Ideas & Strategies for Outdoor Living Professionals
Sounds great, doesn’t it? But really, each deck you build isn’t about you. It’s about your clients. That’s why Deckorators® Surestone® mineral-based technology is raising the bar on what to expect from composite decking. Our innovative manufacturing process results in a board that is 35% lighter while retaining its strength, delivering the strongest (and lightest) deck boards in the industry. It’s the best option for your clients (and your back).
Learn more at deckorators.com/surestone
Ideas & Strategies for Outdoor Living Professionals
DECK SPECIALIST
Ideas & Strategies for Outdoor Living Professionals
The Latest Railing Trends
2025 will see more builders using a variety of railings and lighting
The Art of Teamwork
From prison guards to commercial fisherman— Ravin Builders found its dream team
Below-Deck Drainage Tips
Top deck builders share how they install their underdeck drainage systems
Helping Builders Succeed
Three companies help deck builders transform their businesses
Grow
ON THE COVER: Ravin Builders’ dream team recently built this 1,400-sq. ft. deck in Orange, CT., with 33 North Design Collaborative. It showcases a Fortress steel frame, Eva-Last Pioneer decking, in-lite lighting, and IG Railing.
Parks & Deck Creation with Bobby Parks Set the Standard with Brendan Casey
Tool Reviews with Andy Henley and Mike Mitchell
Market Yourself with April Edwards
New Products Date Planner
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DECK SPECIALIST is published six times a year at 151 Kalmus Dr., Ste. J3, Costa Mesa, CA 92626, (714) 486-2735, www.deck-specialist.com, by 526 Media Group, Inc. (a California Corporation). It is an independently owned publication for U.S.-based builders and contractors that specialize in decking and other outdoor living projects. Copyright®2025 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. Deck Specialist reserves the right to accept or reject any editorial or advertising matter, and assumes no liability for materials furnished to it. May/June 2025 • Volume 9 • Number 3
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Off Script
I’m usually the one asking the questions. Plus, I’m naturally shy. I like being behind the scenes, scribbling notes, guiding the narrative—not necessarily being the subject of it.
So when I recently found myself on the other side of the conversation for an industry podcast—with the cameras on and the spotlight on me—I was doing my best not to look like a deer in headlights. I had a general idea of what I wanted to say. I’d even mentally rehearsed a few talking points. But speaking off the cuff, staring into a lens, and trying to sound both natural and insightful while also remembering to smile at the camera? Not easy. At least not for me.
That’s when it hit me—this must be what so many builders face every day.
Whether it’s pricing new products, testing unfamiliar tools, or fielding surprise client questions… learning how to shoot videos for social media, exploring AI platforms, or figuring out how to position your business for what’s next—none of it comes with a script. And most of it happens on the fly, in real time, with the pressure of a client, a collaborator, or a camera.
There’s no teleprompter when you’re running a business. No cue cards when a homeowner changes their mind mid-build. No retake when a product arrives late or a weather delay throws off your entire timeline. Builders, like so many professionals in this industry, are improvising every single day—making decisions in the moment, adapting to shifting conditions, and trusting their gut when experience hasn’t yet caught up.
This issue is full of people doing just that—learning as they go, adapting, and growing. From railing manufacturers leaning into bold new designs and adding lighting to their projects to companies making it easier for builders to scale their businesses and streamline their operations, a clear trend is emerging: success favors those who are willing to show up, even when it’s uncomfortable.
And here’s the thing: we don’t talk enough about how
Trying something new rarely feels easy in the moment. It can feel awkward, or even risky. But every time you step outside your comfort zone ... you stretch. You grow.
challenging that can be. Trying something new rarely feels easy in the moment. It can feel awkward, or even risky. But every time you step outside your comfort zone— whether it’s learning new software, reworking your pitch, filming your first jobsite walkthrough, or saying yes to something you’re not quite ready for—you stretch. You grow. And you make room for the next version of yourself and your business.
So if you’re feeling a little uncomfortable doing something new, take heart. You might be standing on the edge of something good.
And if I learned anything from sitting on the other side of the table, it’s this: the hardest part isn’t doing the work. It’s having the courage to show up—and share it.
Sara Graves is the managing editor of Deck Specialist. Reach her at sgraves@526mediagroup.com
Wolf Moves into the Pacific Northwest
PrimeSource Building Products is expanding Wolf Home Products into Washington, Oregon, and parts of Idaho. The launch includes Wolf Serenity Decking and Gallery Railing. The move supports Wolf’s national growth strategy.
MoistureShield and RDI Grow with GSWP
MoistureShield and RDI announced an expanded distribution agreement with Great Southern Wood Preserving, Inc. This will further enable access to railing and composite decking solutions for customers in Hagerstown, MD.; Rocky Mount, VA.; Fombell, PA.; and Millwood, KY.
“Partnering with Great Southern allows us to significantly grow the presence of MoistureShield decking and RDI railing products across the eastern U.S.,” said Matthew Bruce, VP of sales at Oldcastle APG.
James Hardie to Acquire AZEK
James Hardie Industries has entered into a definitive agreement to acquire The AZEK Company Inc. in a transaction valued at $8.75 billion, including AZEK’s net debt of approximately $386 million as of December 31, 2024.
The deal, which includes cash and James Hardie shares, will unite two leaders in exterior and outdoor building products, creating a comprehensive platform spanning siding, trim, decking, railing, and pergolas.
Aaron Erter will remain CEO and Rachel Wilson will serve as CFO of the combined company. AZEK executives Howard Heckes, Gary Hendrickson, and Jesse Singh will join James Hardie’s board of directors following the closing, which is expected in the second half of 2025, pending customary regulatory and shareholder approvals.
Deckorators to Open $70M Production Facility in New York
Deckorators, a UFP Industries brand, will build a new $70 million production campus in Lackawanna, N.Y., doubling its Surestone technology capacity.
Set to open in Q4 2025, the 30-acre site will feature 240,000 sq. ft. of manufacturing space and create 50 jobs by 2026.
MFM Advances Line in North Texas
MFM Building Products has appointed Veteran Group Sales to represent its waterproofing membrane line in North Texas. The agency, founded over 60 years ago, will represent MFM with one-step and two-step distributors.
James Thomas and Andrew Putt will lead the representation, bringing extensive experience in residential and commercial building products.
FASTER, EASIER,
RAILING TRE
Where Style Meets Simplicity
BY SARA GRAVES
INNOVATION IN RAILING is being shaped by the builder’s need for faster installs and the homeowner’s demand for clean, modern design. According to industry experts, here are the trends leading the way.
WHAT BUILDERS ARE LOOKING FOR
Unobstructed views - Another undeniable movement in railing is the rise of view-optimized systems. Whether it’s the transparency of topless glass, the sleekness of cable, or the open-air vibe of horizontal infills, the visual impact is a major selling point.
“Glass railing allows for seamless visibility, creating the illusion of a larger space while preserving safety and structural integrity,” says Michelle Hendricks, director of marketing for Deckorators.
Duradek’s Stirling Noyes, marketing specialist, agrees, calling topless glass the “ultimate expression” of modern, sleek, unornamental design.
“One of the hottest trends in railing systems today is the use of stainless-steel cable infill,” adds Master Halco’s senior product manager, Dawn Phillips. Homeowners and builders appreciate its “clean lines and unobstructed views that cable railing provides, which are especially valued in areas near water.”
Builders are embracing products that deliver better experiences and tighter tolerances. “We’re seeing a strong demand for streamlined designs with hidden fasteners—just as modern kitchens conceal appliances, today’s railings are all about clean aesthetics and seamless integration,” adds Kym Nosbisch, senior marketing director at Feeney Inc.
“Builders and homeowners want clean lines, style, and see-through visibility,” says Steve Davies, COO of BuyRailings. That’s why “aluminum systems with glass infills panels and aluminum cable rails systems are popular right now and I see that trend continuing.”
A variety of materials - “Mixed use of materials—like metals, glass, and lighting elements—are tipping the scales on the ‘want’ factors in today’s market as outdoor living as a whole industry is laser-focused on the importance of railing products as the new big decision on decks,” adds IG Railing’s owner, Mike Kunard.
Hendricks of Deckorators sees increased mixing of materials—like glass combined with aluminum, wood-
inspired texture paired with metal accents—and personalized design touches taking center stage.
Other popular material railing trends industry experts have noted are:
• Minimal material sizes - Anchor Iron Co.’s Mark Roberts says that they are seeing a move toward minimal material sizes, like cable or metal spindles, and away from bulkier options like wood or vinyl. Maintenance is another big factor—aluminum vs. wood.
• Matte black finishes - MoistureShield and RDI VP sales, Matt Bruce, says aluminum railing is growing fast thanks to its ease of use and contemporary style. “Matte black finishes align with sophisticated, upscale style many homeowners seek. Additionally, aluminum railing is versatile enough for both indoor and outdoor use.”
• Architectural mesh panels - Architectural mesh panels will remain popular, says Kevin Harris, director of sales and marketing, AGS Stainless, because they “are created in a variety of patterns from a mixed assortment of beautiful materials like, bronze, copper and brushed stainless steel.”
