page
As
In Good Hands
by Matt Cosentino
When founders Vince and LuAnn Nigara stepped back from the day-to-day responsibilities of running Window Works last year, they knew they wanted the next owners to embody the same honesty, integrity and commitment to their clients that they had in the previous four decades. It turned out the perfect successors, who believed wholeheartedly in those core values, were right under their noses.
JC Rocha and his wife Christie, Vince and LuAnn’s daughter, stepped up and assumed ownership to keep the company in the family. Since 1982, Window Works has served homeowners across New Jersey with a wide selection of window treatments and exterior shade solutions. Thanks to the example the Nigaras set for their daughter and son-in-law, the transition has been seamless.
“Vince and LuAnn taught us the importance of customer service, the ability to connect with people, provide for their needs and the magic that happens when customers become family,” JC Rocha says. “I can’t tell you how many people have told us that their mother or father worked with Window Works for interior window fashions or exterior awnings, and now they’re working with us too. Since taking over, customer service has remained a top priority and our whole team takes pride in continuing that legacy.”
Rocha started at Window Works in 2017 as an awning and window treatment specialist, and although his wife grew up
around the business, taking it over was not in their initial plans. Eventually, however, the pride and excitement that grew around continuing what her parents started took center stage in their lives. They are joined on the ownership team by Bill Campesi— Vince’s cousin who has been with the company for 40 years—and by longtime, dedicated team members Kim Serafim and Carlos Martins.
“Originally, my wife and I had completely different career paths—both in customer service, but neither in the design industry,” Rocha says. “But thankfully we’re joined by a team of seasoned veterans who are now also partners. Through all of the connections we have and our dedication to improvement, we have something really special here.”
The current team has more than 150 years of combined installation experience and Window Works boasts an A+ rating with the Better Business Bureau. The company provides free measurements and a reliable timeline for delivery and installation after an order is placed, and offers one of the best warranties in the industry.
“We’re not a fly-by-night company,” Rocha says. “Unlike most of our competitors who only offer a six-to-12-month labor warranty, we proudly offer a three-year labor warranty. It’s important for our customers to know that if something goes wrong or a finished product is not up to their standards, that we will make the necessary adjustments until it’s done right.”
Window treatments are so much more than a finishing touch on a room, they really add a wow factor. Window Works offers a wide variety of custom products such as draperies, shutters, shades and motorized products.
“Our products provide energy efficiency, privacy and beauty,” Rocha says. “Window treatments make rooms pop and help tell the story of your home.
“The beauty of our company is that we have the experience and bandwidth to cater to experienced designers who know exactly what they want, and to first-time homebuyers who don’t yet have experience with window treatments. Our sales reps do so much more than sell— they are eager to design, create and partner with clients to choose colors, patterns and products they will be very happy with for years and years to come.”
With warmer weather approaching, homeowners will also be seeking ways to stay protected from the sun in their outdoor spaces, and Window Works can help with that as well.
“Our customers invest into their decks, pools and patios, but are not able to use these wonderful spaces because of heat, sun, and other weather-related concerns,” Rocha says. “We offer everything from stationary and retractable awnings to louvered roofs, retractable roofs, umbrellas and sun shades. There are solutions for sun, wind and rain, and some products even have integrated gutters, lighting and heating systems. Our exterior options are often what takes a beautiful outdoor space and transforms it into a complete package. Our clients are more comfortable and make greater use of their outdoors all year long.”
Known by the entire team and reiterated by Rocha, Window Works’ longstanding core beliefs can be summed up as experience, expertise and excellence. Since the company’s inception, providing quality interior window coverings and innovative exterior products, while delivering topnotch customer service, has and always will remain forefront.
“We have definitely upheld the focus on customer service, attention to detail and overall excellence,” Rocha says. “And Vince and Lu are still on as consultants to support and guide us every step of the way.”
PUBLISHER
Edward P. McCartney
EDITOR
Peter Proko
ASSISTANT EDITORS
Matt Cosentino, Madeleine Maccar, Carly Murray
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Kristen Dowd, Chelsea Vacourt
CREATIVE DIRECTOR
Hank Alspach
PRODUCTION MANAGER
Brian Mikulski
DESIGNERS
Alex Bianco, Jay Urbaniak, Lisa Zollinger
ACCOUNTING DIRECTOR
Darlene Versak
SALES DIRECTOR
Lindsay Gonzalez
SALES MANAGER
Jim Romano
NEW BUSINESS DEVELOPER
Chuck McKane
MARKETING CONSULTANTS
Kristine Di Nardo, Rochelle Dodge, Frank Liantonio, Darren Slaughter, Lori Vorgang, Amy B. Weiss
ACCOUNTING MANAGER
Max Haggerty
STAFF ACCOUNTANT
Karmal Pritchett
DIGITAL MEDIA DIRECTOR
Leigh Stuart
PUBLISHER EMERITUS
Bob Doran
EXECUTIVE PARTNERS
Gerry Haggerty, Edward P. McCartney
HOUSE & HOME
should they be published, no fee is due the photographer or model unless otherwise agreed upon in advance in writing.
