainage, and surface treatments, the value becomes easier to understand. Fasteners may be hidden, but their performance is anything but invisible. In decks designed for longevity, they’re not an accessory, they’re a critical link in the system that holds everything together. March/April 2026 | Deck Specialist |
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BELOW THE BOARDS FOR DECADES, deck conversations have started at the surface—board color, railing style, and how the space will look once it’s finished. But as outdoor living spaces become larger, heavier, and more permanent, builders and manufacturers alike are reframing the discussion. Longevity, performance, and moisture management now begin well before the first deck board is installed. Across the industry, professionals agree that protecting the deck starts from the ground up, with early decisions about foundations and framing, shaping how a structure performs over decades, not just seasons. Foundations Set the Tone for Performance A deck’s long-term success depends on how loads are transferred into the ground. According to Mark Romano, director of retail operations at Diamond Pier, foundation choice is inseparable from design intent. “The choice of the foundation depends on the type of project being supported,” he explains, noting that long spans, roof structures, outdoor kitchens, and four-season rooms all place different demands on footings and soil conditions. Brad Mrozinski, director of product management at Perma-Column, echoes that sentiment, emphasizing that footing decisions are no longer a background task. “A solid, permanent foundation is critical to enjoying any structure for as long as someone owns the home or property,” he says. Advances in installation methods now allow builders to install permanent footings and posts without heavy equipment, helping crews move quickly while still prioritizing stability.
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From an engineering standpoint, Romano stresses that soil conditions remain the constant variable. “Ultimately, any foundation can only perform as well as the soils it bears on,” he says, underscoring the importance of matching foundation systems to site conditions from the outset. Levi Tippetts of TC Decks in Saratoga Springs, UT., says exploring alternatives to traditional footings, such as provided by American Ground Screw, changed how he plans for long-term performance at the very start of a project. By choosing systems that improve efficiency and reduce labor on site, Tippetts views foundation decisions as an extension of protecting the deck above, reinforcing the idea that longevity is designed into the structure from the ground up, not added later. “That choice alone has proven to be one of the best investments I’ve made in my business. The time and labor it has saved me has paid for itself many times over,” he says. Framing Choices Redefine Longevity While footings anchor the structure, framing determines whether the deck will endure moisture, movement, and time. Several contributors point to framing as the most overlooked, yet most consequential, decision in deck construction. “The framing is the most critical part of any deck,” says Jason Alloway, owner of New Castle Steel. He argues that modern treated lumber no longer delivers the lifespan builders once expected. “A 50-year warranted deck board means nothing if the framing underneath is failing within a tenth of that time.”
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Even the highest-quality decking and railing systems are only as good as the framing beneath them, says Chadd Furley, outdoor living specialist for engineered Distribution Inc. wood framing andAbsolute structural products manufacturer www.absolutedist.com PWT. “Decks built with lower-quality materials last fewer than 15 years, resulting in homeowners having American Mfg. & Supply to repeatedly replace theirGround decks.Screw High-quality framing www.americangroundscrew.com minimizes callbacks and dramatically extends the life of the structure.” Atlantis Rail Systems are increasingly Alternative framing materials www.atlantisrail.com becoming part of this conversation. Alloway notes that steel framing allows for greater spans and fewer obstructionsCAMO below the deck, while reducing Fasteners
callbacks and warranty claims. Aluminum framing offers similar advantages. Elijah Johnson, product manager for AZEK/ Cover IV Specialties TimberTech, explains thatDigger non-wood framing systems www.diggerspecialties.com “relieve the pressure of investing in a high-end drainage system on most projects,” particularly when Cover II the space below the deckGreat willSouthern remainWood unused. www.yellawood.com
OPPOSITE: From fasteners to framing, the components below the boards quietly carry the load and protect the investment 35 Humboldt Sawmill above. Photo by Deckorators. BELOW: Contractors apply www.mendoco.com MoistureShield Joist Tape to prevent water from pooling on joists or seeping into connection points. MoistureShield 2024 37 provided by Oldcastle APG, in-liteInc photo www.in-lite.com CONTINUED >>
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From the builder’s perspective, Jay Beswick, owner of Majestic Outdoors, Raleigh, N.C., sees framing as the foundation of homeowner confidence. “Especially for homeowners who want a forever home and a deck to last a lifetime, aluminum framing is the way to go,” he says. “The peace of mind knowing your deck will perform in all seasons, year after year, should give great confidence when using it.” A System, Not a Checklist What ties these perspectives together is a shift in mindset. Builders are no longer assembling decks piece by piece; they are designing integrated systems. From soil conditions and footings to framing material, every decision influences long-term performance. As Mrozinski observes, builders are increasingly explaining these choices to homeowners as part of
20 | Deck Specialist | March/April 2026
long-term risk reduction. “This process helps builders differentiate themselves from their competitors,” he says. “I’ve noticed some builders show homeowners images of both the amazing, finished projects as well as projects they were hired to demo/replace,” he adds. “The replacement projects highlight things homeowners should consider when building a deck: rotting foundations, improperly installed ledgers, longevity of materials.” Protecting the deck, it turns out, is less about any single product and more about planning with intention, starting from the bottom and working up. DS ABOVE: Products like Trex Protect help shield wood from water and protect fasteners, making the frame last longer. Photo by Trex. BOTTOM: A deck’s long-term success depends on how loads are transferred into the ground. Photo by Diamond Pier.
March/April 2026 | Deck Specialist |
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the EDGE
Over
BY SARA GRAVES
“WATERFALL DECKING” is one of those terms that sounds self-explanatory, but is not. According to Dave Fraser, owner of Fraser Decks and Patio Covers in Escondido, CA., the biggest challenge with waterfall decking is its definition. “There seems to be a common misunderstanding of what it is,” he explains. “People see the project and start looking for a waterfall from the pool. But it has nothing to do with water or the pool.” Instead, waterfall decking borrows its logic from interior design. Much like a waterfall kitchen countertop that wraps from horizontal to vertical in one continuous surface, waterfall decking uses a single composite or PVC deck board that turns 90 degrees at the deck edge without any mitering. While waterfall details are often limited in scope, a recent Fraser Decks project scaled the concept dramatically. “Many people have done small-size waterfall decking,” Fraser says, but that’s usually
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BOTTOM LEFT: Fraser Decks and Patio Covers, from left to right, Pedro Sanchez, Leo Vargas, Teo Vazquez, and Dave Fraser. All Fraser photos by Sean Barrett, Sean Barrett Photography.
limited to a bench or a few boards because of the difficulty of making it work right. In Fraser Decks’ Fairbanks Ranch project near San Diego, CA., hundreds of deck boards were bent to create this effect. “When you have enough of them, it starts to look like a waterfall,” Fraser explains. It was the homeowner who came up with the design. “I was pumped about the idea of doing two large decks and two sets of stairs completely with waterfall decking,” Fraser says. “I had never seen anyone take on something like that. We love pushing the boundaries of what we can do with decking, so I was very excited to tackle this project!” The project spans more than 1,000 sq. ft., including decking, cladding, and stairs, and surrounds a pool with custom frameless glass railings. Built entirely with TimberTech Vintage Weathered Teak 1x4 boards, Fraser chose TimberTech because it doesn’t push as hard on its expansion as composite
boards do. “That extra push could easily lead to tearing at the 90-degree corner, and we wanted to avoid that.” The homeowner opted for 4” boards throughout, a choice Fraser says gave the project a “one-of-a-kind look” while increasing the precision required for every board. He says executing waterfall decking at this scale required abandoning common shortcuts. Skill saw cuts weren’t an option. “When you’re waterfalling hundreds of boards, you need to do it the right way, and in a repeatable way,” he explains. In the beginning, he says the crew had a lot of fracturing and lost boards until they found the right bit and built the perfect jig. “We only had one shot at each board.” After consulting with Dan Pettit of Northern Outdoor Living and Kevin Choquette of Ravin Builders, the team tested multiple router bits before settling on the Freud 20-120 2” 90° V-grooving bit with ½” shank, 2-7/8” overall length. From there, Fraser’s crew built a custom jig to lock boards in place and ensure identical cuts every time. They also built a cooling rack capable of holding up to 70 boards overnight. The crew would install as many boards as they could in cold temperatures so that the boards would be exactly the same size with the same expansion. “If we had installed some boards cold and some in warmer weather, the ends would have been all over the place,” Fraser says. “We were lining up with pool coping, so they had to be perfect.” He adds that waterfalling the stairs elevated the difficulty even more. Each tread required multiple 90-degree turns— some boards bending twice, others three times. “We literally created a U-shape where the boards went up the side of the stairs, turned 90 degrees to run across the stairs, and then turned 90 degrees again to go down the other side of the stairs,” Fraser explains. And some even “took an extra 90-degree turn to continue across those platforms.” Since 4” TimberTech Vintage boards are square edge, the crew used a biscuit joiner to create slots for the ConceaLoc hidden fasteners in the field, then added plugs to secure the board ends, stair treads, and risers. WAC stair riser lighting was integrated throughout. The precision paid off. The project earned the company 1st Place in the Pool Deck category at this year’s NADRA awards, contributing to Fraser Decks’ total of 18 NADRA wins in six years. The project also won 1st Place–TimberTech Deck of the Month. Fraser is clear about where the credit belongs: “I learned how talented my guys are,” he says. The five-person crew, led by Leo Vargas—who developed the jig and helped motivate the team—along with Teo Vazquez, Pedro Sanchez, Victor Gutierrez, and Angel Armendariz, completed what Fraser calls the most unique and demanding deck his company has ever built. “I helped design it, but these guys made the magic happen.” “When we were in the planning stages, we didn’t even know if this could work,” Fraser says. “But it did, and it came out even more amazing than I thought it could.” DS
March/April 2026 | Deck Specialist |
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PROJECT PROFILE
The Hummingbird Deck WHEN JOE MASTERSANTI, owner of Outdoor Space Builders (OSB), first walked the backyard of a Thomaston, CT., home, he noticed the Litchfield County property dropped sharply into woods, leaving little flat yard to work with. The existing structure, a 12-ft. x 16-ft. pressuretreated deck, had already “seen its day.” The young homeowners in their ’20s were just starting out, so budget was a priority. “When we went through the wants and the needs,” Mastersanti says, “it became apparent that they wanted to make the deck a usable space for their backyard because they didn’t have a massive yard.” What emerged was not a pursuit of size, but one that balanced views, the love of hummingbirds, and a growing family. Maximizing the View The home’s rear elevation included a bay window serving the kitchen and dining area. OSB deliberately avoided interrupting those sightlines. “We didn’t want to create or stop the deck right there,” Mastersanti says. “We didn’t want a post or a rail. Nor did we want people congregating only in front of that window.” Stair placement complicated the layout. The grade dropped more steeply on one side of the house. OSB designed a landing that allowed the stairs to switch
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direction and run parallel to the backyard. “That allowed us to keep the main part of the deck what it was,” Mastersanti says, “and then go around that corner, and square it off.” The finished deck measures approximately 34 ft. in length and totals roughly 600 sq. ft. The Love of Hummingbirds The personality of the project centered around the homeowners’ love of hummingbirds. “They wanted to be able to look out and see their hummingbirds. So we gave them a really clear view of that,” Mastersanti says. On the old deck, the homeowners had a pole with hanging hummingbird feeders. To incorporate a more refined version of that element into the new design, OSB stacked two 39” TimberTech Impression Rail Express posts on top of one another by removing the base, creating a joiner, and fastening them together. The design allows the upper post to be removed later, should the family choose to, which would leave a standard-height post with concealed fasteners. “The position of the hummingbird feeder was specifically made so that you could see it from their family room, their kitchen and their dining room table,” Mastersanti explains. “When you’re standing from the inside of their house, you really kind of almost see right through the railing,” Mastersanti explains.
