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YEAR-ROUND OUTDOOR LIVING • ON DECKS WITH MARTHA STEWART
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November/December 2026
SPECIALIST Ideas & Strategies for Outdoor Living Professionals
November/December 2026 | Deck Specialist |
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Celebrating the 2026 Photo Contest Winners! Congratulations to the winners of the 2026 Digger Specialties Photo Contest! From standout railing designs to
creative columns and wraps, these winning projects showcase the possibilities of DSI products in outdoor living spaces. We are proud to celebrate the craftsmanship and creativity behind each project and there is plenty more inspiration to see. Scan the QR code to explore all the winning entries and see the projects that caught our attention this year.
DIGGER SPECIALTIES
2026 PHOTO
CONTEST
WINNER
Karcy Lawson of O’Keefe Built Westbury® Tuscany Railing
Best Overall
DIGGER SPECIALTIES
DIGGER SPECIALTIES
2026 PHOTO
2026 PHOTO
CATEGORY WINNER
CATEGORY WINNER
RAILING
COLUMNS & WRAPS
CONTEST
CONTEST
Aden Weaver of Backyard Construction Westbury® VertiCable Railing
Scan the QR Code
to Explore the other Winning Entries and get inspired by the amazing transformations.
Amy McConnell of Evergreen General Contracting Westbury® Wraps
SUMMER
ALL YEAR LONG
DECK SPECIALIST A publication of 526 Media Group, Inc.
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INSIGHT. INFLUENCE. INDUSTRY INTELLIGENCE. 4 | Deck Specialist | November/December 2026
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. Nov./Dec. 2026 • Volume 10 • Number 6
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Ideas & Strategies for Outdoor Living Professionals FEATURES
Stewart’s Decks 12 Martha NJ Decks and Outdoor Living and Professional Building Services transform two of the design icon’s properties
18 Own Your Project
John Lea shares the best outdoor living companies are defined by how much responsibility of the project they are willing to accept
26 Underdecking Done Right
Lou Lattanzio of The Deck Nerds shares the installation mistakes that can lead to costly callbacks
22
PROFILES
Basketball Project 22 The Tired of chasing basketballs down a steep street, a San Diego homeowner challenged Fraser Decks and Patio Covers to build a better place to shoot hoops
28 Stepping Outside the Lines
Joshua Roy’s crew heat-folded 68 boards into a 17-step staircase
the Bar 30 Raising Decks Elevated has grown by combining luxury outdoor living design, precision craftsmanship and a commitment to high standards
12
ON THE COVER: Built in San Diego, CA., the
Basketball Court deck project was designed by Fraser Decks and Patio Covers. It features Trex decking, RDI Excalibur railing, and ModuTile basketball court tiles. Photo by Sean Barrett with Sean Barrett Photography
ALSO INSIDE
8 Editor’s Note 10 Industry News 38 Parks & Deck Creation with Bobby Parks 42 Set the Standard with Brendan Casey 46 Tool Reviews with Andy Henley and Mike Mitchell
50 Market Yourself with April Edwards 52 New Products 56 Date Planner 57 Ad Index 58 Idea Book 6 | Deck Specialist | November/December 2026
EDITOR’S NOTE • Sara Graves
Forging Ahead T
here’s something interesting about watching the old and the new come together. Recently, we’ve been experiencing this firsthand at 526 Media Group. New people have joined our team. New publications, including JLC, have joined our family, headed by very established names in their respective industries. With them have come different experiences, ideas, personalities and ways of doing things. Some of these publications have histories every bit as established as our own. They have longtime readers, respected voices and traditions worth preserving. Likewise, our existing publications are backed by values and relationships that, in some cases, stretch back decades. So perhaps what we’re experiencing isn’t old giving way to new. It’s the two learning how to forge ahead together toward a new and brighter future. I see something very similar happening in the decking industry. We have builders who have spent decades perfecting their craft. They learned before YouTube tutorials, Instagram Reels and Facebook groups were a thing. Much of what they know came from years on the jobsite. Their reputations were built one project and one customer at a time. Now, alongside them is a new generation of deck builders. Many are incredibly ambitious and highly creative. They embrace new products and technology, understand the power of branding, and recognize that building a successful company today can mean building an audience as well as building decks. Social media has given them a platform previous generations never had, and some have used it exceptionally well. They’re sharing techniques, showcasing projects, exchanging ideas and creating businesses that look very different from the contracting companies that came before them. Does one approach have to replace the other? I don’t think so. In fact, I think our industry is at its best when those worlds collide. Experience without a willingness to evolve can eventually leave you behind. But visibility without craftsmanship and knowledge behind it can only take you so far.
New ideas might challenge the way things have always been done, but craftsmanship, credibility, relationships and trust never go out of style. Our responsibility as an industry isn’t to choose between generations. It’s to provide a place where both have a voice and where they can learn from one another. We can introduce you to the builder who has spent decades figuring out what works and why, only to discover he can create projects he never thought possible with the help of AI. We can also introduce you to the 22-year-old contractor experimenting with a new product, technology or business strategy that might change how a seasoned deck business owner manages their company. I’m reminded that progress doesn’t require leaving everything behind. Sometimes moving forward means bringing the best of the past with us. The tools may change. New ideas might challenge the way things have always been done, but craftsmanship, credibility, relationships and trust never go out of style. Those are values worth carrying forward no matter which generation is holding the hammer.
Sara Graves is the managing editor of Deck Specialist. Reach her at sgraves@526mediagroup.com
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INDUSTRY NEWS
Trex Co. and Do it Best Group Trex Co. and Do it Best Group entered a strategic relationship designed to strengthen the outdoor living category for Do it Best members and True Value retailers nationwide. Through this relationship, Do it Best Group members and True Value retailers will have access to Trex products while also taking advantage of the coop’s industry-leading rebate program. The agreement brings together Trex’s category leadership, product innovation, and brand strength with Do it Best Group’s scale, retailer relationships, merchandising expertise, and commitment to helping independent businesses compete and grow. “This announcement is a major win for our independent retailers,” said Russ Kathrein, VP Lumber and Building Materials for Do it Best Group. “Trex is a category-defining brand with a strong reputation for
innovation, quality, and consumer branding. By bringing Trex into the Do it Best Group program, we’re giving our members access to a powerful brand while also helping them maximize the value of their purchases through our industry-leading rebate program.”
NEWS BRIEFS Axiom South, a new one-stop supplier of outdoor living products, opened in July in Spanish Fort, AL. The company offers premium decking, railing, fencing, pergolas and outdoor kitchens, including Vista Railing, Envision decking, Fortress fencing and steel framing, and its own Axiom South cable railing. Products are available through axiom-south.com with nationwide shipping. Trex Co. has partnered with BlueLinx Holdings to distribute Trex decking and railing products across key markets throughout Missouri, Illinois, Ohio, Kentucky, West Virginia, Tennessee, Arkansas, Louisiana, Mississippi, Alabama and Georgia. BlueLinx Holdings has expanded its RDI Railing distribution to eight additional locations in key U.S. markets, bringing the company’s total RDI distribution footprint to 21 locations. Inteplast Group has entered into a purchase agreement to acquire composite decking manufacturer Fiberon from a subsidiary of Fortune Brands Innovations. The agreement includes Inteplast’s acquisition of Fiberon’s manufacturing sites in New London, N.C., where its headquarters are located; and one site in Meridian, ID. The closing is anticipated to be within 60 days, subject to the satisfaction of customary closing conditions.
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Martha
Stewart
OUTDOOR LIVING
Design Icon Taps Two Deck Builders to Transform Two Properties BY SARA GRAVES
MARTHA STEWART knows outdoor living. So when two of her properties needed new decks earlier this year, she partnered with Trex and two of their most-experienced deck builders to get the job done. At her farm in Katonah, N.Y., NJ Decks and Outdoor Living was tasked with transforming a bluestone patio into a larger outdoor living space that felt as though it belonged with the understated 1970s ranch-style guest house. Hundreds of miles north at Stewart’s historic Skylands estate on Mount Desert Island, ME., Professional Building Services faced a different assignment: rebuild two multi-tier decks in a remote coastal environment where salt air, granite, weather and logistics all factored into the construction. Making Room at Maple Avenue House
Martha Stewart poses under her custom pergola on her newly completed Trex deck at her 1970s ranch-style guest house. Photo Credit: Trex Company / Bedford Professional Photography
For NJ Decks, creating Stewart’s new deck at her Maple Avenue House in Katonah began with something Stewart wanted to keep. A mature crab apple tree stood surrounded by a bluestone patio. Rather than removing the tree, the team incorporated the tree into the design, creating a curved, tree opening finished with a bent waterfall detail in the picture-frame border and custom-curved Trex fascia on both sides of the opening. Planning began Feb. 3, when NJ Decks’ owners Bruce and Judy Verblaauw met onsite with Stewart, Trex and members of her team. NJ Decks, which typically builds 80-100 decks a year, then partnered with 33 North Design Collaborative, led by Robert Hodichak and John Lea, to create a realistic 3D rendering of the deck and pergola. On May 26, NJ Decks’ four-person crew, led by 20-year-plus veteran carpenter Johnny Lopez, began removing the bluestone patio and installing the footings. It was important to the crew to respect the client’s privacy on the large farm property, says Bruce. “We always stayed on the designated route in and out and were mindful of the surroundings throughout the project. Our experience reinforced a simple but important lesson: respect people’s privacy and their property, and you will earn their respect in return.” CONTINUED >>
November/December 2026 | Deck Specialist |
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NJ DECKS & OUTDOOR LIVING
Because the deck sits low to the ground, the crew used flush beams, while joists installed 12” on center provided additional support. Extra framing was incorporated to carry the custom pergola. The framing itself was .23 Ground Contact pressure-treated lumber, with end-cut sealer applied to every cut and Trex Protect Joist & Beam Tape installed over joists, beams and stair stringers. The hidden wiring for the riser lights was installed after framing was completed. Stewart selected Trex Transcend Lineage decking in Salt Flat, paired with Trex Select Aluminum Railing in Burnished Bronze. The deck was built with a tripleboard picture-frame border using a 1”x6” Trex deck board around the perimeter and two 1”x4” boards on the inside of the frame. Trex fascia and vertical decking skirting finished the perimeter. A 28-ft.-wide staircase opens the deck toward the landscape, with Trex linear riser lighting integrated into the stairs. Beneath it, the crew repurposed the salvaged bluestone to create the stair landing. The Ramsey, N.J.-based crew completed the deck June 30. The final step of the project was installing the completely custom Trex pergola, finished in a custom Martha Stewart paint color from the Fine Paints of Europe collection. The pergola’s scheduled arrival on July 21 started a different kind of countdown for the crew. Stewart was scheduled to be on the deck and under the pergola to film the completed deck three days later, leaving the crew little margin for error when installing the pergola. They worked extended days and finished the pergola installation at 3:30 p.m., just 90 minutes shy of the scheduled 5 p.m. filming. Throughout the build, Stewart visited the site nearly every day, checking progress and interacting with the crew. One day, she served pomegranate iced tea to the crew. Another day it was peach cobbler. “Martha knew exactly what she wanted and remained consistent with her choices throughout the
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project,” says Bruce. “She wanted the deck and pergola to complement the home without overpowering it. Her input resulted in a subtle, cohesive design, including a single color throughout the deck and picture-frame border. Her clear vision and hands-on involvement helped keep the project focused and ultimately shaped the understated look of the finished space.” Judy adds, “We are most proud of how all of the design elements came together to complement the farmhouse so beautifully. We are particularly proud that we were able to repurpose the original bluestone from the patio for the stair landing. Martha was very happy that the existing bluestone could be reused, giving it a new purpose in the finished project.” CONTINUED >>
TOP LEFT: NJ Decks & Outdoor Living pros wrapped the deck around a mature tree, keeping it as a centerpiece of the outdoor living space. CENTER: The team designed the custom pergola with Martha Stewart’s love of entertaining in mind, providing shade for an outdoor dining area. Photo Credits: Trex Company / Bedford Professional Photography TOP RIGHT: The NJ Decks & Outdoor Living team installed Trex Lineage decking in Salt Flat around a mature tree on the property, adjusting the framing and board layout to preserve the tree rather than remove it. BOTTOM RIGHT: The custom Trex Pergola takes shape at Martha Stewart’s 1970s ranch-style guest house in Bedford, N.Y. At Stewart’s request, the monochrome design pairs the pergola with Trex Lineage decking in Salt Flat and Trex Select Aluminum Railing, complementing the home’s soft gray siding. Photo Credits: NJ Decks & Outdoor Living.
November/December 2026 | Deck Specialist |
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PROFESSIONAL BUILDING SERVICES
Building on the Edge of Acadia National Park
Five hours from Professional Building Services’ (PBS) Windham, NH., facility, two weathered decks waited on either side of a six-stall garage at Martha Stewart’s Skylands estate on Mount Desert Island, ME. Skylands, built for Edsel Ford and approaching its 100th anniversary, occupies roughly 60 acres along the Atlantic Ocean near Acadia National Park. The existing decks had been weathered by coastal flooding in January 2024. Their replacements needed to be safer, more durable, lower maintenance and complement the natural surroundings, while providing a better space for entertaining and frequent use by Stewart’s grandchildren and staff. This meant ensuring solid deck supports, widening the entertainment space and landings, and using durable products able to withstand New England’s fluctuating weather conditions. PBS began the design-build process in March. Before construction started, the company used 3D design software to place potential deck configurations onto a model of the actual building. “For this project, we used the design software to offer Martha multiple potential deck layouts, which were represented on a mockup of the actual building,” says PBS’ co-president Joe Ciaraldi. Martha carefully considered and handpicked every component of these decks. “We find that showing clients design plans in this way allows us to highlight the locations of staircases and other features as well as identify and discuss any major changes at the beginning stages. This software can be especially helpful on multi-tiered decks in tight spaces.”
