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...

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...