50 minute read
DeckExpo in Dallas
PRODUCT DEMOS and seminars were offered all throughout the show.
DeckExpo makes a splash in Dallas
The return of DeckExpo was a special moment for builders and outdoor living professionals after a year of show cancellations and chaotic demand throughout the industry. Attendees and exhibitors alike were not disappointed.
The show kicked off at Kay Hutchison Convention Center in Dallas November 16-18 and was held in conjunction with the annual Pool |Patio|Spa Expo.
With product demonstrations and learning seminars offered throughout the event, deck builders and pool specialists were able to submerge themselves in all things outdoor living.
“I spoke to many vendors, and all seemed to be very satisfied with the turnout,” said the owner of BP Consulting & Design, Bobby Parks. “For me, DeckExpo has always been about the people. It’s the connection with fellow contractors, vendors reps, and all that are involved in our industry that mean the most to me. The expo provides an opportunity to reunite with good friends and make new ones. It has become somewhat of a reunion for many of us and each year it’s like your family of contractor friends gets larger.”
Among the seminars offered was deck design for hot tubs and the codes related to the hot tub placement and the deck around it.
During a session on leakproof deck ledger flashing, builders saw approaches to minimize trapping debris between decking and flashing. And for a bonus, they learned how to flash cantilevered wood joists at the face of the wall to pro-
DECKEXPO was held in conjunction with the annual Pool | Spa | Patio Expo in Dallas.
PRECISION CONSTRUCTION’S Scott Kelly (right) with Anthony Lombardo from Premier Outdoor Living.
tect this vulnerable location.
Other popular sessions covered sizing and designing wood deck beams, the art of landscape, identifying new business and design trends, and small space design.
In addition to seminars and educational sessions, the trade show was robust, and featured new products like Monarch Technologies’ new Monadeck ceramic composite decking line, the CAMO ClipDRIVE, and Thermory’s Barrel Sauna.
“There’s nothing like seeing and experiencing a product in person, at a trade show with other professionals—especially when it’s a deck board,” said builder and showgoer Jason Morales. “You can mail out PR packages all month but there’s just a different type of energy when you have everyone in a room.“
Deckorators hosted a happy hour event at its booth and introduced new products via the Ultimate Deck Podcast.
“The composite decking and railing industry has exploded since early 2020 with unseen demand and record sales. It’s the perfect time to
NADRA’S Michael Beaudry delivers a presentation to members and attendees on day two of the event.
THERMORY showed off its newest offering—Barrell Saunas. VIA THE ULTIMATE Deck Podcast, Deckorators announced their offerings and hosted a lively happy hour.
DURING THE SHOW, Deckorators showed a few of its top builders a night on the town—(left to right) Rian Leblanc, Nick Larr, Don Smith, Raul Torres.
LAST ISSUE’S cover stars Levi and Kevin Tippetts of TC Decks. CAMO used the event to debut the new CAMO ClipDRIVE.
be at DeckExpo,” DeBoer said.
The owner of TC Decks, Levi Tippetts, was roaming the show floor when he stopped by Deck Specialist’s booth. “This was the first DeckExpo I have attended, and it didn’t disappoint,” said Tippetts.
“A big highlight for me was to be able to meet a lot of my fellow deck building friends. There are some awesome and creative people I truly admire in this industry. And it was so fun for me to learn about new products and vendors. All in all, it was a very positive experience for me. I will go back for sure every year.”
With builder confidence high and no sign of demand slowing down, the event was an overall success. Attendees and exhibitors agreed that although attendance was understandably low, conversations were much more meaningful.
“It’s a quality over quantity thing,” said builder Scott Kaplan. “If you’re getting solid leads and having great conversations, who cares how many people are in attendance? It’s a good investment. Large crowds don’t always mean success. It’s about what you get out of it for your business.”
Show organizers announced the annual event will be held next year in Las Vegas.
The Deck Builder’s Holiday Gift Guide
Looking for a last-minute present for your fellow contractor? Here are some gift ideas that are guaranteed to make the builders in your life smile this holiday season.
