Deck Specialist - Spring 2021

Digital Edition Sponsored

by SHARE LESSONS LEARNED FROM PANDEMIC BUILDERS

• BECOME A RAILING COLOR EXPERT

DECK

Spring 2021

SPECIALIST Ideas & Strategies for Outdoor Living Professionals

Breakthrough

All Eyes on Glass Decking

3040BK: The ULTIMATE in deck protection

3040BK Self-Adhering Flashing Tape 

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Removability

Waterproof

Solvent Resistance

UV Resistance

BUILDERS SHARE LESSONS LEARNED FROM PANDEMIC • BECOME A RAILING COLOR EXPERT

DECK

Spring 2021

SPECIALIST Ideas & Strategies for Outdoor Living Professionals

Breakthrough

All Eyes on Glass Decking

DECK

SPECIALIST

Ideas & Strategies for Outdoor Living Professionals FEATURE STORIES

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Walking on Glass Glass Decks: Breaking through myths

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Contractor Q&A An interview with Deck Innovators

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Steel Framing Builders react to Trex discontinuing Elevations steel deck framing

WHAT’S HOT

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Colors in Railing Become a railing color expert

BUSINESS OPERATIONS

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The Year of COVID

• Industry shares lessons learned • Survey shows contractors’ priorities change during pandemic

14 ON THE COVER: Glass decking comes with its own set of features and challenges.

Pictured: SkyFloor Glass Deck System from Glass Flooring Systems.

ALSO INSIDE 8 Editor’s Note

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10 42 46 48 50 54 68 69 70

Industry News Parks & Deck Creation with Bobby Parks On the House with the Carey Bros.

Set the Standard with Brendan Casey Product Review with Marv Johnson New Products Date Planner Advertiser Index

Idea Book

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Spring 2021 • Volume 5 • Number 1

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is available on a qualified requester basis to senior management of U.S.-based builders and contractors specializing in decking and other outdoor living projects and to others at the rate of $22 per year. Subscribe now by emailing info@building-products.com or calling 714.486.2735.

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Spring 2021

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EDITOR’S NOTE

What I Thought I Knew It was early last year that I was roaming the halls of the International Builders Show in Las Vegas trying to meet up with Infinite Decks at AZEK TimberTech’s booth. Mark King was getting ready to perform a live heat bending demo with Dr. Decks and I just had to post it to social media. At the time, I really didn’t know how engaging our audience was, especially on Instagram. It was before tradeshows were being canceled left and right, before I knew that our industry—and the world—would be changed forever.

At the time I was still fairly new to this publication and I had no idea how close the industry was. But the more I got to talking to builders at the show, the more I realized how close everyone was. I knew there was something special here. Looking back, as I recall rushing through the halls and massive booths, I wish I had a chance to stop and take it all in.

What I also didn’t know at the time was how close the industry was even in times of chaos. Despite the madness that’s been 2020 (and arguably part of 2021), I’ve still managed to have meaningful conversations with builders, product experts and designers who remain optimistic about what’s to come and are still having important discussions. Deck Specialist is meant to reflect that. Throughout these pages you’ll hear from some of the pros who are truly passionate about deck building—just like you.

The deck-bending demo by King and Dr. Decks is one presentation that sticks in my head. As they were heating and bending this long PVC board, I was amazed at how they were able to manipulate it to fit the frame so

quickly, but more importantly, how much fun they were having during the process.

It’s moments like this that make me excited for the future. It also makes me think that sometimes we just have to stop, take a minute, and absorb what’s in front of us. Even today, in the middle of a pandemic, there are still opportunities to stop and be thankful in the moment. IBS is a busy, fast-paced show. And yes, it is hard to just stop and take it all in.

But if only I knew then what I know now.

I look forward to seeing all of you at our next in-person event. I hope that’s not too far away! Until then, let’s stay connected! Follow us on Instagram (@deckspecialistmagazine) to stay engaged in between issues and share some insight of your own! AND mark your calendars, because Deck Specialist is hosting the first annual virtual Deck Symposium!

Read about it on page 10 and get ready to hear from some industry greats! As always, thank you for supporting Deck Specialist. We’re so happy you’re here.

Stephanie Ornelas is managing editor of Deck Specialist. Reach her at sornelas@526mediagroup.com

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SET SCREW

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Our collated technology is now available in all colors for both Trex Transcend ® and Select ® Decking, speeding up installation and offering the homeowner a beautiful finished look.

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Trex , Select ® and Transcend ® are either federally registered trademarks or trademarks of Trex Company, Inc., Winchester, VA. ®

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INDUSTRY NEWS Deck Specialist Plans 1st Annual Virtual Symposium

Deck builders will gain knowledge to better their business, and can preview the latest products and trends, while networking with fellow industry professionals during Deck Specialist’s first annual Symposium, to be held virtually July 8-9.

The event, which will be free to attend for qualified deck industry professionals, will be held at staggered hours in the afternoon and evening to minimize the time busy construction professionals from coast to coast spend away from the jobsite.

In addition to product knowledge opportunities, workshops, networking sessions, and a virtual trade show, the nation’s top builders will be honored with the presentation of the first annual Deck Specialists of the Year Awards.

Registration will open and a full schedule of activities will be announced in the spring.

Watch the Deck Specialist eWeekly email newsletter to be among the first to register. (You can sign up for the free enewsletter by emailing JBays@526mediagroup.com.)

Vendors interesting in co-sponsoring the event should contact Patrick Adams at PAdams@526mediagroup.com or (714) 486-2735.

Trex Caps $200-Million Expansion

For more than 25 years, Trex Co. has focused on product innovation, operational excellence, and partnerships with outstanding distributors, dealers and contractors—always with an eye on “engineering what’s next in outdoor living.”

In keeping with this approach, Trex enters 2021 celebrating yet another historic milestone: the start-up of its new Virginia production facility that caps a $200-million expansion program.

“For every company there are moments that are history making, and this is definitely one of those for Trex,” said Bryan Fairbanks, president and CEO. “Thanks to the foresight and confidence of the Trex team and our board of directors to invest in this capacity expansion, we are embarking upon the next era of growth for our company.”

In June of 2019, Trex announced plans to invest $200 million in the infrastructure, people and processes to increase capacity in both of its manufacturing facilities.

At the center of the capital investment and

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TREX enters 2021 with another milestone: the start-up of its new Virginia production facility.

long-term strategic growth plan is approximately 200,000 sq. ft. of newly constructed manufacturing and support facilities dedicated to producing Trex decking. The state-of-the-art manufacturing plant, adjacent to the company’s existing Winchester, VA., campus, features approximately 8,500 cubic yards of concrete in its foundation, 75,000 sq. ft. of exterior precast, 1,500 tons of structural steel, and 3 million linear ft. of wiring.

“This will be the most productive and efficient composite decking facility designed for maximum output,” emphasized Adam Zambanini, president of Trex Residential Products. “The building is equipped with state-of-the-art, proprietary extrusion technology that allows us to manufacture Trex decking using 95% recycled content, with an emphasis on quality and energy-efficient systems.”

In addition, Trex also improved production capabilities and capacity at its manufacturing site in Fernley, NV., where new lines were installed and made operational in June of 2020.

Combined, the expansions will increase production capacity by approximately 70% while adding 350 new jobs.

“Trex is in an unmatched position to lead the industry in production output and to meet the demands of our customers in the coming years,” noted Zambanini.

Envision Links Up with Fairway

Envision Building Products, Lamar, MO., has purchased Fairway Architectural Railing Solutions, seeing Fairway’s railing repertoire as a perfect complement to its composite decking.

“We believe this is the right partnership to meet the evolving needs of our customers while

furthering our ability to create best-in-class outdoor products and achieve our vision in becoming the undisputed market share leader of non-wood railing in the U.S. market. We are excited by Fairway’s opportunities under Envision’s ownership, and we look forward to this dynamic new chapter and the exponential new growth opportunities it brings,” said Fairway CEO Greg Burkholder.

Fairway’s existing management team will remain in place and its current product lines will continue to be offered under the Fairway brand, with Fairway also having the ability to provide its customers access to Envision composite decking. Envision will likewise be able to offer its customers access to the suite of Fairway railing products.

“This acquisition expands Envision’s footprint in the outdoor living category and will not only increase market reach but will also provide operational efficiencies,” said Shara Gamble, VP of Envision sales & marketing. “The individual strengths of each company are complementary and will have a positive impact on our combined service and product offerings.”

The expanded product offerings provided through the acquisition include comprehensive railing solutions in vinyl, aluminum, steel, composite, and cellular PVC.

Distribution Expands for Composite, Bamboo Decking Manufacturers

Decking manufacturers MOSO, Envision Building Products, and MoistureShield have added new distributors and dealers to make their products easier than ever for builders to purchase.

New stocking dealers of MOSO Bamboo products are Spahn & Rose Lumber, Dubuque, IA.; Gilcrest/Jewett Lumber, Waukee, IA.; Via Virdis Green Solutions, Woodstock, GA.; Fitch Lumber, Carrboro, N.C.; Tum-A-Lum Lumber, Hood River, OR.; and Lakeside Lumber, Tualatin, OR. Wholesaler BlueLinx has expanded its distribution of MoistureShield composite decking to its branches in Erwin, TN., and Duluth, MN. BlueLinx now stocks MoistureShield products in a total of 31 stocking locations nationwide.

Wausau Supply, Limon, CO., is now distributing Envision composite decking in Colorado and northern New Mexico.

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INDUSTRY NEWS Duralife Doubling Decking Output

DuraLife by Barrette Outdoor Living recently announced a multi-million dollar investment in upgrades at its Biddeford, ME., facility to double composite decking production in 2021.

The significant investment in equipment and manpower will help ensure that all customer needs will be met within a two-week distribution lead-time. As part of these upgrades, new stateof-the-art automated equipment and multiple extrusion lines have been added in the plant to optimize efficiencies in the production process, allowing for faster production of deck boards.

This new equipment will also offer operators the ability to more efficiently monitor and track line performance ensuring there is no compromise to quality.

DuraLife also added 65,000 sq. ft. to its supply yard to provide storage for the additional volume of decking being produced. Operations at the plant have also moved to 24/7—increasing shifts from two to three, seven days a week. This extra manpower has not only contributed to increased

production, it has also created more than 30 new jobs in Biddeford and the surrounding area.

“The investment in our DuraLife facility is significant and enables us to achieve faster speed without compromising the quality of our decking products and the addition of manpower to our workforce is a win-win for our company and for the local community,” said Sylvain Bellemare, VP of Engineering & Process Improvement.

Fiberon Launches Virtual Experience

The Fiberon Virtual Experience will immerse users into a unique learning environment to introduce new products, highlight existing lines, share educational materials and videos, and equip dealers and contractors with selling tools.

Launched in February, the experience, will be set up like an outdoor living space, showcasing how different products can be used to create an at-home getaway, with modules on decking, railing, cladding, lighting and more.

“Our new Fiberon Virtual Experience features different outdoor environments in which attendees can explore our product offering,” said Chris Hayn, VP of sales. “The virtual setting allows us

Deck Building Solutions • 866-767-1850 • www.suredrive.com • sales@suredrive.com

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to safely interact with the media and our current and potential customers, and gives us an opportunity to share information about our brand through an immersive, self-guided experience.”

Archadeck Expands in Washington

Archadeck Outdoor has announced the opening of Archadeck of South Sound, WA., owned and operated by David Gielczyk.

The company will offer outdoor living space design and building services to Auburn, Black Diamond, Bonney Lake, Buckley, Federal Way, Kent, Milton, Olympia, Pacific, Puyallup, Renton, Seattle, South Prairie, Sumner, Tacoma and University Place.

Perma-Column Revamps Website

Perma-Column LLC has announced the launch of its brand-new website. The completely rebuilt site provides valuable insights about the groundbreaking Perma-Column story as the industry’s first patented, ICC-ES-certified permanent foundation solution.

“Our library of online resources now available supports deck builders and consumers alike,”

said Mark Stover, president. “There are videos, downloads, brochures, photos, and informative material that more clearly communicate the longterm value of our permanent precast deck foundation systems, how quick and easy they are to install, and their enduring quality.”