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And once they arrived, there was little room for improvising the logistics. Suppliers, crew housing, dumpsters, transportation and material distribution had to be coordinated for a job far removed from the company’s normal operating base. “Working in such a remote location presented logistical challenges that required us to problem-solve in ways we hadn’t encountered on other projects,” says PBS’ co-president Jordan Ciaraldi. “Without the regular resources we rely on for our everyday operations, everything had to be thoughtfully planned, from suppliers and housing to dumpster deliveries, material distribution, and transportation.” Ten crew members were divided into two five-person teams, one on each deck. The setup sparked a friendly competition as each crew raced to reach the next production stage first. After breaking ground shortly after July 4, the teams worked from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. for two straight weeks, completing both multi-tier decks by mid-July. Before they could build up, however, they had to install footings into the area’s formidable granite. Breaker bars, post-hole diggers and pull straps were used to remove boulders so the crews could reach the required footing depths. New supports were framed with kiln-dried pressuretreated wood, while Trex Protect butyl-based flashing tape was installed throughout the decking areas and stair risers. Stainless steel nails, hangers and fasteners were specified to better withstand the coastal saltair environment.
TOP LEFT: Professional Building Services paired Trex Lineage decking in Biscayne with Trex Select Aluminum Railing and Trex Fascia, creating an elevated dining space among the trees. CENTER: Trex Oval Riser Lights illuminate a stair run finished in Trex Lineage decking, with plug-and-play wiring that simplifies connecting multiple fixtures. Custom-wrapped posts and beams supporting the deck above carry the same finish throughout. TOP RIGHT: Professional Building Services framed the Trex Lineage decking in Biscayne with Trex Select Aluminum Railing to keep sightlines open to the surrounding woods. RIGHT: Sibling TrexPro contractors Jordan (left) and Joe (right) Ciaraldi of Professional Building Services review Trex decking samples with Martha Stewart at her Skylands property. Photo Credits: Trex Company / Seal Harbor Professional Photography
Above the framing, Trex Transcend Lineage decking in Biscayne brings warm brown and gray tones into the surrounding evergreens. It also subtly hides post and stair lighting wires. Trex Select Aluminum Railing in Black keeps sightlines open, while Trex Lighting illuminates the post caps and stair risers. The crews picture-framed the decking and stair risers and used 1x8 and 1x12 Biscayne Trex Fascia on fascia, post and beam wraps, post bases and stair risers. During the project, Stewart requested another finishing detail: adding custom fascia trim around the base of the deck posts. Safety was one of Stewart’s priorities from the beginning. After completion, she told the builders she finally had confidence leaning against the new railing. For a company accustomed to building hundreds of
decks annually, the Skylands project taught PBS to take their same standards for craftsmanship and client communication and translate those into an unfamiliar, remote environment and deliver excellence without compromising either. “Working in such a unique and challenging location pushed us to think creatively, problem-solve, and hold ourselves to an exceptionally high standard,” Joe says. “It’s an honor to have been part of such a special project, and one we’ll truly never forget,” Jordan adds.
Different Places But the Same Standard
One project required a builder to carefully work a new outdoor living space around the history and character already present; the other demanded that a team overcome distance, granite and a punishing coastal environment. For NJ Decks and PBS, the settings may have been worlds apart, but both projects demonstrate the same thing: when design is carefully matched to its surroundings and the craftsmanship supports it, a new deck can feel less like an addition and more like it has always belonged there. DS
November/December 2026 | Deck Specialist |
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Beyond the Build Why Today’s Clients Expect Us to Own the Outcome BY JOHN LEA, FOUNDER & CEO, DECKSOUTH
THE BEST OUTDOOR LIVING COMPANIES are no longer defined only by what they build, but by how much responsibility they are willing to accept.
Today’s homeowners are asking the builder to lead the project, even if that means constructing a deck, managing carpentry, a pool and patio build, and making sure the landscaping is top notch.
After 28 years in this business, I’ve learned that the project a client thinks they need and the project they actually need are at times two very different things. They may call because they want a deck, porch, patio or outdoor kitchen. But somewhere between the first design conversation and final completion, it becomes clear that they are asking for something much larger. They want someone to take responsibility, see the entire backyard, not just one portion of it, and coordinate the design, the engineering, the permitting, the rough and finish carpentry, the pool build, the patio build, the electrical, the plumbing, the landscaping, the material suppliers, the county/city inspectors, and everyone else who may touch the project. Most importantly, they want to know who to call when something doesn’t go according to plan. That is where I believe our industry is changing. For a long time, being a great deck builder meant being exceptional at the craft. That still matters. It always will. But high-quality craftsmanship alone is no longer enough. Today’s homeowners are asking us to lead.
The Problem Between the Trades Outdoor living projects have become more sophisticated. What may have once been a relatively straightforward deck project can now include structural engineering, roofs, two-story fireplaces, full-blown kitchens, lighting, drainage, concrete pools, spas, audio/ video, landscaping, automation, and complex municipal approvals. Specialization has helped us accomplish incredible things. But specialization also creates gaps. The designer/architect owns the plans. The engineer owns the calculations. The electrician owns the wiring. The pool contractor owns the pool. The landscape contractor owns the yard. And the deck contractor owns the deck and porch. But who owns everything between those scopes? That is where projects often break down. I have a phrase I use: When everyone is responsible, no one is. It doesn’t mean the people involved aren’t accountable or professional. Most of them are. It means that when responsibility is divided among enough people, no one is looking at the entire project from the homeowner’s point of view. The client doesn’t care where one contractor’s scope ends and another begins. They see one backyard. They
experience one construction project. And when there is a problem, they don’t want three explanations for why it belongs to somebody else. They want a solution. Our Role Has Changed I believe this creates an obligation for companies like ours. If we are going to call ourselves outdoor living professionals, we need to think beyond the piece of the project we physically construct. Our responsibility should be to understand how all the pieces fit together. That means thinking about drainage while the project is still being designed. It means determining electrical needs before floors, walls and ceilings are closed. It means understanding how a pool elevation will affect a deck, a patio or stairs before either is built. It means considering how furniture will function in the space before stairs, doors, or posts are placed. It means understanding permitting constraints before presenting a design that may never get approved. None of that is somebody else’s problem. It is the project’s problem. And if we are leading the project, it becomes ours to solve. That doesn’t mean one company has to perform every trade. It means somebody has to own the result. There is a major difference. CONTINUED >>
November/December 2026 | Deck Specialist |
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The Client Is Buying More Than Construction One of the biggest lessons I’ve learned is that project size has very little to do with what homeowners expect from us. We have clients investing $140,000. We have clients investing $1.4 million. The scopes are radically different. The expectations really aren’t. In both cases, the homeowner is essentially saying the same thing: Own my backyard, and hand it back to me finished. They may never actually use those words. But that is what they mean. They don’t want to become experts in construction. They don’t want to spend their mornings chasing subcontractors and their evenings comparing inspector comments. They don’t want to referee disagreements between professionals. They hired us because they want someone else to carry that responsibility. That is why I believe our product is bigger than the structure we build. We sell confidence. We sell clarity. We sell coordination. And, at our best, we sell relief. The Experience Outlasts the Project As builders, we naturally focus on the finished work. We obsess over straight lines, structural connections, fit and finish details, high-performing materials, slight tolerances, and near-perfect execution. We should. But the homeowner remembers something else, too. They remember the experience. Years after a project is complete, they may not remember the beam size. They may not remember exactly when a footing inspection occurred. They may not remember which trade installed a particular component. But they will remember: • whether the project felt organized • somebody communicated with them • problems were identified before they had to point them out • someone answered the phone • they felt like they had an advocate. And they will absolutely remember if they spent the entire project acting as the middleman between contractors. That experience becomes the reputation of our company. Leadership Begins Where the Scope Ends I believe the strongest outdoor living companies moving
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The strongest outdoor living companies moving forward will be defined by their willingness to take ownership beyond the traditional scope of work.
forward will be defined by their willingness to take ownership beyond the traditional scope of work. There is a line I keep coming back to: Leadership begins where the scope of work ends. Any good contractor should execute their contractual responsibilities at a high level, but a leader: • notices the gap between two scopes and closes it • sees a problem coming and addresses it before the homeowner ever knows it existed • pushes the schedule • brings the right people into the conversation • takes responsibility for finding the answer, even when the answer involves someone else’s expertise That is not always comfortable—ownership rarely is. But it is what separates being a contractor from being the person a client trusts with the entire outcome. Our industry has become extraordinarily good at building beautiful outdoor spaces. I believe our next opportunity is to become equally good at leading the process behind them. The future will belong to the companies that make complicated projects feel simple, remove friction, coordinate rather than point fingers, and understand that the homeowner did not hire a collection of scopes. They hired someone to get them to the finish line. At the end of the day, the question is not simply: Did we build it well? It is: Did we own the outcome? Because I believe that is what our clients were really asking us to do from the beginning. DS
John Lea of Decksouth specializes in designing and building custom decks and outdoor living spaces throughout the Atlanta area. www.decksouth.com.
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NewTechWood.com November/December 2026 | Deck Specialist |
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BY SARA GRAVES
W
HEN A HOMEOWNER APPROACHED Dave Fraser, president of Fraser Decks and Patio Covers, San Diego, CA., with an unusual request, Dave didn’t need much convincing. The homeowner, an avid basketball player, had been using a hoop in his front driveway, but the home’s location on a steep road meant missed shots could send basketballs bouncing down the street. Dave’s crew had already constructed a deck that occupied almost the entire backyard when the homeowner proposed another idea: use the hillside to create additional space for a basketball court. “I immediately jumped at the idea because it sounded so cool! And it’s even cooler in person than I thought it could be!” Dave says.
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Building for the Bounce From development of the plans and permitting through completed construction, the San Diego project took approximately 11 months. Much of the challenge came before construction began, as Dave’s four-man crew, led by 18-year veteran builder Dennis Arellano, worked within city setbacks and planning department requirements while accommodating the limited space and specific layout needed to make the court functional. Once those requirements were satisfied, Dave’s team turned its attention to making the structure perform like a basketball court. The crew added extra rigidity to the frame of the deck to give the basketball a “true” bounce and prevent the structure from shaking when players jumped or went up for a slam dunk.
The homeowner purchased ModuTile interlocking, high-impact polypropylene basketball-court tiles that were installed over the deck. Fraser Decks was not involved in the design or purchase of the ModuTile materials. Beneath the court’s tiles, Fraser Decks installed Trex Enhance decking in Saddle. The Saddle color is similar to the home’s upper deck in case the court ever needs to be removed. The upper deck is finished with Trex Transcend Lineage decking in Carmel and includes a Trex spiral staircase. Deckorators cable railing is installed on the upper deck. RDI Excalibur railing was fascia mounted around the court so the railing wouldn’t interfere with the playing surface. Taller netting surrounds the court to help prevent basketballs from flying down the street.
TOP: The basketball court framing is extra rigid to give the basketball bounce but prevent the court from shaking when jumped on. BOTTOM: The upper deck is finished with Trex Transcend Lineage decking in Caramel and includes a spiral staircase leading down to the court. Photos by Sean Barrett, Sean Barrett Photography.