Speak Tough
For the contractor who loves to work to their favorite tunes, a durable speaker with good sound quality is perfect for them.
Built by Klein Tools for harsh conditions, the rugged box has a powerful magnet that sticks to surfaces (or the brand’s own LED light tool bag), making it handsfree and users can connect via Bluetooth. The battery also lasts for up to 10 hours, perfect for long projects. [www.kleintools.com] Retail Price: $37.97
Magnetic Wristband
BinyaTools’ Magnetic Wristband features strong magnets that hold screws, nails, drill bits and more—creating a truly hands-on (or is it on-hands?) tool box. [www.binyatools.com] Retail Price: $17.97
Give ’em the Boot
Achieving the highest levels of protection while also delivering a great-looking boot was the inspiration for Muck’s Chore Farm Leather collection, perfect for stylish builders.
Not only is the Chore Farm Leather able to stand up to acidic and alkaline elements, they’re flame resistant and tested for breathability and tear resistance. [www.muckbootcompany.com] Retail Price: $17.97
Film Buffs
Sign your builder buddies up for AMC Stubs A-List this holiday season so they can catch up on all the latest feature films in any state.
Those who join AMC’s monthly movie membership can make free reservations in advance and watch movies in any format, including Dolby Cinema, IMAX, and RealD 3D. They can also indulge in the premium perks of AMC Stubs Premiere, including 10% back on food and drink purchases. [www.amctheatres.com]
Retail Price: $23.99/month
Sock It to Them
You’ll hit the nail on the head with this fun gift for all your teammates.
These unique tool graphic socks for men are comfortable and stylish, and show off a builder’s true passion. [www.sockdrawer.com] Retail Price: $12.00
Woodsy Water Bottle
Help keep your colleagues hydrated with the Hydro Flask Escape Limited Edition 32-oz. Wide Mouth Water Bottle.
Whether you find yourself on the coast, in the desert, or in the mountains, the bottle is perfect for those long workdays. [www.evo.com]
Retail Price: $30.00-$50.00
MOSO® Bamboo X-treme®
High density Sustainable supply Dimensionally stable in any climate Premium hardwood alternative
Fraser Decks & Patio Covers Reily Imagery
www.moso-bamboo.com/x-treme
certi ed 100%
proven
Brew for the Crew
For contractors who love suds, this IPA brewing kit contains everything they’ll need to turn their kitchen into a craft brewery: 100% malt extract, specialty grains, high quality yeast, and, of course, aromatic Summit and Cascade hops sourced from Washington State’s Yakima Valley.
Transformed through the simple techniques and included equipment, the finished ale brandishes a delightfully complex hop profile with citrus, floral, and spicy notes. The kit makes one gallon or 10 12-oz. bottles. [www.uncommongoods.com] Retail Price: $20.00-$45.00
Cup of Joe for a Pro
Gift your colleagues with this clever 14-oz. “Caution, Builder at Work” mug, perfect for those early mornings.
Featuring a unique power drill-shaped handled, the quality printed mug from Home-X is made out of premium ceramic. [www.amazon.com] Retail Price: $12.00
All-Weather Writing
Your fellow deck builder friends will appreciate the Fisher Matte Black Bullet Space Pen, a waterproof, all-weather pen.
A viable option for construction sites that get often battered by the elements, the pen can write under water and has even been tested in outer space.
[www.spacepen.com] Retail Price: $25.50
Carnivore Collection
Contractors who have a knack for cooking will appreciate a kit from Omaha Steaks. The kits feature everything needed for a delicious steakhouse dinner right from home.
Choose from 14 different options to customize a box that include bacon-wrapped pork chops, scalloped potatoes, and chocolate molten lava cakes for dessert.
On top of the Steakhouse DIY box, other choices include The Ultimate Holiday gift package and the Carnivore Collection. [www.omahasteaks.com] Retail Price: $99.99-$159.00
THE CAREY BROS.
Farewell.
After 35 years of hosting On the House with the Carey Bros., we will hang up our headphones for good on December 31. Our final radio program will be aired on Saturday December 25 and our last Tip of the Day will air on December 31. Additionally, this will be our final offering for Deck Specialist. Heartfelt thanks to our audience for welcoming us into their homes week in and week out for over 1,800 episodes and 5,000 hours of our program. Thanks to Deck Specialist for creating a forum for us to share our experience and passion with you.