With intuitive navigation and user-friendly design, the site is an indispensable tool for deck builders who work with Perma-Column deck posts. In addition, it provides in-depth information, resources, and design tools for the family of patented post-frame foundation solutions. Visit the new site at www.permacolumn.com.

Woman Rescued after Deck Collapse

A woman in Denton, MD., was rescued after her deck collapsed on Jan. 9, leaving her trapped under rubble.

The woman was sent to the hospital after suffering minor injuries to her right leg. The community then came together to help her build a new deck that included wheelchair accessibility.

It was later determined that the deck was rotting from underneath and was overdue for a complete remodel.

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DESIGN FOCUS

Walking on Glass Breaking through the Myths of Glass Decking

The idea of

walking on glass can be thrilling.

Yet questions come to mind: Is it safe? Is it easy to clean? Is it easy to install? Glass features can add sophistication, simplicity, and style to any build. But how exactly do glass floor elements play out in outdoor living?

“One common myth is that glass floors can only be used inside,” says Mike Foti, president of Innovate Building Solutions, Columbus, OH. “This is definitely not the case. One surprisingly popular use of glass flooring is as a decorative—and functional—decking material.

Glass decks are used to move light from one floor level to another. With glass floor panels installed into the deck, light can still pass through to the basement.”

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By Stephanie Ornelas ABOVE: To avoid what Foti calls, “the skirt factor,” some homeowners opt for obscure glass designs that help secure more privacy.

OPPOSITE RIGHT: Most glass decks are made with either a sandblasted or patterned ceramic frit top surface for traction control when the glass is wet.

Foti went on to explain that glass flooring can also become an outdoor showcase feature by incorporating LED lighting around the floor at night.

Understandably, another myth about glass floors in decking is the idea that they are slippery and unsafe to walk on, especially when it rains or snows. According to Foti, in most cases, glass floors are made with either a sandblasted or patterned ceramic frit top surface, which provides traction control even when the glass is wet.

“If a glass floor does not include a top surface treatment it most likely will be slippery to walk on when wet,” Foti said.

Companies like Jockimo Decorative Architectural Glass and Glass Flooring Systems create products designed to address such issues.

Jockimo’s Crystal Clear GlassGrit anti-slip glass flooring panels were recently installed on a wooden deck in Los Angeles. The panels flooded the space below the deck with light, which was exactly what the homeowner was looking for.

Skyfloor’s Glass Deck System consists of a nonslip surface specially designed to meet or exceed the ASTM safety standards. The company offers 24 different tested anti-slip textures, including its proprietary Seeded Organic top layer, which is the only ultra-clear texture available that’s suitable and safe for wet exterior conditions.

Another possible customer concern is privacy, or what Foti calls “the skirt factor.” Says Foti, “if you’re worried about someone looking up through the lower level below and invading someone’s privacy, don’t fear. There are tons of glass options that come in obscure glass that help secure more privacy.”

One myth that can’t be debunked however is the fact that glass floors are harder to clean, mainly because it’s much more time-consuming.

“You know what you’re getting yourself into when you opt for an all-glass floor,” said Ohio builder Frank Bates. Folks want that sophistication.

They want that ‘wow’ factor in their homes. So, with that, comes more care and maintenance.

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This is why many times you’ll see decks with only partial glass flooring, or maybe one section.

They’ll spend more of their time on the wood or composite side of the deck, and maybe they reserve the glass area for more formal gatherings.”

Foti explained that it’s a growing trend to see only half of a deck or even a small portion with glass flooring.

And speaking of trends, he touched on a few growing fads when it comes to glass elements— features like glass stairs and incorporating such elements with fire and water features.

When a client out of Columbus, OH., wanted to kick it up a notch, Foti explained how he took his rushing water and rock feature and added structural glass stair treads. “These treads not only allow you to look through the glass—but are safe to walk on because they have a ceramic glass frit top surface and sturdy side-supporting aluminum brackets,” Foti explained.

When it comes to installation, Los Angeles deck builder Craig Reed agreed that glass flooring is definitely a different type of breed, but not an out-of-reach design element. “Like any high-end deck, you need to partner with the right suppliers and manufacturers who stand behind It’s not uncommon for builders to suggest framed or sectional glass decking to customers interested in exploring the design feature.

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GLASS DECKS can take longer to clean, which is why some builders suggest partial glass flooring to add style.

their products and educate you about their offerings,” he said.

“I’ve always said that if you’re a deck builder, you’re already designed to think outside the box.

So, extra elements like glass flooring should be a fun challenge for the hardiest and most creative of deck builders. It’s all about what you can do to set your projects apart from the rest.”

CA NEW W TA AV LO AIL G AB LE

NO

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PRO Q&A

Innovation is the KEY to deck building

Deck Innovators Service Area: Midlothian, VA. - Metro Richmond area Specialty: Custom residential outdoor living spaces, home remodeling Founder/President: Lance Sniatkowski Year Founded: 2009 Website: deckinnovators.com Instagram: @deckinnovators_rva

For Virginia builder Lance Sniatkowski, thereʼs more to the craft than simply building decks.

Facebook: Facebook.com/ deckinnovatorsrichmond

Lance Sniatkowski, owner of

Virginia-based deck building and remodeling company Deck Innovators, wants to make one thing clear—he is not just a deck builder. He’s a deck innovator.

Q. How did you get started as a deck builder?

A. I was always excited to be outside. Decks were the beginning of Spring and building them gave me that opportunity to be totally outside.

My father was a high school woodshop teacher, so I was always around building, whether it was in school or at home. Interestingly, my shop teacher was, at a time, my father’s student teacher, so they assisted in my interest of building furniture and projects. Since my father had different vacation times than I did, I would go to his school to finish projects and make new friends. Building decks gives me the pleasure of creating an area where the whole family and their friends gather to create new memories.

Q. Can you tell us about the team at Deck Innovators?

A. I think it’s so important to value the opinion of your team members. The team I have with me is very talented and they understand design.

Their input is valued every step of the project.

Q. How did you choose the name Deck Innovators for your company?

OWNER of Deck Innovators, Lance Sniatkowski with Cheryl Shrieve

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A. An innovator is someone who creates something new or improved out of an established area or item, and we wanted that to reflect our brand. We created this with new products, and improved ideas and methods, so we can proudly say to our customers that we don’t just build decks, we innovate them.

Spring 2021

The Catwalk Deck is an award-winning deck, one Sniatkowski was most fond of.

Q. How would you describe your approach to serving customers?

A. We need to create trust, and that starts with listening to our customers needs and providing that knowledge they seek in an efficient manner.

More importantly, it means being honest with them 100% of the time.

Q. What do you do to convince customers that it is best to go with a pro, rather than DIY?

A. There are many aspects of building a safe structure. There are codes that must be followed and specs on materials. The potential clientele that calls us is looking for a professional and I never have to convince them. We really do not want the DIY-type, but we will work with someone that wants to do some sweat equity and learn a few things from us.

Q. How does landscaping play into your designs?

A. The scope of the land is a big part with our designs. We want it to blend smooth with a landscape, i.e., plants, stairs leading down to the yard, an introduction to area of where family and friends meet. Even if there is not a yard but an

area that is void, we can help create the reality to the client’s vision or dream. Hardscaping can be part of the process.

Q. What project are you most proud of?

A. The Cat Walk deck I finished in August. I took an ordinary, second-story deck with a long stairway, and created the vision of the customer.

My designing was not just on paper. The stairs leading down to the hardscaping had to fall right to their edge. It was a challenge and a constant trial and error process. Creating the stair winders had to be precise. The client was so pleased, as it afforded them the ability to have family come over and to social distance.

Q. What advice can you give to aspiring deck builders or builders just getting started?

A. Education is never-ending in my eyes. I have colleagues in groups throughout the country who help with new ideas and solve problems using other’s experiences. I had a mentor who was a remodeler, but he was also an influence in my life experiences. I came across him from a professional magazine where I sent him an email which I never thought would be replied to. To my Spring 2021

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THE DESIGN PROCESS isn’t always on paper, says Sniatkowski, who works to give each project its own unique style.

pleasant surprise, Ned replied with a well-written email that struck me in a way that I knew he was a special person. By coincidence, I ended up moving within 30 minutes from him in California and we became great friends. Till this day, I seek his advice. As far as continued education, I belong to professional groups, one of them being NADRA. Social media is also very powerful in the groups I belong to, and helps when discussing daily events and solving complications. I don’t know how I did it without this type of networking, but it’s a great tool when used correctly.

Q. What do you look for in products and companies you partner with?

A. How your partners integrate with your company is very important. I have a close relationship with my reps. What’s most important is that they are backing their product.

Q. What marketing tools do you find most successful?

A. We have tons of marketing swag like hats and pens that I hand out everywhere. Our trailer is a billboard, and we have job signs with a card slot for people to take one if they’d like. We do a good job with marketing. The word gets around.

People should know our company name, but more important, people should know us as good people and not just deck builders. We want to be part of the conversation when it comes to building decks and remodeling.

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THE REAL CHALLENGE is raising up new talent in the industry. Sniatkowski’s biggest piece of advice: educate yourself by learning from the pros. Pictured: Sniatkowski (right) and Derrike Shrieve.

When elevated aesthetics meet unmatched performance, the result can only be Trex.

When it comes to creating the perfect outdoor space, Trex® has been laying the groundwork for more than 20 years. Our premium Transcend® decking gives your customers the depth and beauty of wood with none of the time-consuming maintenance. Pair that with the stunning look of Trex Signature® aluminum railings for an effortless, eye-catching design. And since Trex is made with 95% reclaimed wood and plastic film, we offer your customers a truly environmentally friendly decking choice. When high-level aesthetics come packaged with low-maintenance durability, the result is a masterpiece that leaves a lasting impression. To learn more, visit trex.com.

© 2021 Trex Company, Inc. All Rights Reserved. Trex® is a federally registered trademark of Trex Company, Inc., Winchester, Virginia

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3040BK: The ULTIMATE in deck protection

3040BK Self-Adhering Flashing Tape 

gtape.com

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Removability

Waterproof

Solvent Resistance

UV Resistance

PURPLE? NO PROBLEM! Aluminum railing manufacturers can create near limitless custom colors using powder coatings.

(Photo by Duradek)

Color me mine

Become a railing color expert

By David Koenig

The days of plain white vinyl railings

on every deck have given way to a rainbow of railing colors, enabled by the latest manufacturing technologies and the expanding imaginations of designers. With now near-unlimited options, how can builders help guide customers to the best color choice for their deck railing project?

“Choosing the right railing defines your home, and selecting the right color is as important on the outside of the home as it is on the inside,” says Andrew Pantelides, VP of marketing and business development for Regal ideas. “When it comes to doors, trim, shutters and furniture, the color trends we are seeing are ones of eye-catching colors that define personality and style. More and more homeowners are viewing their outdoor spaces as an extension of their indoors.”

Certainly, railing color choice is a critical decision in planning a project. When you walk out onto a deck, your eyes are usually going to see the railing first.

According to Steven Phillips, product manager in charge of railing for Trex, “Our focus is on making sure consumers have safe but inspiring choices that complement any decking color. Earth tones like Vintage Lantern (a chocolate brown) compliment safer choices like Classic White and Charcoal Black. Softer tones like Rope Swing and Gravel Path give consumers more outside-thebox options that aren’t too polarizing. However, making sure the channel can support inventory requirements is always critical, so the color palette has to be selected carefully.”

Fairway’s aluminum systems come in three different colors, steel railings in two, and cellular PVC in white. “Those three railing technologies—aluminum, steel and cellular PVC—cover three color categories in black, bronze and white, which represent about 90% of market demand,” said Chase Moritz, marketing manager for parent Envision Decking. “Within those technologies, we offer varying finish options as well. Textured Spring 2021

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ABOVE LEFT: Railing colors should accent both the house and the deck.

ABOVE RIGHT:Railings should also support the view, such as by framing it.

OPPOSITE RIGHT:All colors evoke emotion, even white. (Images by Regal ideas)

colors are some of our fastest growing products.”