• Clean, modern metal systems - Luke Guittar, VP of sales and marketing at ADI Global Distribution, says the hottest trend in railing right now is clean, modern metal systems. “Homeowners love the sleek, lowmaintenance look that ties their outdoor spaces into the overall design of the home.”
• Stylish cable railing - Cable railing adds a “modern coastal or industrial look” while being lighter on maintenance than glass, making it an attractive alternative, adds Rob Mitchell, president & CEO, Vista Railing Systems Inc.
• Elevated design - Keylink product manager Kevin Mynaugh points to an increased demand for black stainless steel cable systems that elevate both form and function.
“Customers are becoming more sophisticated, and railing designs will need to follow that trend,” adds Kate Haws, director of brand marketing at Fiberon.
LIGHTING
While visual appeal dominates, lighting is quickly becoming the differentiator. Integrated lighting—
“Ultimately, our goal is to provide a comprehensive and cohesive system of decking, railing and fasteners that increases efficiency, streamlines installation and affords greater quality control to those who choose to build with Trex.”
CUSTOMIZATION
The demand for personalization is also growing. “Today’s homeowners no longer want to blend in; they want to stand out,” says Mynaugh. Keylink is responding with semi-custom solutions developed in collaboration with designers and builders.
Retailers and distributors are responding with more modular systems—rails and posts that can be paired with a variety of infill options. Vista Railings’ Mitchell says this approach gives builders the design freedom they crave while simplifying inventory management.
COMPLIANCE
“But even as style and speed evolve, so too does the need for safety and compliance. Director of marketing at ProWood, Grace Bilbrough, anticipates stricter regulations driving demand for systems that don’t just look good, but also exceed safety standards.
DIGITAL ADVANCEMENTS
There’s also a digital shift underway. Nosbisch of Feeney highlights the role of e-commerce and showroom technology in helping clients visualize and customize their railings. “We’re investing in digital advancements and creating immersive showroom experiences where customers can touch, feel, and interact with our products,” she says.
A CURATED EXPERIENCE
From topless glass to matte black aluminum, the range of railing choices available today reflects not only evolving tastes—but a full-bodied market of innovation, aesthetic nuance, and builderdriven solutions.
“The railing category has evolved into something like the red wine industry,” says Rick Kost, Titan Building Products’ VP of sales. With so many selections offering a wide variety based on one’s tastes, appearance, and affordability, “together they represent a lot of beauty and ingenuity.” DS
TREX: MORE THAN JUST DECKING –
TRANSFORM YOUR ENTIRE OUTDOOR SPACE
The name Trex likely brings to mind the industry-leading composite decking that has revolutionized outdoor living. However, Trex is much more than just decking. With a full portfolio of outdoor solutions—including railing, lighting, pergolas, fencing, furniture, outdoor kitchens, deck drainage, the tools to make it happen and more—Trex enables you to create a fully integrated, stylish and functional backyard retreat. Whether you’re doing a quick deck resurfacing project or planning a complete outdoor transformation, Trex has the products and tools to bring any vision to life.
Trex® Composite Decking: Beauty, Strength and Low Maintenance
Trex o ers five tiers of Performance-Engineered™ composite decking designed for any backyard and budget. Every board features Trex’s proprietary, high-tra c formulation and ultra-durable integrated shell, delivering the look and feel of real wood without the hassles of ongoing upkeep. No stripping, sanding or staining is ever required; just a simple soap-and-water cleaning is all that’s needed to keep a Trex deck looking like new for decades. So, owners can spend more time enjoying—rather than maintaining—their outdoor spaces.
All Trex decking is sustainably made with up to 95% recycled and reclaimed materials and engineered to withstand decades of wear and weather. Boards are fully submersible, making them ideal for marine applications, and many feature the brand’s exclusive SunComfortable™ heat-mitigating technology, which keeps them cooler* under the sun.
Trex® Railing: Form and Function Unite
Trex also o ers a railing lineup that mirrors its industry-leading decking portfolio with options for every project that pair seamlessly with Trex composite decking, allowing homeowners and builders to create safe, stylish and enduring outdoor spaces. Among the latest additions to the Trex railing roster are steel, aluminum, cable and glass systems, along with enhancements to the Trex Select® composite railing system, o ering more sophisticated alternatives to traditional wood, vinyl and metal railings. Designed for longevity, Trex railings resist fading, warping and corrosion, making them a perfect low-maintenance choice for today’s active lifestyles.
Trex® Hidden Fasteners: A Seamless Look
If you want to create a clean deck surface while ensuring a secure hold, Trex® Hidden Fastener clips do that and more. Designed for Trex boards, they provide precise spacing for a polished, uniform look. Engineered for durability, these fasteners also help minimize surface damage. Whether you’re working with a steel or wood substructure, there are options for every project. Easy to install and built to last, Trex® Hidden Fasteners deliver both beauty and strength for a flawless finish.
Trex® Fencing: Stylish Surroundings
O ering a durable and eco-friendly alternative to traditional fencing, Trex® Fencing provides the perfect frame to any outdoor space. Made from the same innovative blend of recycled wood and plastic film used to make Trex decking, Trex composite fencing delivers all the beauty, durability and ease of maintenance builders and homeowners expect from Trex. Trex® Fencing won’t rot, split or splinter, is insect-resistant, and can be trusted to outlast the elements for decades without ever needing to be painted, stained or sealed.
Available in vertical and horizontal designs in sizes up to 12’ tall, Trex® Fencing comes in a variety of configurations with interlocking pickets for optimal privacy and security. The system is o ered in multiple color options and features the same upscale aesthetics on both sides for enhanced curb appeal.
Trex: Beyond Decking Build a Complete Outdoor Oasis
Trex isn’t just about creating beautiful, long-lasting decks. Whether you’re adding railing, a comfortable furniture set, a high-end outdoor kitchen or a stylish shade structure, Trex o ers a full suite of products and tools designed to enhance a home’s exterior—all with Trex’s signature durability, premium aesthetics and low-maintenance ease.
Ready to take your projects to the next level? Explore the full Trex product lineup at Trex.com and start designing your clients’ dream outdoor oasis today!
THE ART OF TEAMWORK
Q: How did Ravin Builders get its start?
A: Ravin started as a side hustle. Around 2018, after an injury, I found myself in a senior project management role. While it was a solid position, I missed working hands-on with clients and the creative process. During COVID, I spent my days in the office and my evenings moonlighting as a carpenter.
When things slowed down due to pandemic restrictions, I had the opportunity to take a severance and go all-in with Ravin. Our first year was entirely word of mouth—decks, garages, remodels, even a new construction home. But decks quickly became my favorite.
In 2021, we completed our first creatively designed composite deck under the Ravin name. That project changed our trajectory. I hadn’t considered niching down—most builders in our area do a bit of everything. At the time, I didn’t even know there was such a thing as a specialty deck builder.
Then a rep from a decking manufacturer stopped
by the site, praised our work, and encouraged me to enter it into the NADRA awards. I responded, “What’s NADRA?”
A few months later, I found myself at Deck Expo in Dallas, TX., surrounded by builders, manufacturers, content creators, and industry pioneers. That experience lit a fire. I realized this could be more than just a general building company—it could be something specialized and truly exceptional. With support from April Edwards at Deck Builder Marketers, I began shaping a clear vision for Ravin. That was the beginning of our next chapter.
Q: What core values guide your work and client relationships?
A: Integrity is the foundation of our business. From the very beginning—before social media, before we found our niche—our goal was to break the stigma of the unreliable contractor. We do things right when no one’s watching, even when it would be easier not to.
Beyond that, we value creativity, curiosity, innovation, and collaboration. I’m constantly questioning the norm
Q: What do you look for when building your team?
A: People often ask how we find the right talent to build the kind of projects we’re known for. The truth is, we’ve built a team out of unlikely candidates. I always joke that we’re like the Village People—Codi was a realtor who’d never picked up a tool. Chaz was a prison guard who couldn’t read a tape measure. Matt, aka “Bonesaw,” was an offshore fisherman for 30 years. Zach, thankfully, came to us as a skilled carpenter.
Experience isn’t the priority—character is. Some of the most experienced applicants haven’t been a good fit. I look for the right people, not just the right résumés. The team we’ve built is strong, and they push me every day to keep building a company that creates space for all of us to grow.
Q: Why is peer-to-peer mentorship important to you?
A: Whenever someone tells me they’re feeling stuck in their career, I tell them: help someone else.
We can get so caught up in the daily grind—deadlines, finances, logistics—that we lose sight of how far we’ve come. Mentoring others brings that into focus. It reignites purpose and reminds you why you started. Watching someone else succeed, knowing you had a hand in that, is one of the best feelings in the world.
Q: How do you balance being a hands-on owner with growing industry recognition?
A: Balance is one of the hardest parts of this journey. It takes boundaries, scheduling, goal setting, and constant practice. I’ve learned to delegate the tasks I’m not passionate about so I can focus on what I do best—building, innovating, and pushing boundaries.
Burnout is real. But belief in our mission keeps me going. We make mistakes, we learn, and we keep moving forward. Social media has been a game changer—not just for exposure, but for education and mentorship. It gives us a platform to share knowledge and inspire the next generation of builders, which is something I take seriously.
Q: What’s next for Ravin Builders?
A: We’re looking forward to more collaboration with peers—design/build projects with legends like Dave Settlemyer and Deck DaVinci (DeckSouth), sponsored learning events, and broader educational initiatives.