Taking Their Shot The basketball project recently earned third place overall in the 2026 Deck Building 101 Deck of the Year Awards on Facebook, adding to a lengthy list of honors for Fraser Decks and Patio Covers. In addition, the company has earned 18 NADRA Deck of the Year Awards, plus five other industry awards. The company, which builds between 40-60 decks and patio covers a year, won Best Pool Deck at the 2026 NADRA Awards for its waterfall deck. Dave says now he’s seeing waterfall decks being built all over the place. “I just love building stuff no one else is building yet! I love starting trends!” He hopes this project might inspire builders to consider basketball or pickleball court decks when properties don’t offer conventional space for a court. “I’d love to start seeing basketball and pickleball court decks being built all over the country!” That’s the larger lesson Dave took from the build: “We all build normal rectangle decks. It’s part of the job. But adding in custom decks and being adventurous in what you will do can add so much fun to your life and career. Take on the adventures. They won’t make you rich, but they will make your life a whole lot more fun!” DS
November/December 2026 | Deck Specialist |
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Four-Season Living How Gazebos and Other Outdoor Structures Make Year-Round Living Possible BY ROUIE ANTICAMARA
FOUR-SEASON OUTDOOR LIVING doesn’t come from bolting a heater onto a summer structure. It comes from planning the shelter, site, utilities and drainage together, so the space stays comfortable and low-maintenance no matter what the season throws at it. Start with exposure and structural loads. Pull the local permit, setback, wind, snow and frost-depth requirements first, then match the structure and anchorage to them, not the other way around. A roofed gazebo will handle rain and snow more predictably than an open-roof pergola. Sunjoy’s 13x15 cedar hardtop gazebo, which pairs a cedar frame with a steel roof, is a good example of a material combination worth considering when the structure needs to visually tie into an existing deck or landscape. Whatever you choose, confirm the load ratings and installation requirements against the actual site conditions, don’t assume the spec sheet covers your climate. Treat the gazebo as part of the landscape. Align posts, rooflines and sightlines with the house and deck. Keep circulation open around cooking and seating zones, and place solid or screened panels based on prevailing wind, low winter sun and summer heat, not just aesthetics. Repeating a material or color from the home ties the spaces together without forcing an exact match. Lighting and heat need to go in before the finishes cover the rough-in. Layer ambient fixtures with task lighting over counters, plus low-level lighting at steps and paths. In cooking areas, work out grill placement, counter space and storage before anyone runs the utilities, reworking that after the fact gets expensive. Outdoor cabinetry needs real drainage, easy maintenance access and weather-resistant materials, full stop. Pick fixtures and electrical components rated for the site and code-compliant, with switches and service routes you can actually reach. For heat, use listed equipment rated for the covered location, hold the manufacturer’s clearances to combustibles, and coordinate fuel or electrical capacity with the right trade early, not as an afterthought. Keep
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curtains and screens out of a heater’s clearance zone; that’s an easy one to miss during install. Water goes down and away, always. Use roof slope, overhangs, gutters or controlled drip edges to route runoff away from posts, footings, walkways and the house foundation. Where the roof ties into the house, flash it into the wall’s drainage plane, sealant alone is a stopgap, not a defense. Leave the drainage paths accessible for seasonal cleaning, or they’ll clog and nobody notices until it’s a problem. Finish specs are really a maintenance plan in disguise. For wood, match the stain or coating to the species and exposure per the manufacturer’s instructions, and pay attention to end grain and horizontal surfaces, that’s where finishes fail first. For coated metal, protect cut edges, use compatible fasteners, and repair any installation damage
with the approved touch-up system rather than whatever’s on the truck. Hand the owner an inspection schedule covering roof drainage, anchors, fasteners, sealant joints, finishes and heating equipment. Four-season performance depends on those service details getting checked, not just on how well the structure was built. DS Rouie Anticamara is a content strategist at Seirim representing Sunjoy, writing about gazebos, outdoor kitchens and four-season outdoor living for contractor and design audiences.
FAR LEFT: A freestanding fireplace can anchor a cool-season gathering area when placement, clearances and local fire requirements are resolved early. LEFT: A dedicated grill shelter helps organize cooking, work surfaces and circulation within the outdoor-living plan. ABOVE: A gable-roof gazebo creates a defined outdoor room while maintaining open circulation on all four sides. Photos courtesy of Sunjoy
November/December 2026 | Deck Specialist |
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THE DO’S AND DON’TS OF UNDERDECK SYSTEMS BY LOU LATTANZIO, THE DECK NERDS
Q: You’ve installed a wide range of underdeck systems. What have you learned to avoid callbacks, ensure proper drainage and improve long-term performance? A: I have installed several types of underdecking systems. It’s important to make sure that your underdecking is pitched correctly away from the house, and is sealed around the house properly with the proper materials. I like to apply Geocell silicone sealant on top of the wall flashing as well as a secondary line of defense G-Tape over that. If one should fail, there is a secondary sealant. I have a tendency to install the system about 2” lower at the house to a minimum of 3” along the gutter side. This ensures proper ventilation between the underdecking and the framing system of the deck. Q: When it comes to materials, what have you found works best in the field? Are there any go-to products you prefer? What makes them reliable? A: I generally install either ZipUp or Haven Underdecking. I prefer to use Haven Underdecking due to its clean sleek look. The kit comes complete with the underdeck system (minus fasteners), gutter with downspouts and elbows. When you order a kit, you send them a diagram and they cut it to fit. It comes in 20+ colors and four textures. They also have their own waterproof Bluetooth speaker system and low-voltage lighting system, which work perfectly.
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Q: What kinds of problems can show up later when the wrong materials are used? A: I have seen things like vinyl soffit and corrugated roofing as well as aluminum coil stock stapled to the bottom of the joist. These products are not made for this application. They have to be attached directly to the bottom of either the joist or a sleeper system. Tied into the joist does not allow for proper ventilation and often is the primary cause of rot. I have also seen instances where the system is pitched towards the house, causing leaks into windows and doors. Q: How can builders ensure they’re selecting the right materials from the start? A: An easy way for builders to select the right product is to do their research and know the products they are using. I have used five different underdecking systems. I know and understand how Haven Underdecking and ZipUp works in my environment as well as expansion and contraction of the products. I also know that if I have a 36x18 deck, I have to go with Haven due to the fact that ZipUp only comes up to 16’. I also understand that when installing Haven Underdecking, I have to make sure there is a barrier between the aluminum system and the pressure treated lumber. The treatment in the lumber causes the aluminum to oxidize at a rapid rate. These are things that a lot of contractors don’t pay attention to.
“I have noticed all types of underdecking in my area and have come to realize that there are ways underdecking should be done and ways it should not be done.” Q: What’s the biggest mistake builders make with underdeck systems? And what’s the one thing they should always get right to ensure long-term success? A: A big mistake builders make is not using the proper materials and not understanding the products that they are installing. With so many videos on YouTube about products and the installation of products, there should be no reason anyone should have any issues with any underdeck system. They are designed to do the job as long as they are installed properly. I also know that the customer service on most underdeck systems is top notch and they are there to answer any questions. Lou Lattanzio of The Deck Nerds LLC has been in business for eight years. He started doing remodels of all types. Now, since 2021, he has been strictly a custom deck builder. LEFT: A sleek and modern space gets an amazing upgrade with Haven Underdeck’s all-aluminum system and cuttingedge accessories. RIGHT: Day or night, this short-term rental property provides an experience like none other. Photos by Joel Elliott Mooneyhan
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November/December 2026 | Deck Specialist |
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PROJECT PROFILE MODERNIZE IT
Stepping Outside the Lines BY SARA GRAVES
FROM THE VERY FIRST STEP, Joshua Roy, owner of Modernize It LLC, knew this was going to be a one-of-akind project. Having been given creative freedom by the homeowner to design a unique deck, his design focused on stair construction and decorative accents. “We wanted to create something that we personally have never seen before,” says Roy. “The homeowner gave us free rein on the entire design, and we took advantage of that.” While a 17-step staircase anchors the 432-sq. ft. project in Candia, N.H., it is the craftsmanship behind those stairs that tells the real story. The three-person crew, led by Roy and including Jared Landry and Evan Fenlason, heat-folded 68 boards into the stair detail, four boards for every step. Every folded piece followed the same multi-step process. A custom jig positioned the material before a V-groove router removed material from the back side. The boards were then heated slowly until they could be folded to a precise 90° angle before being glued in place to permanently hold their shape. Although the fabrication itself demanded precision, Roy
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says the greater challenge was ensuring the entire staircase remained visually flawless. “With a 17-step staircase, it takes a lot of time to ensure every piece is perfectly level, square, and aligned,” he explains. “We didn’t want the fascia, column and side stringer details to look out of place, so we had to ensure we didn’t use too much PVC where it didn’t make sense.” Built in just 11 business days, the project pushed the company’s design philosophy further than any previous build. While the homeowner originally approved a straightforward rendering, the project evolved once Roy began presenting more creative options. “I sent him a few examples of upgrades in terms of unique double borders, and he said yes to everything,” Roy recalls. “I knew he was the perfect customer to create some really nice deck art.” That creative freedom ultimately led to a two-tone inlay layout, distinctive fascia treatments, oversized columns and stair details unlike anything the company had ever constructed. “Most customers are not this easygoing,” Roy admits.
“But he really just wanted something cool in his backyard. He’s single with no children so there was no functionality aspect that needed to be fulfilled.” The project relied heavily on Deckorators mineral-based decking, chosen specifically for its dimensional stability. Roy selected the material because its minimal thermal movement made it well suited for the deck’s numerous inlays and precision detailing. The homeowner selected Khaya and Dark Slate decking, creating a bold contrast that continues throughout the project. The visual continuity extended well beyond the walking surface. White PVC wrapped the fascia, columns and stair sides, while Dark Slate served as corner treatments and top and bottom accents. The stairs themselves became the centerpiece. Each featured a Dark Slate outside edge, heatfolded Khaya 1x4 folded inner pieces and a picture-framed Dark Slate border surrounding a Khaya center. As construction progressed, several design decisions changed. After completing the fascia detail with the Dark Slate and PVC, Roy realized the original all-white column concept no longer fit the overall composition. The crew redesigned the columns to incorporate the same contrasting Dark Slate accents. They also expanded the planned 6x6 columns into substantial 10x10 architectural features, although the larger columns weren’t in the original plans. Lighting also became a defining element. Extensive Tru-Scapes lighting was integrated throughout the project, enhancing the layered detailing after sunset and adding another dimension to the already dramatic design. For Roy, projects like this represent more than creative opportunities. They reflect the growth of his company that he started almost by accident. Modernize It LLC began in 2020 after Roy agreed to build a deck for a family friend despite having no carpentry experience. After studying deck construction and following builders on social media, including Dr. Decks and Premier Outdoor Living, he completed his first project and quickly discovered a demand for higher-end custom work. Now, six years later, the company has expanded from one crew to three, with an aim to add one additional crew each year. Combined, the three crews build between 80 and 100 decks annually. “We have some of the best deck building carpenters in New Hampshire on our crews, and (we) focus on quality and customer service above all else,” Roy adds. He also credits the company’s rapid growth to his vision to become the best deck builder in their local area, then in New Hampshire, followed by Northern New England. To make that happen, Roy says he continually reinvests in his company by pushing marketing ads to grow brand awareness, redesigning the website every year, rebranding multiple times, and, at times doing projects at break-even to add to the company’s portfolio and strengthen its brand. “I spent years of my life working every day without time
off to ensure the business kept growing and to make sure I outworked the competition.” That growth mentality is evident in this project. Roy intentionally priced it low at $34,999—taking a huge pay cut and almost breaking even—to qualify to enter NADRA’s National+ Deck Awards in the Alternative Deck Under $35K category. “This was one of those investments made to do something unique, and add it to the portfolio without much profit,” he explains. Looking back, Roy says this project taught his team that true design excellence comes from thinking beyond individual features. “Many projects are complex in one category. This one was complex in every category—deck inlays, stair details, fascia, columns, stair wrapping, and the immense amount of lighting,” he says. “Looking at the entire deck from a drone shot, it looks like nothing I’ve seen and that is what I am proud of.” DS
November/December 2026 | Deck Specialist |
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COMPANY PROFILE DECKS ELEVATED
A Cut Above What does Decks Elevated stand for today, and how has that vision evolved since you started? When we founded Decks Elevated in 2023, we weren’t starting from scratch—we were building on over 20 years of experience designing and constructing custom decks, porches, and outdoor living spaces. Our vision was clear: create a company rooted in innovative design, process-driven communication, and flawless craftsmanship. Today, Decks Elevated stands as one of the leading companies in the Minneapolis market. We’ve grown to 26 individuals, including six foremen, three designers, one project manager, and a group of 16 highly skilled carpenters who we truly consider craftsmen. What do you look for when adding to your team? In the early days, it was about proving that a team built on experience and shared values could deliver at the highest level right out of the gate. Now, as we continue to expand, it’s about maintaining that same level of quality and consistency while bringing new team members into the fold. When it comes to adding to our team, attention to the smallest details is critical because the difference between good and exceptional often comes down to accuracy. Communication is another key factor. Our projects are complex, and ensuring that everyone is aligned is essential to delivering a seamless experience. For our design team, we look for individuals who not
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OWNERS: Nick Rukamp & Gabe Rabago YEAR FOUNDED: 2023 WEBSITE: DecksElevated.com INSTAGRAM: @deckselevated FACEBOOK: @deckselevated only understand building codes, but also have the creativity to push boundaries. Our foremen and project manager must be leaders who can hold themselves and their teams to the highest standards. They need to be detail-oriented and capable of guiding projects with confidence and clarity. For our carpenters, they are truly some of the best in the business. Craftsmanship is at the core of what we do. When you walk a new site for the first time, what are you paying attention to? We are looking at it through multiple lenses. We see the space as an extension of the home. The design needs to blend seamlessly with the existing structure, both aesthetically and structurally. We also note the backdrop of a property, whether it’s trees, water, or open space. It plays a huge role in how the final design comes together. Lastly, we pay close attention to how the homeowners plan to use the space. How they move from the home to the outdoor space can influence layout and functionality. What materials or product categories are you leaning into right now and what is driving those decisions? In terms of materials and product categories, we’ve made a very intentional shift toward low-maintenance solutions.
