HBSD_2023 Decking E-Book

THE DECKIN G E-BOOK

A dealer's guide to materials, technology and innovation from the ground up

DECKING AND DEMAND IN 2023

By HBSDealer Staff

By all accounts, decking and deck-related products have been stand-out performers during the pandemic-induced surge in spending on the home.

The long-running trend that smiled on converting the outdoors into living spaces, and the recent trend of stay at home or work from home combined to propel decking into star status, even among other surging home-improvement categories. Is decking’s moment in the sun over? No, far from it. But the industry is both scaling back its growth expectations while continuing to innovate in ways that bring durability and style to home owners, and speed and efficiency (and therefore profitability) to contractors.

The Joint Center for Housing Studies at Harvard University offers a concise macro-economic background: After several years of double-digit gains, expenditures for improvements and repairs to the owner-occupied housing stock are expected to grow only modestly in 2023.

Annual gains of home renovation and maintenance spending is expected to decelerate from 16.3% at the close of 2022 to just 2.6% by yearend 2023, according to the latest Leading Indicator of Remodeling Activity (LIRA) released in January by the (JCHS). But the size of the overall remodeling and repair market has grown.

“While the pace of expenditures is expected

Despite slower housing sales, there is still potential for driving deck revenue.

to slow substantially this year, we’ve raised our projection for the remodeling market size in 2023 by about $45 billion, or 10.2% to $485 billion,” said Abbe Will, associate project director for the remodeling futures program at the JCHS. Previously, the LIRA projected a homeowner improvement and repair market size of $429 billion in 2022 with spending growing to $440 billion in 2023.

Discretionary income that once flowed to decking and outdoor living projects has other avenues, including fuel and groceries. On the other hand, the price of lumber has dropped dramatically year over year. (In its most recent earnings call, The Home Depot spelled out the drop — from an average of $886 per 1000 board feet in the fourth quarter of 2021 too $420 in the same quarter of 2022.)

Decking will feel the building industry’s declining tide. And the trend is expected to progress in the next 12 to 18 months, the North American Decking and Railing Association (NADRA) told HBSDealer.

“2023 through 2024 has the potential to be a challenging one for most industries, not least the outdoor living and decking ones,” says Sir Barry John Davis, NADRA International Ambassador. “In many ways, we can expect to see the volume of decks fall back towards the pre-pandemic levels of 2019 but with some normal adjustments for natural growth,” he said.

As housing starts and home sales have generally retreated, remodeling growth is expected to grow this year but at a much slower pace.

“Overall sentiment for the building industry is

apprehensive, especially around new home construction,” Bret Martz, vice president of North American professional sales at Trex Company, told HBSDealer. “However, we at Trex feel cautiously optimistic that the subset of repair and remodel, and ultimately the decking industry is poised to outperform the broader category.”

The pace of residential construction has slowed. But existing-home sales, along with the remodeling activity involved in aging housing stock, remain sweet spots for the decking industry.

“The repair and remodel segment of the decking market continues to be the predominant opportunity,” Martz says. “Although we have seen increased takeaway in the new home construction arena, most Trex applications are after-market.”

Looking ahead, Martz notes that Trex sees older housing stock as an opportunity and a big avenue for growth.

Of the 50.2 million residential decks in use across the United States, nearly 70% are over 15 years old while more than 51% have been in use for 25 years or more, according to NADRA.

“Short to medium-term, the market will tighten but the latent demand available in the market is significant enough for no one to need to panic,” NADRA’s Davis said.

Leading Indicator of Remodeling Activity — Fourth Quarter 2022

Four-Quarter Moving Rate

Change

Notes: Improvements include remodels, replacements, additions, and structural alterations that increase the value of homes. Routine maintenance and repairs preserve the current quality of homes. Historical estimates since 2021 are produced using the LIRA model until the America Housing Survey benchmark data becomes available.