SpecRail has been tweaking its color options based on customer feedback. Standard colors for its aluminum railings are black, white and bronze. The company used to offer green and sandstone as standard, but they were discontinued due to lack of demand. “Black is the prominent color for both our railing and fence products by far,” shared Joseph Moriarty, new business development manager. “Depending on certain regions of the country, white is preferable. Bronze is still popular and a viable preference for many projects.”

SpecRail also offers custom colors, usually “one-offs” to meet the requirements of certain jobs. Recently, custom red has been popular.

“Customers provide a (RAD) color code,” Moriarty said. “These situations require a specific supplier quote on coating material and our set-up/ process time based on project volume.”

Making the Choice

Before choosing a railing color, dealers should understand the customer’s style and home architecture including materials used like wood or composite, and how they use their outdoor area.

According to Lindsey Fox, director of marketing at RailFX, “This will likely drive a customers’ selection of railing style—do they want the railing to blend in, making a lake or mountain view the hero, or stand out as a design feature? And will the outdoor area be used for entertainment, family (including children, pets and older adults), games or pool use? Once the style has been chosen, colors can complement the decision. Colors

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evoke moods, which drives the preference of stock versus custom colors for the final design.”

Vista Railing Systems’ Erik Flick agrees: “Building color, geographic environment, and personal preference all go into the color selection process. As an example, Gloss White tends to be very popular in coastal areas as a general rule.

More urban environments might tend to have color schemes where a Gloss Black is more of a fit. Textured finishes such as Textured Black are certainly rising in popularity as well based upon changing color schemes and the fact that they are easier to keep clean in some cases than the gloss colors.”

To simplify the railing selection process, Trex’s Phillips suggests using one of what Trex calls the “three Cs” to achieve a successful decking and railing pairing: • Coordinate. You can never go wrong by selecting railing in the same shade as your decking—i.e., dark brown railing for a dark brown deck, or light gray railing to complement light gray boards. This creates a cozy, well-coordinated look and is a great approach for risk-averse homeowners.

• Contrast. If you have trouble finding a perfect match for the decking—or if your customer is open to trying something different—consider a contrasting railing color, such as black or white.

Both are classic options that complement virtually any outdoor setting. Classic white looks crisp against deep brown deck boards and is ideal for highlighting a deck’s design and features. Alternately, if you’re working with lighter colored decking, a contrasted look can be achieved by

selecting darker railing.

Dark colors give a deck a modern look and feel.

They also are a good choice for clients looking to showcase their home’s natural surroundings since dark railings tend to visually blend into the background.

• Customize. For design-savvy homeowners looking for the distinctive, go for a completely customized look. Don’t be afraid to mix colors and materials, such as combining dark aluminum railing and balusters with white composite posts, to create a dramatic look that delivers a sophisticated mixture of texture and color. Other tips: • To optimize a great view, thin balusters finished in black are a good choice as they tend to optically blend into the environment, putting more visual emphasis on the natural surroundings. Save thicker, tightly spaced balusters for a not-so-appealing view or to deter nosy neighbors.

• Rails should naturally blend with the environment. This brings the feeling of being closer to nature. So not only consider how the railings play off of the deck and home, but also how they look facing away, into nature. Railings should define a space naturally vs. becoming an obtrusive barrier.

• Dark colors, like black and bronze, tend to blend in with a structure from afar, while white and lighter colors will stand out in contrast to the home.

• Colors with more gloss retention typically have less UV breakdown (fading) than matte finish colors.

• Gloss finishes reflect more sunlight, so in a

very sunny area, a textured finish on aluminum is often a better choice • Check on the finish. How does it look and feel? Does it leave fingerprints, or stain? A textured finish affects both look and feel. According to Regal ideas’ Pantelides, “Our textured finish provides a depth of richness to the paint as the light shines on it.”

• Rarely do you see high-end railing materials that are glossy and shiny. Trex’s aluminum and composite railings feature matte finishes that add a rich look to an overall project.

Pick a Color, Any Color

Atlantis Rail offers two cable railing systems with different color options—the NOVA II aluminum cable railing system in white, black and bronze, and the Spectrum System stainless steel cable railing system with stainless steel square posts powder-coated black, pure white, metallic silver, dark brown, light brown, or pebble gray.

In recent years, Atlantis Rail has started to offer color options due to customer demand. “For a long time we only offered a brushed or polished stainless steel finish,” said marketing manager Carey Hicks. “We are offering much lower maintenance options for adding color to railing systems versus painted wood. The color options that we offer are neutral and blend nicely with many different designs and environments.

“It is definitely a customer preference as to which color they choose, but we have noticed that with exterior color palettes expanding, including window trims, customers are looking to match their railing to their trim. Also, color selection Spring 2021

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WITH 12 STANDARD colors (left), Diggers Industries believes it has an option to coordinate its aluminum railings with any outdoor space.

Note how railing colors can coordinate with the decking choice (top photo) or contrast (middle).

(Images by DSI)

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depends on the style that the customer wants to showcase. If the railing is on the ocean, some customers opt for a white cable railing system to give a nautical feel. If the railing was going on a residence in the mountains or woods, the customer may opt for a black or dark brown railing system so as to blend with nature and not interfere with the environment.”

The proliferation of literally hundreds of different deck railing colors is primarily attributed to advances in powder-coating. Duradek’s aluminum railings come in 12 standard and over 180 custom colors. “The ability to provide custom colors in railing and fencing products is important to ensure a good match to a home’s window coverings or window sidings,” notes Blair Holiday, Durarail sales manager. “The most important thing is using a super durable powder for the finish.”

Digger Specialties, Inc. offers 12 standard AAMA 2604 colors for its Westbury aluminum railing, ADA Handrail, and B Series balusters in its PolyRail vinyl railing line, chosen specifically to play off homeowners’ decks, homes, gardens and yards.

“We believe your outdoor living space should match your style and color palette,” explains marketing manager Mary Gearhart. “Every year the decking industry adds colors to their decking options, paint companies add colors to their exterior home colors, and vinyl siding companies add new color options to their color offerings. We have a standard color that can accent the colors in your outdoor living space. But you don’t have to stop there—DSI offers a custom color program for all our aluminum products.

You provide a color sample, we match it to an AAMA color.”

Ultimately, the most important factor is what looks good to the client. “It really is a matter of personal preference and aesthetics,” said Jeremiah Hershberger, product manager for Superior Plastics, which provides vinyl railing in three colors and aluminum in four. “We offer so many colors because people like to have options for a customized railing, but all of our aluminum and vinyl colors are powder-coated or manufactured to last, so it really doesn’t matter from a functional perspective.”

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Strong-Tie Company Inc. PERGDECKPLAN20-C

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RECENTLY DISCONTINUED Elevations steel deck framing was well liked by builders who used the product—there just weren’t enough of them.

End of the road for Elevations steel framing

By David Koenig

Not 18 months ago, residential steel deck framing was being heralded as a serious threat to treated wood for deck framing. Backed by two giant composite deck manufacturers, the systems claimed to have myriad advantages over wood, including improved aesthetics and straighter, uniform pieces with no crowning, warping or twisting.

Yet at the end of last year, market leader Trex abruptly discontinued its Elevations steel deck framing, leaving Fortress Building Products’ Evolution as the last system standing. Trex explained to dealers that the move was part of its normal annual culling of less profitable colors, sizes and products to make room for new products and colors and sizes.

Yet the end of Elevations is a great deal more than the loss of a fifth shade of brown; it’s the elimination of an entire product category, one 28

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with great promise, a number of satisfied users, and a much larger number who never gave the pricier product a chance.

“I’ve never thought of using it,” said Jason Matousek, M3 Carpentry & Remodeling, Black Creek, WI. “I’m just used to using lumber.”

Danny Shushan, DannyDeck Construction, Encino, CA., said, “I never used the Trex steel frame before because of the high price and complications of ordering/providing plans and installation.”

In fact, of 12 builders contacted, only two had tried steel framing. “We’ve used Trex’s steel framing several times,” said Matt Breyer, Breyer Construction & Landscape, Reading, PA. “It was a nice product, but it felt incomplete—there were limitations to hardware and material sizes that created unnecessary limitations to projects… and it was expensive! We actually have a Fortress project coming up in the next few months; we’re

FORTRESS Building Products’ Evolution line now has the steel framing market to itself.

looking forward to using what promises to be a more refined, better-engineered system, and having the experience under our belt to make a decision moving forward if we want to continue using branded steel framing, or branch out to using generic metal framing.”

Similarly, said Andrew York, ProDeck Construction, San Marcos, CA., “We used Trex Elevations steel framing for many projects over the years. It really opened up options for spans and cantilevers and definitely made a strong, flat deck. The biggest downside was the cost. It was

also fairly difficult to get permits approved, as most of our local municipalities are used to conventional wood framing. It required a few extra tools, and cutting was terribly loud. I’d also add there was a danger factor: sharp edges, screws sticking through hardware brackets, and wobbly joists (until they were tied in to rims and blocking) led to more cuts and scratches than a typical wood-framed deck. Trex made a really good effort to shift the way we build decks but in the end, I think for the reasons above, most builders were resistant to change.”

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UPPER-FLOOR decks—where the deck framing is visible—are especially good applications for steel.

(Photo courtesy Fortress Evolution)

Trex expanded into steel deck framing in 2011 with its acquisition of tiny niche player Iron Deck Corp., Denver. The product was terrific; it seemingly just needed the vast distribution network and promotional might of a national powerhouse like Trex. Yet not only did builders need to be persuaded to use it, just as importantly dealers and even Trex’s own sales force needed to sell it.

“They hated it,” noted one dealer. “Sales would not learn about the product, and it was hard to get support for it. Decking, decking, decking— that’s all they’re interested in selling.”

PMC Building Materials, Lawrenceville, GA., not only sold the system—it kept it in stock, and had multiple large deck builders that regularly used it for high-end installs. “I have two customers in particular who are really behind it. They think it’s outstanding. It took our staff educating ourselves about the product and working to sell it.”

Other dealers say they tried—unsuccessfully. “I sold one job on Elevations,” said Doug Crowther, Hess Lumber, Malad City, ID. “It was the flattest, prettiest job you’ll ever see. I think people were too cheap to buy it.”

“I have sold three or four jobs over the years,” said Will Crockett, Orofino Builders Supply, Orofino, ID. “My locations are in heavy timber areas in North Central Idaho. We have experienced several large forest fires over the last decade or so. Steel deck framing is very effective against fire, so it has been asked for. Generally the cost changes customers’ minds.”

Now more than ever, it’s all about time.

According to Pat Noonan, Pro Deck Supply, Minneapolis, MN., “Ultimately cost was probably the biggest factor, both in material price and the added labor associated. I think the overall demand that is on our industry right now contributed. Taking twice as long on a job now just means one less job for the year. Anyone good enough to be selling and installing this product has a backlog of work and probably understands

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the revenue loss that will be associated with it.

Trying to get a share of a commodity market with a specialty product at three times the cost is a tough road to go.”

“People forget sometimes in this Instagram age that 90% of the decks built are just simple square boxes, and the majority are still wood,” Nooonan continued. “People are having sticker shock with proposals done in wood framing; my average deck prices have doubled in the last decade. Trying to get them to see the value-add of steel is an uphill battle, especially when most are fine or don’t even notice the cons associated with wood. Treated prices would need to double and steel install would need to be easier before it will be viable for anything other than the top 10% of projects.

Since most dealers didn’t hold an inventory, their customers were often subjected to lengthy waits to receive orders. “I am guessing Trex got frustrated with the lead times,” Crockett said.

“Given the slow turns, in relation to their commodity decking products, I am sure it hit the chopping block... no different than the colors that fall out of consumer preference every year.”

Elevations is going away, but steel framing is not. According to Fortress’ Jesiolowski, “We were already beefing up production of Evolution steel deck framing before Trex’s decision to exit the category. We see new opportunities daily and believe the market is just beginning to become aware of all the advantages steel deck framing offers. We see exponential growth for many years to come!”