We’re also expanding our YouTube presence with structured educational content, weekly vlogs, and behind-the-scenes insights. The mission is to be consistent, stay curious, and aim for the moon. DS
THE FIRST and most immediate challenge wasn’t the design. It wasn’t the framing, or even the weight of the 12” log posts. The first hurdle was accessing the remote build site tucked into a North Idaho hillside above a lake.
This build location wasn’t for the faint of heart—or the faint of equipment. Every beam, every board, every piece had to be carefully transported and strategically staged with precision. The log posts proved to be the most difficult— heavy, unwieldy and requiring careful coordination to stand them upright into position.
It was the kind of job that demanded both problemsolving and patience. Bobby Thorpe, owner of North Idaho Decks & Interiors, recalls the logistics: “Due to the remote location we had limited options for machinery that we could get on site. We ended up using a teleloader that was designed for sites like this as a sort of crane. We were able to tie one end of the posts and lift them with the teleloader, position them onto the footings, and then secure them in place. With the number of posts involved, this was a timeconsuming process.”
The homeowner’s goal was clear: create a beautiful outdoor living space that blends with the rustic aesthetic of the home. Their top priority was to preserve the natural logpost look of their original deck. Although the original posts were too deteriorated to reuse, new ones were sourced and stained to replicate the slightly weathered appearance of the originals.
The finished deck features Deckorators decking, with the main decking and fascia in Sedona and a picture frame border in Khaya, creating a warm, natural palette that complements the surroundings. A 20’ x 24’ roof cover extends usability through all four seasons and features recessed can lighting and a stained pine tongue-andgroove ceiling, adding both function and charm.
CONTINUED >>
Structurally, the deck was built to last. The framing consists of pressure-treated 2x10 joists set 12” O.C. and pressuretreated 8x14 beams, supported by the stained log posts. An underdeck waterproofing system was installed to keep the space below dry and usable year-round.
“We tend to over engineer our decks by default,” Thorpe adds. “All framing is built at 12” O.C. to ensure that the decking will be well supported and last as long as possible. We also tend to under span beams and joists to make sure that the deck can withstand even the heaviest snow loads.”
To maintain visual openness while adding a modern touch, CityPost cable railing was chosen. The blend of rustic and sleek design elements gives the space a distinctive character— rooted in tradition but finished with a contemporary edge.
One standout feature is the recessed hot tub, which required additional framing and support. A removable deck panel was built in to allow for future maintenance access.
The project began in winter, with a design phase that lasted about 30 days. Construction was started in the spring and took three months from demolition to completion. The client was involved in selecting colors and guiding the log-post aesthetic but left the deck layout to the team. Weekly check-ins ensured progress aligned with expectations.
In the end, the challenges became part of the story—a deck that doesn’t just exist in the mountains, but was built for the mountain. DS
ROOFTOP DECKS
Why Choose Vinyl?
BY JOSHUA SNYDER
Vinyl
DECKS ARE A FOCAL POINT
for many types of dwellings that provide areas for entertainment, shade and relaxation, but they can do much more than just increase curb appeal. Decks should—and can—provide additional outdoor living space, increasing the usable area and the overall value of a home, townhome or apartment. The key to ensuring decks have both form and function is selecting waterproof materials that will stand the test of time.
One option that’s popular, especially in regions that tend to get a lot of wet weather, is vinyl. Continental, for example, makes a popular vinyl deck membrane that is code approved, waterproof and slip resistant. Vinyl is a cost-effective way to cover decks, making them completely waterproof and cutting out the cost and headache of ongoing annual maintenance. Vinyl deck membranes are virtually maintenance-free, and can be easily cleaned when needed with a brush and warm, soapy water.
Vinyl is especially popular with builders. It’s ideal for rooftop decks, balconies, porches and traditional decks. Rooftop decks have become a must-have item in many markets because they can create expansive outdoor entertainment and living spaces that provide even more value to buyers. But those rooftop decks must be entirely waterproof or they pose a risk to the underlying structures. Even a little water seeping through to substructures can cause mold, mildew and structural damage that can cost a fortune to repair.
Builders of multi-unit residences are also finding vinyl is a costeffective option to open up more space with decking while also protecting the space below. Imagine a 20-unit apartment building. Each unit has an outdoor deck and patio, but that deck is directly above another unit with a similar deck. To make sure both areas can function as high-quality, usable living areas, builders need to use waterproof materials. If builders are successful at waterproofing decks, it opens up opportunities to greatly expand the footprint and value of the space, making it more attractive to renters and buyers.
When it comes to decking, all materials are not created equally. Builders should ensure they are selecting materials that are not only waterproof, but blend in seamlessly with the aesthetic of the home. Materials that come in multiple shades, tones and designs help blend indoor and outdoor spaces to create a seamless transition between the two. People typically think of wood when they think of decks, but vinyl deck membranes come in a variety of designs that are meant to look exactly like wood, cobblestones and even marble, so designers have lots of options.
Look for vinyl deck membranes that are code approved for outdoor and roofing applications and meet the AC39 standard for a “walkable” roofing surface requirement.
Outdoor living spaces have become even more popular with buyers in recent years. Ensuring the right materials are used in constructing or repairing decks is crucial to providing the longevity and durability that buyers and renters are looking for. Waterproof materials, and specifically vinyl deck membranes, are a cost-effective solution that is easy to install and can fit into any design aesthetic. DS
Joshua Snyder is the Head of Industries, Exterior Films for Continental Surface Solutions. He has over 20 years of experience in the decking industry (www.continental-industry.com)
deck membranes can help to open up more usable outdoor living space, and can make any deck waterproof and virtually maintenance free.
Strategizing for Success
BY SARA GRAVES
IN OUTDOOR LIVING CONSTRUCTION, there’s a truth successful builders know: talent and tools will only take you so far. To thrive—and not just survive—you need support systems that understand your business, speak your language, and help you scale. That’s where a few forward-thinking companies are stepping in to not just serve deck builders, but equip them for long-term success.
From lead generation and sales strategy to brand positioning and lighting education, companies like Deck Builder Marketers, Legacy Decks Academy and inlite outdoor lighting, are changing the way pros grow their businesses.
Deck Builder Marketers
“Great craftsmanship doesn’t mean anything if no one can find you,” says April Edwards, founder of Deck Builder Marketers. “We work with some of the best builders in the industry, but you wouldn’t know it by Googling them before we dialed in their marketing.”
She adds that Marketing 101 is about having the right message for the right audience at the right time, but that’s really hard to do when you’re trying to be everything to everyone.
Edwards launched her agency after realizing her generalist marketing firm needed to focus its clientele. “We weren’t practicing what we preached. Once we doubled down on deck builders, we started to see incredible results. That’s when I knew we’d found our lane.”
Her company now serves builders nationwide, acting as a full-service marketing department with a mission to empower potential, build success, and enrich lives.
The challenges they see consistently include:
unstable leads, poor-quality inquiries from places like HomeAdvisor, weak or nonexistent online presence, and total overwhelm.
Deck Builder Marketers tackles these pain points with what Edwards calls a “complete marketing system”—from SEO and paid ads to email campaigns, content creation, and automated follow-ups.
The Deck Builder Marketers also offers bi-weekly group coaching calls, a Client Success Hub full of SOPs and playbooks, and runs a marketing mastermind Facebook group. Edwards even authored The Deck Builder Marketing Playbook and regularly shares her insights in the pages of Deck Specialist magazine and at industry events like Deck Expo.
“One of our favorite client stories is Legacy Decks,” she shares. “They weren’t struggling, but they were stuck. Great team, great work, great reputation... but their online presence didn’t match their quality.”
In just one year of working together, Legacy Decks saw their leads jump from 780 to 1,300, their cost per lead drop to $23, and their Google ranking shoot to #1 for “deck builder Greenville, S.C.” Their project values nearly doubled, and ROI exploded—from 4.85x to 117x.
“This wasn’t a quick fix,” Edwards emphasizes. “It was a full marketing transformation.
The clients that invest the most in smart advertising are the best, Edwards says. “The most successful builders we work with all do one thing: they stop relying on word of mouth alone. They invest in their brand and build systems that support the business they want, not just the one they have.”
She adds that deck builders are often wary to invest a
Legacy Decks
percentage of their revenue into marketing, but “2% is a given, 5% is even better, and 7-10% is where you will find the ones that you think are killing it, probably because they are not afraid to invest.”
“If I could offer one piece of advice to deck builders looking to grow in 2025, it would be this: start thinking like a CEO. Stop chasing every lead and start building a brand people come to you for,” she says.
Learn more at deckbuildermarketers.com/get-started.
Legacy Decks Academy
Marketing brings in the leads, but sales and systems still rule the bottom line—and that’s where Legacy Decks Academy steps in.
Founded by Chris and Amy Breen, the Academy was born out of personal struggle. “Years ago, I was trapped in what I call a ‘self-made prison,’” says Chris. “I was working 100+ hours a week, doing everything myself— sales, building, estimating, problem-solving—while missing time with my family and barely making enough to breathe. We had the talent, but not the systems or financial clarity to run a real business.”