Alternative Framing While the hummingbird feeders draw attention, the most critical decisions happened below the deck boards. OSB evaluated traditional wood framing, steel, aluminum, and Owens Corning structural framing lumber. The final decision centered on longevity rather than appearance. Owens Corning structural lumber offered long-term durability at a lower cost than aluminum framing. “The OC lumber really gave us everything that we needed,” Mastersanti explains. Because fiberglass composite framing behaves differently than aluminum, OSB adjusted the structure by adding an extra footing and support. Span charts also played a central role. Rather than increase member depth and lower the deck further toward the ground, OSB added beams and supports to maintain clearance and rigidity. “I like somebody to be able to stand and jump on their project and not feel a vibration or a rattle or see anything move,” Mastersanti says. Footings, Piles, and Drainage OSB supported the deck with Mascore helical piles. Most piles reached approximately 5½ to 6 ft., with extensions added to three piles—two driven to 9 ft. and one extended by an additional foot—to achieve required torque. “We go down to an engineered spec based on the manufacturer,” Mastersanti explains. Because portions of the framing include solid flatblocked areas, particularly beneath the decorative inlay, OSB spaced blocked to allow water drainage and prevent standing moisture. “We didn’t want any water problems,” Mastersanti says. Materials Above the Frame OSB selected TimberTech Advanced PVC decking for its durability and serviceability. “Any kind of surface scratch or mark can be fixed with a heat gun,” Mastersanti explains. The homeowners were not fond of multicolor decking or double picture frame, so OSB created a two herringbone breaker detail featuring English Walnut from TimberTech’s Vintage line, accented with Dark Hickory in a custom breaker-board inlay. Weathered Teak was considered but ultimately rejected. “The customer is the one that suggested we do the herringbone,” Mastersanti recalls. The Owens Corning lumber was left raw. OSB also used TimberTech English Walnut in the Vintage Line to create dividing medallions and accents on the sides of the stairs. It gave a heavy contrast between the black and the wood tones. Tru-Scapes RGB lighting added a great glow to the project at night, while allowing the homeowners to change the colors, brightness, and tone of each light. The lighting’s matte black components matched the railing and framing accents.
In addition, OSB attached the ledger using LedgerShield, a new ledger flashing system. Ledger attachment was completed using FastenMaster LedgerLOK fasteners. Good News As construction wrapped up, the couple informed Mastersanti they were expecting twins. That moment reframed the importance of every decision. “This is a very big amount of money for a young family,” Mastersanti explains. “Knowing that their children will grow up bouncing around this deck, and it’ll stand for them, that mattered.” The project, which came in at approximately $64,000, earned OSB its first NADRA Award, placing third in the Alternative Framing Under $70k category. “It was extremely humbling,” Mastersanti says. Longevity Beyond the Build For Mastersanti, the award validated a philosophy he believes more builders should adopt: “It’s not solely about whether or not it looks good,” he says. “It’s about the long-lasting effects of what you’re installing. Will it stand the test of time?” In this case, he knows this deck is built so the family’s children can grow up watching generations of hummingbirds return season after season to their deck. DS
March/April 2026 | Deck Specialist |
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COMPANY PROFILE
Singular Vision FOR MICHAEL MALKIN, staying small isn’t a limitation, it’s a business decision. Running Malkin & Daughters, Danvers, MA., as a solo builder allows him to control his time, his work, and the way each project comes together, all without relying on a crew or subcontractors to get it done. That mindset comes from how he grew up around his parents’ business. “My perspective in business is that I want to stay small enough to always be able to take a vacation and turn the phone off,” he says. “My parents ran a larger company and time off was never really time off.” Deck building wasn’t Michael’s first love. At 17, he wanted to be a pro skateboarder. And, a little over five years ago, he would’ve told you he was taking over his parents’ door installation business. When Michael named his company Malkin & Daughters in 2022, he followed the same naming structure his parents used for their own company— Malkin & Sons. At the time, his oldest daughter, Mila, was four and his youngest, Emi, had just been born. Today, he spends 100% of his time building decks alone, without the help of subs, and he says he “genuinely enjoys doing this.” Working alone has its challenges. “Up until now, I haven’t taken on a project bigger than I could complete on my own and I don’t really have any plans to do so,” he says. He is quick to note that he can’t do this without the support of his wife, Alessandra, CONTINUED >>
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MALKIN & DAUGHTERS Owner: Michael Malkin Website: malkindaughters.com Instagram: malkinanddaughters Facebook: Malkin & Daughters YouTube: Malkin & Daughters
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who cares for their household, handles the company’s finances, and films jobs. Being a solo builder means planning differently. “I would say the most obvious challenge that comes with being a solo builder is how to pick up and move or place larger objects,” he explains. “The good thing about a deck is that it’s a bunch of pieces put together and typically no one member will be too big or heavy for me to move on my own. I try to hit the gym frequently to make sure that stays the case.” When electrical or plumbing work is needed on a job, he has his clients deal with those trades separately, which “works out with a better cost for the customer and fewer headaches for me.” “When I walk a new site for the first time, I’m looking at the layout of the landscape and access points for getting materials and machines to the work area. Basically anything that will factor into me pricing the job beyond the actual cost of materials,” he adds. Although his deck designs continue to evolve, Michael has no plans to scale the business by hiring more people or taking on a higher volume of work. Instead, he’d like to scale up the caliber of his jobs. “In
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a perfect world, I’ll be wearing my tool belt on the job until I leave this Earth.” Deck building has become Michael’s passion. “I want homeowners to know that I probably care more about the outcome of the job than they do. I’d like them to know that if something goes wrong and I can’t fix it that day, I’ll probably lose sleep over it. That’s how invested I get into these jobs.” The values that drive his business are honesty, pride, and transparency. “I learned this from watching how my parents ran their business,” he says. “As long as I stick to these three things, I can sleep well at night.” He says there are a lot of people in the construction industry just “skipping through doing the bare minimum to get a paycheck,” but if you care about what you do, it’s not hard to stand out and stay busy. Ultimately, what would make Michael most proud is if in 10 years things “were going exactly the way they are right now. Maybe I’d be working a little bit less, and maybe my daughters would be involved in the business somehow at that point,” he says. “If you can niche down to a trade that you actually like to do, work is a lot more fun,” he says. DS
March/April 2026 | Deck Specialist |
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INDUSTRY LOOK
NADRA Awards Raise the Bar... Again THE NORTH AMERICAN Deck and Railing Association (NADRA) honored its 2025 National+ Deck Competition award winners on Jan. 8 in Clearwater Beach, FL. With more attendees and more project entries than ever before, Bobby Parks, who co-hosted the event, says this 16th annual deck awards ceremony was a great three days of camaraderie, and one of the best NADRA awards events to date. “This is an event where competitors respect each other, root for each other, and congratulate each other,” he says. “For most in attendance, competitors and friends are one and the same. It is truly a gathering of some of the most gifted and talented people in the industry.” Brendan Casey, of Casey Fence & Deck LLC, Frederick, MD., who won two awards (1st place Alternative Deck $36k-$70k and 2nd place Inlay), adds the bar has been raised again in the industry. “What didn’t win this year, five or 10 years ago, would’ve been the number one project. It’s come so far.” Casey notes AI and new technologies have allowed builders to be creative and artistic, and have enabled
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This project, designed by Dave Settlemyer with Andy Henley of Hen-House Decks, captured multiple honors at the 2025 NADRA Awards, including first place for Inlay and Open Porch, underscoring the role of execution in high-level deck design. Photo by Andy Eichler photography out of Hartville, OH.