Source: Joint Center for Housing Studies of Harvard University

CAMO®: THE BETTER WAY TO BUILD A DECK

The decking industry is constantly evolving. New materials, new designs, new ways to fasten deck boards are being introduced regularly. And CAMO® is leading the way — making sure contractors have the easiest, fastest, and BEST solution for any way

they fasten. CAMO offers solutions for wood and synthetic decking, straight or angled patterns, face or edge fastening, and a complete line of code compliant structural screws and new deck tape for a better substructure. CAMO is the better way to build a deck. Click here to view:

THE BETTER WAY TO BUILD FROM THE GROUND UP

Structural Screws

With the introduction of their fast-driving, high performance code-compliant Structural Screws, CAMO helps contractors build a better deck foundation. Their screws are engineered to start fast, drive smooth, and hold strong. From the holding power of the head to the sharp point tip, every design feature was specifically chosen to create the highest-performing structural screw on the market. Their structural design values are the highest in the industry, which equals time and money for contractors, who can use fewer fasteners per job. From their fast-driving ledger screws to their code-compliant truss screws for beam to joist connections, CAMO is removing pain points and adding confidence to building a deck foundation.

Joist + Ledger Deck Tape

CAMO’s new Joist + Ledger Deck Tape offers an added layer of protection to the deck substructure. Made in the USA, CAMO Deck Tape creates a waterproof membrane to protect wood deck framing against moisture, which can lead to rot and cause fasteners to loosen. It self-seals around fasteners, blocking the pathway of water into wood.

“Along with loading up on all of your crew’s CAMO tool and fastener needs, builders can now add CAMO Joist + Ledger Deck Tape to their tool kit for that extra layer of protection on joists and ledger boards,” said Doug Hutchings, Vice President of Product Development, National Nail. “It provides a better way to build, with a barrier to moisture so the substructure lasts longer, especially when coupled with the long-life synthetic decking now available.”

THE BETTER WAY TO FASTEN DECK BOARDS

CAMO offers a fastening solution for every board type, any preferred fastening method.

MARKSMAN SYSTEM + EDGE SCREWS

Hidden fastening for square deck boards

CAMO® MARKSMAN Hidden Deck Fastening System

UNIVERSAL DECK CLIPS

Universal Hidden Deck Clips for grooved synthetic and hardwood deck boards

CAMO® Universal Hidden Deck Clips for Grooved Decking

ClipDRIVE™ STAND UP FASTENING

CAMO ClipDRIVE is a contractorgrade tool designed to give builders the best experience fastening grooved decking.

CAMO® ClipDRIVE™ Fastening Tool for CAMO Clips

LEVER

The one-turn tool that locks-in rows of boards and clips and straightens warped boards.

CAMO® LEVER® Deck Board Bender and Locking Tool

THE BETTER WAY TO SHOP

DRIVE™ STAND UP FASTENING

CAMO DRIVE tool features three interchangeable nose pieces to install square or grooved deck boards with Collated Edge and Face Screws and CAMO Universal Deck Clips.

CAMO® DRIVE™ Stand-Up Deck Fastening Tool

STAINLESS STEEL

CAMO’s comprehensive line of 305 and 316 Marine Grade Stainless Steel helps contractors build better in corrosive environments.

Introducing CAMO® Stainless Steel Fasteners

CAMO’s newly-launched Destination Dealer program invites you to give your customers a better way to shop for deck fastening solutions. Become a full-line CAMO destination and receive merchandising, marketing collateral, and other support to help you grow your business.

MIDWEST KNOWS DECKING

Reliable and rugged wins the race for fast-growing supplier

Midwest Fastener has what it takes to build a deck. The Kalamazoo, Mich.based company has been at it, helping customers build, since 1967. And while the past several years have brought dramatic growth in the family-owned business, it’s also brought a significant push to the DIY deck builder.

“We’re hearing from retailers that, of course, they’ve been selling to the pros, but the horizons are broadening,” said Glen Gevaart, vice president of hardware sales. “Do-it-yourselfers and homeowners who maybe didn’t

have the confidence that they could build on their own, are now finding that they at least want to give it a try.”

Decks and outdoor living have rising in prominence across the home improvement industry, and Midwest Fastener has embraced the trends. “Over the course of the last decade, decks and deck building has become a bigger and bigger part of the segment that we serve,” Gevaart added.