Its challenges remain. With so many builders satisfied with treated wood, steel framing may be a solution to a problem not enough people are asking. As Hess Lumber’s Crowther noted, “My take on steel framing was why do you want to spend all that money for a frame that will last forever and put on it a deck that will only last 20 years?”

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THE YEAR OF COVID

Lessons Learned for Deck Builders

How pros have done business better during COVID We’re a full year into the pandemic

and while the last 12 months have been quite unpredictable, deck builders across the country are taking note of some of the biggest lessons they’ve learned and logging them away for the future.

the weekend and the customers had to cancel the loan. Thankfully that project went off without a hitch and then the rest of the year showed extreme growth. We went from a one-man show to now three separate crews still working on jobs sold in mid-2020.”

Planning is Vital

Mark King, founder of Minnesota-based Infinite Decks, stressed the importance of preparation, especially when it comes to partnerships. “Preparation and planning is key!”

King said. “Working with a quality lumberyard that allows me to pre order materials for upcoming projects so the material is ready when we are has been a saving grace!”

Don’t Assume

When it comes to knowing the market, never assume you know it all, says Christopher French, founder of French’s Custom Outdoor Concepts in San Antonio. “I learned not to assume I know the market. When this all hit, I was just starting a project that was bank funded,” French explained. “The lockdowns went into place over

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BE FLEXIBLE. Builders have not let the pandemic keep them from staying connected with customers.

Pictured: A masked Bobby Parks (right) with colleagues at the Versatex Road Show.

Communication is Essential

Brendan Casey of Casey Fence & Deck found that most of the lessons he’s learned relate directly to communication in addition to shifting market focus.

“As builders, we have learned several important things: communication is KEY. Order materials as early as possible and stay in close contact with your suppliers to know what they have in stock. Lastly, this has forced us to streamline and focus on what generates the highest profitability while maintaining our reputation as a company that will stand behind our contracts and projects regardless of the situation,” said Casey.

A Higher Interest in Home Improvement

Like most in the industry, Thien Nguyen, founder of N.C.-based Dirty Durham Decks, noted the obvious uptick in home improvement upgrades since the pandemic hit.

“I’ve learned that there is a higher interest in home improvement services during quarantine.

People are spending most of their time at home

now and are looking for ways to renew and improve the space they live in. This could mean building a new deck as well as buying new living commodities like furniture and appliances for the house. I project a higher demand in home improvement services and products for the years to come,” said Nguyen.

Make Lemons out of Lemonade

“We have not only learned to make the best of a bad situation, we have found ways to work smart, improve efficiency and trim costs,” said James Carey from On The House. “In the early stages of the pandemic we weren’t clear what the future would hold. We needed to immediately find ways to interface with our business prospects without the ability to enjoy our traditional in-home visit.

“Like the rest of the world, we discovered the power of videoconferencing. We immediately began promoting virtual design consultations.

It has been one of the best things that has happened to our business in ages. We have discovered that necessity is the mother of invention.”

JUST KEEP BUILDING: French’s Custom Outdoor Concepts learned to never assume you know everything.

Just continue to do what you do best.

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THE YEAR OF COVID

A Year Later: Lessons for Suppliers They say that in order to define the future, you must first study the past, and that’s what suppliers of outdoor living products have been doing for the last 12 months as the country works toward recovery. Deck Specialist reached out to industry-leading vendors to see what lessons they’ve learned this year.

Tando learned there needed to be a way to get the job done while adhering to social distance policies. Their one-person installation process was a game-changer. “The process enabled contractors to adhere to social distancing on the jobsite. Many of our products are lightweight and easy to install by one person so smaller crews are no problem,” said Ralph Bruno, CEO for parent Derby Building Products.

In times when the pandemic has impacted in-person contact, building supply dealers and their customers have relied more than ever on virtual design tools. Last spring, when Tando rolled out My Tando Home Creator, a free online tool that provides accurate visualization of home exteriors, Nick Redden, manager of Castle Masstown Hardware in Nova Scotia, said he “wished it could be their best kept secret.”

CAMO also adjusted its product line as crews got smaller and availability shifted. “In April we launched the CAMO LeverR, a tool that allows one-person board bending, locking, and alignment for faster building,” said chief marketing officer Dani Zizak. “As the pandemic caused a scarcity of softwood lumber and price increases, metal framing became an option for deck builders, and CAMO responded in with Edgex MetalT Clips in August. It’s a one-pass fastener in which the clip’s wings fit into the groove of the board and the 304 Stainless Steel gusset holds the boards down.”

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MoistureShield’s Molly Werner emphasized the importance of prioritization. “We were able to meet customer demand and even continue to expand our supply network once the essential vs. non-essential issues early on were overcome and the decking industry boomed,” said Werner.

“We’ve adapted quickly to shifts in the supply chain caused by COVID disruptions to labor and raw material streams, and have continued building flexibility within our processes and suppliers so we can proactively anticipate and address supply chain stress throughout recovery.”

There’s an obvious surge in homeowner interest when it comes to deck building due to the pandemic, but there’s also been a demand shortage in pressure treated lumber this past year, according to Simpson Strong-Tie’s training specialist and outreach coordinator Jim Mailey.

He noted, “Many homeowners were limited to smaller additions or had to postpone construction all together, creating sustained demand that we expect to continue through this year.”

“With pauses in the business last year related to both the pandemic and raw material shortage, it has created the opportunity for contractors to add people to their businesses. As an industry, we’ll need to continue to focus on education to make sure new, entry level laborers and contractors enter the deck building business with a firm grasp of basic construction skills,” he said.

According to Mailey, one surprising outcome of the pandemic is the success of virtual programs.

“The deck evaluation class I’m presenting with NADRA is averaging over 40 attendees a month with deck builders, engineers and manufacturers all signing up for the live, virtual seminars,” he marveled. “Overall, we think the industry outlook is good for the foreseeable future.”

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YellaWood® brand pressure treated products are treated with preservatives (the “Preservatives”) and preservative methods, and technologies of unrelated third parties. For details regarding the Preservatives, methods, and technologies used Great Southern Wood Preserving,|Incorporated, see2021 www.yellawood.com/preservative or write us at P.O. Box 610, Abbeville, AL 36310. Ask dealer for warranty details. | byDeck Specialist Spring

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YOU WILL SEEK THE YELLA TAG. YOU WILL SEEK THE YELLA TAG. The most experienced builders instinctively know a five-star backyard made from Yellawood® brand pressure treated pine can turn the next project into more referrals. As the most recognized brand in the business, homeowners seek out contractors who use the Yellawood® brand. It’s preferred by expert builders of all kinds. Especially those with leather tails, buck teeth and nature’s highest building standards. Find a dealer at Yellawood.com.

For warranty or for important handling and other information concerning our products including the appropriate Safety Data Sheet (SDS), please visit us at www.yellawood.com/warranties or write us at P.O. Box 610, Abbeville, AL 36310. YellaWood and the yellow tag are federally registered trademarks of Great Southern Wood Preserving, Incorporated. All other marks are trademarks their respective and are used with their permission.

Springof2021 | owners Deck Specialist |

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THE YEAR OF COVID

Pandemic transforms deck builders’ priorities The old adage “Availability is the

best ability” has never been more true for deck builders searching for supply amid a pandemic, as they navigate recent material shortages.

Over the last year, having what they want in stock—or being able to quickly get it—has become deck builders’ most important criteria in selecting a supplier, according to a recent Instagram poll by Deck Specialist.

Availability was deemed most important by 26.5% of respondents, besting Service (20.5%), Selection (13%), Price (11.5%), and Product Knowledge (20.5%). Other factors, including Location, Credit Terms, and Loyalty Program, totaled 20.5%.

“During COVID, availability is now #1 and all else is secondary as we just can’t get product,” said Pete Ciraldi, Professional Building Services, Salem, N.H. “We spend four times the administrative time trying to acquire stock, usually have to get from multiple suppliers, and they are short on stock, as well.”

The change is a recent one, according to Ciraldi. “Pre-COVID, we never had availability issues we weren’t able to work around, so we would always look for multiple factors. Never

just one. Price and service were equal in our book—it didn’t matter how cheap the products were if they came in damaged, wrong, short count, etc. If I had to send a truck and an hourly employee, the lost additional productivity of pulling someone off the crew would be a chaser.

Because of the volume we would do during our busy season, we’d use multiple suppliers that carried a wide selection instead of just one with a larger footprint. Most of the larger companies do not stock all product lines and would have to bring things in anyway.”

Joe Hagen, All Decked Out, Cincinnati, proposed that the top two criteria are related. “The main reason we use our supplier is customer service and product availability,” Hagen said. “Not having products on the ground results in special order items that can result in major job delays.

We also get free deliveries and pick-ups due to our large volume we do with them. Suppliers that offer perks like that for their loyal customer base will always be successful in my opinion. Even though they are a bit more expensive, I would rather use them than shop around. With a busy schedule, we don’t have time to clip coupons for materials, so using a company that values us like Spring 2021

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a partner is very important.”

As an added benefit, Hagen said, “we also have our clients use their showroom when selecting materials and have an outside sales rep that deals directly with our clients. This helps in the event the guys at the counter that work there make commission and we could lose a job if a client went in there and then they recommend another builder that buys directly from them.”

A good supplier is understanding when things don’t go according to plan. Hagen explained, “There have been many times that we were short on materials due to errors in estimating on my end or even from our sales rep accidentally keying in the list incorrectly but they always step up and make it a priority to get us what we need right away to keep the projects moving forward.

We also like the fact that they stock the full line of our favorite decking brand, Deckorators Voyage, and they have a large selection of other quality products, as well.”

Deck Builders’ #1 Reason for Choosing a Supplier Product Knowledge Service

Price

Selection Other Availability

Looking for a Partner

Tom Jacques, Hickory Dickory Decks, Dundas, Ontario, has also found that nothing is more valuable than nurturing a partnership between supplier and customer. “Most important is having a good relationship with the supplier,” Jacques said. “We realize they have to make money, too, so they have skin in the game. When issues arose this summer, we were the ones that still got product. We look long-term, rather than squeezing them for a penny or two.”

His company, the largest deck building franchise in Canada, rarely changes suppliers because they work so hard to provide everything

SPECIAL SERVICES, particularly delivery, are nice, but now more than ever deck builders just need suppliers to have quick access to materials.

(Photo by the Deck Superstore)

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he needs from them. “We have a fairly complicated formula for whom we choose as suppliers,” Jacques said. “Of course, price is important, and service. They must offer a good warranty, and a manufacturer’s labor warranty.

There must be a good color selection; the product easy to work with, but not easy to scratch. So it’s a combination of factors, some weighing more than others.”

Favorite suppliers can be relied upon not only to have product, but to have answers. “What I value the most—and it seems like a dying art—is the supplier’s knowledge of what they’re selling,” shared Lance Sniatkowski, Deck Innovators, Midlothian, VA. “I have found that in my market people just don’t know the product, which leads to mis-ordering and timely mistakes that have been a problem lately.”

Deck builders are construction professionals and they expect their suppliers to be experts in what they do. “In my line of business time is money,” said Tim Quigley, Quigley Decks, Madison, WI. “When I have a question on a particular product and when I call the lumberyard, the salesperson has the answer. When we need materials delivered on short notice, in most cases the lumberyard can get it out to us. The lumberyards have an ongoing relationship with manufacturers reps, where the rep calls on the lumberyards on a regular basis and keeps the lumberyard personnel up to date on new or upcoming products. It’s a whole relationship thing where it’s equally as

important to the local supplier that my business survives and remains profitable, as it is to their business surviving and remaining profitable.”

A Two-Way Street

Builders are willing to go the extra mile if they feel their lumberyard will do the same. “We try to keep it a one-stop shop as much as we can,” said Michael Scott, Simcoe Decks, Barrie, Ontario.

“We work with a lumberyard that is roughly one hour away, because we receive the best service from them. Our contractor manager goes above and beyond to keep everything organized. Not everything is perfect, but if something isn’t right, it’s dealt with quickly. We price-check a couple times a year just to make sure we are paying comparable prices. Most of the time pricing is on point, but the odd time we will have to adjust things.”