them to render a beautiful picture and turn that rendering into what he calls “outdoor art.” “Now we’re bending, curving, creating a flow of a deck, as if it’s moving.” That evolution in design, however, still hinges on execution. Dave Settlemyer, who helped Andy Henley of Hen-House Decks design his NADRA Award-winning deck this year, and has earned 40 NADRA awards of his own, says he strives to do something different with every design he creates. But ultimately it comes down to craftsmanship. “You can have the best design, but if you can’t build it right, it won’t win an award.” Joe Mastersanti, owner of Oxford, CT.–based Outdoor Space Builders, says his 3rd-place finish in the Alternative Framing under $70k category came down to just a halfpoint separating him from 1st place (Wood Bully) and 2nd place (Ravin Builders). As this was his first NADRA
OPPOSITE: Andy Henley, Hen-House Decks, won five NADRA awards this year for his project. He partnered with Dave Settlemyer, Under the Sun, to develop the design.
Feeney’s new DockRail kits provide a durable, marine-grade railing system designed for residential docks. OTHER WINNERS INCLUDED: DockRail rail and post kits are engineered Commercial Outdoor Project using components for easyLiving installation, 1st: Deckmasters of South Florida that snap and screw together with pre2nd: Extreme Decks drilled posts and pickets to support its 3rd: Cedarbrook Outdoor Design Build 6200 series 1/8” CableRail kits (included). Designed for level dock applications, the Product Display system includeswith postDan kits—each 1st: Ravin Builders (partnered Pettit’s containing posts and bottom post caps—along Northern Outdoor Living and Dave Settlemyer’s with kits featuring 10-ft. 200 top rails Under the Sunrail Concepts) and 2nd: All Decked Outtop rail inserts, end plate kits, 1/8” 3rd: Fraser Decks and Patio CableRail kits,Covers and CableRail end caps. The kits feature 6000-series aluminum, known Refurbished Deck for its strength, corrosion resistance, and 1st: DeckRemodelers.com reliability in marine environments. 2nd: Hayes Construction 3rd: DeckRemodelers.com The AAMA-2604 powder-coated finish adds
Award, Mastersanti says the standard is now that close. “It’s not about us; it’s about the customer. It’s about the industry,” he adds. “The customers are starting to get builders all over the country are that close to a standard and level of quality.” Overall winner for the night was Dr. Decks’ Kiki project, which, according to Dr. Decks’ owner Jason Russell, used all of Russell’s 35 years of deck building experience, particularly his deck boardbending expertise. He told NADRA that to create this “one-off work of art,” his team had to create new ways to apply their standard methods to new exterior products. an extra layer of protection against UV Closed Porch Parks pointed to Sparta, N.J.-based Deck 1st: Decks andexposure, More, Inc. salt spray, and weathering. Remodelers, led by Sean McAleer, which brought 2nd: Decksouth Inc. home 10 awards. He says Deck Remodelers has [feeneyinc.com] 3rd: Merrick Design andfrom Build, Far left: ARK Home Solutions’ staff theInc. bottom stair up: “figured out how to scale high quality to an extreme Ashlyn Kreps (daughter), Tyler Kreps (son-in-law), Gracie Thomas>> CONTINUED level without diluting it.” DS (daughter-in-law), Noah Thomas (son)
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LEFT: Andy Henley, Hen-House Decks, shown on the left, with Brendan Casey, Casey Fence and Deck LLC, and Mike Mitchell, Mitchell Construction.
Framing Over $250k 1st: People Come First Construction Group 2nd: Dr. Decks 3rd: Solid Ground Wood Deck Over $50k 1st: SG Construction 2nd: Residential Improvement Services LLC 3rd: Fraser Decks and Patio Covers Open Porch 1st: Hen-House Decks (partnered with Under the Sun) 2nd: Colorado Custom Covers and Decks 3rd: DeckRemodelers.com Hardscape 1st: Deckscapes of Virginia LLC 2nd: DeckRemodelers.com 3rd: Wood Bully Pool Deck 1st: Fraser Decks and Patio Covers 2nd: Majestic Outdoors 3rd: Dock & Deck Railing on a Deck 1st: California Deck Pros Inc. (partnered with 33 North Design Collaborative) 2nd: Dr. Decks 3rd: Hen-House Decks (partnered with Under the Sun) Inlay 1st: Hen-House Decks 2nd: Casey Fence and Deck LLC 3rd: Rough Ashlar Construction Illumination 1st: DeckRemodelers.com 2nd: Northern Outdoor Living 3rd: Techwood Decks Unique Feature 1st: Dr. Decks 2nd: Deck Remodelers.com 3rd: Northern Outdoor Living Dock 1st and 2nd: Q-ICE Builders LLC 3rd: Middlebrook Docks & Decks Framing Under $70k 1st: Wood Bully 2nd: Ravin Builders 3rd: Outdoor Space Builders Framing $70k-$150k 1st: Majestic Outdoors 2nd: NJ Decks and Railings 3rd: Stone Ridge Decking
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Alternative Deck Under $35k 1st: Hometown Builders Unlimited LLC 2nd: Northern Outdoor Living 3rd: Majestic Outdoors Alternative Deck $36k-$70k 1st: Casey Fence and Deck LLC 2nd: Rough Ashlar Construction 3rd: Wood Bully Alternative Deck $71k-$150k 1st: Majestic Outdoors 2nd: Hen-House Decks (partnered with Under the Sun) 3rd: Colorado Custom Covers and Decks Alternative Deck $151k-$250k 1st: Ravin Builders (partnered with 33 North Design Collaborative) 2nd and 3rd: DeckRemodelers.com Alternative Deck $251k-$500k 1st: Dr. Decks 2nd: DeckRemodelers.com 3rd: Decksouth Inc. Limitless Under $200k 1st: DeckRemodelers.com 2nd: Hen-House Decks (partnered with Under the Sun) 3rd: SG Construction Limitless $201k-$400k 1st: Dr. Decks 2nd: Wood Bully 3rd: Deckscapes of Virginia LLC Limitless Over $400k 1st: California Deck Pros Inc. (partnered with 33 North Design Collaborative) 2nd: Dock & Deck 3rd: Decksouth
2025 | Deck Specialist | March/April 2026
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INDUSTRY LOOK
Decking in 2026 BY PATRICK IANNI
OUTDOOR LIVING HAS SHIFTED over the years, and contractors are seeing it in every consultation, realizing that this transition is here to stay. In 2026, homeowners aren’t asking for a basic deck with stairs and standard railing. They want intentional outdoor spaces with personality, function, and design features that feel like a true extension of their home. To understand what’s new this year, we spoke with several of our trusted builder customers across the country who rely on Oldcastle FRD brands MoistureShield and RDI Railing and are helping shape the next generation of decks, railing and outdoor living spaces. You’ll see their message is clear: designs are more complex, digital tools are becoming essential, and performance expectations are higher than ever. DESIGNING DIFFERENTLY IN 2026 The biggest shift builders point to is that decks are no longer standalone projects—they’re part of full outdoor rooms. “We’re no longer designing ‘just a deck,’ we’re designing full outdoor environments, even year-round outdoor deck use,” says Michael Biviano, owner of Biviano General Contracting, Marshfield, MA. “Two or three years ago, many projects were still fairly linear: a platform, railing, stairs, done. Now, clients are asking for multi-level layouts, infrared heaters, electric screens, integrated seating, privacy walls, pergolas, covered areas, and seamless transitions between indoor and outdoor spaces.” That demand is pushing builders to think earlier
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Photos provided by Oldcastle APG.
about flow, sightlines, and long-term durability. Instead of “adding features later,” contractors are designing with lighting, shade, and traffic flows in mind from the start. Benjamin White of Sunnyside Decks, Sellersburg, IN., sees this shift reflected in how decks connect to the rest of the property. “We are designing more multi-level spaces that integrate a variety of materials, such as transitioning from decking to hardscape areas,” he says. “These designs now incorporate multiple features within the same project to create more versatile outdoor living environments.” And for Andy Henley of Hen-House Decks, Uniontown, OH., the biggest driver is inspiration culture and the expectation for “wow factor” details. “Homeowners are no longer looking for basic decks; they want intentional outdoor spaces with personality,” he says. “Over the past few years, I’ve seen a heavy shift towards privacy screens, architectural elements, and custom features that create a true wow factor.”