The company’s coast-to-coast operating footprint has also grown in recent years to include offshore customers, and more “boots on the ground” in existing territories, Gevaart said. That attention to customers has paid off in growth.

“We’ve more than doubled in size in the last seven years, he said. “The next generation of ownership and of the family have become our senior leaders now. And there’s an awful lot of investment right back into the organization to continue that growth.”

The SabreDrive Deck Screw: Described as “the ultimate solution for safe, secure connections.“

THE VOICE OF THE CATEGORY MANAGER

HBSDealer spoke with Nicholas Thies, Midwest Fastener category manager for construction fasteners. He shared an update on the evolving deck-product market and the latest sales-boosting products.

ON THE MIDWEST FASTENER MERCHANDISE MIX:

“We’re at the point where we have a staggering range of deck screw options, It starts out at phillips drive with an exterior coating on it and not a lot of features—but it’ll work just fine on many projects. We go from there all the way up to our SaberDrive Platinum Deck Screws, which have a 2,500-hour exterior coating. We describe that as a four-layer painted-andbaked-on epoxy coating that lasts an extremely long time outside. We believe only stainless steel is better.”

ON THE IDEAL FASTENER FOR A DECK PROJECT:

“The ideal fastener package all depends on what you’re looking for as a consumer. Are you looking to patch just a few boards and save some money because, like you said, we’re going into a very uncertain year this year, or are you looking to rebuild a deck that’s going to last forever? No matter where you fall on that spectrum, we’ve got the fastener for you.

ON WOOD DECKS VS. WOOD ALTERNATIVES.

“Midwest typically rolls out products with a focus on wooden decks. But there’s also the opportunity for us to fill the gaps for trim, railings and the wood-based support systems of composite decks. Wood decks are quite a bit cheaper to build. In the past year, as lumber prices climbed, the ratio of treaded lumber to composite decks probably decreased to 60-40. But I think we’re going to see a shift back to about 70/30.”

ON NEW PRODUCTS:

“We rolled out a new deck screw within the last two months here. We call it our ‘contractor pack.’ It’s a contractor screw that it comes with a Star Drive and a self-drilling tip. The way we like to talk about it is: ‘It has everything a deck builder needs and nothing they don’t.’ It’s a very good screw, just not the best screw we have. The idea was we wanted to be able to fill that segment at that opening price point.”

Midwest Fastener hasn’t changed its term for “deck screws.” “We’ve stuck to that term all through the years because it’s just the commonly recognized term in the field,” said Gevaart. “It’s in our signage. It’s on POP and the packaging. And they’re not going to be hard to find on the shelves, let’s put it that way.”

THE SABERDRIVE PLATINUM DECK SCREW, WATCH THE VIDEO:

TAKE A VIRTUAL TOUR OF A FASTENER DEPARTMENT

Midwest Fastener’s new Build Right Contractor Pack. It gets the job done.

As Midwest Fastener grows, so grows its product lineup.

Click here to watch the video demonstration.

Click here to take the virtual tour.

VENTURES

‘BEYOND WOOD’

Tantimber is on a mission to disrupt the marketplace.

impervious to fungi and bacteria

can cause mold, rot or decay. Resistant to insect infestation and damage. Plus, no dangerous chemicals.

Thermally modified wood products have been thriving in Europe for decades. Why? Partly because of environmental legislation and partly because of a deeply ingrained culture of sustainability. But mostly, according to Tantimber, because of the exceptional durability, stability, and sustainability of the end product.

Tantimber is a global leader in producing ThermoWood products, which uses a patented Thermowood modification process to alter the chemistry of the wood, transforming it into its most durable and stable form. Tantimber is among only a handful of mass manufacturers with the exclusive credentials to produce ThermoWood products,

Thermally Modified Timber (TMT).

Due to the growth and acceptance of thermally modified wood products in the U.S. and worldwide, Tantimber increased production capacity with a new and expanded manufacturing facility located in Turkey, just outside Istanbul. Before its official opening, the manufacturer hosted its premier U.S. distributors at its new facility in December 2022.