“Eventually, we got tired of trying to figure it all out on our own,” Chris adds. “The late nights, the constant stress, the weight of guessing—it was exhausting. And honestly, the mistakes were expensive. Every wrong hire, missed estimate, and lack of process came with a price
tag. So, we made the smartest decision we’d ever made— we hired a close friend who was an amazing business consultant. He helped us see the blind spots, cut through the busy-ness, and start building a real company with structure and vision.”
“Once we experienced that transformation ourselves and scaled our business, we knew we had to help other builders escape the same grind,” Chris adds. “That’s why we created Legacy Decks Academy—because no one should have to figure this out alone.”
Legacy Decks Academy is a coaching and consulting platform built specifically for deck builders and outdoor living pros built around four pillars: Plan, Numbers, Systems, and Team. It offers training, tools, community, and mentorship to help contractors transition from overwhelmed operator to confident business owner.
Legacy Decks Academy offers three program tiers tailored to different stages of growth:
• Academy Pro for builders doing $250k–$750k in annual revenue.
• Boardroom for those at $750k–$1M who want highsupport system implementation.
• Inner Circle for $1M+ businesses seeking full access to private consulting and in-person intensives.
Amy Breen says after creating Legacy Decks Academy, they kept meeting builders “who were passionate and hardworking, but stuck. They were drowning in jobs,
couldn’t find or keep help, weren’t charging enough, and definitely weren’t enjoying the fruits of their labor.” She says Legacy Decks Academy was created to give them a roadmap—to help them build a business that works for them, not because of them.
“Everything we teach is what we use to run our own multi-million-dollar deck business,” Amy says. “This isn’t theory—it’s what we live and breathe.”
And the success stories speak for themselves.
One Midwest builder was two years into the business, working in a cold climate with a short season and nonstop pressure. He was still in the field, working 60 to 80+ hours a week, doing it all: sales, estimating, production, and admin. The year before he joined Legacy Decks Academy, he had made under $400K in revenue and was barely scraping by, drowning in debt, and robbing Peter to pay Paul.
In his first year with us, he doubled his revenue, Chris says, and—more importantly—got out of the field. He hired a full-time crew, a project manager, a coordinator, and an administrative assistant. By year two, he’d passed the $2M mark, opened a showroom, hired a salesperson, and brought on a bookkeeper. Today, he’s no longer buried in the grind. “He’s leading a real business and has more freedom and stability than ever before,” Chris says.
Another transformation came from a 52-year-old family business in New Jersey. The owners were wearing every hat—estimating, managing production, running the office—and paying themselves less than minimum wage. They had no systems, no clarity on pricing, and felt totally maxed out, Amy explains. “Eighteen months later, they doubled their revenue, cleared $4M in sales, and moved into their first-ever showroom.”
For the first time, they’re paying themselves well, taking time off, and finally seeing the business become an asset—not just a job. Their transformation is proof that it’s never too late to level up,” Amy says.
Chris offers this advice for deck builders looking to grow in 2025:
“You cannot out-hustle your lack of a clear strategic
planning. If you want to grow in 2025, stop trying to do it all yourself. You’re not failing because you’re lazy— you’re failing because you’re stuck in the grind. You need systems. You need clarity. You need a team. Don’t wait for ‘someday’ to figure it out—get the right help and make the leap.”
Amy adds, “You don’t have to trade your time, family, or health to grow a business. If you’re willing to learn, get support, and take action, you can build something that gives you freedom instead of stealing it. The business you want doesn’t require more hours—it requires better structure.”
Learn more at legacydecksacademy.com
In-lite Lighting Academy
Sales isn’t the only area where builders are leveling up. Mastering the key components of project execution is equally important—and lighting is one area where many builders are willing to pay for expertise.
“Lighting is a crucial aspect of outdoor living spaces, but it’s often overlooked or seen as a secondary skill,” explains Jason Faist, product trainer at in-lite. Recognizing this knowledge gap, in-lite launched its academy, a structured online education platform designed specifically to help deck builders and contractors master lighting techniques.
The academy covers everything from basic lighting principles to smart technology integration. Builders get access to real-world design examples, step-bystep installation modules, and business tips to enhance customer satisfaction and boost profitability.
“One builder, Lou Lattanzio from Deck Nerds in the southeastern part of North Carolina, wanted to level up his lighting game for a large spring project,” explains Faist. His team enrolled in our courses and online live training, and after completing them, they had a much deeper understanding of the system’s versatility. Now, they’re more confident than ever heading into the install. In-lite plans to document the process for content on both of its platforms.
Faist’s advice to deck builders? Embrace lighting as an integral part of your projects. “The demand for outdoor lighting will only continue to grow, and deck builders who stay ahead of the curve will stand out in a competitive market,” he says.
Learn more at in-lite.com/en-us/in-lite-academy.
Building a New Blueprint for Success
These three companies may serve different roles in the deck-building ecosystem, but they’re all working toward the same goal: empowering business owners to grow, scale, and succeed.
Whether it’s building a pipeline of high-quality leads through Deck Builder Marketers, mastering the art of the close with Legacy Decks Academy, or learning to install professional-grade lighting with in-lite, today’s deck builders have more support than ever before.
And that support is transforming businesses.
“The work we did last year is still feeding our clients’ businesses today,” Edwards says. DS
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From the Top Down
BY SARA GRAVES
WHEN DECK BUILDERS THINK LONG-TERM, they don’t just look at what’s on top—they think about what’s underneath. Creating a dry, usable space beneath an elevated deck isn’t just a bonus feature anymore; it’s a strategic build move. From additional living areas and screened-in porches to protected storage zones, underdeck drainage systems have become essential for pros who want to maximize the footprint—and the value— of every project.
Deck builders across the country are thinking beyond the surface. Instead, builders are designing with intention—adding drainage systems above and below the joists to protect the framing and transform the area underneath into something functional, beautiful, and protected.
“It’s like shingles on your roof,” says Edward Pacylowski, owner of ProBuilt Construction Inc. in Highland, MD. He explains that putting a deck drainage system on top of the framing before the decking is installed completely covers the framing so it never gets wet again.
Pacylowski’s perspective is rooted in years of real-world application. He shares the story of a client who returned years after installation, asking for new electrical additions under the deck. To do the work, his
team removed part of the ceiling—only to find the framing underneath still looked brand new. “No water stains, no mold, no mildew, no nothing,” Pacylowski says. “It looked brand new literally.”
Anna Kaufmann, co-owner of Rock Solid Builders Inc. in McHenry, IL., takes a similar approach. Her team builds decks level, then relies on a drainage system that pitches each joist bay away from the house. “We have installed underdeck drainage systems on hundreds of decks, which makes the lower level of a deck usable in rain or shine,” she says.
One of those builds, located in Wisconsin, now supports a fully enclosed screened room underneath an upper-level deck—an efficient use of space that doubles the homeowner’s outdoor living area. “It’s a cost-effective way of utilizing a small yard efficiently,” Kaufmann adds.
For Mike Mitchell, owner of Mitchell Construction, Frankfort, IL., the move toward dry underdeck areas is both practical and profitable. “We build in some areas that don’t allow sheds,” Mitchell explains. “Turning the underside of a deck into a storage space really helps these clients, especially the ones who are busting at their garage seams.” On one project, his team waterproofed a low deck and enclosed it with skirting and a barn-style door—just wide enough for the homeowner’s riding
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mower. “The deck looks great, their HOA was happy, and the client gained more storage at a lower cost than a separate unit.”
Each builder echoes the importance of protecting the structure itself. When not enclosing the area below, Kaufmann’s crew applies Mitsubishi’s G-Tape protective joist tape to guard against moisture. Mitchell’s team uses layered flashing around the ledger board and secures the framing with structural screws to prevent twisting—crucial for reducing expansion and contraction issues. These extra efforts to stabilize the frame and help control movement, says Mitchell.
Pacylowski adds that choosing a full-coverage drainage system is what ultimately protects the investment. His advice: stick to systems designed to integrate fully from the top down and follow the manufacturer’s guidelines to the letter. One such system he and other pros turn to is Trex RainEscape, which routes water away from the structure while shielding the entire frame from moisture exposure.
Segmenting large, multi-level drainage systems requires smart planning. Mitchell and Kaufmann both note the importance of sloping appropriately and incorporating multiple gutters and downspouts for proper water flow. Pacylowski adds, “Even if you followed the guidelines, the gutter would overflow during a hellacious pour down… but that’s outside—it’s made to do that.”
Ultimately, under-deck drainage isn’t just about keeping things dry. It’s about transforming an otherwise overlooked space into something homeowners can actually enjoy.
“If you already have a fantastic view, you amplify it by being higher,” says Pacylowski, describing multitier deck builds that create private upper decks, shaded screened-in rooms, and protected patios below. “It just creates more opportunity.”
LEFT: ProBuilt’s Richards project features a screened room under the deck above accentuated by a spiral staircase connecting the two spaces.
BELOW: ProBuilt utilizes a full-coverage drainage system to ensure that the beauty of the underdeck ceiling is protected from weather. BOTTOM: Trex RainEscape protects the outdoor space beneath it.