FAR LEFT: This covered deck features custom reclaimed barnwood ceiling beams, a surround sound theater system, custom glass panels, and a finished space below. The underside features a secondary surround sound theater system complete with porcelain tile walls and hanging day beds. LEFT: The outdoor space features a Titan louvered pergola, Infratech ceiling heaters, retractable screens, a built in bar with granite countertops, a sunken firepit with a massive 6-ft. fire table. The pergola space also features a surround sound theater. BELOW: This multilevel outdoor living space features a deck and screen porch above as well as finished space below. The underside features retractable screens, a built-in kitchen with granite countertops and a full surround sound outdoor theater for games. Photos provided by Decks Elevated
We exclusively work with products like composite decking, PVC trim, and aluminum railing systems because they offer long-term durability and reduce the upkeep required for homeowners. Living in Minnesota, we know the outdoor season can feel short. That’s why we focus on designing spaces that maximize usability. Retractable screens, built-in fire features and overhead heating systems extend the usability of outdoor areas in all seasons. These decisions are driven by both client demand and our own commitment to delivering practical, livable designs. Where are your best leads coming from today? When it comes to generating new business, there’s no question that our best leads come from past clients. There’s nothing more powerful than someone experiencing one of our projects firsthand. When homeowners invite friends, family, or colleagues over to enjoy their new space, it naturally sparks conversations. People see the quality, the design, and the craftsmanship up close, and that often leads to new opportunities for us. Where do you see Decks Elevated in the next 3-5 years? Our focus will be continuing to build and strengthen our reputation as a highly qualified luxury deck and porch builder. We want to expand in a way that allows us to maintain the quality and attention to detail that have defined us from the beginning. That means continuing to invest in our team, refining our processes, and staying at the forefront of design and construction trends. It also means being selective about the projects we take on.
Ultimately, our goal is for Decks Elevated to be synonymous with excellence in outdoor living spaces, not just in Minneapolis, but as a standard others in the industry look up to. What drives us is the opportunity to create spaces that bring people together. There’s something incredibly rewarding about transforming a backyard into a place where memories are made. These spaces become an important part of our clients’ lives. We don’t take lightly being included in that process. It’s what continues to push us to keep raising the bar. DS
November/December 2026 | Deck Specialist |
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INDUSTRY LOOK
Soil Bearing Capacity and Footings BY MIKE DONOGHUE
WHEN CONSTRUCTING A RESIDENTIAL DECK, the foundation serves as the vital support for the entire structure. A strong and stable foundation not only ensures the safety of the deck but also contributes to its longevity and the homeowner’s enjoyment. For proper support, deck designers and builders need to consider the relationship between soil strength, bearing area and loading. Soil strength All foundation types (i.e., driven piles, spread footings, helical screws) rely on the earth as the actual foundation. Soils in their natural undisturbed state have the strength and structure to do the job. Normal soils are typical on most residential neighborhoods throughout the United States and are defined in the International Residential Code (IRC) Table R401.4.1 Presumptive Load-Bearing Values for Foundation Materials. The two most common prescriptive bearing soils types relied upon in the IRC table, and in
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most local codes, are 2,000 lbs. per sq. ft. (psf) sands/ gravels and 1,500 psf silts/clays. This means that for every square foot of 2,000 psf soil, this soil type will support 2,000 lbs. And for every square foot of 1,500 psf soil, this soil type will support 1,500 lbs. Engineers, designers and product developers rely on these prescriptive soil types to design or select the proper footing for the structure. Building code officials also use this information to review residential deck projects for proper compliance. Footing Bearing Area Residential decks are typically supported by shallow spread footings which are dug in and buried. The shallow spread footing can be round or square. IRC requires that these footings bear on undisturbed soil at least 12” below the undisturbed ground surface or below the frost line, whichever is deeper. The base area of the footing is typically measured in square feet (sf) or inches in diameter. A 1’x1’ square is
equal to 1 sf. The measured square foot area of the footing multiplied by the load bearing value of the soil determines the bearing load capacity of the footing. For example, a 2-sf footing installed in 1,500 psf soils will provide 3,000 lbs. of bearing load capacity (2 x 1,500 = 3,000). The 2-sf footing is equivalent to a 19” diameter cylinder. A 24” diameter cylinder will provide 6,400 lbs. of bearing capacity in a 2,000 psf soil. A 24” diameter cylinder is equivalent to a 3.2-sf square (3.2 x 3,000 = 6,400). Loading Deck structures have both dead loads and live loads. A dead load is the permanent static weight of the structure itself and its fixed unmoving components. Posts, beams, joists, decking and railings would make up the dead load of a deck. Live load refers to temporary, moving or variable forces that act on the deck. People, pets, ice and snow are examples of common deck live loads. Since calculating these loads for all the different type of materials available to deck builders and the variability of ice and snow would be difficult and inefficient, IRC codes direct designers to use prescriptive live and dead loads based on the region where the project is located. The total psf loading ranges from 50 psf to 80 psf. Deck designers and builders are required to know the local requirements. Once the deck is designed, loading calculations can be performed. These calculations are relatively straight forward and can usually be performed by the designer, builder or homeowner. For complex structures or when there is a roof load, a structural engineer may be consulted. Soil strength, footing bearing area and structural loading need to be considered for proper design and building code compliance. ICC IRC provides guidance on these requirements. Prescriptive deck guides such as the American Wood Council (AWC) Design for Code Acceptance, Prescriptive Residential Wood Deck Construction Guide are also useful sources for guidance on footing sizing for various project design options in Table 4. DS Mike Donoghue, Eastern territory manager and commercial sales director, has helped grow Diamond Pier since 1992, building trusted partnerships through expertise, collaboration, and customer-focused service. www.diamondpiers.com
Photos provided by Diamond Pier
November/December 2026 | Deck Specialist |
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INDUSTRY LOOK
What Makes Modified Wood Unique OUTDOOR LIVING HAS EVOLVED WELL BEYOND the traditional backyard deck. Today’s homeowners increasingly expect outdoor spaces to function as extensions of the home, with places for cooking, dining, entertaining and relaxing throughout much of the year. For deck builders, that puts greater demands on the materials used to create them. Modified wood has emerged as an attractive option for these applications. Modification technologies can improve characteristics such as durability, dimensional stability and resistance to moisture related movement while maintaining something many homeowners still value: real wood. There is an important distinction for builders to understand. “Modified wood” describes a category, not a single technology or level of performance. Thermal modification, acetylation and other processes change wood in different ways, and the resulting products should not automatically be expected to perform the same. So what should builders consider when evaluating modified wood decking? 1 | Understand how the wood interacts with moisture Water is one of the biggest challenges for wood outdoors. Repeated wetting and drying can cause conventional wood to swell and shrink, contributing to movement, checking, cupping and changing gaps between boards. This is where the modification technology matters. Acetylation, the process used to create Accoya wood, for instance, changes how wood interacts with water at the molecular level. By reducing the wood’s ability to absorb
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WOOD SOLUTIONS FR
bound water, the process greatly reduces swelling and shrinkage while retaining the fundamental characteristics of real wood. 2 | Look beyond the word durable Durability is important, but it is only part of outdoor performance. Builders should consider what a product has actually been tested for, including decay, insects and the environmental conditions relevant to the project. Look for independent testing, certifications and clearly defined warranty coverage. The important point for builders is to look beyond broad claims and understand the demonstrated performance behind the product. 3 | Consider stability as a system benefit Dimensional stability can influence much more than appearance. Reduced movement can help maintain consistent gaps and details and reduce stress around fasteners and connections. This is one of the reasons acetylated wood can be particularly well suited to decking. For outdoor spaces incorporating stairs, borders, transitions or other detailed design elements, controlling movement can have a meaningful impact on how the finished project looks and performs over time. 4 | Consider workability as well as installation requirements Performance does not necessarily have to make installation more difficult. Wood can be cut, drilled and fastened using conventional woodworking tools. Compared with some dense tropical hardwoods, crews can achieve high levels
of durability and stability without working with an exceptionally hard or heavy material or requiring specialized equipment. That does not mean every modified wood installs the same way. Fastener selection, board spacing, ventilation, substructure design, coatings and other details can vary by product. Builders should follow the installation guidance for the specific material rather than applying assumptions from conventional lumber or another modified wood product. Most importantly, not all modified wood is created equally. “Modified” is a broad category that includes fundamentally different technologies, and the term alone tells a builder very little about how a product will perform. Builders should understand the technology, testing and warranty behind the product. For a material expected to perform outdoors year after year, how the wood is modified matters. DS Feature provided by Accoya
MARCO LEU
ACCSYS
November/December 2026 | Deck Specialist |
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Where Decking and Siding Intersect BY SARA GRAVES
BEFORE AN OUTDOOR LIVING CONTRACTOR installs a single deck board, siding panel, or trim detail, the success of the project often hinges on something less visible: how those systems work together. As outdoor living spaces continue to evolve into seamless extensions of the home, contractors are increasingly tasked with integrating decking, siding, trim, ceiling systems, and weather management into one cohesive package. According to Joe Ciaraldi, copresident of Professional Building Services, Salem, N.H., the projects that require the greatest attention are often those where outdoor living additions connect directly to the home’s exterior envelope. Covered decks, screened porches, sunrooms, and major exterior renovations all create situations where decking and siding must work together, he explains. When structural additions tie into the home, existing siding frequently must be removed or modified, and the relationship between the deck ledger and wall becomes critical. That intersection is where many performance issues begin. Water intrusion at the ledger board, missing or incorrect flashing, and improper clearances between siding and deck surfaces remain among the most common problems contractors encounter. PBS’ co-president Jordan Ciaraldi emphasizes that water management should never be an afterthought.
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“The biggest takeaway is that water management must be designed before installation, not figured out on site,” she says. While decking and siding require different skill sets, successful contractors understand how the two systems interact. Deck construction focuses heavily on structural framing, load paths, and fastening systems, while siding installation centers on moisture management, flashing, expansion, and maintaining the integrity of the building envelope. There is often overlap between the trades, but not every contractor performs both scopes of work, Joe says. Some firms specialize in decking while others focus on siding. More experienced companies either self-perform multiple exterior systems or closely coordinate crews to ensure critical details do not fall through the cracks. That coordination becomes even more important as homeowners increasingly seek a unified outdoor living experience. Rather than viewing decking and siding as separate components, homeowners want exterior spaces that feel intentional and connected to the home. Coordinated color palettes, complementary materials, matching trim details, and consistent architectural styling all contribute to that goal. However, Joe says this only happens when planned together, not independently. “The goal is to make the space feel intentional and integrated—not added on,” he adds.
Contractors who invest in design services can help homeowners visualize how materials, elevations, trim lines, and transitions work together. Conversely, projects where decking and siding are designed independently often suffer from both functional and aesthetic shortcomings. “Function and design both suffer when systems are siloed,” says Jordan. “A contractor needs to listen to the homeowner while simultaneously being an advisor to them based on their expertise and previous project learnings.” Material selection also plays a significant role in longterm performance. She advocates for low-maintenance, warrantied exterior products whenever possible. Jordan explains in the Northeast where she lives, they have to shovel their decks during the winter. So, even though products such as LP SmartSide call for clearance, contractors will frequently install a larger water table to keep the siding safely above the deck. That not only improves water management but also helps protect the siding from getting damaged during snow removal. That accountability becomes especially valuable on projects where one company oversees multiple exterior systems. When one contractor is responsible for both, she says this leaves less room for “conflicts or fingerpointing” if something goes wrong. For deck builders looking to expand into siding, trim, or covered structures, education remains essential. Understanding code requirements, installation specifications, and water-management principles is critical. Manufacturer training programs, such as LP’s Certified Installer program, can help bridge knowledge gaps while giving homeowners added confidence in the contractor’s expertise.
Photos provided by Professional Building Services
Looking ahead, Joe believes manufacturers and contractors alike will continue moving toward a more integrated approach to exterior design. As homeowners invest in complete outdoor transformations, they are increasingly managing multiple products, materials, and systems at once. Contractors who can coordinate those elements, while maintaining clear communication among crews, suppliers, manufacturers, and homeowners, will be best positioned to deliver successful projects. “There’s so much consideration in all these different exterior products that when homeowners are looking to transform the exterior of their house, they are going to be having to deal with multiple products like trim, like decking, like siding,” says Joe. “Having one company doing all of that can put a lot of ease at the mind of the homeowner.” DS
November/December 2026 | Deck Specialist |
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PARKS & DECK CREATION • Bobby Parks
Why Would You Ever Want to Be an Outdoor Living Contractor?