What Niagara Falls deck-building franchisee Peter Secord most appreciates about buying through Hickory Dickory Decks’ lumberyard is “they do an excellent job of keeping us informed on pricing and supply issues prior to changes and shortages.”

Keith Fry, Amazing Decks, Ambler, PA., echoed a familiar refrain: “One-hundred-percent

PRESSURE TREATED southern pine has consistently been among the construction market’s most in-demand products.

(Photo by Putnam Lumber & Export)

service is first. They must be able to handle a few fire drills throughout the year. Product availability is second—they need to be able to supply material with a day or two notice.”

Builders say the key to getting their business is clear: lumberyards that can check all the boxes will have customers for life.

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PARKS AND DECK CREATION BOBBY PARKS

Should You Still Be Working as Part of the Crew?

If you listen to the stories of successful contractors who have been around a while, you’d likely hear a history of progression as they improved and evolved from their original position to their current status. These improvements occurred as they gained operational experience, improved their business efficiencies, and their vision and goals as their company changed. For many, the growth and stability occurred when they removed themselves from the production side of their business.

Most contractors with a long history started as hands-on in the field—the spark plug that set the pace and led day-to-day production as part of the crew. But over time they partially or completely removed themselves from that role. If you’re a full-time part of the production force and you count on this personal production revenue aspect, you’re just one injury or illness from seeing an interruption in income. If you’re injured or sick, work slows down or stops as does cash flow.

In some cases, not only does the owner miss work, but so do the crew members because they are without a leader. Or if they do work, it’s more of a case of them getting in their hours than being productive. In a worse case, they mess up things because you’re not there and you have to fix it when you get back. Any of these scenarios can be the beginning of the end. Working all day with your crew and running sales calls or doing estimates at night will eventually cause burnout.

And at some point, age will catch up with you.

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our personal, hands-on efforts to establish a reputation of quality and create standards. A foundation has to be established before any progression can occur. So, it’s common for contractors to begin this way, with the result being that you work as a crew member full-time and on the business parttime. The challenge is you’re chasing the build and quote aspects, allowing less time to review, monitor, and plan the real business elements.

Contractors operate with different levels of ambition, motivation, and long-term goals. These three elements are major influences on where you’ll take your business. Many enter the deck building or remodeling business because they have the skill to build. They’re confident they can deliver projects and often focus more on the build side than the business side. They believe that as long as they do quality work, the jobs will come and the business aspects will work out.

Some start without a plan, and learn and adjust as they go. They assume if they’re staying busy, they must be successful. Some also believe that the only way to deliver their visions and maintain quality is if their hands are directly on the delivered work. They go through the grind of being carpenters by day, and estimators, designers, and salespeople on nights and weekends.

The process of removing yourself from the production side requires creating a template and plan of developing the confidence of your people in themselves and you in them. It requires grooming a lead carpenter to take over the role that you once filled. It takes inspiring and motivating every

member to grow in their roles. It takes varying amounts of time depending on your hires, but your first step and biggest challenge is finding the person or persons to begin to groom. With the right candidate this can be done in 12 months or less.

The mission is to remove yourself from the crew in incremental phases each month and by the end of the calendar template period, you are only stopping by for job visits. Your role becomes more of job monitoring.

Now you’re focused on other aspects that you’ve neglected or gave minimal attention to. Your finances are no longer affected to the same extent if you’re sick or injured. You’re working on your company image, being more efficient at estimates and sales, and there’s an opportunity to grow and increase profits.

You also improve the quality of family life and prolong your contracting years.

You’ll learn that your hands don’t need to be directly on the projects and that it’s not an issue with the customer. Your visions can be delivered with a good team that you manage and supervise. Motivating and inspiring your people requires forethought and vision and a balance of pushing and praise.

Some contractors believe it’s a problem with a customer if you’re not on the job doing things yourself everyday. It’s not. I learned a long time ago that what was important to a customer was that they had confidence in me and the company reputation, and trusted me to make sure the jobs were delivered properly.

The key was creating comfort levels and confidence with them knowing that I had established teams and that every job had to have my stamp of approval.

They saw photos of what we did

and reviews from other customers that showed a proven team delivery history. As long as I was coming by jobs periodically and communicating regularly with the customer that was enough.

My approach was one of having solid teams in the field with good crew leaders that understood what was expected. I made job visits every morning and then went about my business day. There was regular communication with me and the crew with photos of a certain obstacle or situation shared when needed. They knew what was expected which included proper communication with the customer as ambassadors of the company and where the limitations of conversations could go. I visited the site when jobs were getting to certain points that major decisions had to be made so I could guide and be sure things went in the direction I wanted.

My crew leaders called in for inspections, coordinated and communicated with other subs required for the job, and generally took the “lead carpenter” approach. And each crew had a co-captain who, if the lead was out, they could carry on and get through the day. This freed me up to stay focused on the busi-

ness of running leads, designing projects, and selling jobs.

The example of a monthly template on the next page is flexible and can be adjusted as needed, but some version of it can be adopted. For example, you may need to be on the job the first day of footings or framing to get everything laid out and started to a point your crew leader can take over. Maybe you’re there when the stairs and landings are started.

There are all kinds of ways the example can be tweaked but the mission is to get your crew leader to develop confidence so he or she can think ahead, keep the crew productive, and learn to answer questions for themselves that they use to ask you.

And they still have the option to call and ask or send pictures of a specific aspect that they’re struggling with. Make sure they know that things like “clean up” at the end of the day or other aspects that can cause issues are handled. Make sure they know what or what not to say, what they can respond to, and when they need to have the customer call you.

Stress that they are an ambassador of your company and their interactions directly

OWNER John Lea (far right) of Deck South, Atlanta, GA., learned that instilling confidence in his team makes all the difference.

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Create a Calendar Template Month 1:

Set yourself up to not be physically working on Wednesday morning and not arrive on the job until noon. Lay out the work on Tuesday afternoon so you know the wheels won’t come off before you arrive at lunch time the next day.

This creates confidence for your crew to realize they can think their way through parts of the job and can call you if there’s an issue. This gives you time to work on your business.

Month 2:

Change the schedule so that you will not be on site until noon on Tuesday and Thursday, and lay out the work on Monday and Wednesday afternoons. Or, flip it to where you’ll leave the site at noon on these days if you can’t schedule morning sales calls and free yourself up for afternoon and evening appointments.

Month 3:

Stay off the jobs until noon on Tuesday and stop by Thursday morning to help kick off the job, but leave the site for the rest of day.

Month 4:

Repeat Month 3 (hire an additional skilled crew member during this month).

Month 5:

Stop by early morning but otherwise stay off jobs Tuesday and Thursday. Check in by phone on both days.

Month 6:

Stay off site Tuesday and Thursday and visit site Wednesday morning to kick off work. Check in by phone at noon if you feel the need.

Month 7:

Repeat Month 6.

Month 8:

Leave site at noon on Monday and visit site Tuesday, Wednesday, on site all day Thursday and Friday morning to kick off job and deliver payroll.

Month 9:

Repeat Month 8.

Month 10-12:

Begin only stopping by site each morning and making sure the job is kicked off properly. Plan to also stop by anytime a job is reaching a point where decisions need to be made that requires your input. If possible, hire another skilled crew member during Month 10.

Once you reach this milestone you can now continue to operate this way. The crew knows they’ll see you and can lean on you when needed. But they’ll also learn they can make decisions, be productive, and be confident that they can deliver jobs without you holding their hand.

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affect the company-customer relationship. Put in place motivating and inspiring programs that they benefit from as this transition progresses.

Keep in mind that you can always rejoin the crew anytime you want, and on occasion, when you do join in under your job leader’s command and be one of the guys instead of the boss, they’ll appreciate the gesture.

Again, this schedule can be adjusted depending on what’s happening in the field from a complexity standpoint. If you have time once you’re on top of business aspects you can insert yourself into the crew when desired. At least once a month take your people to lunch. Stay connected and stay informed with what’s going on with your people. Make sure you’ve got the right leader on the job who’s on your side. It may take you longer than 12 months, but it will never happen if you don’t plan for it.

This plan requires adding a headcount, two of which were included as “hires” in the monthly template. You’ll need a work force of four to six people, a fine tuning of your construction management skills, and an increase in sales and production numbers necessary to stay profitable. With four production members you will still need to work part time in production but with six you can assume a full-time role managing your business (assuming you’re selling at appropriate margins).

You’ll continue to work on your image and brand in your market and maximize your sales price and margin. You’ll find sales are easier when you’re not tired from working in the field all day, and that you can sell jobs for more than you do now. As I said earlier, we enter with different levels of ambition, motivation, and long-term goals. Not everyone wants to take on what they consider to be more work or effort. In the early years, it is enjoyable to be in the field, but that enjoyment may fade for many over time as the body wears out.

Having the option to pick up tools when you want to is better than doing it every day because you have to. That said, you may be satisfied working as you do now, and you may not want to take on any changes. At the end of the day, what matters is that you’re satisfied with what you do.

Bobby Parks is a nationally known contractor who has delivered over $40 million of outdoor living projects. He is founder and former owner of Peachtree Decks & Porches LLC and current president of BP Consulting & Design LLC.

ON THE HOUSE

Customer Service and Communication When we began our remodeling careers

over 30 years ago, we quickly learned that doing good work wasn’t enough to guarantee a smooth project or a satisfied customer.

We learned that quality craftsmanship and top materials are essential, but of equal importance is the overall customer experience.

And, materials and craftsmanship aside, communication and managing customer expectations are an absolute must in having a smooth running project and a happy customer.

Achieving this goal can be best summed-up in one word—communication. Communication doesn’t begin the day you start work on the project. It begins the moment you meet the client and should continue well after the project is complete.

Before we begin a remodeling project, we conduct a “pre-job conference,” which includes the project designer, project manager. and homeowner. We insist that all adults living in the home be present. During the meeting, we go through a checklist that includes information, which helps the homeowner understand what to expect and to make sure that our entire team is “on the same page.” It also provides the homeowner with an excellent forum to ask questions.

Items on our checklist include the following: • Crew size, work days, and hours • Job sign placement • Job schedule • Material storage location • Debris storage location and removal methods • Job safety, pets and children

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• Home security and alarm systems • Who to contact in an emergency • Furniture, personals and dust protection— how to prevent “Divorce Dust” • Potential delays which could be caused by weather or product deliveries • Being prepared for “hiccups”—things don’t always go as planned.

• How to get through the project without tearing your hair out—allow us to do our job by focusing on the destination, not the journey • Reassuring the client that we will do our best to get their project done on time and in budget and our goal is their complete satisfaction There is simply no substitute for excellent communication between you, your client, and your team. Everyone needs to be on the same page to make the experience as pleasant and professional as possible.

Remember, communication doesn’t end after the job is complete. Reach out to your client from time to time so see how they are enjoying their new space and if there is anything that they need. Don’t be surprised if, during one of those calls, they ask you over—not to make a customer service repair—but to have a look at another project that they’re considering.

The Carey Bros.—James and Morris—are nationally known experts on home renovation and hosts of a weekly radio program and syndicated newspaper column, both titled On the House (onthehouse.com).

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SET THE STANDARD BRENDAN CASEY

Keep It Cool with Pergolas It’s a great time to be what I refer to as a Custom Deck Specialist. With the pandemic, people are home and looking for some additional leg room. A beautiful new deck can add a tremendous amount of new floor space at a reasonable cost. Last year the marketplace became overwhelmingly cluttered with builder-grade bottom feeders that clogged up the market like a Washington, D.C. traffic jam.

There will always be a market for that type of builder and it’s becoming even more congested.

For those of us who have found our niche on that plateau between those and the super-end market where only the rich and famous dwell, the doors are wide open. I’m talking about the projects catering to the upper middle class where the clientele is a bit more discerning in areas pertaining to quality, workmanship, value, and details; The 400-sq. ft. (and larger) projects where attributes like lighting, patterns and substantial structure carry a higher grade than finding the cheapest guy in town, like so many unsuspecting victims found out in 2020.