HOUSE & HOME is a news magazine with emphasis on home repair and remodeling. H&H does not knowingly accept false or misleading advertising or editorial content, nor does H&H or its staff, editors or writers assume responsibility should such advertising or editorial content appear in any publications. Readers are encouraged to notify H&H if they
Building Something Special
As deck design has evolved, the possibilities are seemingly endless.
by Peter Proko
FEW THINGS CAN BRING AS MUCH ENJOYMENT TO YOUR OUTDOOR LIVING SPACE AS A BEAUTIFULLY DESIGNED DECK, PERFECT FOR ENTERTAINING FAMILY AND FRIENDS ON THOSE SUN-DRENCHED LEISURELY AFTERNOONS OR WELL INTO THE EVENING. With the deck being such a focal point of the backyard experience, many homeowners are adding various amenities that balance aesthetics with function to help extend the time spent outside throughout the year.
“Today’s decks are thoughtfully designed, offering both aesthetic appeal and everyday functionality—ensuring homeowners can enjoy their outdoor spaces year-round,” says Joe Oakes, president of First State Building & Design. “Our goal is to make a customer want to live outside just as much as they love to be inside.”
The Latest Trends
With today’s society looking to maximize their time efficiently, many homeowners are opting for low-maintenance alternatives to traditional wood decking.
Jarrod Coburn, co-owner and production manager of Archadeck Outdoor Living of Mount Laurel, says that while some customers still opt for pressuretreated wood, it’s done so mainly as a budget-friendly option. “Composite is certainly king right now,” he says.
“Composite is the only way to go,”
concurs Sharon Shaw, outdoor living designer with Amazing Decks. “People’s time is valuable, they don’t want to spend it maintaining a deck.”
Shaw also dispels the notion that the cost of composite decking will break the bank. “There are folks who have it in their mind that composite is so expensive and wood is so much cheaper. But with everything that is going on with the lumber market, that is not the case. Composite decking is very competitive with pricing and well worth the time-saving efforts it provides.”
Coburn says there also has been recent momentum heading toward PVC decking as a viable option. “Mineralbased composite decking is getting some buzz right now, but the pros and cons of PVC vs. mineral-based composite have PVC winning across the board in my opinion. PVC holds less heat, is better priced, is lighter and easier to install,” he says, adding that PVC is an especially good choice for decks near pools or in sunny backyards.
Evolving Deck Design
Materials aside, the overall look and feel of a deck still comes down to a matter of personal preference. Some clients seek unique designs that showcase the ways modern decking can help create a highly customized outdoor living space, while others prefer the classic-yet-refined look
of taking the “less-is-more” approach.
“Unique elements like curved decks, spiral staircases and custom roof structures are becoming increasingly popular, adding architectural interest and setting projects apart,” says Oakes. “Additionally, blending multiple materials—such as combining carpentry with masonry— adds depth and sophistication to outdoor spaces.”
But not everyone is following the trends or looking to mimic what they see on HGTV. The team at Deck Guardian has noticed a return to simpler, cleaner designs. “Years back, everyone was designing and building multilevel decks with all kinds of cutoffs and bump-outs to make them stand out. Now it has evolved from everyone wanting to do something super intricate and custom to really taking a step back and thinking what this new deck is going to be used for. We start with the basic needs the family has, and design the space and areas to accommodate the activities they are trying to achieve,” a spokesperson says. Likewise, Shaw has noticed that what was once considered old has gained renewed life. “We are really seeing people looking at more geometrics— squares and rectangles—sticking with sleek and contemporary designs,” she says. “There’s definitely still a place for curves, but it’s really kind of come full circle and gravitated toward a more sim-
ARCHADECK OF MT. LAUREL
Building Something Special
ple design in the last four or five years.”
When it comes to color, Shaw says market research indicates that homeowner preferences have moved toward more muted tones like gray, beige or bleached oak. “Manufacturers have responded with a softer palette of colors than the darker stained-wood look.”
“Color-wise, people tend to like what’s inside the house and bringing that theme outside so it makes things more inviting and kind of keeps the same flow with everything,” adds Joe Magolon, owner of StoneBridge Renovations.
A Cohesive Strategy
Extending the comforts of a home’s interior to the outdoors is indeed top of mind for those who want to foster a complementary vibe while also making their home feel larger and more inviting.
“Having the deck match the aesthetics of the home is a big deal for most customers, and a seamless transition from indoor to outdoor is always the goal when we’re designing an outdoor living space,” says Coburn.
“It’s so much more comfortable to open the door and just walk outside on the same level and have the same feel of your home, but outside,” adds a Deck Guardian spokesperson.
Oakes also notes how outdoor living
has evolved into an extension of the home, with backyards receiving the same level of attention as kitchens, bathrooms and basements.
“Today’s homeowners seek cohesive, high-end designs that mirror the luxury and functionality of interior spaces. Modern deck design is no longer about function—it’s about creating a seamless transition between indoor and outdoor living. Whether through complementary
architectural details, color palettes or materials that [parallel] the home’s existing style, decks are now designed as intentional extensions of the home rather than standalone structures” he says.