W
HO WANTS TO WORK OUTSIDE and deal with extreme heat, freezing temperatures, and rainy weather? Who in their right mind wants to deal with challenging customers, handle inspectors, and have the patience to navigate HOA requirements and all the governmental red tape involved with zoning and permitting? Who has the time or energy to deal with labor shortages and fluctuating material prices? Who wants the stress that comes with managing cash flow and making sure all the bills are paid? Who wants to work long days and sometimes weekends? Who is mentally tough enough to deal with the day-to-day pressures, economic downturns, and physically tough enough to tolerate the wear and tear on your body? Who wants a job where you suffer from self-inflicted pain at least once a day every day? The Grass is Not Always Greener At first read, none of the above sounds very appealing, or like anything anyone would willingly sign up for. But the reality is that similar challenges and frustrations come with most career paths. Most jobs have stress, difficult people, frustrations, deadlines, and pressure to perform. You can be stuck indoors all day or work outside. Both have their pros and cons. The grass often looks greener until you get to the other side and realize that it was just
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the viewing angle that was different. So why would anyone want to become a deck and outdoor living contractor, much less run their own business? There is Nothing Like the Finished Product There is nothing quite like creating a masterpiece that you and your team designed, built, and delivered. There is nothing that compares to the look on a satisfied customer’s face when you hand over the finished project. And there is nothing that beats the feeling of stepping back and admiring your own work after the jobsite has been cleaned up and the tools have been loaded into the truck or trailer. And even though you were in a hurry to get the project completed, you are not in a hurry to leave. Sometimes you just want to hang around and enjoy the moment. You have spent days, weeks, or even months putting your effort into that project. You have watched it go from an idea to a design, from a pile of material to a structure, and finally into a completed outdoor living space. Now it is finished, and you need time to take it all in. That feeling is hard to explain to someone who has never built anything. You Are Changing Someone’s World As a deck and outdoor living builder, you provide something relatively few people can. You create something that can genuinely change the way a customer lives. You
provide an outdoor space that can become the equivalent of a stress-reduction chamber. It becomes a place where people have their morning cup of coffee, spend time with their families, entertain friends, cook, celebrate birthdays, watch football games, unwind after work, or simply sit outside at the end of the day. In many cases, you have created a recreational and leisure area at their own home that previously only existed for them when they went somewhere on vacation. You took an unused backyard, a worn-out deck or patio, or maybe just a blank slate and turned it into something that did not exist before you came into the picture. From a Stack of Material to Something Valuable For a builder, there is tremendous self-satisfaction in that. You had the ability to look at a space and figure out what could be done with it. You determined what was needed, worked through the challenges, and used your skills to take a raw, bundled stack of material and turn it into something of real value. That requires more than knowing how to swing a hammer. A good builder has to plan, coordinate, engineer, communicate, problem-solve, schedule, sequence, sell, manage people, and make numerous decisions along the way. Then comes that moment at the end when you can step back and see a physical change to the customer’s
world, a one-of-a-kind creation that, in many cases, is truly a work of art. with the next generation There is a Engineered unique satisfaction in knowing I visualized of M18 FUELit.motors, electronics and that. I presented it. I sold I organized it. And we built it. RedLithium Forge battery technology, that is That creates a sense of confidence and achievement Milwaukee Tool’s new professions. 10-1/4” Rear Handle difficult to duplicate in many other The world Circular Saw provides the industry’s most can survive without a lot of things, but it will always need capable cordless beam-cutting solution. good carpenters and builders. Built to take on the toughest structural The Business Makes lumber,You the Tougher saw allows users to cut 4x So, yeah, it canmaterial be tough there. gets cold up in aout single passItfor fast,really confident north and really hot and humid down south. It snows a lot performance that surpasses all major in some placescompetitors. and rains everywhere. Labor is a challenge. It is also the lightest 10-1/4” Materials do not always show upmarket, when they are supposed circular saw on the weighing to. Customersjust change their minds.footprint, Inspectors 10.3 Ibs. A compact well- do not always see things the way you and do. And dealingauxiliary with people balanced design, removable every day can wear down. Stresscontrol is a constant part of handleyou further improve and a contractor’s life. comfort. But the fact that you have survived in this business also AutoStop Advanced Kickback Protection says something about you. It means you have developed kickback events the ability to technology withstanddetects a lot severe of physical and mental instantly, the tool faster challenges. Your mind shutting learns how to down process problems a human hand react. differently. Youthan learn how to dealcanwith people, anticipate issues, organize moving parts, and keep going when things [milwaukeetool.com] do not go according to plan. Every experience, good or bad, adds something to your
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“Youth gives you the strength and endurance to overcome what you do not yet know. Experience and wisdom eventually teach you how to avoid needing so much strength and endurance in the first place. That is the progression.”
have physical strength, energy, endurance, and the ability to bounce back quickly from mistakes and adversity. You may not know everything you are doing yet, but you have the horsepower to push through it. As you get older, some of the physical toughness and brute-force problem solving gets replaced by wisdom, instincts, better processes, stronger systems, improved communication, and the ability to recognize situations you have seen before.
builder’s wisdom data bank. Over time, you plan better. You do not make the same mistakes twice, and you make fewer new ones. Your instincts become sharper. You learn to read customers, employees, subcontractors, projects, and situations much better than you could earlier in your career. Experience begins doing some of the heavy lifting. What Experience Gives Back With years of experience, you become a better leader and communicator. You learn how to deal with many of the stressors better because you can mentally organize them and keep things in perspective. You become more efficient. Your processes improve. Your systems get better. Cash flow becomes less of a challenge because you have learned more about margins, profitability, scheduling, collections, and managing the flow of money through the business. You begin recognizing problems before they become problems. And that is one of the great tradeoffs that takes place during a builder’s career. When you are young, you
40 | Deck Specialist | November/December 2026
To the Next Generation of Builders So, to the younger builders and newer participants in our industry, hopefully you made it past the first couple of paragraphs without being scared off. Do not be too quick to trade this career for something that looks easier from the outside. Every profession has its challenges, but not every profession gives you the satisfaction of driving away from something that was not there before you arrived. You built it. A family will enjoy it. Friends will gather on it. Kids may grow up around it. Memories will be made there for years after you have forgotten some of the aggravation it took to build it. And somewhere along the way, something else happens. You are not just building better decks, porches, and outdoor living spaces. You are building a better version of yourself. You are becoming a better problem-solver, communicator, leader, businessperson, and craftsman. If you stay committed to progressing, today’s problems become tomorrow’s experience. Today’s mistakes become tomorrow’s instincts. And today’s hard-earned lessons become part of that wisdom data bank you will draw from for the rest of your career. So why would anyone want to be an outdoor living contractor? Because it is hard. Because it is rewarding. Because you get to create something that did not exist before. And at the end of the day, you can stand back, look at what you have built, and know you made it happen. DS Bobby Parks is a wellknown contractor who is now a director of contractor development for Eva-Last.
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November/December 2026 | Deck Specialist |
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SET THE STANDARD • Brendan Casey
Blaze Your Own Trail T
HIS INDUSTRY DOESN’T NEED another generation of builders learning how to walk in another man’s footsteps. It needs builders willing to learn enough, work hard enough, fail enough, persevere enough and believe enough to blaze their own trail. Not long ago, I watched a young builder on social media asking where he could find videos so he could learn to build like another contractor. That bothered me. Not because there’s anything wrong with watching another builder. I do it. We all do it. There is something to be learned from almost everyone, but watching somebody else’s hands isn’t the same as understanding what’s going through his head, and it doesn’t replace experience. The young man didn’t need another video teaching him how to build like somebody else. He needed education. He needed experience. Most importantly, he needed to learn how to think for himself, because there’s a dangerous difference between learning from someone and following someone. Today we can pull out a phone, tablet or computer and watch people we perceive to be professionals showing us exactly what to buy, what to use and how to build. We see the followers, the polished projects, the tools and the confidence, and naturally assume we’re watching someone who has already blazed the trail we’re hoping to travel. But whose trail are we really following, and where does it actually lead?
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Are we learning from an artisan who genuinely believes in what he’s teaching, or following a path blazed by someone willing to barter his reputation for 30 pieces of silver? That’s an intentionally hard question. It should be, because I’d rather hear the voice in the wilderness—the one willing to break the silence of generations and level the rugged terrain for future leaders to follow—than blindly follow another man’s footsteps into a garden of deceit. This isn’t about condemning every online personality, sponsorship or person willing to share knowledge. It’s about understanding the difference between education, influence, and advertisement. One teaches you how to think. The other can train you what to think. If you never learn the difference, you can spend your entire career walking somebody else’s path. The young builder I mentioned didn’t simply need another construction video. He needed to understand manufacturers’ warranties, installation requirements and guidelines. He needed to know the differences between levels of treated lumber and why UC3B and UC4B aren’t interchangeable simply because they’re both treated. When should framing tape be used? When isn’t it necessary? What’s the difference between structural and ground-contact applications? How do steel, aluminum, composite, fiberglass and treated framing differ? Can they be combined? When should they be? What hardware is compatible? What
happens in saltwater, freshwater or dry environments? What about galvanic reactions? It’s one thing to know how to install a joist hanger. It’s another to know when and why you need one, which one belongs where and how to properly install it. Those things aren’t particularly sexy on social media, but they’re the difference between imitation and education. A newbie following the footsteps of somebody else is just blindly walking without learning. Walking in Circles Social media has made knowledge more accessible than at any point in our industry’s history. That’s a wonderful thing. It has also made the appearance of knowledge easier to manufacture than ever before. Someone can own a truck, buy tools, print business cards, create a social media page and collect a deposit. None of those things by themselves establish the knowledge and preparation required to responsibly work on another family’s home. Professionalism isn’t something you can imitate your way into. You have to learn it, earn it, understand it, and accept the responsibilities that accompany it. A good builder needs to understand construction, but eventually also business, finances, estimating, permitting, contracts, insurance, employees and clients. He needs to understand his market. The most expensive framing system isn’t automatically the correct answer for every family. Neither is the cheapest. Sometimes treated framing is exactly what a client’s project and budget require. Other times another system makes sense. It’s about the client, not us. It’s their budget, not ours. It’s not simply what we want. It’s understanding what they need and having enough knowledge to provide the appropriate solution without forcing our own preferences into every situation, and not alienating them because of their budget. Experience teaches you not to judge but to advise. Clients have expectations. When homeowners hire someone presenting himself as a professional contractor, most reasonably expect that person to have the appropriate licensing, insurance and workers’ compensation coverage for the work and jurisdiction, understand permitting requirements and know when engineering may be necessary. Otherwise, why hire a professional? You could pick up a couple of guys in the parking lot and hand them some tools. There’s supposed to be a difference. Yet scroll through social media and you’ll find homeowners furious with contractors over workmanship, unfinished projects and unmet promises. These are usually the inexperienced builders who lack the business acumen to foresee the problematic hurdles. Somewhere between those two conversations is a truth our industry doesn’t always want to discuss: Maybe some people selling themselves as professionals weren’t ready to
be in business in the first place. Being good with a hammer and saw doesn’t automatically make someone a good contractor. The Illusion of Success Recently, I watched a young tradesman filling social media with pictures of a gigantic new truck, toys and all the trappings of somebody supposedly living the dream. Plenty of followers. Plenty of flash. Then came posts about struggling to pay rent, moving and giving things up. I’m not interested in judging that young man. His situation simply made me ponder something bigger. What exactly are we teaching people to consider success? Followers? A truck? Toys? Views? None of us knows from a photograph whether there is a sound business underneath it. If you’re building a company that can’t survive five, 10 or 20 years, are you strengthening the industry? Are you giving something back? Or are you temporarily taking from an industry, another builder’s pocket and an unsuspecting homeowner who mistook popularity for professional substance? The first 10 contractors in an online search can seemingly all be #1 at what? That’s where we’ve got to start thinking for ourselves. A figure eight is nothing but infinity—two circles connected together. You can walk those circles forever, believing you’ve traveled some incredible distance, but in the end you finish exactly where you began, following someone else’s path. That’s not blazing a trail. That’s walking in circles. The Man Behind the Curtain Many people are being paid to promote products throughout our industry. We follow builders across North America without necessarily realizing that what appears to be an independent recommendation may actually be part of a sponsorship or financial relationship. One week someone seemingly swears by one product. Then circumstances change, relationships change, money changes hands, and suddenly something else becomes indispensable. Like sheep, we can be led to slaughter, believing we’re watching education when we’re actually watching an infomercial. Look around the jobsite in some of these videos. Tape measures. Saws. Drills. Drivers. Diggers. Tools strategically staged everywhere. The only thing missing is a subliminal flash of hot buttered popcorn and a giant soda, sending us to the concession stand. I’m not against sponsorships. I’m not against manufacturers. I’m certainly not against someone making money. I’m against confusing advertising with education. Paid relationships should be disclosed clearly enough that the person watching understands what he’s watching. Builders need to ask themselves a bigger question: Am I choosing something because I’ve researched it and CONTINUED >> November/December 2026 | Deck Specialist |
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“Blaze your own trail. Never judge yourself by another man’s success. Be your own measuring stick and set your own standard of excellence.” believe it’s appropriate, or because someone I follow told me to believe in it? Corporate conglomerates aren’t our mentors. Their responsibility is to their business, just as ours is to ours. Mom-and-pop operations are disappearing or being swallowed up in many corners of our industry, while contractors increasingly feel pressured into brand camps, colors and allegiances. Underneath it all, I sense a current building. The ocean may look calm on top while a raging tide moves underneath. More builders are starting to recognize it, which brings me back to that figure eight. Following somebody else can feel like movement. It can even feel like progress. But where are you going? Find Your Own Star When I sit back and think about the artisans, craftsmen and true leaders I’ve encountered in this industry, there’s a common thread. Most started near the bottom with a shovel and a hammer. They learned. They made mistakes. They learned some more. They learned construction, business and finances. They paid their dues to the trade, their clients, their employees and themselves. Eventually they put themselves on the line and created something they genuinely believed in—not merely a job, not merely an income, but a passion. They didn’t try to fit into the herd. They weren’t even satisfied being the black sheep in the herd. They left the herd and created their own path. Their destination wasn’t my destination or yours. The star they followed was their own. That’s important. Your path will almost never be straight. There will be hundreds of forks in the road. Some will be mistakes. Others will become opportunities you couldn’t have imagined when you started. Take the bull by the horns. Keep building. Lay another block. Widen the foundation as the mountain gets taller, and when you reach higher ground, bring somebody with you. That’s another characteristic I’ve noticed about genuine leaders. They don’t need everybody beneath them so they can feel taller. They teach. They mentor. They want employees and co-workers to succeed. They want the families of the people helping build their company to succeed alongside their own. A shooting star can look spectacular, then it fizzles out. I’d rather learn from the North Star—the one that’s been there guiding people for generations and will still be
44 | Deck Specialist | November/December 2026
there long after the flash disappears. That’s how the real leaders lead. They’re teachers. They’re mentors. They’re not influencers. Maybe that’s ultimately what blazing your own trail is about. It isn’t refusing to learn from others. Quite the opposite. Learn from everybody. Take management classes. Study business. Understand your accounting and finances. Talk with veteran builders. Listen to young builders bringing fresh ideas. Attend educational events. Read installation instructions. Study codes. Ask questions. Watch videos. Make mistakes and be humble enough to admit when you were wrong. Don’t surrender your own mind in the process. I’ve always felt that one of the most beautiful things about our industry is how uniquely different every single one of us truly is. Every builder brings life experience and differing perspectives to the way they design, think, lead and build. Leadership can be trained and developed, but much of it also comes from within. At some point we decide whether our style will be that of a boss or a leader— whether we’re leading from the front or pushing from the rear. Either may get the job done, but not equally well and certainly not with the same results. We can scour social media for helpful hints on every aspect of building, but at the end of the day, we need to stop paying attention to the man behind the curtain, step off the infinitely delusional merry-go-round of another man’s path, define what success truly means to you and your family, point the needle on your compass toward your destination and embrace your own journey. DS A great place to make real industry connections will be at the NADRA and Deck Specialist booths at Deck Expo this November. Brendan Casey with Casey Fence and Deck is a 19-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.