Deck builders today are thinking vertically— stacking value, protection, and comfort from the top down. Whether the goal is a dry storage zone, a bugfree porch, or a place to relax rain or shine, underdeck drainage has become an essential part of the build. DS
says they “wanted a wide variety of colors, textures and materials to define the separate zones while retaining the continuity and flow of the spaces.” They chose TimberTech Advanced PVC Capped Polymer decking in the Vintage Collection using multi-width boards in Weathered Teak, English Walnut, Coastline and Dark Hickory.
The grilling deck featured large-format, white porcelain paver tiles installed over the StoneDeks System Silca grates, with a Lion Premium grill, stainless steel cabinets and ice chest built into the outdoor kitchen setup. The StoneDeks system was selected for its smart, stylish versatility—letting the client choose from a variety of pavers and paver tiles. Adding realism and rugged style, faux stone panels by NextStone were selected for the pillars and various skirting applications.
To pull everything together, Tru-Scapes lowvoltage LED, Bluetooth-enabled, color-changing lights were installed at each rail post, stair riser and undermounted at the center of each rail section and at the stone pillars to broadcast light downward and across the deck surface. Each zone had its own unique vibe, made possible by programmable lighting controls and color matching capabilities.
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The team also went with Trex Signature aluminum pre-assembled rail sections in Black and Trex Transcend 4x4 post sleeve over a steel surface mount post.
Fasteners were chosen for both performance and appearance. “We used a variety of fasteners,” Clint says, “including Cortex screws and color match plugs by FastenMaster along with Edge Clip fasteners by CAMO and structural hardware by Simpson Strong-Tie.” The hidden fasteners made a strong visual impact on stairs, trim, and borders, and were chosen for swift, seamless installation.
Importantly, all materials were selected with local conditions in mind. Clint explains that The Oaks deck was “designed and built with our Midwest climate in mind. From the TimberTech Advanced PVC Capped Polymer decking to the StoneDeks System—all of the products and materials are made to withstand the elements and rapid temperature changes that we experience in the St. Louis region.”
Through managing the Deck Building 101 group on Facebook, Clint says he was able to incorporate members’ ideas into this project, including a reminder to simplify the sketch. “I can be creative without creating an overly complicated build. Strip all of the fluff away and keep the core elements of what makes an outdoor space inviting, functional and beautiful—color, lighting, flow, texture, simplicity and craftsmanship,” he says.
It’s that focus on simplicity—from Kylen’s sketch to the structure to the smallest selections—that proves sometimes the simplest solutions shape the sketchiest builds.
“I’m extremely proud of my son Kylen Webb, who helped complete this build while continuing his college education,” Clint adds. “We are a two-man, father-andson crew building one deck at a time.” DS
into every thread.
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you’re cutting is obnoxious—couple that with precision miters. No, thank you,” Thompson says. “If my tread width is 42”, I’m marking up to 44”. I cut those and make a nice stack for the next assembly line.”
After the special-order materials came in, Thompson noticed another problem: the field boards were out of alignment with the stair landing by 1-1/2”.
“I calculated the landing to accommodate 11 boards with overhang on both stairs. What I failed to consider when placing the landing was how the alignment of decking was going to look. Because all the other things needed to be in alignment, I missed that.”
After that was corrected, the team hit yet another blockade—the framing plan. “Originally, I had another beam in the center of the two large sections. Joists were 16” O.C. I was going to attach a beam bracket to the house and install another two posts to carry the beam,” Thompson says.
“You use less CAMO wedge clips with 16” than 12” O.C.,” he adds. “Wedge clips aren’t cheap, but I realized buying more clips was a lot cheaper than installing two beams, posts and pouring more footings if I just went 12” O.C. The cost for joist, clips, and peace of mind was priceless.”
As the clock was winding down in the fourth quarter, Washington State delivered a brutal blow of daytime temps in the 30s, nighttime lows in the 20s, and relentless rain to try to prevent the team from crossing the end zone. The yard became a mud pit, and the materials—pre-cut and stacked for next-day installs—froze solid overnight and had to be thawed daily. The sun didn’t hit the backyard until 12:30 pm, and disappeared by 4:00 pm.
Against all odds—and a ticking time clock—they finished just in time. “We finished the day before the Super Bowl, and I had the amazing opportunity to christen one of my projects with the family and their friends,” Thompson says. DS
Smarter, Not Harder: Grow Your Deck Business With AI
IF YOU’VE EVER WISHED FOR A FEW EXTRA HOURS in the day—or a marketing team that works for free and never sleeps—you’re not alone. Deck builders across the country are juggling jobsite responsibilities, client meetings, and back-end operations while still trying to grow their businesses. That’s where artificial intelligence, particularly tools like ChatGPT, is stepping onto the deck.
And no, we’re not talking about robots installing railing systems (not yet, anyway). We’re talking about using AI to handle the stuff that eats up your time: marketing content, emails, social media captions, blog posts, SEO keywords— even your sales scripts.
April Edwards, founder of Deck Builder Marketers, recently compiled a list of 99 AI prompts that are tailored specifically for deck builders (found at deckbuildermarketers.com/learn/guides/chatgptprompts). Think of it as a Swiss Army knife for your digital strategy. These prompts help you generate everything from Facebook group welcome messages to YouTube video outlines and customer service scripts. It’s all about saving time and keeping your business sharp.
So, how exactly are builders using AI right now? Here are five real-world ways to make AI work for you.
1 | Content That Writes Itself (Almost) Creating content is one of those necessary evils in
marketing—especially when you know your time would be better spent on-site. That’s where AI shines. You can use ChatGPT to brainstorm blog topics.
For instance, here’s how you would ask AI to generate a blog post for you.
Initial prompt: “Act as a blog writer, generate a list of potential blog topics related to deck building.”
Post prompt: “Pick a topic, provide an article outline.” (It can outline posts, and even generate full first drafts that incorporate identified SEO terms).
Post prompt: “Identify and correct any grammatical errors or weird phrasing.”
Post prompt: “Suggest important keywords related to deck building that you can include in your post to help show up higher in search results.”
Not only does this save hours, but it also helps boost your website’s SEO, driving more organic traffic and potential clients your way. With the right prompts, you can even optimize meta descriptions and FAQs that help your business stand out in local search results.
2 | Social Media Without the Headache
Keeping your social media active is key, but coming up with engaging posts is easier said than done. AI can help generate Instagram captions, Facebook engagement questions, and even pull together 20 inspirational quotes
Better Than Before
FIRST PERSON PROFILE | BY STEVE GETSIV
WHEN WE BOUGHT OUR HOUSE in 2007, it came with a newly remodeled outdoor living space that included an upper and lower deck. Both were finished with slate tiles and featured wood-burning fireplaces.
Initially, we loved this space. The lower deck stayed mostly dry, but construction standards were not all that great. Eventually, the leaks from the upper deck became too much. By 2010, we had no choice but to pull up all the slate tile on the upper level and reseal the substrate.
We installed a beautiful 1x4 cumaru hardwood deck that held up great for another five years. Then, the substrate failed—again.
This time, we carefully removed the hardwood deck, labeling every board so we could reinstall it in the same order. We used a high-quality, 50-year guaranteed silicone sealer.
But the damage was already done, and the corners of the deck began to settle.
Fast forward to 2024—we finally decided to rebuild the entire structure from the ground up and do it right.
We were really sad to see just how much damage had occurred after only 20 years. Clearly the previous build had not been done right. The posts were embedded by about 2” into the glulam beam.
Plus, the original deck was built around the fireplace structure, which allowed moisture to penetrate at the
perimeter. We pulled the fireplaces on both levels of the deck.
We worked closely with our contractors—Neil Kelly of Portland, OR. (Huge thanks to Severin Holden, Shane Longie, Shane Patrick and Fabian Genovesi). We redesigned the structure from the ground up. The new plan included steel posts, concrete footings, tapered joists (to allow for a flat ceiling and a 3/16” per ft. slope on the upper deck), new glulam beams, and an 80 mil TPO membrane, similar to what was used on flat commercial roofs.
Once done, the contractors turned the project over to me. From there, I took the lead on assembling the hardwood railing and deck system.
Tapered joists allowed us to have a flat roof underneath the deck and gave a nice gentle slope so the water drained off the main deck. Our joists had a 3/16” per foot taper.
Pioneer Roofing supplied and installed the 80 mil TPO membrane. The membrane went up the side of the house by 12” and was seam sealed at all joints and double sealed around the post bases. We used a tapered post base made from PVC before installing the railing system.
Naturally durable hardwood was used. It was three times as strong as standard pressure-treated lumber and six times as expensive. But there was just no substitute for doing it right. We used 2x4 red balau flatwise for the main sleeper joists. We cut the pedestal blocks out of red balau and golden balau. The pedestals ranged from 3/4” at the house all the way up to 4-1/4” furthest away from the house.
It would have been risky to do mitered corners with hardwood decks. The 45º corners gave us less trouble. All end grains were sealed with wax—UC Coatings AnchorSeal. We used the Festool Sipo Domino hardwood tenons. Starborn Pro Plugs were used to hide the fasteners.
We finished the backsides of the deck boards to ensure that moisture didn’t get sucked up into the boards from the bottom. In a challenging application like this, especially using 6” nominal boards with only 2-1/4” to 6” of clearance,
everything had to be done perfectly, or we risked cupping, warping, and buckling.
On day two of deck assembly, my first stop was at Home Depot to pick up a pair of miter saws on stands. It turned out to be the best purchase ever.