The “I can beat anybody’s price in town” guy definitely has his place in the low-end discount market, but for those of us who view our craft as works of art and strive every day to be the best, we’ve carved out an untapped mine of possibilities. Many of these “Bob in His Beater” types dug their own graves last year with an abundance of poorly built projects. Not only did they validate the reasons to hire a true professional with their sub-par work, but they validated and legitimized our value-based proposals.

Today, with social media and neighborhood sharing platforms, the homeowners who got sucked into that enticing vortex of budget pricing are now not only singing the praises of the Deck 48

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Specialists they didn’t hire but are “pile driving” and destroying the reputations of the low ballers who mislead them. We’ve watched many of these companies fall off to the wayside, leaving unsuspecting homeowners with a messy pile of regret in their backyards. Prospective clients are coming out of the woodwork with horror stories relayed to them by their neighbors.

The time is ripe for the well prepared, intuitive craftsman who is amply qualified to fulfill their dreams of an expanded living experience. It’s important to provide a comfort level and assurance that your company has a complete repertoire of options, examples, and a history of fully satisfied clients to validate their decision.

Experience shows that clients don’t want to be “your first time.” They want a company that’s well positioned and remarkably trained in the caliber of work they seek. In past issues we discussed options on how to turn the basic into a gem to enhance the clients’ outdoor living experience and to set their deck apart from the others.

Now we’ll discuss another basic option that’s often overlooked—one that provides shade, privacy, and increased revenue all at the same time: pergolas and patios. A majority of clients have mentioned they traded their summer travel plans for a safer and healthier stay-at-home option.

Suddenly, unused vacation funds have become available and these clients now want to create the sensation of relaxing at the beach or lakeside.

So even if they don’t ask, it’s our obligation to help them visualize what they want and bring it to fruition. Don’t be afraid to offer some enhancements to your proposal.

Keeping it cool under a reasonably priced, value based, quality pergola conceptualizes the perfect gathering place for some much needed,

priceless fellowship time. As homeowners look to purge that relief valve from stress, their newly added outdoor environment delivers a staycation destination and a sanctuary of wellbeing.

But not everyone wants to bake in the direct sun or put their lives on full display. That’s why a well-designed and constructed pergola can be a fantastic option. And not the over-the-top options that will break the bank. Let’s keep it to the more simple, affordable designs where components are readily available.

Our discussion will focus on the composite deck with a vinyl pergola. This type of pergola can either come in a kit or be stick built like the deck.

We prefer to design and calculate the pergola from scratch to make it better fit the deck project instead of building the deck around the kit. This allows for greater flexibility in laying out the posts, beam, and headers.

All too often we see a poorly designed deck with a potential resale value-killing railing or pergola post in the middle of a window. Ugh! Makes me want to poke myself in the eye so I don’t have to look at it. The true design professional has the foresight to work around such issues (obviously there are always mitigating circumstances).

The opportunities are far too great for us to overlook the addition of a pergola on any new project. Craftsmen from all over the world and right here in our communities have come up with fascinating ideas and design concepts. It only takes five minutes on social media to verify that point. Today’s vinyl pergolas are allowing for greater creativity than ever before. Companies are slipping steel deck framing components into

OUTDOOR CURTAINS are becoming more popular to help secure privacy and shade.

the hollow front beams which allows them to eliminate all the intermediate supports.

The cost tradeoff is minimal when planned and executed properly. Another good looking and functional add-on to the pergola that clients are really hot for is the addition of an outdoor curtain.

By incorporating a few secondary rail components, you can add a nice curtain rod system that works beautifully. The sides of a pergola are a great tie-in for incorporating some privacy railing.

The code compliant options in that category are limitless.

Because most of the components on a vinyl pergola are hollow, it’s a great opportunity to add low voltage LED lighting. Cap lights, post sleeve dome lights, and flush mount lights are all great options in and around the pergola. Clients are even bringing in electricians to run outdoor ceiling fans for those hot, muggy and buggy days.

One more extremely popular option available for clients is how the pergola makes a perfect spot for hanging up tiki style party lights. One client recently asked us to add 8-ft. tall posts on the corners of her ground-level deck for just that reason-stringing up her lights. It’s actually fun to get creative and adjust your designs in order to be the “solution” to your client’s needs.

It’s important to always craft every one of your pergolas in a unique manner, but at the same time stay with a basic flavor in order to maintain productivity and profitability. When the client is given the sensation that the project was specifically designed for their unique circumstance, it develops an aura of personalization that elevates you to a level well above all other professionals.

You have now “Set the Standard of Excellence.”

And that’s what it’s all about.

We recently had a family with Brazilian heritage request their pergola be constructed with real ipe and hooks to mount hammocks between the support posts, since that’s how they relaxed back in Rio. Turned out beautiful and brought the family to tears as they visualized themselves back home. The mileage you can get by meeting and exceeding a client’s expectations can’t be purchased with marketing dollars. It’s earned by going the extra mile. That’s what Deck Specialists do.

With 35+ years experience in construction, Brendan Casey, with his wife Dianna, launched Casey Fence & Deck, Frederick, MD., fulfilling a growing need in the outdoor living market for an innovative and creative custom builder.

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PRODUCT REVIEWS MARV JOHNSON

Makita Tool Makita Plunge Saw www.makitatools.com Retail Price: $499.00

Makita Brushless Cordless Plunge Saw Is it just me? I hope this does not make me seem old (stay off my lawn!). Recently I caught myself reflecting on the early years of my career and some of the colorful characters who enabled me to mature into the builder I am today.

I was fortunate to have some incredible opportunities to learn from many highly regarded, master-skilled tradesmen.

For instance, I learned to work with wood panels and solid wood trim (all stain grade) from a pair of true, old-school European craftsmen, brothers Angelo and Pete. They had relocated to California from Italy and were amazing carpenters. They taught me many lessons, some tangible, some intangible, but all valuable. Lessons like laying out an ellipse using a few nails and builder’s string and finding the center of a circle with a framing square; or explaining the cool way to carry an extra carpenter’s pencil in my cap.

They both had a “touch” or “feel” for the finest details. I would later come to learn that the “touch” I noted was really the art of finesse.

Having it makes finish work smooth and rewarding. Not having it, a struggle and frustrating.

Finesse makes good finish carpenters great. If you have it and are reading this, you know what I mean.

How much is too many?

Thinking back to those early days, one thing that really stands out is the amount of work we could get done with few relatively unsophisticat-

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ed tools. For years, the entirety of my tools would almost fit in a five-gallon paint bucket. No laser level, no construction master calculator, no cordless impact driver, no miter saw workstation, no portable job site table saw. We had none of those now common and ubiquitous tools.

What you once could carry in a repurposed bucket, today requires a tandem-axle cargo trailer. The 10 minutes allotted for roll-out and roll-up now requires 45. Somewhere along the way, guys moved away from the “less is more” concept, at least where tools are involved. Labor, however, remains governed by the “conservation of movement” principle—performing a task, with the fewest steps produces maximum efficiency.

This is also the concept behind working smarter, not harder.

Let’s Compare

Recently, we built a series of stairways, each connected to the other by uniquely shaped landings, circuitously winding a stair path down the slope until finally terminating at a grade level 6’x12’ deck situated just above the completely natural waterfall below. For all the riser boards and trim, we opted to use the matching composite fascia material. The only size they offer the fascia in is 11-1/2” wide x 12’ length.

This required ripping the fascia down to the height required for the risers. The project lead then suggested he could come get the portable table saw in the morning along with the roller

infeed and outfeed stands. He then was going to roll back to the job and he and his crew would set everything up. With any luck they’d have all the rips completed by the end of the following day.

What blew my mind was that neither of them gave their plan so much as a cursory second thought. The hard costs and time lost would have been devastating. For that to not register or even send up the smallest red flag tells me there is a disconnect somewhere. So, without so much as a word, I grabbed my saw and rip guide, stacked and squared the fascia material, clamped it, set the rip guide to the correct rip width, and with one pass of the saw, produced eight pieces of ripped riser material, all in a 30-minute time frame. Until then, neither guy had given using a rip guide a moment’s consideration. When asked how they do not see the disparity between the two methods, they said they “just hadn’t thought about it.” That’s a scary thought, especially to the person responsible for and obligated to pay for the oversight (me).

Somewhere along the line, we lost sight of simplicity as a solution and in its place developed an appetite for the extra complex, time-intensive answer. Complexity does not equal quality.

Where we once used a pencil and a fender washer to scribe trim to fit (thanks, Angelo), we now seek out and purchase a $29 scribe tool for the task. Seems silly, wasteful and non-sensical to me. Now, I am NOT some bitter old dinosaur.

These are just things based in logic and critical thinking.

Throughout the years, my tool kit has grown, and the one common theme my tools all share is they provide a demonstrable, tangible benefit in their use. A great example is Makita’s Cordless Track Saw System, 6-1/2” Cordless Plunge Cut Saw, and 55” Guide Rails.

a bare tool only is $349. Quite a savings, but your mileage may vary.

The Saw (XPS02ZU)

The XPS02ZU is the heart of the system and has some unique features. Powered by two 18-volt, 5 Ah LXT batteries, the resulting 36 volts and the Makita-made brushless motor make short work of cuts in hardwoods and composites. The saw is fitted with a variable speed control with adjustability from 2500-6300 RPM as well as the Automatic Speed Change Technology, which electronically adjusts the cutting speed and torque to match the demand and optimize cutting performance.

This makes the saw ideal for cutting large panels of different wood veneers, but also provides for cutting of multiple materials, such as MDF, melamine, aluminum and even solid surface materials such as Corian. Makita also produces several material specific blades for this saw. In addition to the speed control, the saw also incorporates a soft start and electronic blade brake.

The 6-1/2” Plunge Cut Saw has a cutting capacity of 2-3/16” at 90 degrees and 1-9/16” at 45 degrees.

Bevel capacity is from -1 degree to 48 degrees with positive stops at 22.5 and 45.

The bevel function is unique in that it is supported front and rear, which provides extreme rigidity and thereby increases the accuracy and precision of bevel cuts. The saw is also capable of close-to-the-wall cutting, with the blade and table offset only 11/16” as opposed to most saws at 1-1/2”. One complaint that many had voiced was the inability of cordless tools to trigger the automatic operation feature of many shop vacs and dust collectors. To address that, Makita now offers many of their cordless tools with AWS (Automatic-start Wireless System), which through

The Makita Track Saw System

KITTED VERSION comes with two Makita LXT 18v Ah Lithium-Ion batteries.

The parts that comprise what I refer to as the Makita Track Saw System are: Makita 6-1/2” 36 Volt Cordless Plunge Cut Saw with AWS; 55” Guide Rails; Guide Rail Connector Kit; Two Port Multi Fast Charger; Lithium-Ion 5.0 Ah batteries; Auto-Start Wireless Universal Adapter.

Although they can be purchased separately, most of the time Makita will bundle certain items and often these deals are exceptional values. A quick internet search shows the saw, guide rail, rail clamps, dual port charger, and two 5.0 Ah batteries, plus two Makita-branded Systainers to store everything in for $499, whereas the saw as Spring 2021

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GUIDE RAILS interact with the saw and make for a straight, tear-out-free cut.

the magic of Bluetooth technology, provides a link between the tool and the machine being triggered, thereby restoring the convenience of a tool triggered auto start function.

My favorite feature has to be the foolproof automatic scoring function. The saw has a built-in

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depth stop that enables a preliminary scoring cut of 5/64”-7/64” effortlessly. When followed up with the full depth secondary cut, tear out and splintering are eliminated. The ripped edge is clean enough to allow for a glue up of panels without any further machining. This allows you to “join” the edge of a board or panel and make perfectly parallel cuts in the field without a joiner and tablesaw.

I sometimes build cabinets or built-ins on site and this makes that task so much less cumbersome. Finally, the saw feels good in hand, solid but not awkwardly heavy as is sometimes the case with big battery cordless tools where the concentration of so much weight is working against you. The saw is compact and ergonomic at 13-5/8” long and weighing just over 11lbs. with two 5.0 Lithium-Ion batteries attached. The saw comes with a three-year limited warranty and is also available in a model without the AWS transmitter built in, the XPS01Z.