USING AI AND VISUALIZATION TOOLS TO SELL As designs become grander, builders say visualization has become one of the most important parts of the sales process. Homeowners are far more confident investing in upgraded layouts and premium features when they can actually see the plan before construction begins. “AI has become one of my most effective design and communication tools,” Henley explains. “I often start with a simple photo of the back of the house and use AI to generate a quick conceptual rendering. That immediate visual helps homeowners understand what’s possible and builds confidence in more ambitious designs.” White agrees that AI is changing how quickly builders can turn an idea into a sellable concept. “AI has been a game changer for us,” he says. “I can now create renderings and conceptual ideas directly during the initial consultation.” Biviano notes that 3D tools and AI-assisted design help reduce surprises, speed up approvals, and lead to smoother builds. “When clients can see their deck in 3D and understand how it connects to the house, how different elevations work, how materials and colors come together, they’re much more confident making bolder decisions,” he says. WHAT BUILDERS WANT FROM PRODUCTS IN 2026 With more multi-level layouts, integrated features, and year-round use, builders say product selection is no longer just about appearance, it’s about long-term performance and install confidence. “Performance and longevity are non-negotiable,” Biviano says. “We look for products that are engineered to handle real-world conditions—moisture, temperature swings, sun exposure, and heavy use–without excessive maintenance.” He adds that details such as stability, fastening systems, and manufacturer-backed warranties matter because they affect how the deck performs years later. White summarizes it simply: “When bringing these designs to life, I look for high-end performance, strong durability, and an outstanding warranty.”
In today’s market, builders also need materials that support value engineering without sacrificing quality, especially as homeowners become more budget-conscious. “The biggest shift we’re designing around right now is inflation,” says Kenny Ritter of ICOR Building & Remodeling, Groton, CT. “Budgets are tighter, people are generally more price-conscious, and sticker shock is very real.” Ritter says his team has leaned into phased projects and smarter planning. “That can mean scaling back the footprint, phasing a project over time, or designing outdoor spaces in stages–building the deck now and returning a year or two later to add a pergola, patio, or pool,” he explains. For those projects, Ritter says MoistureShield decking helps deliver performance and consistency even when budgets are tight. “We’ve found that MoistureShield doesn’t sacrifice performance–even at their most affordable tier,” he says. As railing becomes a key part of the finished look, not just a safety requirement, builders are increasingly prioritizing clean lines and customization while maintaining key sightlines. Railing plays an important role in complementing design-forward projects while maintaining a professional, polished finish. THE 2026 STANDARD FOR OUTDOOR LIVING In 2026, the best decks aren’t just bigger; they’re smarter, more intentional, and designed for how homeowners live in their daily routines. Builders are combining stronger design processes with AI-powered visualization and choosing materials that help them execute complex outdoor environments with confidence. For contractors, the opportunity is clear: the builders who can deliver design-forward spaces with longterm performance will set the pace for the next era of outdoor living. DS Patrick Ianni is the VP of customer operations and product development, Oldcastle APG. www.oldcastleapg.com
March/April 2026 | Deck Specialist |
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PARKS & DECK CREATION • Bobby Parks
Project by Deck Remodelers, led by Sean McAleer, recipient of 10 NADRA Awards this year. Photo courtesy of Deck Remodelers Inc.
Thoughts on the NADRA Deck Awards T
HE NADRA AWARDS Banquet is a gathering of some of the best outdoor living talent in North America. Many that have not attended in person may think that this event is only about competing for awards. For some, it may be, but for most it is about more than that. If you were in attendance, you know it was a 2.5-day event of activities topped off by the evening awards banquet. It is obviously an event where competitors compete. But it is also a place where competitors respect each other, root for each other, and congratulate each other. It is a place where competitors and friends are one and the same. And it is not just about honoring the builders and designers. It is the recognition and honoring of the builders’ partners which includes the building supply chain of manufacturers, distributors, and retail lumberyards. Together they make up the essential product delivery backbone of the construction industry. It is the innovation of manufacturers and the outdoor living specialty support that many building supply locations offer that have expanded the possibilities of achievement. Combine this with the creative designers and builders that mold the product options into the
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designed projects we have today and you see the finished results in this contest. One aspect does not work without the other. So, the event is about honoring all that contribute to the progression of this industry. It is also an event where all brands are welcome and congregate under one roof. It is a night of celebration of a community and fellowship that I believe is unique to this gathering. This year’s event had an increase in both project entries and event attendees. We had attendees from as far away as Alaska and Australia. It was like the deck builders’ version of the Academy Awards. When you view the audience at the Academy Awards, you see all the gifted actors, most of which have the talent to win. It just depends on the opportunities they have that particular year to be cast in the right movie with the right role that allows them to stand out. It is the same for deck builders in attendance in that most are potential winners. To compete requires the right opportunity, the right customer, budget, creative vision, design, correct blend of products, and quality delivery. It requires a mentality of making the most of every project regardless of size and price. So, everyone in the crowd
... it is not just about honoring the builders and designers. It is the recognition and honoring of the builders’ partners which International Outdoor Living includes the building Show Reaches U.S. supply chain of manufacturers, distributors, and retail lumberyards.
FutureScape USA, a new trade show for the outdoor living and landscaping sector, debuted Dec. 9-10 at the Los Angeles Convention Center. at the NADRA Awardshave event hasholding the gifted ability to win we network. We win because we receive a strong dose The organizers been a similar event any annually given year. It justsince depends on last circumstances and if of inspiration and motivation. We win because we meet in London 2014 and year introduced FutureScape in Saudi Arabia. show theyacapitalize on Global an opportunity. They The are first all winners; newAdvantage people and createVictor new Guitierrez relationships. AndMontano. you NEVER Above: Lumber’s and Dabid themay U.S. not attracted about 75 exhibitors, theyinjust win that night or year. with a heavy KNOW impact the next person you have on Below: Jon what Benaglio, a partner of Deckmasters of meet South will Florida, Margie Beaudry, NADRA. and your career. landscape Recruiting the North American Deck There are focus. 25 separate categories at varying pricewithyour personal trajectory & Railing Association asjudging a sponsor helped scored to convince points with established criteria by an For example, a chance encounter in 2006 with the about 10 deck-related companies to exhibit, including anonymous group of judges. The point system is broken new editor of Professional Deck Builder Magazine led to Fortress Products, Grad downFiberon, to a tenth of aBuilding point. To give you an Concepts, idea of how me writing for that publication and conducting building TimberTech, Beyond Lumber, Advantage competitive it is, it is important to know justLumber, how close and business conference courses for a decade at Deck Eva-Last, StruXure thecategory recentlythere introduced the judged scores were. and In one was only Expo, Pool Spa & Patio, and Remodeling Shows. A chance DeckMetrix quick quoting tool, in addition to several half point separation from 1st to 3rd place with only 2.1 meeting of someone in 2009 put me on course to have outdoor lighting companies. points separating 1st to 7th place. Several categories had other opportunities after selling my business in 2014. Although crowds were modest, the consensus similar results. as I mentioned during the night of the Just between these two chance meetings, I had the reaction by So, participants was optimistic, expressing event, winners barely won while others barely not. opportunity to venture down a new career path and work hope that the organizers would learn fromdidwhat But really, we all win. We win because we spend with manufacturers in contractor development and to worked and what didn’t this time around, then adjust timefor with quality people. We win because we learn and host the Versatex Roadshow. any future events.
CONTINUED >>
FOR YOUR VIEW
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January/February 2026 | | Deck Deck Specialist Specialist || March/April 2026
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2025 NADRA Award winners and sponsors include: Nick Brennan, in-lite; Tim Sandlund, Eva-Last; Mike Kunard, IG Railing; Kevin Choquette, Ravin Builders; Scott Sheffield, Fortress; Bryon Horde, CAMO, and James Gunning, Eva-Last. Photo courtesy of NADRA.
And, you never know what impact you may have on others. Many of you are skilled veterans, trend setters, brand ambassadors, influencers, and respected leaders. You will have opportunities to make an impact and encourage others. You will meet builders who are earlier in their careers still trying to find their way, gain their confidence, improve their skills, and figure out what they do not know. Many will know who you are. They may be your followers. They may already know your story. They will ask you about you. But ask them about them. Show interest in their story. Make the conversation about them. Attention from you means something. Encouragement from you may be just what they need. You already have confidence—help them build theirs. Next time you are at IBS, Deck Expo, JLC Live, or any meet-up where there are open tables on the show floor for lunch dining, sit at a table where you do not know anyone versus one where you do. I am not saying walk into a restaurant and sit down with strangers as that might not have the desired effect. But I have found this open table approach to be a good way to meet new people and again, you never know what it might lead to. The NADRA Deck Awards event is one that all builders regardless of whether they have entries in the contest or their experience level would benefit by attending. Whether you build pressure-treated decks or highly designed alternatives, this is an event worth traveling
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to. Being around talented people can only make you better. In fact, I would encourage builders who may be in more restrictive markets that build simpler wood decks to enter as these categories are under-represented. I have had the privilege and honor of being involved with the NADRA for many years and currently serve as the chairperson of the Deck Awards Committee and cohost our annual event. As mentioned earlier, I believe attending this event provides many benefits beyond the awards aspect. It offers a wonderful opportunity of camaraderie and interaction amongst our peers. It provides a mega dose of inspiration and motivation. It provides a push to be better and not be complacent. You will be the better for it and meet great people in the process potentially creating friendships across this country and others. Once you have attended, you will see what I mean, and you will be back and become part of the community. DS
Bobby Parks is a well-known contractor who has delivered more than $40 million in outdoor living projects. He is now a partner with IG Railing, focusing on business development.