We assembled the deck boards. The QuickClips were actually far easier than I expected. Boards were moved into place with blocking as needed. I ran most of the material “horns in” if there was any side bend. Then we put some pressure on the center board to get it straight. The clips themselves held a ¼” gap. We needed this spacing to ensure adequate airflow, so if the boards took on moisture over the rainy season, they would have some room for expansion.
The most important step when coating my deck was using an oil-based finish and wiping the deck after finishing. I used a large beach towel—much to my wife’s chagrin. This particular towel had already seen some garage duty and was certainly no gem.
The project took me just over six full work days to assemble and finish everything. I had a helper for an additional 12 man hours. Total man hours was around 80 to build the entire deck project, including the hardwood understructure on top of the TPO membrane. My contractors installed the new Ambara lower deck ceiling as well as all tile and stone work around the new fireplace on the lower deck. DS
Builders Are a Special Breed
WHEN DID YOU FIRST REALIZE your calling as a builder? Looking back, did it feel like predetermined destiny or a simple realization that building was something that you were interested in and had a gift for? Were there early signs or was it an exposure to the trade that caused something to click inside that made you realize you wanted to be a carpenter or builder?
Builders are a special breed. You possess talents and the ability to create things that didn’t exist before your ideas and efforts took shape. You convert bundles of raw material into what often is equivalent to works of art. You have the “builder’s instinct” and subconscious engineering capabilities that only builders naturally possess. And although you start out at varied ability levels, the motivated ones are in a process of improving and progressing to much higher capability levels.
You have a 3D visionary ability that you originally assumed everyone had. They don’t. You see framing structure and load transfer paths as simple common sense and thought all humans see the same. They don’t. You have an ability to clearly see your ideas, visions, and mental designs in living color. If you could take a screenshot of the image in your mind, you could share the finished project picture with others. You thought everyone else could as well. They can’t. You realize with just a glance at pictures on the wall or framing in the field
that your eyes have built-in laser leveling features. Most people do not. For you, job plans and details appear as a simple puzzle with an obvious sequence that is easily assembled. For others it appears as an impossible task.
There are many paths that lead to this profession. Many start out as hourly employees that developed confidence with a carpentry skill and want to be selfemployed. Some hire on with intentions of a temporary or summer job only to realize the calling. It can even be a late awakening that results from discouragement of their original career path and exposure to ours. Some are college graduates with business degrees that envision a business that allows them opportunities to be outdoors instead of an office every day. But in all cases, some type of exposure or trigger was involved that woke up the builder and creator inside.
As a builder, certain aspects are a given or realized. Developing internal environmental controls that allow your mind and body to ignore discomfort and function during extreme cold and heat is required. Dust inhalation of various fragrances is just a part of your day. And you learn that construction shape is not the same as gym shape, and you’ll have to achieve the first to survive the day-to-day grind.
Toughness and pain tolerance are prerequisites as you quickly learn that physical pain is a common occurrence. Anything you swing, pick up, trip over, or
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For some people, like my good friend, the worldrenowned Scott Kelly of Precision Construction in Colorado, the answer is simple. Scott, “The Godfather of Steel,” will give you an eloquent, accurate, and convincing dissertation on using steel framework in lieu of wood, and will show you a hundred or more examples to back his case.
Five minutes with Scott and you will feel as though Knute Rockne just gave you a “Win One for the Gipper” speech on why you should use steel. If your market is ripe for that material and elevated price base, or you are looking for an optional way to step up your game, reach out to or follow Scott; he is a selfless, encyclopedic wealth of knowledge and info.
While we are out selling decking products that now have a 25- to 50-year warranty, the average builder is laying it on top of a treated framing with maybe a 10year life expectancy before they show signs of rot and fungal decay.
As professionals, it’s all of our responsibilities to do our own research and properly educate ourselves on the correct framing material to use. You can’t count on the
lumberyard rep to be your professor. I just had one try to tell me that ground contact is the same thing as critically treated. How many naive builders has he misled? Clients who are purchasing their forever homes or have a longterm value mindset are seeing this as a bad investment and are now seeking better alternatives.
We’ve all heard of products like Fortress and New Castle Steel—Bobby Parks previously wrote about his amazing experience with New Castle—but if steel isn’t in your comfort zone, I’d like to share an experience we had the honor to be involved with last fall.
We were privileged to have the opportunity to participate in an awesome event where The Pelican (Decks & Docks lumberyards with the acclaimed Lainie Sleppin) along with The Pink Panther (Owens Corning Lumber and Casey Ingle) joined together to produce the “On the Road with Wood Bully” road show featuring the distinguished Samantha and Gordon South, an astounding power couple, and a wealth of industry and marketing knowledge.
The event started out at the nearest Pelican branch location with a contractor meet-and-greet, dinner, and
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giveaways, culminating in the next day with some on-site education at one of our job sites.
Wood Bully was gracious enough to participate in the building of a 400+-sq. ft project using the Owens Corning Pink Panther framing lumber. No, it wasn’t Pink; our client opted for the sleek-looking black version. Also well represented and on hand were Deck Specialist magazine and NADRA (North American Deck and Railing Association, with the ever-wonderful Stephanie Beaudry), Great Southern with James Howell, and a site visit by Facebook’s Deck Building 101 moderator, Mike May. We brought our crews together for one big team bonding and learning experience that resulted in far more education and fun than any of us had anticipated.
One thing I love about this industry is that regardless of what you think you know, there is an infinite amount left to learn. We must be willing to step out of our comfort zones in order to grow.
Everyone involved left better than we were when the day started, including my crew leader, Edy Benitez. Edy’s team had prepped and staged the site, having everything in place and ready for the production of the day. Master carpenter Rob Blanton joined in and within five minutes he, Wood Bully, and Edy were in sync like they had been together on jobs for 20 years. The Owens Corning fiberglass-reinforced composite framing was a dream to work with. We had their 6x6 support posts, double 2x12 beams, and 2x10 joists along with the 2x12 stair stringers. The black framing is absolutely beautiful.
Since we had Wood Bully on hand, the consummate professional and a leading expert on framing with this material, we decided to throw a curve ball and incorporate our signature triple border design into the
decking pattern. Gordon stepped up to the plate and knocked it out of the park.
We didn’t miss a beat. The framing techniques, tools, fasteners, and hardware for this material were surprisingly similar if not exactly the same as we use for wood. That is, with one major exception, there was absolutely no need to cup, crown, plane, or tape any of our joists. This material was so arrow straight and laser flat that everyone on site took turns at sliding the level back and forth across the top. This also enabled our decking to go down in record time.
When I first sold the project, I was a little intimidated by the material price difference until I actually sat down and weighed the savings that were offset by labor and some miscellaneous other components.
Along with not having to cup, crown, plane, tape, or retreat cuts, the framing itself also serves as fascia, stair trim, and riser material. A tremendous per job savings in both labor and material.
LEFT: Paul Thompson, Decks & Docks store GM in Baltimore, and Brendan Casey
BELOW: As part of the “On the Road with Wood Bully” roadshow, Wood Bully (Gordon and Samantha South), Owens Corning Lumber’s Casey Ingle, the local Decks & Docks lumberyard, Great Southern Wood Preserving, the North American Deck and Railing Association (NADRA’s Stephanie Beaudry), Facebook’s Deck Building 101 moderator Mike May, and their crews came together to build a 400+ sq. ft. project .
Brendan Casey and NADRA’s Stephanie Beaudry
One thing I love about this industry is that regardless of what you think you know, there is an infinite amount left to learn. We must be willing to step out of our comfort zones in order to grow.
The various framing colors can also be mixed and designed into creating unique styling detail options. Most black fascia is notoriously infamous for being extremely wavy and not a true black—not the case here, we installed this with black flat head TimberLOKs from FastenMaster for a gorgeously finished detail.
Even though the event looked like the circus had come to town with over a dozen vehicles out front from all the visitors—a Pelican, a Pink Panther, and a Wood Bully—and all the curious neighbors watching like little kids, the day was an absolute success. The project turned out nicer than our client had anticipated and it was the talk of the neighborhood on social media for weeks.
One last thing: this was the first deck of this material ever permitted in the local county. Therefore, in order to expedite things, we requested that the manufacturer provide an engineer stamp on our accurately designed drawings and they passed with flying colors.
I would like to note that we did not receive any monetary
compensation or sponsorship for our participation in the road show or for this article, we just happened to have a project sold at the time the road show came through our area and it was a fun opportunity. That said, I will absolutely continue to use this material on future projects. 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.
IF YOU’VE EVER WRESTLED with a gas-powered pressure washer or dragged a tangled extension cord across the yard, the Makita 40V max XGT Brushless Cordless 1300 PSI 1.5 GPM Pressure Washer might just be your new favorite tool. It’s lightweight, easy to use, and totally cordless, which makes for quick cleanups, and easier to wash tools, or clean your work van/truck. It’s not huge or intimidating, which is great if you’re not trying to blast the paint off your house. The design is clean and compact, which is ideal for use in the field.
ANDY: We recently wrapped up a deck project on Lake Erie and found this pressure washer to be a real time-saver. Instead of running over 450 ft. of hose to reach a water source, we used the included suction hose to draw water straight from the lake. This self-priming feature made it easy to keep the deck and our tools clean throughout the project. It saved us setup time and helped us stay efficient on the job.