We began our career in local radio in San Francisco. In short order that led to local TV and print. It wasn’t long before all went national, which led to several books and appearances from coast-to-coast and border-to-border. We even landed in the Oval Office with a remote broadcast from the White House!
Our most satisfying memory is knowing that we were an available resource for consumers and their home improvement woes. Lending a hand to seniors, widows, and young first-time homeowners brought us particular gratification. We are equally grateful that we could offer sage advice and share our experience to pros—new and old—in the hopes that our offerings would be of benefit personally and professionally.
We have never taken ourselves too seriously and did our best to dole out advice in a clear and entertaining fashion. We will miss our brotherly banter with our audience—both consumer and pro—and the wealth of information and tips, which they so generously shared. It’s been a great run, but it’s time to sweep up the sawdust in the studio and workshop one last time; pack up our tools; and take a house full of memories with us. We will now turn our full attention to our design/build home remodeling company in the San Francisco Bay Area where we have helped to make home improvement dreams come true for over four decades.
Business is booming and requires full attention from these two “senior citizens.” We have a great team and we are certain, as the sun will eventually set on this chapter of our lives, that what we have worked so hard to build will be perpetuated.
We leave our consumer audience in good hands as our good friend Danny Lipford with Today’s Homeowner Radio steps in to be their one-stop resource for help with their homes commencing on January 1.
We’ve known Danny for many years and consider him to be one of the best in the business. He’s an accomplished builder and a natural on-air. He has a warm, friendly style and easy-to-listen-to delivery. We are confident that Danny will take good care of the folks that have come to depend on us to help them care for their piece of the Great American Dream. We can’t think of anyone to whom we would rather pass on the torch.
Happy Thanksgiving, Merry Christmas, and Happy New Year. We wish you and your family peace, joy, good health, and all the best now and in the future.
The Carey Bros.—James and Morris—are nationally known experts on home renovation and hosts of a weekly radio program and syndicated newspaper column, both titled On the House (onthehouse.com).
DECK CREATION BOBBY PARKS
Are you providing the right intel for potential customers?
From the time a customer begins looking for a contractor to the point they finalize a decision with a builder, a number of qualifying and sales processes have occurred. Some are occurring on the customers side and some on yours. But for this process to even begin requires they find and contact you, which usually involves a referral or that they obtain intel on your company through other means.
You have to be identified and vetted by potential prospects. Past customers may know how good you are from personal experience, but new prospects know nothing about you. Referrals are great but mean you are relying on chance and that the phone will always ring. This approach works until it doesn’t.
Having a simple program in place that assists with leads and customer connections provides stability in the long run.
How you appear when a potential customer begins to seek out a contractor directly impacts the odds of whether you’ll be contacted or passed by. Most homeowners do their due diligence online with web searches. They are on a reconnaissance mission searching out intel to find out who can deliver the type of project they want.
Most will cull out contractors using two qualifying requirements which are websites and reviews. For example, when someone searches for a “deck builder near me,” a map will appear with three or four contractors shown underneath. Once they click on “View All,” a longer list appears. Although the order in this specific listing matters, what is even more important is how you appear on the list because the culling process has begun.
The potential customer begins to compile a list of those who provide the simple intel required to deserve further consideration. A name alone tells them very little and you are likely skipped over if its not accompanied by links to other information.
I often do the same type of search but for different reasons. Some of my travels include searching out outdoor living contractors in various markets and visiting with them. I am looking for operators that might be open to using a product I represent.
Similar to a customer searching for an outdoor living contractor or deck builder that can deliver the kind of project they desire, I’m searching online to see who offers the type of projects that include higher end options. I can spot and cull candidates quickly. I’ll scroll through and see who has websites. The ones that don’t I skip over.
It’s not that they might not be the best craftsman, but I can’t tell because there is no intel to go by. With a website I can get a read of what a particular company is about and what type of jobs they deliver within 30 seconds of landing on a site.