July/August 2026 45 September/October 2025 Deck Specialist 33 September/October 2026 ||| | Deck DeckSpecialist Specialist ||| | 49 39 March/April November/December 2026 Deck Specialist 45
TOOLS & TECHNOLOGY • Andy Henley & Mike Mitchell
METABO HPT 18V 21° 3 1/2” CORDLESS PNEUMATIC FRAMING NAILER Model NR1890DRBQRY | MSRP $579.00
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ORDLESS FRAMING NAILERS have come a long way over the years, but getting rid of the compressor and air hose has often meant sacrificing something else. Whether it’s added weight, bulky designs, or waiting for the nailer to reset between shots, there have always been some tradeoffs. The Metabo HPT 18V Cordless Pneumatic Framing Nailer is looking to change that. With pneumatic speed, cordless convenience, and enough power to drive 3-½” framing nails, this tool caught our attention. We put it to work on our deck projects to see how it would hold up to the demands of everyday framing.
MIKE: One of the first things I noticed when picking up this nailer was how lightweight and balanced it felt. Some cordless framing nailers are so bulky that they almost feel awkward to use, especially when working between joists or in tighter spaces. The Metabo has a much more compact feel, and the weight is distributed nicely. It’s just as easy to hold it upright for installing ledgers as it is to angle the gun from side to side for toenailing. I also really like how it has a metal trigger. It has the same feel and response as a traditional pneumatic nailer. Between the balance, trigger, and overall design, it really feels like you’re using an air nailer, just without the hose attached. ANDY: For us, the biggest benefit of cordless is how much it simplifies the jobsite. We’re constantly moving from the main deck to stairs, landings, and elevated sections. With this Metabo, you grab the gun and go. And when you’re working 10 ft. in the air or squeezing between framing members, not having an air hose pulling against you is a big deal. I’ve been working toward getting as many cords and hoses out of our trailer as possible. This nailer might be one of the last pieces of that puzzle. MIKE: When it comes to framing decks, we drive a lot of nails into some pretty tough materials. LVLs are a perfect example. Some cordless nailers struggle to fully sink nails into engineered lumber, but this nail gun didn’t seem to care what we were shooting into.
46 | Deck Specialist | November/December 2026
The nail depths were extremely consistent, even when fastening LVLs together. It also performed really well with Owens Corning composite lumber, driving nails cleanly and consistently without struggling through the material. This is especially important with Owens Corning lumber because it’s a finished grade product that is often left exposed. Having nails that are consistently driven to the proper depth, without heads sticking up or bending over, makes a big difference in the appearance of the finished project. What impressed me more was how well it handled galvanized ring shank nails. We’ve used nailers that struggle to drive these into harder lumber, sometimes leaving the heads sticking up or even bending them over. This nailer drove them cleanly without those issues. The nose also has a well-designed aggressive grip that makes toenailing much easier. It bites into the wood without slipping and still allows the nail head to sink deeply, even when shooting at an angle. ANDY: Most of our framing is pressure-treated lumber. You want consistent depth without having to go back and finish off nail heads by hand. The tool-free depth adjustment is a feature I appreciate because you can make changes right at the gun as the material and fastening situation change. Another feature I like is the extended magazine. It holds 68 nails, which means you can load two strips instead of stopping constantly to reload. When you’re nailing off blocking or fastening beams, fewer interruptions make a difference. CONTINUED >>
November/December September/October 2026 2026 || Deck Deck Specialist Specialist ||
47 53
MIKE: One of my biggest complaints with cordless framing nailers has always been the reset time between nails. Some models make you wait just long enough between shots to throw off your rhythm. With the Metabo, there is almost zero noticeable reset time. When bump firing, you can move down a beam fastening multiple plies together as fast as you can physically move the nailer. Metabo claims it can fire up to six nails per second, and although I didn’t try to count them, I can tell you it was plenty fast for anything we were doing. It really does perform like a pneumatic nailer in this department. ANDY: The battery is another part of this tool that deserves a high five! Metabo rates it for up to 1,170 nails per charge with the included 10Ah T-PWR battery. For the kind of deck framing we do, that’s the sort of runtime that can keep you from constantly thinking about the charger. A larger battery is going to add weight, but I actually like what it does for the overall balance of the gun. Instead of feeling front-heavy, the tool feels more planted in your hand. And I’d rather carry a little extra battery weight than lose time changing packs in the middle of framing. MIKE: I really liked the more compact design. We frame a lot of our decks with joists spaced 12” on center, which doesn’t leave much room to maneuver a framing nailer. Some of the bulkier cordless models can be a real challenge to squeeze between joists, especially when trying to get the right angle for toenailing or fastening blocking. The smaller size allowed us to get into those tighter spaces without fighting the tool. In the recent years, I have noticed the amount of framing screws we use going up and nail count going down because the guns were just too big to use all the time. I also liked that they included both a belt hook on one side and a rafter hook on the other. Another notable feature is the small LED light that shines right towards the nose. This comes in handy working in lower-light areas under a deck or under a porch roof. There was one thing that frustrated me a little. The spring on the magazine’s nail pusher is pretty strong. If you let it go too quickly when loading nails, or rub up against something that pulls it back a little and then it slaps back, the force can cause the pusher to slide past the first nail and jam things up. Once you figure it out, it’s easy enough to avoid by guiding it down gently, but it’s something I think could be improved. It’s a relatively minor complaint on an otherwise impressive nailer. ANDY: There’s another feature that I think deserves more attention: serviceability. Anybody who’s framed in cold weather, especially in Ohio, knows how frustrating
48 | Deck Specialist | November/December 2026
Contractor’s Corner One of the most valuable additions to our equipment lineup at Hashtag Decks has been the StopDigging LV21 electric ground screw driver. We’re a design-build deck company based in Hooksett, N.H., and I’ve been a big believer in helical foundations for years. Our traditional setup consists of a Kubota KX040-4 excavator equipped with a Digga MM10K hydraulic drive. It’s an excellent system, but it also means mobilizing roughly 10,000 lbs. of machinery on a gooseneck trailer. The LV21 offers an entirely different approach. Operating on 120V power and capable of delivering approximately 4,000 ft.-lbs. of torque (5,500 Nm), it provides serious installation capability in a much more portable package. Working in the Granite State, underground obstructions are simply part of the business. Between rocks, boulders, and unpredictable soil conditions, installing foundations can sometimes feel like a game of Minesweeper. When I have the option of sending a roughly 3”-diameter ground screw into the earth instead of a 10”-diameter helical pile, those are considerably better odds in a game I’m more than willing to play.
it is when a nailer starts acting up and you’re faced with sending it out for service. Sometimes that means waiting for the gun to come back; other times it means buying or borrowing a backup just to keep the job moving. Metabo specifically promotes onsite maintenance for this nailer and offers an air refill valve along with maintenance kits and jigs as optional accessories. It doesn’t mean every problem can be solved by adding air, but the potential to reduce downtime is a big advantage for a working contractor.
Final Thoughts
The biggest compliment we can give this nailer is that it doesn’t feel like you’re giving something up by going cordless. It’s fast, powerful, comfortable to use, and eliminates the hassle of dragging an air hose around the jobsite. DS
TNT Review: 9.9/10 Andy Henley is the owner of HenHouse 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. hen-house@outlook.com mike@mitchellconstructioninc.com
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It features a that More info: homeshowcenter.com/ More info: homeshowcenter.com/ More info: LEFT: Two understated ramps demanded precise control of slopes, exceptionally talented individuals who lack a positive result is impacted by depth ofFrom driveathere, speed become better and their ideas and talents matters; morestair calls do not automatically create better If homeshowcenter.com/ you build high-end outdoor living projects, your the finished framing, wecommunicate can do that too. We’re notadequate forced process much easier. board patterns, locations, andthe stair flow. 100w bi-directional USB-C PD overview/louisvillehome2 overview/coloradosprings overview/columbia landings, handrails, and transitions to meet code and align seamlessly If your marketing partner can’t explain how your website marketing should educate, set expectations, and filter out drive. Strong motivation and inner drive are an equalizer that we as individuals have. more effectively. business—better matched calls do. This has been another to make every foundation decision on the same day just Staircases remain one of the most challenging AI recommends building the design in layers. Starting with port and aIsthat’s 15w port toskilled with surrounding deck elevations. helps you win better projects, you’re theare point. This poor-fit before they reach out. Your timelevels. is is too that can propel even less people togenerator higher Sometimes we are motivated until we not. We itprospects forUSB-C everyone? Maybe not. If competition the the amazing has improved ourmissing business. Thecolors, beauty because when the pile installer isyour scheduled. features we’ve encountered. The image often footprintway andAI layout, then introduce borders, Minneapolis Home Building &visible, Madison Home Expo Columbus Building & Renovation Expo deliver 115w of continuous isn’t just about rankings anymore. It’s about being valuable to waste. cheapest guy in town—“Bob in his beater”—you probably is, each of us has the opportunity to tweak and guide it to Unmotivated results are comparable to a truck that is get tired of dealing with customers, inspectors, building Another feature I appreciate is the to monitor wants center them, push them intoability the yard, alter lighting, and Remodeling eventually landscaping. Breaking Expo When: Jan.or 9-11, 2026railings, When: Jan. 2-4, 2026 front and rear of serve the Sales Center, connecting viewing areas and power for to faster charging ofBut credible, and the obvious choice when someone researches. won’t bother with AI. if you are looking to trade your best our needs. in gear running at idle speed that slowly creeps forward. departments, and what at times can feel like an adult installation torque. We can record the torque achieved at their direction entirely. Accessibility ramps, Monona elevation the process intolayout smaller pieces helps maintain control of When: Jan. 16-18, 2026to manage Where: Terrace Convention Where: Ohio Expo Center, Columbus, OH. circulation routes. was planned headlamps, phones, tablets 3)“beater” Being marketed like a roofer or aneven emergency service in for athe better truck,and climb the rung on WI. the the AI Board has also dramatically expanded what smaller The forward progress is slow anext slight incline kindergarten: your employees orcarefully teamfrom members. We each screw and use manufacturer’s torque-to-capacity transitions, and certain railing configurations can create design while preventing the software becoming Where: Hyatt Regency Minneapolis, Center, Madison, More info: homeshowcenter.com/ long of runs, visual interruptions, and system control material and laptops. Deck building isn’t andown emergency purchase. Homeowners 5)minimize Omnipresence without aContractors connected ladder of success, and improve how your company is companies can create. are now producing will cause it slow or stop with a possibility become worn down with the challenges of finding labor, methodology to evaluate estimated foundation capacity Minneapolis, MN.honestly, it matters. More info:need homeshowcenter.com/ overview/columbus similar challenges. You can find broke yourself trying to force overwhelmed tooomnipresence, many instructions. movement over time. You’ll hear theby word and aren’t calling because and they help perceived, then youtosomething need begin incorporating AI into juggling quality videos, presentations, brochures, company songs, rolling backwards—except for to Ram trucks. cash flow, hittinginfo: profit margins, riding out and document our installations. More homeshowcenter.com/ overview/madison the software to bend your will. A different photograph Homeowners don’t go from might want a deck” to “here’s today. They’re making a high-ticket decision about their Ipé andrecessions, cumaru were selected for“I their density, dimensional The kit includes aoutcomes 65w USB-C your marketing program. and other marketing materials that once required outside Motivated are more like a truck with and the many challenges that come with Ultimately, the LV21 isn’t just about portability or overview/minneapolishome2 Florida’s Largest Home Show - Tampa orhome a different sketch will often solve a problem faster than The of Redundancy my Trap deposit” inperformance one step. It takes multiple touchpoints. They andand lifestyle. stability, and proven in environments. wall adapter agiving One of2026 the first areas where itaccelerator changed my business writers, designers, musicians, production companies, and someone putting theirus foot on the with the running ayou business. We cancoastal become complacent or power. It’s about greater control overCities our work. Fox Home & Garden Show When: Jan. 2-4, 20 additional prompts. One of the most valuable skills you One thing will begin to notice, especially ifask they have If your marketing partner uses the same playbook they see your work, check reviews, browse your site, around, Boards were sorted and staged to maintain consistent appearance 100w 3-ft. USB-C PD cable. was search management. After allowing AI to evaluate again, thousands of dollars. Does this replace a high-end Tampa Build Expo When: Jan. 16-18, 2026 Where: Florida State Fairgrounds, Tampa speed of advancement based on the amount of pedal even worse, frustrated or burnt out. We get tired of the can is learning to guide theattract software rather similar features, isExpansion that the software begin patterns, to fall back and come back when they’re ready. will usedevelop for general home how services, you’ll theacross wrong Hashtag Decks LLC large surface areas. spacing, fastening When: Jan.down 21-22, 2026 Where: Cities Exhibition Center, More info: floridaslargesthomeshow.com how my company was appearing in searches and howto our marketing company? Absolutely not! The true, industryapplied. The distance covered and “isn’t the speed ofFox getting builder’s grind. than arguing with it. on the same ideas as a default. You may think you are Where omnipresence breaks is when it turns into people and wonder why marketing working.” It works, Hooksett, N.H. and some airflow specific beneath the deck were Tampa engineered deliberately [milwaukeetool.com] Where: Convention Center, Tampa Appleton, WI. message could be improved, I allowed it to make marketing companies remain a necessary staple thebut destination is affected by the energy put forth. (Ram Periodically, we need a mental pep rally or positive www.hashtagdecks.com scattered marketing—hiring vendors in silos, doing a little only when it matches how your customers actually buy. getting in rhythm until you realize every project has taken to accommodate seasonal movement compromising Morethis info:without buildexpousa.com/ More info: homeshowcenter.com/ NADRA 2026 Summit & Awards Gala trucks usually go farther faster.) restart. We may provide on our own or something Instagram: hashtagdecksllc AskJan. AI for Help on same flavor. That’s what’s referred to as the “Trap aesthetics orthe structural integrity. CONTINUED >> tampa-build-expo overview/foxcitieshome When: 7-9,are 2026 Deck railings featured in the 3D renderings included in Keystone’s proposals. When you encounter a roadblock, it often makes sense to of Redundancy.” The Image Generator should support your>> CONTINUED Two ADA-compliant ramps were integrated into CONTINUED the overall >> Where: Wyndham Grand, Clearwater, FL. More info: nadra.org/awards CONTINUED >> >> CONTINUED
... 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
July/August 53 May/June 2026 || |Deck Specialist November/December 2026 Deck Specialist|| |29 49 January/February 2026 Specialist 35 September/October 2025 Deck Specialist 55 September/October 2026 | Deck Deck Specialist 41 March/April | || Deck Specialist | 47 July/August2026 2025 Deck Specialist || | 37
MARKET YOURSELF • April Edwards
You Asked for Leads. You Wanted Your Life Back.