March/April 2026 | Deck Specialist |
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SET THE STANDARD • Brendan Casey
Re-baits: A Reward or a Hook? A
S FAR BACK AS I REMEMBER, there have always been incentive programs designed to create contractor loyalty. Back in the early days, lumberyards started having special pricing structures for different contractors. The guys who were “in” with management or the sales rep received better prices than their competition—or so they thought. There was even a time when if you paid your lumberyard house account in 10 days or less, you received an additional discount. I always looked at it like a reward for not having to rob Peter to pay Paul. Then, more and more manufacturers began having rebate programs. What a great concept. In the beginning, a lot of them were based on annual, not quarterly sales. At the end of the year you submitted your invoices to the manufacturer and, miraculously, a check showed up in the mail. It was great. Over time, they began to have more restrictions, payouts came differently, and most (not all) went from annual to quarterly submissions. Still a great thing. Then the manufacturers started to “one up” each other, making the purchase of the products more about the incentives than about the product itself. So, were they rebates or bait to lure you away from a competitor? Just recently, I was reading where someone asked, “What products are companies using in 2026?” It caught
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my attention when the response from a marketing person was, “Who has the best rewards program?” Last I checked, rewards or re-baits have nothing to do with quality. It’s a financial incentive. Re-baits are a partial refund or cash back from the manufacturer to the contractor after a purchase, with the enticement to encourage sales and brand loyalty. Unfortunately, like a fishing lure, there is always a string attached. Manufacturers are attempting to lock a contractor into using only their product. While manufacturer re-baits are designed to cultivate a sense of partnership, the resulting loyalty isn’t always reciprocated by the manufacturers or their reps. Lured by the shimmering promise of rewards, some contractors find that instead of standing as partners on the deck of Team Brand X, they are often left floundering in the well of the “already landed fish.” Do I believe that historically all re-bait or rewards programs have been bad? Absolutely not! Have they been designed to mislead or trick the builders? That would be an emphatic no. I couldn’t begin to count the number of contractors across North America who have taken their annual vacations, thrown company parties, or have purchased luxury vehicles with the money generated by their manufacturer rewards programs. These programs can be quite lucrative. Not only are companies purchasing thousands of dollars of team gear and wrapping their
vehicles and trailers with accrued co-marketing funds, but manufacturers are also pitching in and additionally subsidizing the costs if you singularly use their names and logos on those products. THE TROJAN HORSE IS THE HOOK Unfortunately, some manufacturers have begun weaponizing their re-bait programs against each other. Turning what should be simple loyalty programs into full-blown battlefields. These manufacturers are beginning to behave less like partners and more like warring factions, constantly shifting tactics while competing for contractor allegiance. Instead of offering real collaboration, they now dangle the shiny lure of “partnership” in front of builders like a Trojan horse. It quietly pulls contractors away from what matters: product cost, client needs, real value, quality, longevity, performance, and long-term support. It redirects contractors’ attention toward one thing—the promise of larger kickbacks. I’m not against manufacturer re-bait programs. I believe in taking full advantage of whatever incentives they choose to put on the table. If the game is being played, you’d be foolish not to understand the rules and reap the rewards of your efforts. My concern is what happens when these programs stop being simple rewards and start becoming weapons. Once re-baits become weaponized, it doesn’t just influence decisions, it quietly erodes the industry from the inside out. When lumberyard sales reps start pushing one brand over another because of their own hidden, backdoor incentive plans, or when they are being sent on manufacturer-funded trips, collecting private perks, or tipping the scales toward a product purely because the re-bait is fatter, we are no longer being guided towards what’s best. We’re being lured toward what pays, and that’s where the line blurs between recommendations and manipulation, between expertise and commission, between value and personal profit. Builders owe their clients more than a product recommendation; they owe them an informed judgement. Not just what creates a larger shortterm profit, but what creates a better long-term investment. The re-bait should always be secondary to professionalism—and never primary to the sale. In the end, only you can honestly protect your name and the best interest of your brand. The lumberyards, distributors, and manufacturers aren’t answering to you—they are answering to shareholders or investors. Their influencers are Judas goats. Their “education” is often chum in the water. Their partnership is too frequently just a shiny lure hiding a hook in a battle for your loyalty. Contractors can no longer just blindly swallow the hook without taking the time to better
educate themselves so they can better educate the clients. Very few sales reps are around for more than a few years, but your client will remember you and your presentation forever. The client doesn’t hire the decking brand, they hire you. They trust your authority, your expertise, your judgment, and your reputation. So be the expert they believe they are hiring, not another hook in someone else’s re-bait war. DS Brendan Casey with Casey Fence and Deck is a 18-time national award-winning Deck Specialist with over 40 years of professional experience. He and his wife, Dianna, started their business 25 years ago and immediately gained a reputation for high quality and a unique approach when it comes to delivering exceptional value for your outdoor living investment.
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TOOLS & TECHNOLOGY • Andy Henley & Mike Mitchell
RAY-BAN META WAYFARER - GEN 2
with Transitions Light Intelligent Lenses | MSRP $459.00
I
N THE FAST-EVOLVING WORLD of smart glasses, specifically the Ray-Ban Meta glasses, we put them to work in real job site conditions. From hands-free measuring and quick calculations to capturing photos and videos in the moment, we tested how these glasses fit into everyday workflows and explored how wearable tech like this can make running a deck business more efficient, creative, and connected. ANDY: I really like the hands-free aspect of these glasses. I have used them while measuring a job and trying to add numbers or figure out if something is going to fit within the space. Normally, I would have a tape measure in one hand and my Remarkable or notepad in the other, and I would end up having to set something down just to grab my phone. It slows everything down and, honestly, gets frustrating fast. The struggle is real. With the “Hey Meta AI” feature, I can ask the glasses to add numbers or give me information right on the spot. That has been a huge help while I am in the middle of laying out measurements and thinking through the design. It keeps my hands free, my focus on the project, and lets me work through ideas in real time while I am trying to create a great deck.
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Another feature I really like is being able to say, “Hey Meta, take a photo” or “Hey Meta, take a video” and have the glasses instantly snap a picture or start recording. It feels natural and is incredibly convenient, especially when my hands are full. I use this a lot to document projects, whether it is for design reference or tracking project progress during site visits. Everything syncs directly to the Meta AI app. From there, the photos and videos are super easy to save to my phone or upload into company camera and project apps. That alone saves time and keeps things organized. I have also used the “Hey Meta, take a picture” feature to capture details on site and then identify a specific brand of decking or railing using the AI. Being able to do that in real time, without pulling out my phone, is impressive and has already proven useful in the field. MIKE: The surprising part about these glasses is not just what they do. It is how normal they feel while doing it. I was relieved to find out how comfortable they were, because I knew if they weren’t, they would end up on my dashboard instead of on my face. I have a fairly small head, and the standard size fit me perfectly. The weight is balanced well enough that after a
few minutes you stop thinking about them. I have worn them nearly all day without that pressure feeling on the bridge of my nose. My prescription glasses are a similar shape, and by the end of the day, I really didn’t notice much of a difference between my regular glasses and these. And while Ray-Ban offers a prescription option for its Meta glasses, I wore the regular-lensed version with contact lenses. When you stop and think about what is packed inside these frames, it is a small engineering feat. There are cameras tucked into the corners, open-ear speakers built into the arms, multiple microphones that pick up your voice, a processor, touch controls, and a battery. Yet when you put them on, they do not feel bulky or overly technical. MIKE: With the glasses being so light and slim, I did not have high expectations for battery life. At first, when I was recording a lot of video and learning how to use them, I was getting about three hours per charge, a little less in extreme cold. Once I settled into a more normal routine, I averaged closer to double that. The charging case is what really makes them practical. It holds several extra charges, so I rarely worry about running out of power during the day. When the battery gets low, I drop them in the case for about 30 to 45 minutes and usually have enough charge to finish the day. Charging the case itself is simple. It uses a USB-C cable and tops off in a couple of hours. I was surprised that there was not a USB-C port on the glasses themselves, though. The only way to charge them is with the case or an adapter that connects near the nose piece. More than once I found myself without the case when the battery died. If the glasses had a USB-C port, it would be much easier to grab a quick charge on the go.
MIKE: Having the microphone and speakers built right into the glasses comes in handy for more things than I had originally thought about. It’s funny to say, but I no longer have to look at my watch to see who is calling or messaging. I can schedule reminders and stay on track with what I have coming up. I can take calls, listen to podcasts, and ask Meta for help. All of this is done hands-free and without earbuds in. One feature I found especially useful was being able to text a video without touching anything. With a quick voice prompt “Hey Meta can you text ‘insert name’ a video,” I am instantly recording a 15-second clip that sends directly to them. Because it is hands-free, I can create quick messages, even if my hands are full. As a deck builder, that is huge. I can explain a framing detail on a print, show a crew member exactly how to do something, or capture a quick progress video without stopping what I am doing. It also made me realize these glasses could be a great tool for building a library of how-to videos and SOPs. Since I usually wear a hat, I had a few videos where the brim cut off the top of the recording. It is a small pain point, but I had to remind myself to tilt my hat up a bit before taking photos or videos. ANDY: Being able to have a personal assistant is something every business owner hopes for someday. I can honestly say I am there now, or at least close. Using Meta CONTINUED >>
ANDY: As someone with photosensitive eyes, I have really grown to like the transitional lenses. When I am outside and they darken up, it makes a noticeable difference with the sunlight and helps keep my eyes comfortable. What I appreciate even more is how they adapt when I move back inside. I can be sitting at the kitchen counter, looking out toward the deck, and the lenses do a fantastic job balancing the light, so I am not constantly squinting or feeling overstimulated by brightness. They seem to find that sweet spot where my eyes are protected without everything feeling too dark. The one downside for me has been driving. Because my vehicle windows are tinted, the lenses do not stay dark, and they go back to clear. That part is a little frustrating because it kind of defeats the purpose of having sunglasses while driving, which is one of the times I need them the most. Other than that, overall, they have been a solid choice for managing light throughout the day.