Added Amenities
To help further make your outdoor living space feel like home, there are no shortage of features that can help elevate your deck. Sleek outdoor kitchens
DECK GUARDIAN
Building Something Special
equipped with pizza ovens, enhanced lighting, shaded structures, refined railing systems and heated areas are just some of the in-demand requests.
“The hope with a deck space is that it can invite your attention outdoors, but the amenities can make your home feel bigger by moving some of your activities outdoors,” says Shaw. “Outdoor kitchens, bars, entertainment spaces, fireplaces, heaters, lighting—all of those things are really expanding how a family can get outside and use a deck during different times of the day, and during different seasons.”
While every client is different, Magolon says today’s
homeowners overwhelmingly want these multifunctional spaces designed for comfort, convenience and entertainment.
“People are looking for different dedicated areas— kitchens for grilling, lounging areas with TVs—to help create different atmospheres,” he says. “Homeowners are getting creative with their spaces and the nature of what’s around them. … The flow of the decks [we are building] are definitely different than a lot of the cookiecutter decks that everyone thought they had to do [in the past].”
Another addition that has risen in popularity is the instal-
lation of four-track vinyl windows, which can be retrofitted to an existing screened-in porch or added to a new structure being built.
“They provide a nice barrier from the elements in the fall or early spring, but can also be fully open to allow a screened-in experience in the warmer months,” says Coburn.
No matter what direction your design may take you, it’s important to remember that trends come and go. The most important thing is creating a space that will offer comfort and joy not only in the here and now, but also for many years to come.
“At the end of the day, we are talking about trends and styles that are of the moment. But a deck is a longterm project and it really has to be about what speaks to that homeowner and what matches their taste and is going to complement how they live,” says Shaw.
RESOURCES
Amazing Decks Ambler, Pa. (833) 774-8646
AnotherAmazingDeck.com
Archadeck Outdoor Living of Mount Laurel Cherry Hill, N.J. (609) 454-6170
Archadeck.com/Mt-Laurel
Deck Guardian
Somerset, N.J. (908) 332-8616
DeckGuardian.com
First State Building & Design Chadds Ford, Pa. (302) 803-5082
FirstStateBuildingAndDesign.com
StoneBridge Renovations Malvern, Pa. (484) 459-4920
SB-Renovations.com
by Lindsey Getz
Sequoia Out Back helps homeowners take their backyard living dreams and make them a reality.
IT’S SAFE TO SAY THAT THE PANDEMIC HAS TAUGHT US TO APPRECIATE THE OUTDOORS EVEN MORE. While backyard outdoor living areas have been soaring in popularity for years now, for many, the stay-at-home orders and the experience of being stuck indoors for so long have made homeowners absolutely crave these spaces more than ever. They are truly a must-have—a fact that’s been increasingly evident at Sequoia Out Back, where owner John Keller says that he’s seeing even more people come into the showroom than ever before.
From the moment that homeowners walk through Sequoia Out Back’s front doors, the experience is really unlike any other. The 30,000-square-foot showroom has everything you could want for your personal oasis on display so that you can envision it in your own backyard.
When you walk through a typical patio store or a big-box store, items aren’t usually set up or paired together the way they would be in your backyard so it can be difficult to visualize your finished space. At Sequoia, you can see an entire outdoor living space
Be Inspired!
the way that you might set it up on your own patio. It inspires so many ideas.
The goal of the showroom has always been to make homeowners feel like they’re stepping into a real-life outdoor space. This helps homeowners to make the best choices when it comes to furniture and decking supplies that will work for their own projects.
Pair these gorgeous displays with the knowledgeable and helpful team members who are ready to assist—and homeowners can really appreciate the showroom visit experience. Customers always leave Sequoia with a lot of great ideas and information.
Of course, in general, inventory has been a major issue since the start of the pandemic. Homeowners who have tried to purchase furniture and decking may have noticed limited stock. But Sequoia Out Back has been fortunate to be able to keep a lot of inventory in stock thanks to its relationship with manufacturers and its purchasing power, as well as having a large quantity from the start. Even so, with so many people coming through the doors, now is the time to start planning for the spring while inventory is still available.
After all, before you know it, the weather will be consistently warm, and we’ll all be
spending even more time outdoors. Homeowners want to make sure their space is ready now!
“The sooner you can start planning, the better,” urges Keller. “The number of visitors coming to the store right now is higher than ever for this time of year. It’s definitely not too early to start thinking about setting up your outdoor space.”
As you start planning, Sequoia Out Back has all of the amenities that you might want to consider. This includes fire pits, patio furniture and all of the material supplies including decking and railing and hardscaping. Sequoia works with all of the leading manufacturers including TimberTech, Wolf, Trex, Zuri and Fiberon—all of whom continue to offer innovative products.
Whether you’re a do-it-yourselfer or someone who was sent by their contractor to look for materials, Sequoia’s showroom can accommodate everyone.
It’s all about making the experience as easy and as enjoyable as possible for homeowners. As the true outdoor living experts, Sequoia and its team are ready to help make homeowners’ backyard dreams come true.