Right now leads and jobs are plentiful with an abundance of potential customers. But at some point the economy will slip back to a more normal time where business fundamentals come back into play. And even though many contractors have gotten by or done well with referrals, future
IF YOU Google “deck builders near me,” a map will appear with three or four contractors shown underneath. Once you hit, “view all,”a longer list appears. How you appear on the list is so important.
contractors with progressive mindsets will likely fare better in both sales and profit stability.
To not invest and adopt simple aspects beyond counting on referrals could make the difference for pricing and profit. For some (not all), “referrals only” generally means that you’re selling at average profit margins due to limited quote opportunities compared to a mix of web and referral leads. So having the right structure and approach assist with consistency even when demand is down.
Some of the best craftsmen I know don’t have websites. But all of the successful companies that I know do. Do a local search yourself just to see how contractors appear. For anyone to have interest in you, you’ll need to provide the simple intel required.
It begins with showing a website and reviews. Without these two aspects there’s no intel on you that a prospect can review so they move on to others that do. What the website looks like, the photos you show, and what’s said in reviews will keep you in contention or bump you off the list.
Without these elements you are just an unknown name on a list of many.
Bobby Parks is a nationally known contractor who has delivered over $40 million of outdoor living projects. He is founder and former owner of Peachtree Decks & Porches LLC and current president of BP Consulting & Design LLC.
BRENDAN CASEY
Controlling the uncontrollable
Who would have dreamed these last two years would have turned out this way? We have experienced a myriad of industry transformations over the past 24 months, whether it’s supply, personnel, health, pricing, mergers, buyouts, new or discontinued products, inability to acquire necessary materials, back orders, canceled orders or forces majeure—it seems like we’ve heard it all.
However, the crazy thing is that between skyrocketing prices and empty shelves, the lumber yards, suppliers, distributors, manufacturers and best of all, contractors, have been reporting record sales numbers. It’s astonishing how we have not only managed to tread water but ride a Bonsai pipeline-like wave to the shores of success.
If you can adapt to an ever-changing market environment and overcome the challenges that are seemingly beyond our control, this is a great time in history to be a Deck Specialist. Many of the challenges can be reined in and less frustrating if we follow the adage of “fortune favors the prepared.”
We can sit back and wait for the bad things to happen to us and complain to everyone about it, or we can grab the bull by the horns and make success happen. The contractors who found a greater level of accomplishment this year are the ones who quickly adapted to the early issues of 2020, strengthened their positions for 2021, and are now poised to strike hard leading into 2022.
My personal research has shown that countless forward-thinking builders have pre-ordered and pre-purchased an abundance of incidental products and supplies during the off season to be ahead of the game when the busy season hits. In turn, this has allowed them to keep their employees working while other crews are sitting home, complaining, and waiting on supplies.
Another major aspect of controlling the uncontrollable pertains to the permit, submission, review, and inspection phases of a project. You could have the greatest sales team and closing ratios in the industry and a tremendous catalog of projects, but if you are unable to obtain a permit or inspection approvals, you have done nothing but waste valuable time, money, assets, and opportunities that could have been better served on other efforts.
Again, you are trading minutes, hours, and days for dollars, and you can’t afford to waste any of it on unproductive, unprofitable enterprises.
Since the start of COVID, most permit offices have curtailed their walk-in traffic. The days of sitting down with a plan reviewer and discussing a project face-to-face have come to an end for a good deal of us. It’s a bummer. How often did you just have a five-minute conversation with the reviewer, clarify any questions and walk out with a permit? Not too often anymore.
Now, many of these offices have experienced a colossal amount of turnover with reviewers and inspectors that no longer know you from the man on the moon. No more benefit of the doubt. More
and more we are hearing from plan reviewers and inspectors, “if it’s not in the book, we can’t approve it,” when in reality, what you are presenting is above and beyond “the book.”
This is another instance where getting an engineer stamp will help alleviate the headaches. Lately I’ve had conversations with contractors all over the country and beyond that have had a tumultuous time navigating the permit process.