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Contractor’s Corner At Deck Crafters, an essential framing tool we rely on daily is the Milwaukee M18 21-degree framing nailer. On our jobsites, it serves as our primary tool for deck framing. We use it for rim boards, joist installation, blocking, stair framing, and general structural assembly. Being cordless simplifies how we move through a build, especially when framing elevated decks, and working in tight footprints. The nailer performs consistently across pressure-treated lumber and engineered LVLs. It keeps pace with production framing without frequent adjustments, allowing us to maintain a steady workflow while still placing fasteners accurately during repetitive tasks like joist runs and blocking layouts. We regularly use the rafter hook to stage the nailer on joists or beams while checking layout, installing hardware and brackets, or making cuts. When working from ladders or scaffolding, the belt hook keeps the tool secure and accessible. For our team, it’s simply a framing tool that fits the way we build decks, which is why it remains a staple on every jobsite. Jayson Rybak, Owner/Operator Deck Crafters, LLC deckcraftersnj.com @deckcraftersnj
AI with the Ray-Ban glasses, I have what feels like a personal assistant ready and waiting for me to give it instructions. I have used it to set reminders to call people back or to remind me of specific details on a job that I need to address once I get back to the office. It is surprisingly helpful, especially when I am in the middle of a busy day and do not want to stop what I am doing to write something down. One fun bonus is that Meta offers a variety of different voice options, including some celebrity voices. My personal assistant happens to be Keegan Michael Key (Key & Peele), which honestly makes the whole experience even better. Hearing reminders and responses delivered that way is wild, and it adds a level of personality that makes using the tech feel less like a tool and more like a companion throughout the workday. ANDY: When I asked Gordon South (Wood Bully) about his experience using the glasses, he said he bought them while he was in Key West during their 2024 tour, originally thinking they would just be a solid backup tool while working with different crews or capturing moments a traditional camera operator could not easily follow. The very next day, he found himself jumping in the water with gators while building sea walls, and the glasses captured footage that took off almost immediately on all social media. One of the first videos he posted using them ended up going viral, which really showed the power of being able to capture raw, inthe-moment content without stopping the work. At the end of the day, what really stands out is that these are not some fragile pieces of tech that must be babied. The Ray-Ban Meta glasses have proven to be durable, practical, and built to handle real job site use. They feel like everyday glasses made for the everyday contractor who wants to step their game up. Whether it is capturing better videos and photos for social media and marketing, documenting projects as they happen, or simply having a personal assistant there to help manage reminders and details, they take complexity out of a busy day instead of adding to it. DS
Pros: Convenient, hands-free, comfortable, efficient. Cons: No USB-C on glasses. Transitional lenses don’t change behind tinted windows. Hats get in the way of the camera lens.
TNT Review: 8.8/10 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 in the DeckingTNT Facebook group.
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March/April 2025 2026 | Deck Specialist | September/October
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MARKET YOURSELF • April Edwards
What to Look Out for Before Hiring Marketing Help I
F YOU’RE READING THIS, you’re probably at a turning point. Maybe things have been slower than you expected. Maybe you’re busy, but you have seen referrals drop and realize referrals alone aren’t a strategy. Or maybe you’re just tired of guessing and hoping the phone keeps ringing. Either way, you’re finally considering getting help with your marketing. That’s a smart move. It’s also where a lot of deck builders make a very expensive mistake. Not because marketing doesn’t work, but because they don’t know what to look out for when choosing who to trust with it. Homeowners aren’t calling three companies to “see who sounds good.” They’re researching quietly. They’re comparing work, reading reviews, browsing galleries, and trying to get answers without talking to anyone. By the time they reach out, most of the decision has already been made. That means marketing isn’t just about getting inquiries. It’s shaping decisions long before the phone rings. So the real question isn’t “How many leads can you get me?” It’s “How are you helping the right homeowner choose me before they ever reach out?” THE BIGGEST MISTAKE BUILDERS MAKE: CHOOSING BASED ON PRICE I’m going to be blunt because someone needs to say it. If you choose a marketing partner because they’re cheap, you’re not saving money. You’re buying yourself a new problem.
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Marketing isn’t lumber. You don’t buy it by the unit. And if someone tells you that you can “test marketing” with a few hundred dollars in ads and expect meaningful results, that’s not a strategy, it’s a waste. If someone tells you $500 a month in ads is going to change your business, they’re not being honest. In most markets, that won’t even generate enough data to make smart decisions. A real partner will tell you the truth, even when you don’t want to hear it. Kind of like a doctor who will not allow you to make bad decisions about your health. WHAT TO LOOK OUT FOR SO YOU DON’T GET BURNED 1) A menu of services instead of a real system Big promises. Long proposals. A lot of line items. Everything feels impressive at first. But what you’re often being sold isn’t a system, it’s a menu. Ads here. SEO there. A website update if you think you need it. Social posts if you want to add them. If you already knew what worked, you wouldn’t be hiring help in the first place. Deck builders don’t need more choices. They need a proven process that takes homeowners from “just looking” to “ready to invest.” A real system isn’t rigid, and it isn’t ad-hoc. It’s a tried-and-true framework that adapts to your market, your capacity, your competition, and your goals without asking you to guess what comes next. That’s the difference between activity and results.
DATE PLANNER Milwaukee Tool is expanding Greenville Remodeling Expo Charleston Build, Remodel & Phoenix Build Expo its Top-Off lineup with the When: Jan. 16-18, 2026 Landscape Expo When: Dec. 9-10 launchPhoenix of the new M18 Top-Off Where: Greenville Convention Center, When: Jan. 9-11, 2026 Where: Convention Center, Greenville, S.C. Where: Exchange Park Fairgrounds, Phoenix, ChargerAZ. & Power Supply-the More info: homeshowcenter.com/ Ladson, S.C. More buildexpousa.com/ mostinfo: compact M18 charger, up 4) A website that looks good but doesn’t help you sell 2) Lead volume that turns you into a price-shopping magnet overview/greenville More info: homeshowcenter.com/ phoenix-build-expo to 65% smaller than traditional overview/charleston Your website should be doing the real work: Some agencies love to brag about lead volume. But volume kitted chargers. Louisville Columbia Home Building &is a trap. If you suddenly get dozens • Showing your projects clearly Build, Renovate & without qualification qualities. All and are most needed elements, butshoppers even this list ofHome• Building It is the& same with accomplishments for employee Landscape Expo Colorado Springs Remodeling Expo Explaining your process of inquiries of them are price or people Designed for users who charge qualities without proper motivation hinders success. advancement or a business owner’s success as it is based When: Jan. 16-18, 2026 Remodeling Show When: Jan. 2-4, 2026 • Setting expectations looking for handyman-level work, that’s not growth. That’s on theInColumbia go,fact, the charger delivers it is possible for less talented but highly on how much and how consistently the motivational Where: Kentucky International Convention When: Jan. 9-11, 2026 Where: Metropolitan Convention • Building trust you becoming an unpaid estimator for people who were simultaneous M18 battery and Center, Louisville, KY. you don’t with Norris Penrose Center, Columbia, motivated people equal achievements of pedal isCenter used. The pursuit goals or achievements •Event Making it obvious who youofserve—and who never going toS.C. buytowhat you or sell.exceed Where: device charging. It features a outdoor who More info: More info:adequate homeshowcenter.com/ More info: exceptionally talented individuals lack by homeshowcenter.com/ the depth of drive speed If homeshowcenter.com/ you build high-end living projects, your a positive result is impacted 100w bi-directional USB-C PD overview/louisvillehome2 overview/columbia If your partner can’t explain how your website marketing educate, expectations, filter out that drive. Strongshould motivation andset inner driveoverview/coloradosprings are and an equalizer we marketing as individuals have. port and a 15w USB-C port helps you win better projects, you’re missing theare point. This poor-fit prospects they reach out.toYour timelevels. is too that can propel evenbefore lesstoskilled people higher Sometimes we are motivated until we not. We Minneapolis Home Building Madison Home Columbus Building & Renovation Expo deliver 115w of continuous isn’ttired just about rankings anymore. It’s about being & visible, valuable to waste. Unmotivated results are comparable to a truck thatExpo is get of dealing with customers, inspectors, building Remodeling Expo When: Jan. 9-11, 2026 credible, and the obvious When: Jan. 2-4, 2026 power for running faster charging of when someone researches. in gear at idle speed that slowly creeps forward. departments, and whatchoice at times can feel like an adult When: Jan. 16-18, 2026 Where: Monona Terrace Convention Where: Ohio Expo Center, Columbus, OH. headlamps, phones, tablets 3) Being marketed likeis a roofer or aneven emergency service The forward progress slow and a slight incline kindergarten: your employees or team members. We Where: Hyatt Regency Minneapolis, Center, Madison, WI. 5) Omnipresence without More info: homeshowcenter.com/ and laptops. a connected system Deck building isn’t an emergency purchase. Homeowners will cause it to slow down or stop with a possibility of become worn down with the challenges of finding labor, Minneapolis, MN.honestly, More info:need homeshowcenter.com/ overview/columbus You’ll hearcash the word and matters. aren’tbackwards—except calling because something broke and they help juggling rolling for Ram trucks. flow,omnipresence, hittinginfo: profit margins, itriding out More homeshowcenter.com/ overview/madison Homeowners don’t go from “I might want a deck” to “here’s today. They’re making a high-ticket decision about their The kit includes aoutcomes 65w USB-Care more like a truck with recessions, and the many challenges that come Motivated with overview/minneapolishome2 Florida’s Largest Home Show Tampa my deposit” in one step. It takes multiple touchpoints. They home andand lifestyle. wall adapter a their foot on the accelerator someone putting with the running a business. We can become complacent or Fox Cities Home & Garden Show When: Jan. 2-4, 2026 see your work, check reviews, browse your site, ask around, If your marketing partner uses the same playbook they 100w 3-ft. USB-C PD cable. based Tampa Buildout. ExpoWe get tired of the When: Jan. 16-18, 2026 Where: Florida State Fairgrounds, Tampa speed of advancement on the amount of pedal even worse, frustrated or burnt and come back when they’re ready. use for general home services, you’ll attract the wrong When: Jan. 21-22, 2026 it turns into Where: Fox Cities Exhibition Center, More info: floridaslargesthomeshow.com applied. The distance covered and the speed of getting to builder’s grind. Where omnipresence breaks down is when people and wonder why marketing “isn’t working.” It works, [milwaukeetool.com] Where: Tampa pep Convention Tampa Appleton, WI.(Ram thebut destination is affected by the energy put forth. Periodically, we need a mental rally orCenter, positive scattered marketing—hiring vendors in silos, doing a little only when it matches how your customers actually buy. More info: buildexpousa.com/ More info: homeshowcenter.com/ NADRA 2026 Summit & Awards Gala trucks usually go farther faster.) restart. We may provide this on our own or something tampa-build-expo CONTINUED >> overview/foxcitieshome When: Jan. 7-9,are 2026 Deck railings featured in the 3D renderings included in Keystone’s proposals. CONTINUED >> Where: Wyndham Grand, Clearwater, FL. More info: nadra.org/awards
... it is possible for less talented but highly motivated people to equal or exceed achievements of exceptionally talented individuals who lack adequate drive.