“Outdoor living has been a trend for a long time but it’s hotter than ever,” Keller sums up. “I think we’re all ready to start spending more time outside.”
Landscape
directory 2025
WITH SPRING IN BLOOM, homeowners across the country are preparing to spend the coming months in their own backyards, and chances are they would like to invest in some updates. Our annual landscape directory connects our readers with local resources to consult on any project related to the outdoors. This
comprehensive list includes companies that can create an oasis with a pool, patio or deck, not to mention hardscaping, water features and shade elements; or professionals who maintain landscaping, provide furniture or install fences and much more. No matter what you need, your outdoor space is in good hands.
ARTIFICIAL GRASS
ARTIFICIAL GRASS TURF WAREHOUSE
Our commitment is to our customers. We walk you through all the steps so you can be sure to have what you need to get the job done right. We work with you, supplying you with educational materials on different turf options, products and installation information. We value this process because we strive not only to sell a quality product but to ensure our customers are completely satisfied with their purchase. It’s our top priority for our customers to purchase the appropriate artificial grass for its specific purpose so the turf performs well and is long-lasting. 201-971-2323 artificialgrassturfwarehouse.com
JM Synthetic Grass
201-220-2609
jmsyntheticgrass@verizon.net jmsyntheticgrass.com
AWNINGS
MARYGROVE AWNINGS
For over 85 years, Marygrove has offered the best retractable awnings on the market. Choose from a variety of sizes, fabrics and options to create your backyard oasis. All of the awnings come standard with free
LED lights and are backed by an award-winning service team. 800-44-AWNINGS marygrove.com
WINDOW WORKS
Window Works is a family-owned and operated custom window treatment and awning company for over 35 years. We’ll come to your home or business with expert design advice and personalized recommendations. And our meticulous fabrication and installation is backed by a 3-year guarantee, well beyond the industry standard! 973-535-5860 windowworks-nj.com
CHIMNEY Chimney Guards 862-333-9555 chimneyguardsnj.com
Doctor Chimney 201-981-8382 doctorchimney.com
CONCRETE RESURFACING
Architectural Concrete Design 866-956-2816 acdconcrete.com
New Castle Artisan 856-725-3333 newcastleartisan.com
DECKS
Amazing Decks 833-774-8646 anotheramazingdeck.com
Ameritech Services 856-226-4032 ameritechnj.com
ARCHADECK
OF MT. LAUREL
Archadeck of Mt. Laurel is your premier outdoor living space builder! With over 40 years of experience, they can design and build the outdoor space of your dreams, from decks and patios to pergolas, porches and more. 609-454-6170 archadeck.com
Blue Tree Builders 609-240-3231 experiencebluetree.com
Brindisi Builders 856-985-6219 brindisibuilders.com
Deck Craft Plus 610-273-3317 deckcraftcustomdecks.com
Deck Guardian 908-332-8577 deckguardian.com
Ernest & Sons 973-669-3779 862-595-8821 masonrybyernestandsons.com
George’s & Sons 973-414-6190 georgessonsconst.com
Magnolia Home Remodeling Group 855-624-6655 magnoliahomeremodeling.com
Maintenance and More 609-502-2966 maintenanceandmorellc.net
My Deck 908-713-1000 mydeck.com
Seashore Construction 800-326-5211 seashoreconstruction.net
Sequoia Out Back 215-918-DECK (3325) 866-993-YARD (9273) sequoiaoutback.com
DECKING SUPPLIES
Brandywine Building Supply 610-273-3817 brandywinebuildingsupply.com
Supreme Deck Store 732-742-6364 supremedeckstore.com
FENCING
American Discount Fence 856-939-3022
americandiscountfence.com
Deck Guardian 908-332-8577
deckguardian.com
Progressive Fence & Railing 609-449-8079 progressivefenceandrail.com
Rock Bottom Landscaping & Fencing 732-873-6780 rockbottomlandscaping.net
Superior Fence & Railing 609-727-3708 superiorfencenj.com
GRILLS/FIREPLACES/
OUTDOOR KITCHENS
Colonial Marble & Granite 856-872-4472 colonialmarble.net
Elite Landscaping 856-753-1944 elitelandscaping.com
Environmental Landscape Associates 215-794-2400 elaoutdoorliving.com
Gill’s Landscaping 856-223-9770 gillslandscaping.com
My Deck 908-713-1000 | mydeck.com
Pelican Ski, Pool & Patio 973-267-0964 pelicanshops.com
Rettinger Fireplace Systems 856-335-7606 rettingerfireplace.com
SLS Landscaping, Inc. 609-518-5263 slslandscape.com
HARDSCAPING/PAVERS/ RETAINING WALLS/ CONCRETE/ASPHALT/ OUTDOOR TILES
All Marble, Granite,Tile Imports Inc. 856-354-4747 allmarblegranite.com
CLC Landscape Design 973-839-6026 clcdesign.com
D. Panetta Contracting, LLC 973-659-9374 dpanettacontracting.com
Elite Landscaping 856-753-1944 elitelandscaping.com
Ernest & Sons 973-669-3779 862-595-8821 masonrybyernestandsons.com
Environmental Landscape Associates 215-794-2400 elaoutdoorliving.com
George’s & Sons 973-414-6190 georgessonsconst.com
Gill’s Landscaping 856-223-9770 gillslandscaping.com
Luigi General Contractors 973-669-2550 luigiconstruction.com
Magnolia Home Remodeling Group 855-624-6655 magnoliahomeremodeling.com
New Castle Artisan 856-725-3333 newcastleartisan.com
NEW JERSEY GRAVEL & SAND CO.