As leaders of the industry in our communities, you have a certain responsibility to help the government officials along the way. You will find that being more proactive, scheduling meetings with the heads of these departments and presenting to them the new products, design features, techniques, and materials we foresee using in the upcoming year.
Provide them with the ICC/ ESR reports on new products and any additional info they may require. Or if you have devised some new twists or techniques on install methods as so many of you have, it would be advisable to get engineer-stamped drawings ahead of time. This way, when you present it to the code enforcement officials, you are in essence telling them this is already approved. Most of the time they will
WE ARE seeing ornate rail panels, lattice sections, built in walls, etc. that are beautiful but will need engineer-stamped drawings in order to be installed in a lot of areas.
BUILDERS are mixing in stone decking, fireplaces and bars that overload the span and load requirements.
thank you, accept it, and allow you to move on.
If you’re going to do anything out of the ordinary, it’s imperative that you check with your permit office and gain approval on the concept before selling a project that you will become contractually obligated to complete.
There isn’t much worse in this industry than to sell the job and then get denied. I have read about this horror story on social media too often to mention. These contractors have just given away irrecuperable time and money. Painful.
By going to the permit office ahead of time you would have been able to receive guidance from the official, allow them to be involved with the process, ask for their advice and tweak the design a little. People love to be empowered. It usually makes them more receptive to your new ideas. Just work with them.
Today’s craftsmen have raised the bar to levels we never thought possible even a decade ago. The new blood in our industry has injected it with creativity, concepts, design ideas, combinations of materials, textures and mediums that has turned the landscape of outdoor artistry upside down. It’s almost scary what’s being put on display these days. Clients are pulling photos off social media and asking for similar products that have your eyes spinning in an almost hypnotic state.
Just look at the caliber of entries in the last few NADRA (North American Deck and Railing Association) awards contests; they are fantastic. Don’t forget to get your incredible projects entered, the deadline for this year’s contest is fast approaching and I’m guessing it will be one of the best ever. But the point is just because you see something on one project, it doesn’t mean it will automatically be allowed in your jurisdiction. Please, please, make sure you get it approved ahead of time.
We are seeing some beautifully ornate rail panels, lattice sections, built in walls, barriers, etc. that are extraordinary looking but will need engineer-stamped drawings in order to be installed in a lot of areas. Those administrative fees can cost you the entirety of your profits if you didn’t properly pre-plan for it.
For another look at how far our industry has come, look back at the Deck Specialists of the Year award winners and you will be inspired by where this industry is going. The only drawback is that the local permit offices and inspectors are finding themselves in unfamiliar territory.
We need to remember that codes are written several years before they are released, adopted, accepted, and then implemented. It can be like a computer that’s practically out of date the day you bought it. We now have frameless glass railings and steel framing that can even be curved.
Companies are mixing steel components with specially treated lumber. They are utilizing custom treated glulam beams for greater spans, water walls and waterfalls, privacy and semiprivate rail products that weren’t necessarily designed for that application, and inlays that alter the framing and elevations that exceed code.
We are mixing in stone decking, fireplaces, bars, kitchens, and outdoor theaters, and overloading the span and load requirements. These need to be accounted for when gaining permit approval and not just added after the fact. The list could go on for pages and this is leaving plan reviewers and inspectors completely baffled and bewildered—ultimately putting them in over their heads.
This brings us back to the point of being proactive, providing them with as much info as possible, including compliance reports, engineer stamped drawings and data necessary to keep the jobs rolling. Otherwise, the next best of the best overall, national award-winning masterpiece could end up being shot down or become too costly on the administrative end because you failed to run it past code enforcement ahead of time and ending up in the trash.
Deck Specialists don’t sit around and wait to fail. They come prepared to succeed. Let’s go make ‘22 an even better year.
With 35+ years experience in construction, Brendan Casey, with his wife Dianna, launched Casey Fence & Deck, Frederick, MD., fulfilling a growing need in the outdoor living market for an innovative and creative custom builder.
