There are few natural features that are more enjoyable than a waterfront view. For contractors who have clients with homes on the water’s edge, it’s important to remember that building in these types of fragile landscapes — which often present some harsh weather conditions — should be done with care. One way you can ensure the...

Have you ever looked out at your yard and just thought something is missing? Do things not feel quite finished, wrapped in a bow and ready to show off? If you’ve been feeling this way, there may be something you can do to help tie it all together. Picture framing your deck may be the touch you need. By blocking the corners and edges to your deck...

So you love the look of that deck you saw on HGTV, or the seed of inspiration you found on your Pinterest board? We totally get it! Adding a beautiful composite deck to your home is a wonderful way to increase both the living area and the resale value of your property. But for some homeowners, the hardest part is simply knowing where to start – the...

What is Composite Decking? Composite decking products have been on the market for more than 20 years. Since that time there have been innovations in installation, materials and manufacturing that have improved the appearance, performance and cost of these products. But the reality is, not all composite decking is the same and sometimes you can’t...

BIDDEFORD, ME (January 25, 2021) – DuraLife by Barrette Outdoor Living recently announced a multi-million dollar investment in upgrades at its Biddeford, Maine facility to double the production of composite decking materials in 2021. This significant investment in equipment and manpower will provide a premium service to its customers by ensuring all...

Homeowners in cold weather climates or regions with extreme temperature swings need outdoor decks that can withstand the elements. From freezing temperatures to snow and ice, the right deck will rally back in time for spring training and the sizzling summer heat. Your best choice? Composite decking—here’s why. Composite Decking Is Durable in...

National Recycling Day may be November 15th, but DuraLife by Barrette Outdoor Living knows how important it is to go green year-round. From material composition and regrind use to cooling water reuse, lighting, and general recycling, DuraLife’s deck boards come in eight colors, but they’re all green on the inside. If you’re debating...

While there’s little doubt that summer is arguably the best time to enjoy an outdoor deck, it’s a little more challenging to say exactly when the best time is to build a new deck. In a perfect world, homeowners and deck builders alike would have all the time they need to decide on the size, shape and type of decking that’s most...

Many homeowners struggle with trying to justify the cost of composite decking. Averaging between $3.50 and $5.00 per linear foot, the cost of installing a high-quality composite deck will certainly be higher than building with traditional pressure treated lumber, which can cost between $1.00 - $2.00 per linear foot1. However, simply...

If your deck isn’t DuraLife, you’re missing out. This August, DuraLife decking was named the No. 1 product for 2020 by Professional Remodeler magazine, beating out five other deck and porch companies to top the list. The patent-pending Step-Clip system is the main reason for the best ranking, and it’s not surprising. The same innovative...

Decks are meant to be lived on, and not under. However, an elevated deck could afford you not only great views, but storage space, too. Not all decks will come with room for storing your outdoor belongings beneath your feet, but those that do have their perks. If you have never considered the difference an open vs. closed under deck could make when it comes...

Composite decking has grown in popularity over the years thanks to its durability, low maintenance, and more. However, it’s important to know that not all composite decking is the same. The components that make up one composite deck will surely differ greatly from those of another. So before installing a new composite deck in your yard, take the time...

While it would be nice to think that the building of your dream deck will be a breeze, that’s not always the case. Unfortunately, many homeowners run into unexpected bumps in the road that may delay the entire project. Instead of just tackling the issues as they arise, be prepared by knowing what challenges could come your way so you can handle them...

Replacing a deck is no easy project. But with the right strategy and details in mind, you’ll be able to upgrade your deck in no time and enjoy it for years to come. Before you start any construction, there are several things to consider. From logistics to design, here are nine things you need to know before replacing your deck. 1. Ask Why It’s...

Now is the perfect time to start planning your new deck and have fun doing it from the comfort of your home. Virtual resources allow you to envision the exact layout, design, color, and more so that when it is finally time to install, all your decking questions are answered. These DuraLife digital tools and services will help you create your dream deck...

It’s an investment in your future A home’s outdoor space is so much more than a place to grill burgers during a summer barbecue or sit by the fire pit with a cup of cocoa in the fall. It’s a place to make memories with your family and friends—but the cost of adding a deck is also not something you’ll easily forget. However, if...

The tones, colors, and hues have a story to tell Just like you and your family, DuraLife decking is unique, and no two boards are exactly the same. When choosing the color that best fits your outdoor space, it’s important to consider the aesthetic you’re aiming to achieve, as well as the effect that each style can have on your home....

  To prevent a slippery deck during winter storms, homeowners might be tempted to use snow or ice melt products. However, certain products may cause harm to your composite deck. It’s important to understand which products are safe for different outdoor spaces and which ones could leave lasting damage. How Ice Melts Work Before putting down snow...

Composite decks are increasingly becoming the norm around the country. These high quality, low maintenance, longer lasting materials are allowing people to spend more time accessorizing their decks instead of painting and staining them. Today, consumers have more options than ever before when it comes to creating a truly unique outdoor living space....

Elaborate, non-standard size decks and outdoor living spaces are becoming increasingly common, which is great for contractors, except that decking materials – including the composite decking and PT lumber that supports it – still typically come in standard size lengths. As a long-time manufacturer and supplier of high-quality composite decking...

A deck is a great addition to your home. It gives you a place to spend those sunny days without having to sit in the grass and offers you a spot to relax in. However, those decks can be even better with railings that complement the overall look of the space.. They'll provide you with countless benefits to improve the overall feel and look of your home....

You want to build a new deck for your home or business - and who can blame you? A deck is the perfect place to spend time outdoors, to attract new business, to enjoy a quiet space, to host a party, you name it. Whether you build the deck yourself or hire a contractor, it is a worthwhile investment that will pay off in usage and increased home value. It's...

Let's face it - rarely does anything good ever come without a little hard work. With decking, this concept holds true. You will have to perform some level of maintenance on your deck if you want it to remain in the best shape for as long as possible. As for how much maintenance? That's another question entirely. "Capped composite decking is as close to...