48 | Deck Specialist | November/December 2025
January/February 2026 Deck Specialist || 35 September/October 2025| ||| Deck Deck Specialist| 47 March/April Specialist July/August2026 2025 Deck Specialist | 55 37
of everything, and never building one connected system. Omnipresence only works when everything works together, an integrated system that bends to your business. 6) Not owning what you’re paying for If you invest in marketing, you should be building equity. Your website, your data, your accounts, your content, those are assets. If a company controls all of that and you can’t take it with you, you’re being painted into a corner. In my mind, that’s just bad business. And more often than not, it’s because they don’t believe they can keep clients long-term based on value. THIS IS A PARTNERSHIP, NOT A VENDOR RELATIONSHIP If you want someone to “run your marketing” while you stay hands-off, that’s a vendor. If you want a system that actually supports sales, protects your time, and helps you attract better projects, that requires a partnership. A real partner learns your business, aligns marketing with your goals, tells you uncomfortable truths, and expects you to be involved. It’s not the easiest route, but it’s the one that actually works. Shortcuts feel easier. They never are. THE SCORECARD SHOULD BE SIMPLE You don’t need a confusing report full of micro-metrics.
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You need a scorecard that answers the only question that really matters: Is this helping us hit our sales goals? A good partner treats your marketing spend like an investment. You give them money, they take care of it, optimize it, and tell you clearly whether it’s creating real opportunity, not just activity. If you ever feel confused about what’s working, that’s not your fault. It’s a sign the system isn’t being managed the way it should be. I put together a simple Agency Vetting Guide with the 10 questions every deck builder should ask before signing anything. It’s designed to protect your data, your time, and your sanity, and to quickly separate real partners from polished sales pitches. Visit deckbuildermarketers.com/ beforeyouhire to download a copy. DS
April Edwards is a digital marketing strategist and founder of Deck Builder Marketers, Oceanside, CA. You can message her on Instagram @deckbuildermarketers or learn more by visiting deckbuildermarketers.com.
July/August 2026 September/October 2025 || Deck Deck Specialist Specialist || March/April
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NEW PRODUCTS Envision Outdoor Living Products has added Cool Tread Technology to its budgetfriendly Ridge Premium capped composite decking line. Already available on its Distinction Collection, Cool Tread creates a surface that’s up to 25% cooler, with up to 33% better traction and 61% less moisture absorption than typical competitors. The technology was previously added to its Distinction Collection. Ridge Premium comes in three new colors: Baja Tide (golden overtones inspired by warm coastal sands), Silver Drift (soft seaside grays), and Kodiak Bay (deep graybrown hues). [envisionoutdoorliving.com]
FastenMaster has introduced the Zip Hidden Fastening System, comprised of three components: ZipClip, the Gapper, and the ZipStick. • Gapper – Deck board spacing tool used to gap multiple boards at the same time for uniform gapping without damaging the boards. • ZipClip – Integrated clip and fastener that locks down grooved deck boards when installed. ZipClips are inserted between deck boards and when the fastener is installed into the joist, the clip rotates 90 degrees into the groove to lock the board in place with perfect spacing. • ZipStick – Stand-up cordless drill attachment used to install the ZipClips. ZipStick is compatible with all variable speed drills. The Zip Hidden Fastening System is compatible with leading grooved composite and PVC decking boards.
ZipClips are available in bucket quantities for 100-, 300-, and 500-sq. ft. decks. Gapper tools are available in two-packs, with four more spacers per pack. ZipStick tools are sold individually with a driver bit included. The Zip Hidden Fastening System is scheduled to ship in April. [fastenmaster.com]
Brass Knuckle SmartCut BKCRT201 Touch Screen gloves feature medium cut protection, excellent dexterity and grip, and special touch screen fingertips to facilitate device usage while providing all the safety and durability needed on the job. The medium-duty gloves are made of ultra-high molecular-weight polyethylene fiber that offer ANSI cut resistance level A2 protection and dexterity while the excellent dry-grip functionality is enhanced by a non-sticky polyurethane (PU) coating on the palm and fingers. [brassknuckleprotection.com]
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The Metabo HPT Concrete Grinder, TE 13-125 (646431420) is a professional-grade 5” grinder used for high-performance cutting, grinding, and beveling concrete, tile, and masonry. It is ideal for removing imperfections, smoothing uneven surfaces, and eliminating formwork seams or protrusions.
Digger Specialties Inc. (DSI) has introduced Westbury aluminum post wraps. Westbury wraps are the perfect solution for upgrading new or existing support columns or posts with the enduring strength of aluminum and the lasting beauty of powder-coated surfaces. Unlike PVC/vinyl wraps that are subject to expansion and contraction, Westbury post wraps are dimensionally stable and are produced with the industry’s most stringent proprietary 10-step AAMA 2604 powder coating process. Property owners have a choice of 12 standard colors that come in textured and non-textured surfaces. Optional aluminum post caps and bases are available.
Powered by a 12-amp LongLife motor, it delivers up to 9,600 rpm and is built to handle tough jobsite conditions with ease. It features patented dust protection, optimized airflow, epoxy-coated windings, and a winding protection grid that helps extend motor life. Safety features include Metabo HPT’s S-Automatic mechanical safety clutch which helps reduce kickback, as well as restart protection and a tool-free adjustable guard.
Westbury aluminum wraps are easy and fast to install over existing posts because of the engineered interlocking design which provides a seamless appearance. The interlocking staves are designed to fit over square and round posts and come in 4”, 6”, and 8” widths and heights of 8-1/2’, 10’, and 16’. Westbury wraps are covered by DSI’s lifetime limited warranty.
The tool comes with a side handle, adjustable guard, spanner wrench, inner flange, and mounting nut. The TE13-125 also accepts a wide array of Metabo HPT 5” optional dustless accessories for OSHA compliance.