Batteries, Charger & Guide Rail

The kitted version of the saw comes with two Makita LXT 18V 5.0 Ah Lithium-Ion batteries.

The included Rapid Optimum Dual Port Charger with active cooling fan provides highly efficient

charging, allowing the batteries to reach full charge in just 45 minutes. This means more time building and less time spent on battery management. Each battery also has an integrated LED three-stage battery charge level indicator so that you can check the level of charge anytime with just a glance.

The guide rails are where the magic happens with a track saw. They interact with the saw and make for an exceptionally straight, tear out-free cut. The rails can be secured to the work with optional screw clamps designed specifically for the guide rails. In many situations the anti-slip material on the underside of the guides is sufficient to hold them by just applying a bit of downward pressure. Locating them for cut setup is simplicity, with no need to add or subtract blade offsets or be concerned with the width of the kerf.

The shop-made rip jig and standard Skilsaw seems archaic and clumsy when making comparisons. The ease, accuracy and cut quality that the Makita Track Saw affords makes this an extra exceptional value when evaluating the return on investment for a “big ticket” tool purchase such as this. The saw works with the 39”, 55” and 118” Guide Rails and using the Rail Connector Kit, any number of them can be end joined to make any length required.

Putting It All Together

In my opinion, the Makita Track Saw is the best tool you never knew you needed. This is NOT simply a saw and cut guide. The precision of the saw and track system is simply amazing and the finished parts machined with it are clearly superior. If I were starting my career over today, I would make this one of my first serious purchases. The price point already makes it a bargain, the build quality guarantees a long useful life and those two combined ensure that this is a tool that will quickly pay for itself.

If you are on the fence because you already have a cabinet saw and a jointer, the proceeds from garage-selling those should easily pay for the Makita system and leave you enough for a few Growler fills at your favorite micro brewer. In the end, you’ll have a robust tool that produces better quality machining of parts faster and easier. Sounds like a win-win to me.

Marv Johnson is the principal of Deck Envy LLC, Gig Harbor, WA. Send comments and suggestions for product reviews to emjaybuilding@mac.com.

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NEW NEW PRODUCTS PRODUCTS

Sakrete’s new Pro-Mix Accelerated decking concrete mix is ideal for repairs and construction of concrete over 2” thick.

It is the ultimate pre-blended concrete solution for indoor and outdoor applications where rapid return to service is crucial. With excellent workability, it provides a first-class finish for driveways, sidewalks, formwork, warehouse floors, footings, post setting and more.

Full-depth repairs and DOT applications can achieve a drivable surface with a compressive strength greater than 3,000 psi in just one hour, with a final strength of over 7,000 psi. [sakrete.com]

Senco has released its first full round head cordless framing nailer. The F-35FRHXP is the latest addition to the company’s robust line of cordless nailers, which rely on air power, rather than gas or mechanical flywheels, to drive nails.

The nailer drives up to 3-½” full round head, plastic collated nails that many users prefer and is built with Senco’s proprietary Fusion cordless pneumatic technology, which relies on a sealed compressed air cylinder that delivers the speed, feel and performance of a true pneumatic tool. [senco.com]

U-C Coatings, LLC is introducing an new long-lasting fence stain product. Eco Chemical 221 Fence Stain will be sold as a concentrate in four premixed colors, offering customers the equivalent of 15 gallons of working stain in a five-gallon pail.

Rather than selling customers water, it provides the concentrated ingredients of a high-quality waterborne alkyd stain that can be more conveniently transported. It is then mixed with two parts water at the jobsite before application. [uccoatings.com]

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Emulating the haint blue shade currently being revived in the South as a romantic ceiling color, Versatex Building Products has introduced Piazza Blue, a color-through, solid-PVC beadboard.

It is available in a full 5-1/2” (nominal 6”) profile, in 18’ lengths.

MoistureShield has combined its Solid Core manufacturing process with CoolDeck and TruTexture technologies into Meridian, a midpriced capped composite decking.

TruTexture Surface produces a true woodgrain finish and reduced pattern repetition for a more natural look, while CoolDeck reduces heat absorption by up to 35% cmpared to traditional capped composites.

With a beautiful, durable aesthetic, Meridian is available in three premium colors: Citadel, Shoreside and Mariner. The new line is now available in the Northeast and will roll out to additional regions through the year.

[versatex.com]

[moistureshield.com]

PROTECT AND MAXIMIZE T H E L I F E O F YO U R N E W D E C K AVAILABLE IN TWO SIZES 1 5/8” X 50’ • 3 1/8” X 50’

9 Prevents wood rot and water damage 9 Self-seals around screws and hidden fasteners 9 Low temperature application

800-333-6700 www.cofair.com

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2/18/2021 11:44:56 AM

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STRONG!

START

FINISH

STRONG!

Titan Building Products’ Snap’n Lock Baluster Kits are designed to install faster, allowing for a convenient and more efficient installation process.

The secret is the sideways snap and lock connectors that speed up new construction or retro fitting old wood picket railings. [titanbp.com]

BRING OUT THE NATURAL BEAUTY OF YOUR HARDWOOD.

Ipe Oil®

WiseCoat®

100 VOC & 250 VOC Oil-Base Formula

Low VOC Water-Base Formula

Finishing any hardwood project means your choice of brand may make or break the results.

So why use anything other than an industry leading brand with the reputation to back it?

Make the right choice, the WiseChoice™.

Manufacturers of Hidden Deck Fasteners & Accessories AMERICAN COMPANY | AMERICAN TRADITION | AMERICAN PRIDETM

ODF Inc.’s FrameVent advances joist tape protection to a new level.

FV1 not only caps the joist top with a covering and a butyl adhesive, which makes fast placement and is self-sealing, but it also protects the bottom of the decking by eliminating the normal entrapped moisture. Decking is raised 1/4” on the product’s fingers, allowing water to dry away.

The fingers create a structure of support bearing the surface material placed over them while maintaining about 65% surface contact.

The gaps between the fingers allow air to move from one side of the FrameVent to the other. The air movement from side to side, space to space, becomes the transport mechanism, releasing possible entrapped moisture. More airflow means less collected moisture over time. Less collected moisture means extended life of building materials. [framevent.com]

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THE BEST DECKING IN THE WORLD IS ONLY AS GOOD AS THE FRAME THAT SUPPORTS IT.

Quality Since 1922.

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DuraLife Decking from Barrette Outdoor Living now offers the CoolTrac Advantage, providing performance, durability and strength.

While all composite decks will absorb heat, CoolTrac is engineered to stay much cooler than other composite deck boards. Featuring a polypropylene cap, the deck boards are over 18% cooler than traditional composite decking and significantly more slip resistant.

Ultra Firefly Low Voltage LED MultiRailing Illumination makes it simple to light the night alongside porches, walkways and decks.

New Firefly is an integrated system that is designed to provide a soft glow to paths from under Ultra Aluminum railing post caps.

Assembly is simple, with a complete kit with easy-to-follow installation instructions.

[duralifedecking.com]

[ultrarailing.com]

TRY IT YOURSELF FOR FREE

PROTECTO DECK JOIST TAPE

™

SEALS AROUND FASTENERS TO KEEP WATER OUT

Not all joist tapes are created equal. Some struggle to adhere, are too thick to wrap around detailed areas and can be slippery and dangerous to walk on.

Protecto Deck Joist Tape was created with these problems in mind. Now manufactured with Super Stick Technology, it can be applied down to -20°F (-28°C) and in high temperatures, has an ultra-thin profile (only 22 mils) and has a slip resistant surface.

Helps prevent PVC decking from squeaking on deck joists Slip resistant surface film and UV stable Compatible with PT lumber and all known types of decking and deck boards Provides a non-corrosive barrier between treated lumber and metal hangers Black color blends between deck boards Simple peel and stick application can be installed down to -20°F (-28°C) No primer needed

SCAN FOR A FREE ROLL Limit one per household. Offer expires 6/30/2021.

While supplies last.

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PROTECTO WRAP COMPANY

1955 South Cherokee St., Denver, CO 80223

(800) 759-9727 • www.ProtectoWrap.com

RDI by Barrette Outdoor Living is expanding its Avalon Aluminum Railing product line with the addition of horizontal cable rail.

The cable rail system includes a comprehensive range of posts, beams, cables and fittings in multiple sizes and lengths. The line provides a high-end modern look in white, matte black, and matte bronze finishes. Beam kits for cable come in 6’ and 8’ lengths for both level and stair applications. Cables are 316 grade stainless steel and offered in lengths of 10’, 20’, 30’ and 50’.

All three Avalon top rail options—Pellinore, Tristan and Oberon—can be utilized with the cable rail infill.

Boral North America’s new Kindred Fire Bowls Fire Bowls feature a patent-pending brass burner system that uses half the fuel of conventional fire rings, yet produces higher flames and brighter appearance.

Bowls come complete with lava rock and match-lit components and are made from strong, glass-fiber reinforced concrete. They are available in four colors with either Honed or Travertine finish.

TigerDeck_DeckSpecialistAd-halfpg_Apr2020_Outlines.pdf

[mykindredliving.com]

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4:11 PM

[rdirail.com]

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A dealer locator has been added to Simpson Strong-Tie’s online Deck Planner Software and Pergola Planner Software to help builders effectively manage project logistics and costs.

The Dealer Locator generates a Dealer Location page listing the nearest dealers within a five-mile radius of the user’s zip code, and is included as part of the normal report output, which already has a list of all materials needed to build deck and pergola projects.

Featuring 3D software, design guides, and an in-app tutorial, they are free, web-based design solutions to help contractors and homeowners quickly, easily design dream backyards. [strongtie.com]

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Expanding its popular Ridge Premium collection to meet market demand, Envision has added a new 20-ft. length new 20-ft. length square edge board and 16- and 20-ft. grooved edge boards. Square edge boards were already offered in 12- and 16-ft. lengths.

Crafted using proprietary Compress Technology, Ridge Premium’s high-density cap and EverGrain Core are physically bonded together with tremendous heat and pressure to squeeze out air pockets and create a deeper grain. [envisiondecking.com]

DeWalt has added two new chargers to improve efficiency—the 12-Amp Fast Charger and 6-Amp Charger. For use in tough jobsite conditions, the chargers allow professionals to quickly charge their DeWalt batteries and get back to work.

The 12-amp model has the highest charge rate supporting the DeWalt 20V MAX and FlexVolt lithium ion battery systems, charging a FlexVolt Battery to 80% capacity in under 45 minutes.

The charger comes with Stage 1 and Stage 2 LED indicators which communicate more to the user about the state of charge of their batteries than Dewalt chargers without these indicators.

D&D Technologies has introduced a new line of adjustable, self-closing hinges for round-post gates and fences. The new TruClose Round Heavy Duty line includes two heavy-duty hinge options that efficiently self-close gates up to 154 lbs. from a complete 180⁰ swing.

A heavy-duty option for round posted gates, the hinges are UV-stabilized and are engineered with industrial-strength polymer. Hinges are maintenance-free and will not rust, bind, sag or stain. Right- or left-handed gate-swing installation is made simple with the included fasteners.

[dewalt.com]

[ddtech.com]

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INDUSTRY NEWS

Bobby Parks Hits the Road for Versatex With the industry’s most comprehensive showcase of PVC installation tips and hands-on workshops, the Versatex Road Show has kicked off its tours though much of the eastern U.S. Between this spring and the fall, nationally recognized builder Bobby Parks will bring a training center on wheels to about 100 dealer locations.

He’ll conduct informal, informative demonstrations, specially designed for industry pros, at every stop. “In the course of about 20 weeks, we’ll roll through 27 states east of the Mississippi,” Parks said. “You’ll have a chance to see the latest Versatex products, pick up inspiration and best practices,

and get to know some Versatex team members and dealers.”

The first shows of the year took place March 9 and 10 in Durham and Goldsboro, N.C., and March 11 in Irmo, S.C. Parks is a nationally known deck, porch, patio and remodeling contractor with more than 30 years’ experience. He’s completed residential and commercial projects valued at more than $40 million; regularly presents building and business courses; often speaks at remodeling shows; and contributes widely to trade publications.