Established in 1936, New Jersey Gravel & Sand Co. has been a family-owned business from day one. It has become a major supplier of everything from mulch and topsoil to decorative stone and miscellaneous accessories. They carry a complete line of landscaping, hardscaping, natural stone, and construction materials, and are constantly adding new products to their lineup. While
their product selection has both evolved and expanded, the one constant that they never compromise is quality. Whether you are a home or business owner, landscaper or contractor, they welcome your questions and inquiries and look forward to working together. After all, the customer in customer satisfaction means you. 732-938-5252 njgravelsand.com
The Paver Doctor 856-767-3335
SLS Landscaping, Inc. 609-518-5263 slslandscape.com
W Tree Service 973-307-4972 wtreeservicelandscapingg@gmail. com
HOME EXTERIOR MAINTENANCE
SLS Landscaping, Inc.
609-518-5263 slslandscape.com
HOT TUBS & SPAS
Del Val Pools & Spas
856-629-2999 delvalpoolsandspas.com
Pelican Ski, Pool & Patio 973-267-0964 pelicanshops.com
Pelican Swim & Ski 908-534-2400 pelicanshops.com
IRON WORK/STAIRCASES
Lomonaco’s Iron Concepts 856-740-1071 liciron.com
LANDSCAPE DESIGN/ INSTALL/IRRIGATION
CLC Landscape Design 973-839-6026 clcdesign.com
Elite Landscaping 856-753-1944 800-582-6598 elitelandscaping.com
Environmental Landscape Associates 215-794-2400 elaoutdoorliving.com
EvErgrEEn Landscaping, pooLs & spas
Evergreen Landscaping, Pools & Spas deals with every aspect of the outdoors of your home. They are a full-service Landscape Design Company that specializes in pool installations, pavers, concrete, landscape design, sprinkler installation, decks, fencing, outdoor kitchens and snow removal. Call them today, and let them create your beautiful home oasis! 609-652-0646 evergreenpros.com
Gill’s Landscaping 856-223-9770 gillslandscaping.com
Luigi General Contractors 973-669-2550 Luigiconstruction.com
Pugliese Pools & Landscape 800-428-7946 pugliesepools.com
rock Bottom Landscaping & FEncing
Rock Bottom is a full-service landscape contractor and landscape designer serving all of New Jersey for over 30 years. Their professional and experienced staff excels at making your landscape dreams come to life, with fine attention to detail, unparalleled craftsmanship, a high level of integrity and friendly service... all at a fair price. 732-873-6780 rockbottomlandscaping.net
ronni Hock gardEn & LandscapE
Eleven times “Best of Houzz” recipient. Ten times “Best of House & Home” 2015-2024. A premier design/build company serving Central New Jersey and Bucks County for over 17 years. Ronni is personally involved with every phase of design and installation. 609-844-0066
ronnisgarden.com
SLS Landscaping, Inc. 609-518-5263 slslandscape.com
The Paver Doctor 856-767-3335
LANDSCAPE LIGHTING/ OUTDOOR LIGHTING FIXTURES/ELECTRICAL CLC Landscape Design 973-839-6026 clcdesign.com
D. Panetta Contracting 973-659-9374 dpanettacontracting.com
ELA Outdoor Living 215-794-2400 elaoutdoorliving.com
Gill’s Landscaping 856-223-9770 gillslandscaping.com
Outdoor Lighting Perspective 732-334-3163
outdoorlights.com/central-nj
SLS Landscaping, Inc.