MIKE: With 1300 PSI and 1.5 GPM, this washer sits comfortably in the light-to-medium-duty category. It’s not going to deep-clean old concrete or strip the stain off your deck, but it works well for cleaning composite decks, washing patios, or cleaning up jobsite messes. Right out of the box, this thing feels well-built.
All the attachments and hoses are tool-less, which made
CORDLESS CLEANING, LAKE-STYLE
MAKITA 40V MAX XGT BRUSHLESS
CORDLESS 1300 PSI 1.5 GPM
PRESSURE WASHER
Model: GWH01Z
Price: $699 (tool only)
Tested with two 4.0 AH batteries
getting started quick and easy. After you turn on the power and attach your hose, it’s ready to go. When you pull the trigger, the motor turns on with instant pressure. The adjustable spray nozzle makes switching spray patterns super easy; with just a little twist you can change your spray angle.
What really makes this washer shine is how portable and convenient it is. The self-priming capability allows it to draw water from a bucket or lake if you don’t have a hose hookup, which is great for docks or off-the-grid use. When using the siphon hose, it will run automatically for several seconds until it builds pressure. I only lost pressure a few times while siphoning, but it picked right back up a few seconds later.
ANDY: What truly stood out to me about this power washer was how effortlessly it starts up. No pull cords, no gas spills, no fumes, and no choke—just insert the batteries, press the power button, and it’s ready to go. This simplicity aligns perfectly with my preference for tools that work seamlessly, especially when time is tight. There’s nothing more frustrating than a tool that won’t start when you’re pressed for time, particularly at the end of a long day. The Makita pressure washer eliminates that stress. It’s ready when you are, making end-of-day cleanups quick and efficient.
As Mike mentioned, its compact design makes it easy to transport and access from the trailer or truck. We simply snap in the batteries, and it’s ready to roll.
MIKE: With two batteries, I was able to get between 15–30 minutes of runtime. The washer does turn on and off with the wand trigger, which helps save on the battery when not spraying.
For most quick jobs, two fully charged batteries are enough to get the job done. For larger jobs, though, you’ll want to have backup batteries ready—or take a snack break while they charge (Makita’s fast chargers help with that).
There is onboard storage for the hoses and wands. It was a nice idea to have somewhere to store everything, but it was challenging to get it all in there.
Makita 40V max XGT Brushless Cordless 1300 PSI 1.5 GPM Pressure Washer isn’t designed to replace your heavy-duty gas unit, but it excels at everyday cleanup and mobile jobs.
This tool offers freedom from cords, noise, and limitations, delivering on its promise. It’s quiet, quick to start, and easy to use, without compromising performance for a cordless tool. With 1300 PSI and 1.5 GPM, it’s well-suited for tasks like cleaning decks, patios, and job-site messes. The self-priming feature and CONTINUED >>
Contractor’s Corner
“When it comes to tools, I’ve got a lot of favorites—but if I had to pick just one, the Festool track saw takes the top spot. I may not swing a hammer much these days, but I still appreciate the satisfaction of a clean, precise cut—and this tool delivers every time.
As someone who built a reputation on craftsmanship and doing things right the first time, precision is everything. Whether it’s trimming decking boards or prepping details for a custom patio cover, the track saw gives total control. It’s fast, efficient, and leaves a crisp, finished edge that barely needs sanding.
Festool was one of the first to bring a track saw to market, and they set the bar high. These days, there are other great brands offering similar functionality at more affordable price points, but Festool still holds a special place in my trailer.
Even if I’m not on the tools full-time anymore, I’ll always value a tool that works as hard—and as accurately—as this one.”
-Pat O’Keefe
O’Keefe Built okeefebuilt.com www.facebook.com/okeefebuilt www.instagram.com/okeefebuilt
siphoning hose allow for remote cleaning from fresh water sources, adding to its versatility.
The compact design, telescoping handle, and 5.5” wheels make it easy to transport and store. Plus, the autoswitching two-bay battery system ensures longer runtime, automatically switching to the second battery when the first is depleted.
This pressure washer offers a convenient, efficient solution for everyday cleanup and mobile jobs, without the usual drawbacks of traditional pressure washers.
Pros: Super convenient, quiet, no cords or gas, great for small-to-medium jobs.
Cons: Battery life limits longer sessions, storage compartment too small.
Overall TNT rating: 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.
You’ve Earned the Right to Be Selective–
So Why Are the Wrong Clients Still Reaching Out?
When you first started, you probably said yes to every job that came your way. You had to. You needed the work, the experience, and the cash flow. That meant taking on projects you didn’t love, clients who micromanaged everything, and pricing that barely made a profit.
But that was part of the process.
Now, you’re in a different place. You’ve built your skills. You’ve established a reputation. But if you’re still attracting homeowners who just want cheap and fast—or worse, want to hover over every board you install—you’re not just unlucky. You’ve got a branding problem.
This stage of your business isn’t just about getting more leads. It’s about attracting the right ones—the kind who respect your process, value your time, and trust you to deliver something exceptional.
And the only way to do that is by dialing in your brand.
First Impressions Happen Before You Ever Say a Word
Think about how homeowners make decisions. Before they ever reach out to you, they’ve already Googled deck builders in their area. They’ve checked out websites, scrolled through Instagram, and maybe even read a few reviews. They’ve already formed an opinion—whether you realize it or not.
So if your website is outdated, if your photos don’t showcase high-end work, or if your messaging doesn’t make it clear that you specialize in luxury outdoor living, you’re going to attract the wrong people. Or worse, you’re going to turn off the right ones before they ever contact you. Branding isn’t just about having a nice logo or clean website.
It’s about creating a feeling. High-end homeowners aren’t just buying a deck—they’re buying peace of mind. They want to feel confident that you’ve got a dialed-in process, sharp craftsmanship, and a reputation for delivering something they’ll be proud to show off.
And right now, that trust matters more than ever. Between rising material costs, shifting homeowner budgets, and the uncertainty that comes with things like tariffs and political headlines, we’re seeing more hesitation from clients—and more pressure on builders.
But here’s the truth: strong brands don’t flinch when the market shifts. They don’t race to slash prices. They don’t chase low-margin work out of fear.
They stay steady, because their brand already does the heavy lifting. Homeowners know what to expect. They trust the experience. And even when times feel shaky, they still invest—because they believe in who they’re hiring.
That’s where video testimonials come in. It’s one thing to see a deck. It’s another to hear a client say, “These guys made it easy,” or “This was the best contractor experience we’ve ever had.” Want to take it further? Show real people using the deck—laughing, eating, drinking, music playing. Because an empty deck is just wood. A deck full of life? That’s an investment.
Make Sure Clients Remember You, Not Just the Work
A lot of builders finish a project, shake hands, and move on. But the best ones make sure clients don’t just remember the deck—they remember who built it.
Designed for indoor and outdoor applications, Feeney’s new Kerrie Kelly Lasercut collection offers nine intricate panel designs inspired by architectural icons, global textures, and timeless patterns.
The laser-cut aluminum panels can be used as deck railing infill, decorative accents, privacy screens, or partitions.
[feeneyinc.com]
Fortress Building Products’ new Evolution Steel Tile Deck Tray is designed to keep the deck strong and true with no rotting, splitting or insect damage. The design provides fall-through protection and water drainage, while creating the ideal surface for tile paver installations.
The Class-A fire rated tile deck tray can be installed on top of Fortress’ Evolution steel deck joists and works with any tiles. It is available in two trays: FF-Evolution-120C Tile Deck Tray or FF-Evolution-160C. Both are 4’x6”, made of 18-gauge steel with a Black Sand powder coat finish, and come in 10 tile trays per case. Evolution steel framing has a 25-year warranty.
[fortressbp.com]
Dak Deck, Dakeryn’s 2x6 T&G decking, is designed to warm and enhance exposed ceilings and floors.
Profiled from top-most appearance (J-Grade) lumber for a sublime finish, the product uses a certified western spruce or Douglas fir substrate to provide superior stability and strength.
It comes in two profiles (WC200 V2E/Flush Back and S1S V4E resawn one face), in lengths from 8 to 20 ft.
[dakeryn.com]
credit @ravinbuilders
Meridian, MoistureShield’s composite decking featuring a woodgrain texture, is now available in a new color—Shoal.
Shoal is a tranquil, driftwood tan, bridging warm and cool tones.
[moistureshield.com]
Westlake Royal Building Products has expanded its Grove Collection of architectural PVC trim and mouldings to include column wraps with caps and bases, a nickel gap profile, and flat trim.
The line combines the timeless charm and rich look of stained wood with the performance benefits of cellular PVC, making it perfect for outdoor living spaces, porch ceilings, and soffits.
Available in 6”x6” and 8”x8” sizes in 10’ lengths, column wraps easily slip over existing columns, delivering an instant, modern upgrade to porches and exteriors.
The new 6” nickel gap profile provides clean, contemporary lines on walls and ceilings. Flat trim is offered in 5/8”x4”, 1”x8”, and 1”x12” sizes.
[westlakeroyalbuildingproducts.com]
RailMaster Aluminum Railing features an AAMA 2605 powdercoated textured black finish, pre-assembled panels with plated posts and pre-mounted brackets, knockdown kits, and blank posts.