Tantimber ThermoWood products are available in six wood species: ash, pine, iroko, ayous, poplar, and oak, in Class 1 and 2 durability with up to 25 years of service life.

Products are suitable for decking, claddings, backyards, ceilings, soffits, docks, rooftops, pools, terraces, gardens, frames, walkways, landscaping and so much more.

Tantimber’s products are an exceptional alternative to endangered South American hardwoods, environmentally damaging petroleum-based wood imitations, and other hybrid products.

Picture of Tantimber’s ash decking:

that

Click here to watch the Tantimber process.

Ash Decking, Smooth Clips

G WOOD PRO & TANTIMBER: A ONE-ON-ONE WITH MEHMET ZENGINLER

G Wood Pro is the exclusive licensed supplier of Tantimber ThermoWood products in the U.S. and has partnered with a premier list of distribution partners to serve the market efficiently and effectively at scale.

What is ThermoWood?

“ThermoWood is a brand of thermally modified wood products that are manufactured using the patented Thermowood manufacturing process, which is a combination of only heat and steam. The chemical-free and non-toxic process helps to make the timber more durable, stable, and resistant to biological decay, shrinkage, swelling and warping. The heat also darkens the color of the wood, making it look more attractive and increasing its aesthetic appeal.

“Thermowood manufacturing process is patented by the Technical Research Center of Finland and is a registered trademark of the International Thermowood Association (ITWA). Only members of the ITWA are allowed to use the registered trademark ThermoWood brand and the modification process.”

What programs are available to dealers?

“We intend to transform the lumber industry by establishing unconventional NO RISK distribution partnerships that include exclusive territories with first-class lumber distributors, dealers and wholesalers that are equipped to stock, distribute and represent Tantimber ThermoWood products in the U.S.

“We also believe in creating an atmosphere of trust and collaboration between all partners involved, with mutual benefit being our ultimate goal. Our mission is to build a culture of true honesty, reliability, and resourcefulness where all partners can thrive by utilizing each other's resources, inventory, network, insights, and experiences. By carefully evaluating all potential distributors we can ensure that only the best and most committed partners who share our vision represent our brand — setting a new standard for the lumber industry.”

How would you describe your company values and mission?

“Both Tantimber and G Wood Pro are deeply committed to quality, sustainability, and innovation. Our mission is to promote a greener and healthier future by producing high-quality wood products that have low environmental impact.”

Mehmet Zenginler is an entrepreneur, co-founder and manageing parter of G Wood Pro.

THE FUTURE OF DECKING IS HERE

Tantimber ThermoWood decking is the ideal choice for those looking for a low-maintenance, highly durable, and aesthetically pleasing material. It’s sustainably sourced, giving construction professionals the opportunity to enjoy great performance and design flexibility.

ThermoWood products come with a wide range of thicknesses, widths, and profile options — perfect for those looking to get creative. Furthermore, it's available in four types of sustainably harvested wood.

Ash

ThermoWood Ash decking is a popular choice for outdoor wood decking applications, sourced from sustainable North American timberland. This special cut of timber is free of knots and offers a rich, even tone for a distinctive finish. It is an excellent alternative to wood from tropical forests, providing durability and natural beauty.

Iroko

ThermoWood Iroko decking is a durable and stylish choice for outdoor wood decks, sourced from tropical forests. This extra-dense cut of hardwood has a teak-like finish, with a light color and medium grain texture that creates a beautiful end result. It's ideal for projects where strength and performance are required and provides lasting beauty to any outdoor setting.

Pine

ThermoWood Pine decking is a superior choice for outdoor decks in many applications. This extra-dense cut of timber comes from sustainably managed forests and provides excellent durability and strength. It's a easy installation and has a light color that will blend nicely with any outdoor setting. The grain texture is medium to fine, resulting in an attractive final product.

Oak

ThermoWood Oak decking is a highly sought-after option for outdoor decks. The extra-dense cut of timber offers superior durability and strength, as well as a natural golden-brown hue that will lend warmth and character to any project. It's sourced sustainably from North American forests and can often be found in pre-finished options for easy installation.