609-518-5263 slslandscape.com
MAILBOXES
You’ve Got Mail
866-946-8300 ygm8300.com
MASONRY
Ernest & Sons
973-669-3779
862-595-8821 masonrybyernestandsons.com
Luigi General Contractors
973-669-2550 Luigiconstruction.com
Riverside Supply Company 732-257-3434 rsc-nj.com
MUDJACKING/CONCRETE LIFTING & REPAIR
The Mudjacking Guy 856-767-2269 themudjackingguy.com
OUTDOOR FURNITURE
Barlow Tyrie Outdoor Furniture 856-273-7878 btusastore.com
Country Lane Furniture 717-867-5701 countrylanefurniture.com
The Buxton Complex 609-771-0274 thebuxtoncomplex.com
Pelican Ski, Pool & Patio 973-267-0964 pelicanshops.com
Pelican Swim & Ski 908-534-2400 pelicanpool.com
Sequoia Out Back
215-918-DECK (3325) 866-993-YARD (9273) sequoiaoutback.com
OUTDOOR KITCHENS
Ernest & Sons
973-669-3779
862-595-8821 masonrybyernestandsons.com
Luigi General Contractors 973-669-2550 Luigiconstruction.com
OUTDOOR SPEAKERS/ TV/AUDIO SYSTEMS
Shore Sound & Cinema 609-645-1300 s2cinema.com
OUTDOOR STRUCTURES/ SHEDS/PERGOLAS/ GAZEBOS
Amazing Decks
833-774-8646
anotheramazingdeck.com
BACKYARD STRUCTURES
Backyard Structures has been a leading provider of superior quality sheds, pool houses, gazebos, and other outdoor structures for more than 35 years. This secondgeneration, family-owned and operated business offers customized and specialized services for homeowners and commercial customers throughout Monmouth County and the Jersey Shore. Their Amish-built sheds, pergolas and other backyard structures are the highest quality available, constructed with top-grade materials and expert craftsmanship. You can customize these structures to fit a variety of architectural styles. Choose your door and window style, as well as numerous paint colors and siding options. The structures are available in a wide range of sizes, including custom options.For quality construction, customized to fit your desires, specialty installation services and financing, visit the Backyard Structures Belford showroom. Open Monday through Friday 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., Saturday and Sunday 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. 732-495-8866 backyarddtructuresNJ.com
The Buxton Complex 609-771-0274 thebuxtoncomplex.com
CLC Landscape Design
973-839-6026 clcdesign.com
Deck Guardian 908-332-8577 deckguardian.com
My Deck 908-713-1000 | mydeck.com
Sequoia Out Back 215-918-DECK (3325) 866-993-YARD (9273) sequoiaoutback.com
Supreme Deck Store 732-742-6364 supremedeckstore.com
Viking Casual Furniture 856-486-1880 vikingcasual.com
Window Works 973-535-5860 windowworks-nj.com
ROOFING/GUTTERS/SIDING /MASONRY
A1 Home to Home 862-888-0910 hometohomeconstruction@gmail.com al-home-to-home-construction.com
Ameritech Services 856-226-4032 | Ameritechnj.com
Blissful Baths and Home 609-913-3600 Blissfulbaths.com
Daniel Robert Remodeling 833-326-4350 danielrobertremodeling.com
Modern Home Construction 732-682-9251 | 862-405-1487 modernhome-llc.com
PAVING/DRIVEWAYS/ MASONRY
Ernest & Sons 973-669-3779 | 862-595-8821 masonrybyernestandsons.com
Luigi General Contractors 973-669-2550 luigiconstruction.com
Ted Weiland Construction 201-488-1886 | 201-391-0502 tedweilandconstruction@gmail.com
POOL
DESIGN/INSTALLATION
Blue Haven Pools & Spas NE by Calvitti 800-219-2141 | bluehaven.com
CLC Landscape Design 973-839-6026 | clcdesign.com
DEL VAL POOLS & SPAS
Del Val Pools & Spas is one of the leading custom pool builders in southern New Jersey serving the tri-state area and excels in bringing a client’s vision to reality. Del Val provides custom in-ground gunite pool construction, above-ground pools, renovation, service and retail needs with three locations in Turnersville, Mantua, and Elmer, NJ. Frequently consulted by municipalities for technical and engineering expertise, Del Val’s finished products have been
featured in a number of publications, brochures and articles. Del Val Pools & Spas maintains an A+ rating with the Better Business Bureau and has received “Best of” Awards in a variety of southern New Jersey publications. 856-629-2999 delvalpoolsandspas.com
D. Panetta Contracting, LLC 973-659-9374 dpanettacontracting.com
Environmental Landscape Associates 215-794-2400 elaoutdoorliving.com
POOL DESIGNS
They specialize in fiberglass in-ground swimming pools and spas. They are here to assist you in the installation of your inground swimming pool and or spa design and will also offer you their experience in creating the ambience and finishing touches that fit in your budget. 609-257-2279 poolinaday.com
Pugliese Pools & Landscape 800-428-7946 pugliesepools.com
Stardust Pools 732-691-4038 stardust-pools.com
Swim-Mor Pools & Spas
856-270-6571 | 609-755-3046 732-422-5314 | swimmor.com
POOL SERVICE/POOL LEVELING/REPAIRS/ COVERS/ACCESSORIES
The Mudjacking Guy 856-767-2269 themudjackingguy.com
POLYLEVEL CONCRETE
Stardust Pools
732-254-3330 stardust-pools.com
TREE TRIMMING
W Tree Service
973-307-4972 wtreeservicelandscapingg@gmail. com
WINDOW/DOORS
Window King
609-534-7736
windowkingnj@gmail.com windowking.biz
DECIDING ON SIDING
With more than 30 years of experience, exterior experts Magnolia Home Remodeling Group are here to help figure out the best siding for your biggest investment.
by Madeleine Maccar
It’s hard to resist the warm weather’s call for home remodeling projects that not only increase a house’s curb appeal but also beautify and modernize its exterior in equal measures, and Magnolia Home Remodeling Group is here to help make that process a seamless one that delivers long-lasting, beautiful results.