The railing includes pre-galvanized heavygauge steel, zinc-rich powder-coated matte black finish, and preassembled level/stair panels. Both systems are ICC-certified and offer decorative accents.
[masterhalco.com]
FastenMaster’s upgraded HeadLOK Structural Wood Screws now feature the TORX ttap Drive System for faster starts, reduced cam-out, and improved bit engagement. Ideal for framing and structural applications, they come in 2”, 4½”, 6”, 8”, and 10” lengths with additional lengths available for special order. Each is packaged in 12- or 50-count contractor packs or 500-count bulk pails.
[fastenmaster.com]
Makita U.S.A., Inc. has launched the 40V Max XGT 4-Speed High-Torque 1” Square Drive D-Handle Extended Anvil Impact Wrench (GWT10), delivering pneumaticlike power for heavy-duty fastening.
The impact wrench offers 2,950 ft. lbs. of torque and 2,320 ft. lbs. of fastening torque—up to 47% more than leading competitors. It includes three forward and reverse auto-stop modes, a four-speed selector, and a variable speed trigger for precise control.
At 22½” long with a 6” extended anvil, it’s compact for high-torque work and designed for access to deep fasteners. Features like anti-vibration battery protection, 360° LED light ring, toolless side handle adjustment, tether ring, and reinforced gear housing enhance durability and ease of use.
[makitatools.com]
FootingPad® footings are engineered using a fiber-reinforced composite that is exceptionally strong, lightweight, and superior to concrete.
• Complete jobs faster, more easily, and generate more profit.
• Five sizes are available for use with most post types in below-grade applications.
Driveway and walkway plaques by BuildersMark that are installed during project construction are designed to enhance your image and increase recognition of your brand while creating an elegant, homeowner-approved way for
prospective clients to know who designed and crafted their new outdoor space.
Hand-crafted in Louisville, KY., from your choice of solid bronze or Almag 535, it features the builder’s unique corporate artwork, BuildersMark drive and walkway plaques can be cast in any shape and size you desire.
The plaques tastefully enhance your company’s branding, while driving more business your way.
[buildersmark.com]
A mobile jobsite desk specifically designed for use during the entire rough framing stage of construction has been introduced by Green Flash Industries.
The Green Flash provides a portable, durable work surface that can withstand the demands of a construction site, while keeping important documents handy and organized. It features solid steel construction and an arm that clamps onto a 2x4 or 2x6 framing member, then telescopes for easy storage in a vehicle or bag. Sturdy tethered magnets hold work to the desk surface.
[greenflashindustries.com]
Milwaukee’s Roll-On 7200/3600W Power Supply delivers 2.5kWh of portable, emission-free power for demanding job sites. It charges to 100% in three hours, supports two to four operators, and features pass-through charging, smart display, GFCI outlets, USB ports, all-terrain wheels, and an IP54-rated build for tough indoor or outdoor use.
[milwaukeetool.com]
Bosch Power Tools unveiled two masonry products, including the new Bulldog Xtreme8 8-cutter SDS-plus concrete drill bit.
The new Bulldog Xtreme8 concrete drill bit, which is compatible with all SDS-plus rotary hammers. The concrete bit debuted alongside Bosch Power Tools’ Blue Xtreme carbide-tipped drill bits, which include either the PowerGrip Shank or the ¼” Hex Shank, depending on the bit’s diameter and length.
Bulldog Xtreme8 features include:
• 8-Cutter Head – Provides eight cutting edges to help withstand rebar hits, and to help prevent the bit from getting stuck
• Carbide head – Improves strength of the bit tip, reducing breakage upon hitting rebar
• Centering Tip – Ideal for drilling anchoring holes to enhance the precision of hole placement
• Integrated Wear Mark – Indicates when the bit has been fully worn
• Variable (4-2-2) Flute Design – Aggressively pulls dust away from hole to reduce heat buildup, for more continuous drilling
• Bosch-Made Carbide – Promotes quality material for increased durability
Bosch Bulldog Xtreme8 SDS-plus concrete drill bits are exclusively available nationwide at Lowe’s both online and in-stores. [boschtools.com]
Houston Build Expo
When: June 11-12
Where: NRG Park Center, Houston, TX.
More info: buildexpousa.com/houstonbuild-expo
PCBC Summer Showcase
When: June 11-12
Where: Anaheim Convention Center, Anaheim, CA.
More info: pcbc.com
Northern Colorado Home Show
When: June 20-22
Where: The Ranch Events Complex, Loveland, CO.
More info: northcoloradohomeshow.com
Florida’s Largest Home Show 2025
When: July 19-20
Where: Bradenton Area Convention Center, Bradenton, FL.
More info: floridaslargesthomeshow.com
Atlanta Build Expo
When: July 23-24
Where: Georgia World Congress Center, Atlanta, GA.
More info: buildexpousa.com/atlantabuild-expo
Northeast GA Western NC Home & Garden Show
When: July 26-27
Where: Union County Sports Center, Blairsville, GA.
More info: expomanagementinc.com
Oklahoma City Renovation & Landscaping Show
When: Aug. 1-3
Where: OKC Fairgrounds-The Pavilion, Oklahoma City, OK.
More info: homeshowcenter.com
Greater Cincinnati House & Outdoor Living Show
When: Aug. 22-24
Where: Sharonville Convention Center, Cincinnati, OH.
More info: homeshowcenter.com
Dallas Build Expo
When: Aug. 23-24
Where: Dallas Market Hall, Dallas, TX.
More info: buildexpousa.com/dallasbuild-expo
Los Angeles Build Expo When: Aug. 27-28
Where: Los Angeles Convention Center, Los Angeles, CA.
More info: buildexpousa.com/los-angelesbuild-expo
Florida’s Largest Home Show 2025
When: Aug. 29-31
Where: Florida State Fairgrounds, Tampa, FL.
More info: floridaslargesthomeshow.com
Jacksonville Home & Patio Show
When: Oct. 3-5
Where: Prime Osborn Convention Center, Jacksonville, FL.
More info: jacksonvillefallhomeshow.com
Wichita Remodeling Expo
When: Oct. 3-5
Where: Century II Performing Arts & Convention Center, Wichita, KS.
More info: homeshowcenter.com
Charlotte Build Expo When: Oct. 15-16
Where: Charlotte Convention Center, Charlotte, N.C.
More info: buildexpousa.com/charlottebuild-expo
Winter Warrior
SOME DECKS ARE BUILT FOR SUMMER. This one was born in winter—designed to shine in sunshine but built through cold hands, frozen ground, and an unshakable deadline. For this homeowner, the goal wasn’t just a nice view out the back door. They wanted a multi-level outdoor retreat that connected seamlessly to their new in-ground pool and patio—an entertainer’s hub, both above and below deck.
The project started for H-D Design, Litchfield, IL., on October 14, 2024, when plans were drawn and expectations set. One week later, demolition kicked off to clear space for the concrete pad and structural footings. The concrete needed three full weeks to cure.
Weather delays and short winter days hampered completion of the project.
By early December, with winter settling in, framing began. The H-D crew, led by owner Danny Allen, powered through snow, freezing temps, and short daylight hours to keep the project on track. Even so, everything wrapped up by January 30—just in time for the homeowner to start dreaming about warm-weather gatherings, confident their new space could take whatever the seasons might throw at it.
The build was more than just strong bones. Every layer of this deck had a job to do. Pressure-treated 2x12 pine gave the frame lasting structural integrity. Above it, TimberTech Advanced PVC in Coastline was chosen for the main deck and stair treads—not just for durability, but for its clean, coastal aesthetic. Fascia, stair risers, post wraps, beam wraps, and picture framing were all finished in TimberTech Advanced PVC in Dark Hickory, offering a bold contrast and a polished, high-end look.
Beneath the surface, a Trex RainEscape gutter system was installed to keep the area below dry and functional—a must for a deck meant to entertain year-round. And while most builds stop at ground level, this one went further: Affinity Stone kits were wrapped around the main support posts, anchoring the space with a natural touch and giving the lower level a refined finish.
Safety and style were addressed with TimberTech Impression Rail Express handrails, which incorporated TimberTech riser lights. An aluminum soffit tied it all together, giving the underside of the deck the same clean, considered appearance as the surface above.
One tool proved to be a behind-the-scenes MVP: the CONCEALoc Hidden Fastener Gun. It allowed for fast, precise board installation without sacrificing aesthetics. That efficiency proved essential, as winter weather meant every extra minute of daylight—and every warm hand—counted.
Of course, cold weather came with its own obstacles. “The winter weather and snow definitely wasn’t our friend,” says Allen. Materials had to be carefully scheduled, crews layered up daily, and snow sometimes dictated the pace. But with smart planning, tight execution, and a few strategic pivots, the team stayed the course.
The final result was everything the H-D crew imagined: a functional, beautiful, and weather-ready deck that brings people together in any season. “For me the end result is amazing, the deck is outstanding and the customer is extremely happy,” Allen says. DS
Submit photos of your latest and greatest project to sgraves@ 526mediagroup.com
ABOVE:
BELOW: TimberTech Advanced PVC in Coastline (main deck) and Dark Hickory (picture framing) provide bold contrast.