Ash, pine and iroko (left to right) are among the varieties of Tantimber decking with the lofty goals of improving the planet and improving lives.

RailFX makes it easy for hardware dealers to provide contractors and homeowners with the systems and solutions needed to create stunning cable railing results. That’s because RailFX is dedicated to simplicity. The brand provides easy-to-order products, delivers expanded views and is simple to install. In fact, everything is designed and packaged to provide contractors and homeowners with the knowledge needed to transform outdoor living spaces.

Express Mount Brackets Cut Time and Cost in Half

A new, patent-pending product from RailFX, the innovative Express Mount Bracket makes it easier and faster to install cable railing. By eliminating the need to drill holes in deck posts, contractors can cut the amount of time required to install cable railing in half, while also signi cantly reducing material costs.

The brackets simply mount to the outside of each deck post, delivering a unique “ oating cable” appearance. The new universal drilling template makes installation easy, without specialty tools or training.

For contractors who are paid upon completion of a project, RailFX Express Mount Brackets offer a solution to nish jobs and quickly move onto the next job-site.

Retail Packaging Systems

Remove the Guesswork

Selecting the right ttings – in the correct quantities – for a cable railing job has never been more streamlined. New retail packaging from RailFX offers all the ttings required for a cable run on 36- or 42-inch height railing systems. An available freestanding, turnkey oor display easily merchandises cable kits, Express Mount Brackets, tools and accessories. Or the same program can be integrated into an existing store xture, complete with branded signage and versatile packaging that may be pegged or shelf displayed.

This makes it easy for contractors to select the right products in the proper quantities, and for dealers to grow their cable rail offerings and provide better service to customers.

THE POWER OF MORE.

PrimeSource Building Products offers more solutions than ever before. Innovative products and powerful brands. Dedicated support and dependable service. All from a single-source partner you trust.

See the simplicity of installing RailFX.

Save Time on Deck Installation Jobs

The new Grip Rite® Ninja Hidden Deck Clip helps contractors build strong, stable decks in multiple board patterns in less time, using just one fastener.

The patent-pending design features Compression Fit levers that hold the clip in place, accelerating deck board installation. The serrated teeth grip boards in the groove to create secure connections. The universal t of the Ninja Hidden Deck Clip means this single style clip may be used to create multiple deck patterns: straight, diagonal or herringbone, while providing a seamless surface nish.

Heavy-Duty Cleanup

New builds and retro t projects can create a lot of construction job-site waste, and contractors need cleanup bags that are big and strong enough for the job.

Heavy-duty Grip Rite® Industrial Strength Contractor Bags were created for post-project cleanup. The larger, 55-gallon size allows them to t easily around cans and drums, while the rugged 3 mil polyethylene blend provides superior elasticity and puncture resistance.

No more struggling with bags that are too small and too weak for the job. Get the job done with Grip-Rite.

MiTek Structural Connectors

MiTek Structural Connectors, paired with MiTek design software, helps builders and contractors build strong and safe decks, while saving time and using materials ef ciently.

With a complete line of hardware, anchoring solutions and fasteners, MiTek offers a reliable solution for building deck structures of any size and shape. The design software helps specify the right products, saving time on the job-site and creating strong, beautiful decks.

New Packaging for an Old Reliable

When nothing but the best will do, Grip-Rite® MAX Stainless screws are the preferred premium exterior construction fastener on job-sites in areas with high humidity, around pool areas or near the coasts. Grip-Rite 302, 305 & 316 grade stainless steel screws are also the best choice for use in cedar and redwood construction.

The new packaging is designed to take up less shelf space, making it easier to manage inventory. With a exible point-of-sale label orientation, packages may be displayed either vertically or horizontally. The resealable plastic package provides added security and protection from the elements.

PrimeSource Building Products can bundle these products and more, as a single source provider of the best brands in the business to building material and hardware dealers across the country.

See how Grip Rite Ninja Hidden Deck Clip speed up deck installations.