MARV JOHNSON
Makita GT200D 40V MAX XGT Brushless Drill & Driver Kit www.makita.com Retail Price: $449.00
Makita XGT Drill/Driver
Life is funny. Our perception of ourselves is the one constant in our lives. I still perceive myself as the same person I was at any point along my life’s timeline. Even when we get an “outside” glimpse of ourselves, what we see is somehow distorted. Remember the first time you heard a recording of your own voice? You were most likely surprised. Some people are so put off, they refuse to listen to their recorded voice.
This translates to our ability to see the outward changes that surround us, recognizing some and missing others. For example, we clearly see our kids become adults, adults become seniors, seniors become elderly. With “things” or “stuff,” the change is more difficult to see. Like your “new” truck that was purchased 10 years ago. Or the top-of-the-line iPhone7 that the 20-year-old “Genius” at the Apple Store giggles at, before suggesting an upgrade to the iPhone 13. Huh? What about iPhones 8 through 12? Did I miss all of those?
Tools are no different. I have a Hitachi NR83A Framing Nailer that I purchased after starting my business in 1996. I still use this gun today, and the same nailer, unchanged (sans one driver replacement) even after all this time. I have a first-run Stiletto titanium framing hammer I recently retired. After years of riding around in my tool pouch, its hickory handle was worn partway through, the wood abraded by constant rubbing on my leather bags. Dramatic changes can occur incrementally, going unnoticed. The lesson is that sometimes it takes a focused effort to see great change over a given period of time.
No industry has seen as much change over time as the cordless power tool manufacturers. No tool has changed or improved more than the humble cordless drill/driver. Recently, as I was getting ready to test the new Makita GT200D 40V Max XGT Brushless Drill/Driver Kit, I took a minute to compare the included GPH01 40V Cordless Hammer Drill/Driver and my own personal early ’90s Makita 6041D 4.8V Cordless Drill. Wow! It’s hard to believe that both these tools were designed by Makita and intended to perform the same tasks: drilling and driving.
Look a bit closer and you see changes everywhere. Clunky, energy sparse Nickel Cadmium batteries have given way to energy dense Lithium Ion Polymer batteries with 10 times the voltage and half the weight (4.8 volts versus 40 volts). More power equals more speed. The maximum of 450 RPM from my 6041D pales in comparison to 2600 RPM for the GPH01, along with the capacity to drill into wood, masonry and metal.
Cordless tool technology has evolved exponentially over the course of my career. Spurred by improvements in battery chemistry, new cells
are able to achieve greater power density, while advances in motor technology has resulted in new, powerful and hyper-efficient brushless electric motors. This combination of advancements has resulted in the development of hundreds of tools that would have been unimaginable previously. It is safe to say that the GPH01 is orders of magnitude better than the 6041D.
Now, let’s take a closer look at the GT200D.
XGT, LXT, LXT X2, DIY, LOL...
One thing’s for sure, the acronym is king when it comes to cordless tool marketing. Makita seems to be leading the way. The company introduced its current high-performance 18-volt tool ecosystem in 2005. Still in use today, the 18V LXT platform now powers more cordless tools than any other. As of today’s date, there are in excess of 275 individual tools powered with the LXT battery. So if one battery is good, two batteries should be twice as good. That was the ideology that developed the LXT X2 platform. Launching a line of 36-volt tools driven by two 18-volt LXT batteries.
The 18V LXT X2 was touted as the answer to the “cordless jobsite” of the future. Turns out, it was not. Sadly, the addition of a second battery provided only a modest performance improvement and a huge weight penalty. This increased weight had a huge negative impact on tool balance. The LXT X2 tools were expensive, bulky, overweight and awkward during use. After some initial hype, the platform foundered, before slipping into relative obscurity.
Then in 2020 Makita announced the launch of an entirely new discrete battery ecosystem and the 40V XGT Battery Platform was born. Roughly
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equal in size and weight, both the 40V and 18V use the same size, voltage and quantity of individual cells. The final voltage of the assembled battery is then determined by how the cells are wired together. When wired in series, each cell’s voltage is additive to the next, with a summed voltage close to 40 volts = XGT. When wired in parallel, as two banks of five cells each, the pack voltage is 18.5 volts = LXT. Makita decided the two platforms would be independent, discrete systems, each designed for separate, but complementary markets—the LXT for the professional tradesperson/craftsman and the XGT for the extreme-duty, heavy industrial user.