[diggerspecialties.com]
[metabo-hpt.com]
Simpson Strong-Tie is simplifying post frame construction with two new PFUD undersaddle hangers. The hangers feature a two-sided design so one hanger supports ceiling joists on each side of a truss instead of requiring a separate face-mounted hanger for each joist. The continuous seat fits snugly under the truss’s bottom chord, automatically aligning parts vertically for an easier, faster layout. For single-sided applications, installers simply bend and separate the hanger along the perforations to create two face-mounted options. Two options are available: the PFUD24 fits one-ply trusses, the PFUDS24 fits two-ply trusses. [strongtie.com]
52 | Deck Specialist | March/April 2026
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March/April 2026 | Deck Specialist |
53
Trex Refuge Decking is a new ignition-resistant PVC decking line engineered for use in select regions with heightened firesafety requirements, particularly the West Coast. Third-party tested to the industry’s most rigorous standards, Trex Refuge decking resists ignition and slows flame spread. The line meets ASTM E84 Class A Flame Spread requirements and complies with IWUIC ASTM E2768 Ignition Resistance Standards, making it approved for installation in fire-prone and Wildland-Urban Interface-
protected (WUI) areas. Trex Refuge decking features a refined, wire-brushed grain pattern and is available in two hues: • Point Reyes – a misty coastal gray with cool undertones and refined grain inspired by rugged western shorelines. • Martis Valley – a light, sun-washed beige with soft golden undertones and a clean, contemporary finish. The decking is offered in 1”x16’ and 1”x20’ lengths with solid, square-edge profiles for strength and design flexibility [trex.com]
SUMMER, SUMMER, ALLYEAR YEARLONG LONG ALL
Titan Building Products’ Vertical Ground Anchor is a tie-down solution designed for direct load path resistance in winduplift and tension applications. Ideal for freestanding deck frames, sheds, bunkies, and select retaining wall tiebacks, it installs with a ½” drive impact wrench. No excavation or concrete required.
TO AD T OE X EP XLPO LR OE RE AV DEVRETRITSIISNIGN,GC, OCNOTNATCATC: T :
(714) 486-2735 (714) 486-2735 Chuck Casey Chuck Casey ccasey@526mediagroup.com ccasey@526mediagroup.com Nick Kosan nkosan@526mediagroup.com Nick Kosan nkosan@526mediagroup.com jhaugh@526mediagroup.com John Haugh John Haugh jhaugh@526mediagroup.com
Deck Specialist AD JANUARY 2022.indd 1 Deck Specialist AD JANUARY 2022.indd 1
54 | Deck Specialist | March/April 2026
Target Outdoor Living Target Outdoor Living Contractors through Contractors through Deck Specialist Deck Specialist magazine and magazine and Deck-Specialist.com Deck-Specialist.com
It’s available in 24”, 36” and 48” lengths, with 3-¼” and 5” blade options. The anchor includes a heavyduty auger, eye nut with fin for cable attachment, and an optional 5” x 5” cap plate that enhances soil compression. [titanbp.com]
12/21/2021 2:45:55 PM 12/21/2021 2:45:55 PM
March/April 2026 | Deck Specialist |
55
DATE PLANNER Portland House & Outdoor Living Show When: March 20-22 Where: Oregon Convention Center, Portland, OR. More info: homeshowcenter.com
Anderson Home & Garden Show When: March 28-29 Where: Anderson Civic Center, Anderson, S.C. More info: expomanagementinc.com
Kerrville Home & Outdoor Living Show When: March 21-22 Where: Hill Country Youth Event Center, Kerrville, TX. More info: kerrvillehomeshow.com
Salem Spring Home Show When: April 18-19 Where: Salem Civic Center, Salem, VA. More info: thespringhomeshow.com
Columbus Home Improvement Show When: March 27-29 Where: Ohio Expo Center, Columbus, OH. More info: homeshowcenter.com
Dallas Build Expo When: April 22-23 Where: Dallas Market Hall, Dallas, TX. More info: buildexpousa.com
Longmont Home Show When: March 27-29 Where: Boulder County Fairgrounds, Longmont, CO. More info: longmonthomeshow.com
Twin Cities Home Expo When: May 8-10 Where: Minneapolis Convention Center, Minneapolis, MN. More info: homeshowcenter.com
Madison Build, Remodel & Landscape Show When: March 27-29 Where: Monona Terrace Convention Center, Madison, WI. More info: homeshowcenter.com
Rio Grande Valley Home & Garden Show When: May 20-22 Where: McAllen Convention Center, McAllen, TX. More info: showtechnology.com
OKC Home + Outdoor Living Show Jacksonville Home & Garden Show When: March 27-29 When: May 22-24 CONSTRUCTION: Proven projects. Fairgrounds Expo Center, Where: The Bennett Event Center, Oklahoma City, OK. for a spectrum Where:ofJacksonville More info: homeshowokc.com Jacksonville, FL. More H homeshowcenter.com USIN U • Sinfo:
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CONSTRUCTION: CONSTRUCTION: Proven Proven forAround. for a spectrum a spectrum of projects. of projects. All need for concrete footings Solid first ICC-certified ground screw foundation system matically reducesThe labor N: Proven for a spectrum mizing the project’s carbon of projects. dscape.
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When: May 27-28 Where: Palmer Events Center, Austin, TX. More info: buildexpousa.com/austin-build-expo
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PCBC Summer Showcase When: July 28-29 Where: Gaylord Pacific Resort & Convention Center, Chula N CA. CKIVista, DEMore info:Gpcbc.com Houston Build Expo When: Aug. 12-13 Where: NRG Park Center, Houston, TX. More info: buildexpousa.com/houston-build-expo
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Visit us at the ISA Sign Expo Booth #753
56 | Deck Specialist | March/April 2026
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FutureScape USA When: Sept. 1-2 Where: Barker Hangar, Santa Monica, CA. More info: www.futurescapeusa.com Murfreesboro Home Expo
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Katy Home & Outdoor Living Show When: Aug. 22-23 Where: Center, Katy, TX. OMerrell E • Binfo: LLkatyhomeandoutdoorlivingshow.com GMore
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More info: murfreesborohomeexpo.com
AD AD INDEX
INDEX 16-17
Page
Cover III
www.yellawood.com
Absolute Distribution Inc.
47
www.absolutedist.com
56
American Ground Screw Mfg. & Supply
Arxada
21
Atlantis Rail Systems
31
AZEK / TimberTech
11
Biewer Lumber
7
CAMO
9
Deck2Wall
49
Deckorators
27
DeckWise
33
Diamond Pier
51
Digger Specialties
55
FastenMaster www.fastenmaster.com
Sylvanix www.sylvanix.com
3
www.diggerspecialties.com
53
Shurtape Technologies www.shurtapetech.com
www.diamondpiers.com
Cover IV
Protecto Wrap www.protectowrap.com
www.deckwise.com
10
Palram Americas www.palram.com.us
www.deckorators.com
19
Nichigo G-Tape www.gtape.com
www.deck2wall.com
5
MOSO North America www.moso-outdoor.com
www.camofasteners.com
41
Milwaukee Tool www.milwaukeetool.com
www.biewerlumber.com
39
Midwest Fasteners www.mwf.net
www.timbertech.com
29
MFM Building Products Corp. www.mfmbp.com
www.atlantisrail.com
3
Master Halco www.masterhalco.com
www.wolmanizedwood.com
37
Humboldt Sawmill www.mendoco.com
www.americangroundscrew.com
45
Great Southern Wood
TimberTech www.timbertech.com
Cover II
Titan Building Products www.titanbp.com
March/April 2026 | Deck Specialist |
57
Digging In BY JOE HAYNES
FROM ESTIMATING LOADS to selecting the right equipment, footing decisions affect every phase of a deck build. A few key questions and early checks can prevent costly rework and keep projects moving efficiently.
Contractors looking for digging equipment that is lighter than skid steer attachments and easier than posthole diggers often select earth drills, which drill through sand, soil or clay in minutes. Photos provided by Little Beaver Inc.
Learn Before You Dig Start each project by asking the customer questions, such as the preferred size, location and floorboard type, as well as how they plan to use the deck. This will help provide an estimate of the load the footings will support. As with any construction project, become familiar with local building codes related to deck footing requirements and construction guidelines, such as setbacks and requirements for ledger board and handrails. Understanding and adhering to these rules, which will vary by location, reduces the risk of going back to correct errors after inspection or, worse yet, the deck collapsing and potential injuries or litigation. Footing depths, for example, vary by region. In the upper Midwest, codes typically require digging holes as deep as 54” to protect footings from shifting that can occur due to soil freezing and thawing.
Skid steers featuring a hydraulic auger attachment provide a quick and easy method to drill holes, but the heavy weight risks damaging the grass. And, depending on the skid steer, it might be too wide for an operator to drive through gates to access backyards. Earth drills split the difference, with the portability of a manual posthole digger and the power of a hydraulic drill attachment. Earth drills are generally compact and lightweight, fitting easily in a pickup, and won’t damage grass while moving through the backyard. The units’ high torque easily drills through sand and clay in minutes.
Get the Tools Efficient, maneuverable digging equipment helps to quickly achieve the right footing depth. Contractors have three main options for drilling footings: manual posthole diggers, skid steers with attachments, and earth drills. Manual posthole diggers provide a lightweight, inexpensive option that easily fits in the back of a pickup truck; however, they’re impractical for digging several holes more than a foot deep. This limits the number of footings a contractor can dig in a day and, in turn, the number of decks a landscaping company can profitably bid.
58 | Deck Specialist | March/April 2026
Work Faster with the Right Blades When choosing an earth drill, check the auger’s points and blades to see if an operator can customize them for drilling through multiple soil conditions. Trying to power through soil with the wrong blade can prematurely wear the blade and the drill. Every successful deck build shares one thing in common: the work starts before the digging does. Thoughtful planning and the right tools don’t just simplify footing installation, they help builders work smarter, move faster, and finish projects they can rest upon. DS Joe Haynes is the president of Little Beaver Inc. Little Beaver has been manufacturing a full line of drilling equipment and accessories, including augers, extensions, points and blades, for three generations. www.littlebeaver.com.
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