With more than 30 years of siding-installation experience, the family-owned operation is especially well-positioned to help homeowners decide how to remodel, replace or renovate their home’s exterior siding, which all starts with a client conversation and free estimate.
“We try to understand the look they’re going for, the style they’re interested in and then, of course, the budget,” says Magnolia Principal Vic Fiore. “Aside from physical samples—which we bring into the home and, in many cases, will leave with the homeowner so they can really study them—we have 3D software and 3D tools as visualizers, where they can see their house with different products, different profiles [and] different colors. It’s very helpful that they can add different types of roofing, siding, stone, different color windows to fully understand what their house can look like.”
There is truly something for every taste, budget, climate and size when it comes to choosing what kind of siding to use. While that means endless options, it can also be a little overwhelming for those who aren’t sure of what they want beyond something new that refreshes their home’s exterior aesthetics.
But navigating the pros and cons of every offering is a lot less daunting when there’s an experienced professional helping at every step of the way, from conception to completion and even beyond cleanup with their ongoing client support.
“The goal is understanding the cost versus benefit, making sure that it’s a good investment, and that it can meet your expectations in terms of durability and design,” Fiore begins. “Most of the products that we’re installing have substantial warranties: Whether it’s 50 years or a lifetime, people are getting the peace of mind in knowing that they don’t have to worry about redoing their siding in 20 years from now. They’re not worried about having to bring a painter in to repaint in 10 years because almost all of the work that we’re doing now is no maintenance.”
For those who want the best of the best for their home’s siding, Fiore doesn’t hesitate to identify what their options are.
tions about what siding lasts the longest.
“The composite and PVC products are probably going to give you the longest lasting and best protection against harsh climates,” he explains. “The wood and fiber cement are wonderful, but there are some limitations. All of them are widely used, but I think the composite and the vinyl are best for harsher conditions.”
The team at Magnolia understands that while everyone deserves a home they love, not everyone has the budget for their dream projects. In addition to offering financing options to qualified clients, they also carry less-expensive materials that still yield the stunning results for which Magnolia is known.
“Some of the more premium products come with a price tag to match, so there are other product options that can give a wonderful look with a much lower price point,” says Fiore. “The least expensive is probably vinyl, and it’s still widely used because it gives a nice look, there’s no maintenance and the cost factor is better than if you were using certain composites or fiber cement. I’d recommend that to a variety of people because it has a great look and can appear like wood without spending that extra money.”
No matter how a homeowner chooses to update the exterior of their house, there’s one prevailing certainty: The Magnolia team will treat your home like it’s their own and bring impeccable craftsmanship to every job they do, which is why they have so many returning clients.
“They can choose us for a siding project this year and then a kitchen project next year, since we have the ability to offer all these different services and dedicated professionals—our siding installers are only installing siding so they’re wellversed in all the different materials and applications,” Fiore says. “We take a lot of pride in trying to understand a client’s needs, budget and longterm goals to make sure that we’re working with the homeowner and that we’re installing the right kind of product for them.”
“Some of the top brands are James Hardie Fiber Cement, CertainTeed, AZEK and ASCEND, which is a composite that has some insulation attached to it,” he says. “Those are the top end, and they all offer significant warranties, little-or-no maintenance, and a wide variety of colors and styles.”
While most primary residences in Magnolia’s service area enjoy a similar inland climate, the salty air impacting Shore houses is tougher on building materials. That’s why Fiore notes how different environments call for different materials in conversa-
A Deep Dive
From aesthetics to functionality, regional experts provide advice on how to transform a pool into the outdoor living space of one’s dreams.
by CARLY MURRAY
Having a personal pool is the best way to achieve both luxury and amusement in an outdoor living oasis totally customizable for each household—but like everything worthwhile, it takes planning, time, education, options and upkeep. Modern options can take a pool to the next level with exciting colors, lighting, designs, shapes and add-on features. The variability within and surrounding a pool is what expands it into much more than a place to swim.
It is that stark distinction between personalized pools across the region that makes them so impressive. By starting fresh, or by updating an already existing outdoor living space, homeowners can expand their home to the backyard with every member of the family’s unique preferences. It might even be the favorite hang-out spot all summer long to encourage fresh air, staying active and spending time away from screens.
House & Home Magazine spoke with local pool and deck specialists to learn more about “taking the plunge” into pool designs, installation and maintenance.
What are the most popular pool options that homeowners have incorporated within the past year?
“Recently, people with smaller backyards are putting in large wading pools that are not deep, more for relaxing and having cocktails. They are also using low voltage lighting for a more relaxing atmosphere.”
—Donald
Panetta, owner of D. Panetta Contracting, LLC
“Water purification systems, salt water systems, quartz ozone systems, and water features like waterfalls and raised walls with waterfalls coming off of them [are
most popular]. Then, blossoming into landscape items like a poolside cabana, a bar area [or] sun lounges. Probably about 60%-65% of the pools that we build have sun lounges in them. …[In addition,] we offer fire features, a swim-up bar area, outdoor kitchens and cabanas. There’s a wide spectrum of choices out there, it just depends on what's going to fit into everybody’s wants and budgets.”
