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 Infi nite 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 refl ect 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 fi t 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 fi rst 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