Y
OU WANTED MORE LEADS. Now your phone won’t shut up. Saturday belongs to estimates, and your spouse has stopped asking when you’ll be home. Congratulations. Your marketing is “working.” But is your business working better? An empty schedule is a real problem. So is a full schedule packed with projects that barely pay, homeowners who only care about price, and a business that needs you for absolutely everything. Getting busier and getting where you want to go can look very different. On October 21, Deck Builder Marketers turned five. We’re a full-service marketing agency focused on helping deck builders attract better opportunities, build their reputation and turn more inquiries into worthwhile projects. But five years in this industry has taught me to keep listening after someone says, “I need more leads.” Because the next part of that conversation is usually where things get interesting. What do you actually want to build? Maybe you want bigger projects. Maybe you want another crew. Maybe you’re perfectly happy with your company’s size, but you’d like to stop spending evenings chasing estimates. Those goals should lead to different marketing decisions. • If you want premium outdoor living projects, your marketing needs to help homeowners understand that investment.
50 | Deck Specialist | November/December 2026
• If you want fewer wasted appointments, they need a clearer picture of your pricing, service area and process before booking. • If good inquiries are already coming in but nobody follows up, buying more traffic could make an expensive problem bigger. That’s why Deck Builder Marketers starts with the business you’re trying to build. Your goals give the marketing its job. You build the good stuff. Can homeowners tell? I went to art school. I didn’t picture myself spending my days discussing deck projects and sales pipelines. But focusing my agency on deck builders gave my creative work a purpose I hadn’t expected: helping talented people communicate what makes them worth hiring. That still fires me up. You might know exactly why your work costs more. The homeowner doesn’t. “Quality craftsmanship” won’t explain it. If I’m spending $50,000, I certainly hope the craftsmanship is good. Tell me how you handle permitting. Show me how you design around the way my family will use the space. Explain my material choices and what happens during construction. Give me something to choose you for beyond your price. At Deck Builder Marketers, that thinking shapes the messaging, websites and campaigns we create. Getting
DATE PLANNER
But yes, you still have a part to play. Answering inquiries, sharing project photos, providing feedback and delivering Feeney’s new DockRail kits provide a the experience yourRemodel marketing promises Expo all matter. Charleston Build, & Landscape Jacksonville Home & Patio Show durable, marine-grade railing system When: 8-10, 2027 When: Oct. 2-4 At only 4.8”Jan. long, thedesigned powerful for residential docks. Growth takes Where: Exchange Park Fairgrounds, Ladson, S.C. Where: Prime Osborn Convention Center, Jacksonville, FL. Xtreme 12V Maxteamwork. Brushless 1/4-in OTHER WINNERS INCLUDED: More info: homeshowcenter.com More info: jacksonvillefallhomeshow.com OPPOSITE: Andy Henley, Hen-House Decks, won Our purpose is to empower potential and enrich lives. To Screwdriver by DeWalt is designed DockRail railhard and post kits are something engineered five NADRA awards this year for his project. He that means helping your work create tome, maximize control in hard to Commercial Outdoor Living Project for easy installation, using components with Dave Settlemyer, Under the Sun, to Columbus Building & Renovation Expo Charlottepartnered Build Expo better for you,applications, your employees and your family. reach fastening 1st: Deckmasters South Florida develop thatof snap and screw together When: Jan. 8-10 When: Oct. 13-14the design. That’s why I love our free strategy calls. Wewith get preto put features three integrated LED 2nd: Extreme Decks drilled posts and pickets to support its Where: Ohio Expo Center, Columbus, OH. Where: Charlotte Convention Center, Charlotte, N.C. down the daily firesOutdoor long enough to ask what you want, work lights to illuminate dark work 3rd: Cedarbrook Design Build More getting info: homeshowcenter.com More info:matters. buildexpousa.com 6200 series 1/8” CableRail kits (included). found Giving someone reason toischoose you areas, what’s in the way and where marketing can help. Award, Mastersanti says thea standard now that and provides versatility in Designed for level dock applications, the matters, too. Learn more at deckbuildermarketers.com/get-started. close. “It’s not about us; it’s about the customer. It’s tight ProductHome Display spaces. Madison Expo Murfreesboro Home Expo system includes post kits—each containing At this November, come meet our team at about the industry,” he adds. “The customers are 1st:Deck Ravin Builders (partnered with Dan Pettit’s When: Jan.Expo 8-10 When: Oct. 16-18 posts and bottom post caps—along with Five years of paying attention. booth 3311. I’m also speaking on “What a Real Marketing starting to get builders all over the country are that Northern Outdoor Living and Dave Settlemyer’s Other features: Where: Monona Terrace Convention Center, Madison, WI. Where: Tennessee Miller Coliseum, Murfreesboro, TN. rail kits featuring 10-ft. 200 top rails Through client conversations, We Love Deck • System Under the Sun close to a standard and level ofour quality.” Looks Like (And What You Actually Need in Place)” Brushless motor forConcepts) maximum More info: homeshowcenter.com More info: murfreesborohomeexpo.com and inserts, end plate kits, 1/8” 2nd: and All Decked Outtop Builders podcast, theunveiled Deck Overall forSpecialist the nightmagazine, was Dr. NADRA Decks’ on Tuesday, November 17,rail from 11 a.m. to noon. Bring your Arrow Tool Groupwinner has a refreshed runtime durability 3rd: Fraser Decks and Patio Covers CableRail kits, and CableRail end caps. The gatherings and speaking at Deck Expo, I’ve heard what Kiki project, which, according to Dr. Decks’ owner • questions. Minneapolis Home Building & Remodeling Expo Losdesign Angeles Expo forBuild its popular T50X Heavy-Duty 1/4” quick-release drop and load kits feature 6000-series aluminum, known happens behind the beautiful project photos. Jason Russell, used all of Russell’s 35 years of deck Until next8-10 time, keep When: When: Nov. 4-5giving one of its most trusted Staple Gun, Hex that Jan. accepts 1” bit tipsmoving forward. DS Refurbished Deck for strength, resistance, • The uncertainty aboutnew next season. building particularly deck CA. board- • DCB126 Where: Regency Minneapolis, MN. and Where: Los Angeles Convention Center, Loshis Angeles, fastening tools experience, a modern appearance while - Hyatt 12V Max 5.0its ahMinneapolis, battery corrosion 1st: DeckRemodelers.com More info: homeshowcenter.com More info: buildexpousa.com • T he frustration of losing a bid to someone whose bending expertise. He told NADRA that to create reliability in marine environments. maintaining the performance and reliability • Bundled with a charger and belt 2nd: Hayes Construction this “one-off of art,” his team had to create work doesn’t users have comecompare. towork expect. hook3rd: DeckRemodelers.com AprilRemodeling Edwards is aExpo digital Northwest Deck Expo – International Pool & Spa Expo ways to apply their standard methods to new • Three-year • Thenew responsibility of keeping good people employed. AAMA-2604 powder-coated finish adds limitedThe warranty, marketing strategist and founder When: Jan. 8-10 When: Nov. 17-19 exterior products. anMarketers, extra layer of protection against UV Now featuring a bold red-and-black housing, the year free service, 30-day of Deck Builder Closed Porch Where: Seattle Convention Center, Seattle, WA. Where: Ernest N. Morial Convention Center, New Orleans, LA. one Parks pointed to grip Sparta, N.J.-based Deck Those conversations keep pushing us to improve and exposure, salt spray, and weathering. tool combines an ergonomic with a simple satisfaction guaranteed YouInc. can 1st:Oceanside, Decks andCA. More, More info: homeshowcenter.com More info: poolspapatio.com Remodelers, led by Sean McAleer, which brought build better client strategies. Strategies that: push-button loading mechanism, making staple message her onInc. Instagram 2nd: Decksouth home 10and awards. He says • Improve how you present yourDeck workRemodelers has [dewalt.com] loading quick hassle-free. [feeneyinc.com] @deckbuildermarketers 3rd: Merrick Design andfrom Portland Build, Remodel &Build, Landscape Show Phoenix Build Expo Far left: ARK Home Solutions’ staff theInc. bottom stair up: “figured out how toinscale high quality to an extreme • Reach homeowners a different market or learn more by visiting When: Jan. 8-10 When: Dec. 9-10 Ashlyn Kreps (daughter), Tyler Kreps (son-in-law), Gracie Thomas>> CONTINUED level without diluting it.” DS • S trengthen the path from inquiry to appointment [arrowtoolgroup.com] deckbuildermarketers.com. Where: Oregon Convention Center, Portland, OR. Where: Phoenix Convention Center, Phoenix, AZ. (daughter-in-law), Noah Thomas (son) More info: homeshowcenter.com More info: buildexpousa.com
You might know exactly why your work costs more. The homeowner doesn’t.
Protection for your deck starts
UNDERNEATH IT.
DeckWrap PowerBond® is the quick and easy way to extend the life of deck support systems and posts. Our patented PowerBond® adhesive aggressively adheres to all wood types, even in temperatures as low as 25°F. Self-adhering and self-sealing for protection you can trust, roll after roll.