Long closely associated with Versatex, he has spearheaded the Road Show since 2015.

According to Versatex’s sales

BY

ENGINEERED COMPOSITE FOOTINGS

Save Time, Labor, and Hassle FootingPad® structural post foundations are engineered to meet or exceed the load capacity of concrete, while being lightweight and easy to handle.

Proven performance: over 400,000 in use No concrete required and easy to handle ICC Building Code Compliant ESR-2147

Learn more or request a sample at Footingpad.com or call 989-224-7095

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VP, Rick Kapres, “This year the Road Show provides more value and covers more ground than ever. It’s a whole lot more than just than a guy with a card table; you’ll see real techniques, tools, products and experts. You can learn a lot just by walking through the instructional exhibits in our roomy new trailer.”

Kapres said the continuously updated itinerary, with visitor sign-up forms, appears on versatex.com and Facebook. Buildingsupply dealers interested in hosting Road Show events still have time to apply for spots on the 2021 schedule. The website offers a dealer application form.

Parks repeats a compressed, hands-on demonstration several times in the course of each Road Show stop. Visitors can come and go at their own speed and build relationships with him, other fellow professionals and the dealer hosting the event.

“The industry, the Road Show, and Versatex solutions keep evolving,” Parks said. “Events like this bring product updates and installation information right to the people best positioned to put them to work.”

Wood Decking Continues Surging

The worldwide market for wood deck is forecast to cross $18.04 billion by 2027, according to a new report by Global Market Insights.

Although residential will continue to dominate demand— accounting for about 70%, emerging applications will also spark increases in the commercial sector due to wood’s cost effectiveness, particularly in resorts, hotels and offices.

In 2020, pressure-treated wood decking accounted for a 48% share in the global wooden decking market, and is expected

to grow 2.8% per year over the next six years.

North America dominated the global wooden decking market with a roughly 35% share in 2020, in both new construction and renovations.

International hot-spots for growth include China, India, Indonesia, Malaysia, Brazil and South Africa

Outdoor Light Franchise Enters Philadelphia

installation experience increasing speed and efficiency.

“The combination of our two brands will provide an unparalleled installation and outdoor living experience for installers and homeowners alike,” said W. Scott Baker, CEO of National Nail.

“We’re thrilled to enhance our installation experience by adding the latest innovations to our hidden grooved fastener pro-

gram from an industry leader like CAMO,” said Chris Hayn, VP of sales at Fiberon.

Fiberon Edge, EdgeX and Starter Clips are all warrantied for use with Fiberon groovededge deck boards. Both Edge and EdgeX clips eliminate the need for partial installation. Starter Clips offer a fastener- free deck surface that is easy to install.

Outdoor Lighting Perspectives is opening its newest location, Outdoor Lighting Perspectives of Montgomery County.

Owned and operated by veteran and native Philadelphian George Counci, the new branch will offer outdoor landscape lighting design and maintenance services.

CAMO, Fiberon Link Up

CAMO and Fiberon are partnering to offer Fiberon Edge, EdgeX and Starter Clips to Fiberon’s entire dealer network.

Edge, EdgeX and Starter Clips are engineered to offer contractors a better, safer

Careybrospros.com Podcast

A podcast for pros with advice from professionals on marketing, business and products to improve the bottom line. Spotlighting interesting guests that will help you bring it all together.

Precast deck posts are your permanent solution to the hassles and delays of pouring concrete on the jobsite.

ICC certified, ready when you are. Step up to the best.

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INDUSTRY NEWS Cable Art Offers New Catalog

Cable Art has released a 240-page catalog showcasing its line of products for a range of architectural and decorative cable rail systems.

Featured are swageless systems, tensioners requiring swaging, non-tensioners requiring swaging, architectural rod systems, trellis systems, mounting accessories, cable grommets, railing components, and tools. Access the PDF at www.cableart.com/catalog_request.php.

Illuminated Balustrade Coming to US

Illuminated Balustrade Australia has formed a U.S. partnership with Spartan Railing in Minneapolis to facilitate the introduction of its patented frameless glass railing system into the U.S. The companies are seeking domestic distribution partners and resellers in the construction community.

Illuminated Balustrade’s minimalist hardware design favors every architectural style, while integrating perfectly diffused lighting into its base design. Low Iron glass panels are secured into the spigot to create an amazing transfer of 15 different light color options.

Spartan Railing is in discussion with building material distributors and glass wholesalers throughout the U.S. and Canada to find the right partners to bring Illuminated Balustrade through the supply channel. “We’ve had so much enthusiasm throughout North America from wholesalers, glass suppliers, and top-level contractors wanting to distribute this product

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ILLUMINATED Balustrade products are coming to the U.S.

after just one look,” co-owner Mike Kunard said.

“We’re looking forward to making this product easy to buy in 2021 and are confident it will be well received by the pro installer.”

Spartan Railing was formed by award-winning builder Pat Noonan and Kunard to support Illuminated Balustrade’s go-to market strategy.

Noonan operates Pro Deck Supply, Minneapolis.

Kunard has built up such brands as Trex, AZEK, Sherwin-Williams, and Wausau Supply.

“I am thrilled to partner with Pat Noonan and Mike Kunard, who together have over 40 years of experience in the industry building award winning decks and working with No. 1 branded manufacturers to set up distribution in the outdoor living space,” said Mark Behnecke, CEO, Illuminated Balustrade Australia.

“Mark is a motivated entrepreneur who understands the process from engineering to marketing,” Noonan said. “Timing couldn’t be better as demand for reliable lighting elements, unobstructed views, and installer-friendly products are at an all-time high.”

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DATE PLANNER OKC Home + Outdoor Living Show When: March 26-28 Where: State Fair Park, Oklahoma City, OK. What: Attendees can get inspired for their own backyard projects and engage with other professionals during social events.

More info: homeshowokc.com

Deck Specialist Symposium When: July 8-9 What: Deck builders will gain knowledge to better their business, and preview the latest products and trends, while networking with fellow industry professionals during Deck Specialist’s first annual Symposium.

More info: deck-specialist.com

Portland House & Outdoor Living Show

ai158344394969_SplitStop_3.25x4.875_Comp.pdf

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3/5/20

When: Sept. 17-19 Where: Oregon Convention Center, Portland, OR. What: This expansive home show brings together homeowners and the area’s top remodeling and building experts. Every aspect of the home can be explored, from the smallest design detail to the largest house addition.

3:32 PM More info: homeshowcenter.com

Deck Expo When: Sept. 20-22 Where: Kay Bailey Hutchison Convention Center Dallas, TX What: The International Pool | Spa | Patio Expo will be co-located with DeckExpo where all segments of the industry will gather to stay well-informed of trends, market directions, and technology. The event offers industry pros a large selection of educational sessions, an expo hall, and networking opportunities.

More info: poolspapatio.com

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Deck Specialist is delighted to introduce TEN first-time advertisers! We are so grateful for their support.

• Absolute Distribution Inc. DekPro aluminum railings • Cofair Products self-adhesive waterproofing products • FastenMaster deck screws, fasteners and clips • Global Dec-K-ing vinyl membranes • G-Tape from Mitsubishi Chemical America • Lunawood Thermowood distributed by Holbrook Lumber and Reclaimed Woods of the World • Sakrete concrete and mortar mix • TIVA Building Products PVC decking

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Consider them when you’re in need of such products!

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AD INDEX Page 47

Absolute Distribution Inc. www.dekpromfg.com

22

Nichigo G-Tape www.gtape.com

52

Atlantis Rail Systems www.atlantisrail.com

59

Northern Crossarm www.crossarm.com

45

Avon Plastics www.armadillodeck.com

65

On The House Media www.onthehousemedia.com

62

Big Foot Systems www.bigfootsystems.com

5

Pacific Woodtech Corp. www.pacificwoodtech.com

Cable Art www.cableart.com

65

Perma-Column www.permacolumn.com

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Protecto Wrap www.protectowrap.com

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DESIGNED FOR BEAUTY, MADE FOR LIFE.

Cofair Products www.cofair.com ARMADILLODECK.COM

67

Deck Specialist Symposium www.deck-specialist.com

35

RailFX www.railfx.net

7

Deckorators www.deckorators.com

13

Reclaimed Woods of the World www.lunawood.com

62

Deck2Wall www.deck2wallspacer.com

31

Regal ideas www.regalideas.com

58

DeckWise www.deckwise.com

Cover III

Sakrete North America www.sakrete.com

68

Digger Specialties www.diggerspecialties.com

27

Simpson Strong-Tie www.strongtie.com

9

FastenMaster www.fastenmaster.com

29

SpecRail www.specrail.com

64

FootingPad www.footingpad.com

68

SplitStop www.splitstop.com

11

Global Dec-K-ing www.globaldecking.com/dm

12

Sure Drive USA www.suredrive.com

36-37

Great Southern Wood Preserving www.yellawood.com

61

Tiger Deck www.tigerdeck.com

57

Humboldt Sawmill www.getredwood.com

55

Titan Building Products www.titanbp.com

66

Invis-a-Rail www.invisarail.com

63

TIVA Building Products www.tivabp.com

41

MFM Building Products Corp. www.mfmbp.com

21

Trex www.trex.com

53

MOSO North American www.moso-bamboo.com

38

U2 Fasteners www.u2fasteners.com

Cover II-3

National Nail www.camofasteners.com

Cover IV

Wild Hog Railing www.wildhograiling.com

Deck Building Solutions • 866-767-1850 • www.suredrive.com • sales@suredrive.com

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IDEA BOOK

Historic Luster David Cavagnaro of Classic Restorations in North Chatham, N.Y., has spent more than four decades specializing in the renovation and restoration of older, pre-Victorian homes, but having built only a handful of decks through the years, he needed a little help with the design and build of an outdoor space for an 1850s millhouse in upstate New York.

“We’re known as a quaint, quiet upstate community where people come to enjoy antiquing, horseback riding, our scenic history, shops and wildlife. This is a place that deeply respects history and the architecture it inspired,” said Cavagnaro.

He noted that it was important to not just build a space that reflected the home’s design, but a space that was durable, and more importantly, catered to its elderly owners.

So, when it came time to remove the existing cedar deck, Cavagnaro turned to Ron Sauer of Excelsior Wood Products based in Kingston, N.Y., who recommended he replace the old deck with a 300-sq. ft. batu deck that extended seamlessly from the home’s lower level to accommodate the easy scooter operation.

“The hardness and density really caught my eye and made me confident in its long-term aesthetics. I was also looking for an older feel that reflected the home’s historic design,” said Cavagnaro.

Taking five weeks to build on his own, Cavagnaro completed the decking project with two coats of Nova USA Wood’s ExoShield Wood Stain after a light sanding of the red batu deck boards.

The staining involved a simple brush and roller application and then the wiping off the access with a clean rag after about 30 minutes.

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UPPER: Cavagnaro used Nova USA Wood Products red Batu deck boards and ExoShield Wood Stain.

LOWER: It was important for Cavagnaro to design an outdoor space that eflected the home’s 1800s design.

(Photos courtesy Nova USA)

“My clients only built the deck as an afterthought. They never really thought they’d use it. Since its installation, they’re out there every night. The deck is now a showpiece and favored spot for entertaining,” said Cavagnaro. “The renovation not only doubled the home’s size, but added a master bedroom, bath and laundry room so its owners could live comfortably on the ground floor.”

Submit photos of your latest and greatest project to sornelas@ 526mediagroup.com

SKILL

GET THE JOB DONE RIGHT

TRUSTED BY PROS SINCE 1936.

For over 80 years, Sakrete has been dedicated to delivering concrete solutions to construction challenges. From new construction to renovation and repair, when there’s a job to be done, the pros turn to Sakrete solutions to get it done right.

SAKRETE.COM

VISIT SAKRETE.COM/PROFESSIONALS FOR THE TOOLS & PRO TIPS YOU NEED TO TACKLE EVERY JOB. © COPYRIGHT 2021. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.

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