—Dominic DiCesare, general manager of Blue Haven Pools & Spas
by Calvitti
How does one decide what styles and features are best for them?
“First, we discuss the goals of the customer and I try to get an understanding of the type of person the customer is. If the customer’s home has a flow that should be continued in the yard, I steer the customer toward a freeform [pool] that has curves that can accentuate the existing flow. If the customer likes lines and geometric shapes and the house reflects this style, I steer the customer toward a rectangle pool that will continue the existing aesthetic of the property. This is not a definite process for all customers because some rectangles have the features that a customer is looking for, but the property has a flow that would lend itself to a freeform. If this is the case, I make suggestions for hardscaping and landscaping that will shift the sharp angles of the rectangle pool toward a flow of green space and curved pavers and deck space.”
—Derek Blasker, owner of Pool Designs
What are some features that can transform a pool into an outdoor living space?
“There are many elements or features that can transform your pool area into an out-
A Deep Dive
door living space [including] adding an outdoor kitchen with dining area, firepit area, a sitting area with gazebo, or adding outdoor low-voltage lighting to bring your outdoor living to life.”
—Donald Panetta
“To transform a pool into an outdoor ‘living’ space it would need to have areas for relaxation such as a tanning deck, seats, a spa—features that encourage family and guests to spend time in the pool and not just around
it. Some type of shade from the sun is also needed to use the pool as an area for relaxation. Some chose a large umbrella for the tanning deck and recently we’ve even installed a motorized retractable shade over the pool to allow the children to play outside in the water for longer during the hotter days.
When planning a full backyard renovation or new-build masterplan, homeowners should think about how they can make their life easier through automation. Planning this from the begin-
ning makes everything flow so much easier. If you’re going to have a pool, a spa, speakers, a retractable shade and fire feature it would be worth doing some research on how these can all be brought together via a single voice control system, for example.”
—Keith Frederick, owner of ELA Outdoor Living
How has technology changed over the years?
“Technology has moved toward more automation and less personal maintenance of the pool. Customers can control their pump, heat and lights from an app on their phone. This app can also be linked to the water features and landscape lighting. Robotic cleaners can clean the pool floor, walls and tile line. There are solar powered cleaners that float on the pool surface and target debris that is floating at the top, which cuts down on clogging the skimmer. Salt generators, UV/ozone generators and acid
feeders allow for easier chemical maintenance and greater sanitation and pH regulation.”
—Derek Blasker
What colors and designs are trending most for pool decks?
“Stamped concrete is one of the most customizable materials out there for outdoor living. We can match almost any aesthetic—from rustic to ultra-modern—using a variety of stamps that mimic stone, brick, tile or wood. …We’re seeing a strong trend toward cool, coastal-inspired color palettes—think soft grays, driftwood tones, and light taupes. These hues not only create a sophisticated, calming atmosphere, but they also stay cooler underfoot, which is ideal for sunny pool environments. Pattern-wise, largeformat slate textures remain popular for their clean lines and modern appeal. Another standout trend is the wood plank stamp in weathered, beachy tones—it offers the warmth
and charm of natural wood with the durability of concrete.”
—Steve Abel, managing partner of Architectural Concrete Design
How should deck design vary between the different areas of an outdoor living space?
“Many of our clients are extending their pool decks into full backyard living spaces with outdoor kitchens, dining areas and fire features. In those cases, we often use complementary designs to help visually zone each area. For example, we
might use a slate pattern around the pool and transition to a wood plank look under a pergola or outdoor kitchen. In some cases, we use the same pattern throughout but shift the coloring or finish to create contrast. These layered designs make the entire space feel cohesive and intentional.”
—Steve Abel
What is the best pool water system?
“We've been [offering] salt water for about 20 years—we’re 100% salt water. …It’s much
healthier. You're [converting] natural salt into chlorine, but it's more user-friendly. It's less irritating to the skin, to the eyes— especially for people who have skin conditions, it's a lot better.”
—Dominic DiCesare
How do you balance functionality with aesthetics when it comes to customization?
“I believe the outside should be an extension of the home’s architecture, but also of the owners’ personalities. If someone has a large enough yard and is more of a creative energy, they might want a freeform pool with natural flowing curves and unique features. You can add features to any pool, but the freeform or kidney-shaped pools allow for really interesting additions. …[Fiberglass pools] offer lots of different shapes and sizes and are customizable to a certain extent with waterfalls, slides, lighting, coping options and the pool deck.”
—Keith Frederick
RESOURCES
Architectural Concrete Design
Levittown, Pa. (866) 956-2818
ACDConcrete.com
Blue Haven Pools & Spas by Calvitti Serving N.J., Pa. & Del. (800) 219-2141
BlueHaven.com
D. Panetta Contracting, LLC Randolph, N.J. (973) 659-9374
DPanettaContracting.com
ELA Outdoor Living Doylestown, Pa. (215) 794-2400
ELAOutdoorLiving.com
Pool Designs Yardville, N.J. (609) 257-2279
PoolInADay.com
BLUE HAVEN POOLS & SPAS