Request a free sample at www.mfmbp.com. PROTECTION FOR LEDGER BOARDS • JOIST TOPS • JOIST ENDS • POSTS
56 | Deck Specialist | September/October 2026
September/October July/August 2025 2025 | | |Deck Deck Specialist Specialist July/August 2026 Specialist 61 November/December 2026 | Deck Deck Specialist| | | 27 |61 51 March/April 2026 | Deck Specialist | 31
NEW PRODUCTS Senco introduces a 3-1/2” 15” coil nailer for professional contractors working on framing, truss building, sheathing, subflooring, decking, siding and fencing jobs. The FN71T1 drives both wire- and plastic-collated nails in a wide range of sizes from .099” to .148” in diameter and 2” to 3-1/2” in length. It delivers the power to consistently drive into dense substrates like LVL and OSB and the speed to drive up to seven nails per second. Weighing just 7.9 Ibs., it is one of the lightest coil nailers in its class, reducing user fatigue on long workdays. [senco.com]
Brass Knuckle’s SmartCut Sleeve (BKCRS231) is available in 16” or 18” of coverage to deliver precisely the extended protection workers need, even when worn with short sleeves. ANSI A2 cut resistance makes it ideal for a wide range of tasks. Constructed from high-density polyethylene (HDPE), each sleeve combines lightweight comfort with high strength to help guard against cuts and abrasions without restricting movement. Sleeve options include narrow, wide, and extra-wide sizes for a comfortable fit, plus variants with a thumbhole and options for ambidextrous use. The flexible design bends with the arm for all-day wear, maintaining protection through repetitive motion. The low-friction surface also helps reduce snagging when working around rough materials. [brassknuckleprotection.com]
Trex has upgraded its Trex Lighting collection, bringing easier installation with an elevated level of sophistication to outdoor illumination with discreet fixtures that complement Trex decking and railing. The sleek, low-profile fixtures integrate naturally into the deck, casting light down (vs. out), adding ambiance, dimension and visibility without distracting from the deck itself. New are: Linear Riser Lights, Post Cap Lights, Oval Riser Lights, Under-Rail Lights, and System Accessories. The collection combines energy efficient, high-CRI LED lighting with a carefully tuned color temperature. The 24VDC low-voltage system also features weather-resistant construction and UL wet-location listing. [trex.com]
52 | Deck Specialist | November/December 2026
November/December 2026 | Deck Specialist |
53
Universal Primer-Free Membrane from Protecto Wrap is more than just another sheet membrane—it’s an all-conditions, allapplications protector of the building envelope. From ICF and below-grade waterproofing to through-wall flashing and other critical envelope transitions, the membrane adapts to the application. It can adhere directly to insulated concrete forms (ICF) without primer, saving labor and improving jobsite efficiency. Super Stick adhesive bonds aggressively to a wide range of substrates, helping create a continuous, durable moisture barrier where it matters most. [protectowrap.com]
Simpson Strong-Tie has introduced the Outdoor Accents button-head connector screw, a new fastener designed to help pros and DIYers complete outdoor living projects with strength, style and efficiency. Designed for use with Outdoor Accents decorative hardware, the new screw features a low-profile button head that delivers a clean, finished appearance while helping installers create attractive wood connections for pergolas, patio covers, decks, fences and other outdoor structures. Its stylish, one-piece design is simple to install. [strongtie.com/buttonhead]
Multipurpose TYPAR F.A.S.T. Flashing and Sheathing Tape can serve as joist tape for decking, seam sheathing boards, seal wall penetrations, finish the bottom of walls, and flash windows and doors. Its acrylic adhesive grabs aggressively, performs over a wider temperature range than butyl alternatives, and delivers 12 months of UV resistance. It is the company’s first flashing product offered without a release liner. Its easy-pull, self-wound rolls come in 3”, 4”, and 6” widths, eliminating extra steps and reducing jobsite waste. Linered options are also available in 4”, 6”, 9”, and 12” widths. [typar.com]
54 | Deck Specialist | November/December 2026
Feeney’s LED Lighting Kit for DesignRail Modern integrates with the company’s DesignRail aluminum railing system to illuminate its low-profile top rail. Available in configurations for up to 25 or 55 ft., the kit uses energy-efficient LEDs rated for 50,000 hours, with an 80+ color-rendering index.
kit
A 24V system and compatible dimmer switch provide adjustable lighting levels, while separately available snap-in diffuser lenses can provide soft, even downlighting. Each kit includes an LED light strip, 24V, 96-watt OmniDrive X driver, 20-ft. LED starter cable, crimp and splice connectors, end caps, plastic sleeves and silicone. The weatherproof kits feature plug-and-play connectors and are UL-certified. Light strips carry a seven-year warranty, while power supplies carry a five-year warranty. [feeneyinc.com/product/lighting]
The new DeckMetriX v4 deck design and estimating software allows deck builders to create scaled deck drawings, generate permit-ready 2D plans, and prepare customer proposals during an initial site visit. The software eliminates the need for a block builder and calculates project pricing using contractors’ actual costs. Good, Better, Best options allow builders to present customers with multiple pricing choices, while the proposal builder helps streamline the sales process and secure customer approval during the initial visit. [deckmetrix.com]
Digger Specialties is expanding its Polyvinyl Fencing line with the introduction of Polyvinyl Premier Ornamental Fencing that has a new open picket design. Featuring 3” vertical pickets spaced 1-15/16” apart, the design combines open sightlines with a clean, finished appearance. Its vinyl construction is fade-resistant and does not require painting or staining. The new fencing system is available in convenient 8 ft. sections and three heights: 48”, 50-1/2”, and 60”. Color options include White, Tan, and Mocha, with Flat External (standard), Ball, Gothic and Trim post cap options. [diggerspecialties.com]
Clubhouse PVC Decking from TruNorth Composites is available in three new colors: Teak, Wolverine and Raven. Teak is offered in all board and fascia profiles; Wolverine only in grooved profiles in 12- 16- and 20-ft. lengths, and Raven only in 20-ft. squareedge and 12-ft. fascia trimboard. [trunorthdecking.com]
DATE PLANNER Deck Expo – International Pool & Spa Expo When: Nov. 17-19 Where: Ernest N. Morial Convention Center, New Orleans, LA. More info: poolspapatio.com
Indianapolis Build Expo When: Jan. 20-21 Where: Indiana State Fairgrounds, Indianapolis, IN. More info: buildexpousa.com
Phoenix Build Expo When: Dec. 9-10 Where: Phoenix Convention Center, Phoenix, AZ. More info: buildexpousa.com
Tampa Build Expo When: Jan. 20-21 Where: Tampa Convention Center, Tampa, FL. More info: buildexpousa.com
Charleston Build, Remodel & Landscape Expo When: Jan. 8-10, 2027 Where: Exchange Park Fairgrounds, Ladson, S.C. More info: homeshowcenter.com
Columbia Home Building & Remodeling Expo When: Jan. 22-24 Where: Columbia Metropolitan Convention Center, Columbia, S.C. More info: homeshowcenter.com
Columbus Building & Renovation Expo When: Jan. 8-10 Where: Ohio Expo Center, Columbus, OH. More info: homeshowcenter.com Madison Home Expo When: Jan. 8-10 Where: Monona Terrace Convention Center, Madison, WI. More info: homeshowcenter.com Minneapolis Home Building & Remodeling Expo When: Jan. 8-10 Where: Hyatt Regency, Minneapolis, MN. More info: homeshowcenter.com Northwest Remodeling Expo When: Jan. 8-10 Where: Seattle Convention Center, Seattle, WA. More info: homeshowcenter.com Portland Build, Remodel & Landscape Show When: Jan. 8-10 Where: Oregon Convention Center, Portland, OR. More info: homeshowcenter.com Colorado Springs Home Building & Remodeling Show When: Jan. 15-17 Where: Norris Penrose Event Center, Colorado Springs, CO. More info: homeshowcenter.com Fox Cities Home & Garden Show When: Jan. 15-17 Where: Fox Cities Exhibition Center, Appleton, WI. More info: homeshowcenter.com Greenville Remodeling Expo When: Jan. 15-17 Where: Greenville Convention Center, Greenville, S.C. More info: homeshowcenter.com Louisville Build, Renovate & Landscape Expo When: Jan. 15-17 Where: Kentucky International Convention Center, Louisville, KY. More info: homeshowcenter.com
56 | Deck Specialist | November/December 2026
Greater Cincinnati Remodeling Expo When: Jan. 22-24, Jan. 29-31 Where: Sharonville Convention Center, Sharonville, OH. More info: homeshowcenter.com Colorado Springs Home & Garden Show When: Feb. 5-7 Where: Norris Penrose Event Center, Colorado Springs, CO. More info: homeshowcenter.com Pittsburgh Remodeling Expo When: Feb. 5-7 Where: Acrisure Stadium, Pittsburgh, PA. More info: homeshowcenter.com Indiana Home & Garden Show When: Feb. 12-14 Where: Indiana Convention Center, Indianapolis, IN. More info: homeshowcenter.com Madison Build, Remodel & Landscape Show When: Feb. 26-28 Where: Monona Terrace Convention Center, Madison, WI. More info: homeshowcenter.com NADRA 2027 Summit & Awards Gala When: March 3-5 Where: The Westin Cape Coral Resort at Marina Village, Cape Coral, FL. More info: nadra.org/awards Greater Cincinnati Home Expo When: March 5-7 Where: Sharonville Convention Center, Sharonville, OH. More info: homeshowcenter.com Austin Build Expo When: March 24-25 Where: Palmer Events Center, Austin, TX. More info: buildexpousa.com Atlanta Build Expo When: July 21-22 Where: Cobb Galleria Centre, Atlanta, GA. More info: buildexpousa.com
AD INDEX
AD INDEX
5
Haven Underdeck www.havenunderdeck.com
Page 47
Absolute Distribution Inc. www.absolutedist.com
49
Humboldt Sawmill www.mendoco.com
35
American Ground Screw Mfg. & Supply www.americangroundscrew.com
7
Master Halco www.masterhalco.com
27
Atlantis Rail Systems www.atlantisrail.com
51
MFM Building Products Corp. www.mfmbp.com
Cover IV
Avon Plastics www.armadillodeck.com
41
MOSO www.moso-outdoor.com
Cover II
CAMO www.camofasteners.com
21
NewTechWood www.newtechwood.com
DeckBuild www.deckbuild.com
45
Nichigo G-Tape www.gtape.com
Deckorators
53
Regal ideas www.regalideas.com
5
Southeastern Underdeck www.southeasternunderdeck.com
11
Spitz www.spitzgroup.com
19
DESIGNED FOR BEAUTY, MADE FOR LIFE.
9
www.deckorators.com
ARMADILLODECK.COM
39
DeckWise www.deckwise.com
10
Diamond Pier www.diamondpiers.com
3
Digger Specialties www.diggerspecialties.com
Cover III
1. Publication Title
Great Southern Wood www.yellawood.com
DeckBuild, NEW ADVERTISER WELCOME Welcome advertiser creator of of DeckBuild, creator deck drawing deck drawing software. software.
Statement of Ownership, Management, and Circulation (All Periodicals Publications Except Requester Publications) 2. Publication Number
DECK SPECIALIST
3. Filing Date
51381610 _
10/1/2026
4. Issue Frequency
5. Number of Issues Published Annually
6. Annual Subscription Price
BIMONTHLY
6
$25.00
7. Complete Mailing Address of Known Office of Publication (Not printer) (Street, city, county, state, and ZIP+4 ®)
151 KALMUS DR., SUITE J3, COSTA MESA, CA 92626
Contact Person
PATRICK ADAMS
Telephone (Include area code)
(714) 486-2735
8. Complete Mailing Address of Headquarters or General Business Office of Publisher (Not printer)
SAME AS ABOVE
9. Full Names and Complete Mailing Addresses of Publisher, Editor, and Managing Editor (Do not leave blank) Publisher (Name and complete mailing address)
PATRICK ADAMS 151 KALMUS DR., SUITE J3, COSTA MESA, CA 92626 Editor (Name and complete mailing address)
SARA GRAVES 151 KALMUS DR., SUITE J3, COSTA MESA, CA 92626 Managing Editor (Name and complete mailing address)
SAME AS ABOVE
10. Owner (Do not leave blank. If the publication is owned by a corporation, give the name and address of the corporation immediately followed by the names and addresses of all stockholders owning or holding 1 percent or more of the total amount of stock. If not owned by a corporation, give the names and addresses of the individual owners. If owned by a partnership or other unincorporated firm, give its name and address as well as those of each individual owner. If the publication is published by a nonprofit organization, give its name and address.) Full Name Complete Mailing Address
526 MEDIA GROUP, INC.
151 KALMUS DR., SUITE J3, COSTA MESA, CA 92626
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November/December 2026 | Deck Specialist |
57
IDEA BOOK
Redwood Sauna Built for Beauty and Longevity FOR A COUPLE WHO RESIDES ON A RANCH in a small community along Santa Cruz County’s North Coast, building an outdoor sauna and shower from redwood felt like a natural extension of the place they call home. Their lives and work have long been connected to the redwood forests of California’s Central Coast. Between them, their experience includes cattle ranching, timber falling, forestry and other work rooted in the local landscape. The project was carefully designed after gathering construction tips from a Norwegian sauna blog. In Norway, saunas are often built as simple wooden structures that reflect the country’s strong connection to the outdoors. Many are located near a fjord, lake or coastline, making it easy to cool off in the water or fresh air after spending time in the heat. They wanted a quality project and enlisted local craftsmen Michael Kraft and Marc Mucelli who brought their vision to life, creating a redwood retreat that showcases the material from its structural framework to its distinctive finishing details. Redwood has long been recognized as a premier material for sauna, spa and outdoor construction. Naturally dimensionally stable, redwood performs exceptionally well in applications exposed to temperature and moisture extremes. Its beauty also creates the welcoming atmosphere desired in a sauna, encouraging both practical and aesthetic
58 | Deck Specialist | November/December 2026
PHOTOS PROVIDED BY BIG CREEK LUMBER
purposes throughout the structure. The framing, rafters and timbers were produced by and purchased from Big Creek Lumber. Much of the remaining wood came with a history of its own. The interior and exterior siding and trim were made from Clear Heart redwood reclaimed from a 40-year-old water tank on their ranch. The tank was damaged and retired following the 2020 CZU Fire, but after four decades of service, much of its wood was still sound and ready to be used again. One of the most personal details is the door, which Kraft made by hand from a slab of curly grain redwood also salvaged after the fire. Its unusual grain gives the entrance character all its own. The finished sauna brings together new redwood lumber, reclaimed wood and the work of skilled local hands. After years spent working in and caring for the redwood forests, the couple now has a quiet place to relax and enjoy a material that has long been part of their lives. DS
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