While built out independently, they made the XGT charger capable of charging the LXT batteries as well. Not only will the DC40RA Rapid Optimum Charger charge both 18V LXT and 40V XGT batteries, but it charges them fast. For the included BL 4025 batteries, the charge time is listed at 25 minutes. Ours charged in just over 20 minutes when tested in the field. Ironically, the 18V LXT batteries charge even faster.
Unboxing the GT200D XGT Kit
The kit is comprised of the GPH01 40V Brushless Cordless 1/2” Hammer Drill/Driver and the GDT01 40V Brushless 4-Speed Impact Driver. Also included are two BL4025 XGT 40V, 2.5 Ah, 90Wh XGT Li-ion batteries and the DC40RA 40V XGT Battery Charger with ADP 10 LXT Battery Charge Adapter. Finally, Makita includes a medium sized Cordura nylon “tool bag.” Readers familiar with me know I am not a fan.
It used to be that when you purchased a professional-grade tool, it always came in a high-quality, locking, painted steel case. Inside, it was designed to securely support and protect the tool housed within it. The fitted cradles and foam blocks matched to the tool perfectly. Additionally, there was space provided to securely and safely store accessories for the tool. From there we began to see a similar design but generally blow-molded from polyethylene. These plastic versions of the tool case were less durable with plastic latches and hinges that would fail from use fatigue. They also sealed poorly, allowing water to wick its way in and then get trapped inside of the blow-molded inner and outer cases.
From there, tool manufacturers realized that they needed a cheaper alternative still. So they developed the Cordura bag. Purely a cost-cutting measure, these soft-sided “carriers” are next to worthless. In short order they become a disorganized catch-all, housing a jumbled mess of tools and accessories. Many pros will do what I did—repurpose the bag as a reusable grocery bag (for which it works well) and order the Makita #197211-7 medium-size stacking and latching box plus the Kaizen foam insert for fitting to the tools themselves. The box plus insert will set you back about $62. While not cheap, it really is money well spent. Seems sort of cheap or chintzy to not include this with the tool purchase.
For reasons unbeknownst to me, Makita tools purchased in Australia, New Zealand or Tasmania include the old-school painted steel cases, similar to what I describe above. Just one more good reason to move to Australia or New Zealand.
GPH01 1/2” Brushless Hammer Drill/Driver
The GPH01 Hammer Drill/Driver’s specs are very impressive. Powered by a Makita-built brushless motor, it delivers a maximum torque of 1250 inch-lbs., handily out-powering other driver/ drills in heavy load applications.
It is equipped with a mechanical two-speed (high/low) gearbox and rotating mode selector (drill, drive, hammer) and an electronic torque control set via a thumbwheel and small display at the base of the tool. In low speed mode (1) there are 41 adjustment levels and in high-speed mode (2) there are 21 adjustment levels.
To protect the operator from torque-related injuries (ie., kickback), the tool is equipped with Active Feedback Sensing Technology, forcibly stopping the tool in the event the rotation of the chuck is stalled. An accelerometer senses the chuck stall and electronically brakes the motor, thus preventing a potentially injurious kickback event. In all modes and at all torque levels a silky
smooth variable speed trigger provides the final speed control precisely. The tool is designed to drill up to a 13/16” hole in steel or masonry materials and up to a 6” hole in wood. It will drive a 3/8”x3-1/2” wood screw, and up to a 1/4” machine screw accordingly.
The weight of the tool, battery and auxiliary handle (side grip) is approximately 6 lbs.; it feels like a substantial and heavy duty tool in hand and during use. Right out of the gate, the crew used it to drill 60 countersink recesses, each to a precise depth of 1-1/4”. We followed with 60 1/2”x6” holes in a 30-year-old concrete slab. The GPH01 was then configured for driving 60 1/2”x6” Simpson Titen HD fasteners, snugging the posts securely to the concrete. It performed all of these tasks with no appreciable loss of power or excessive heat from the motor’s cooling vents.
Wanting to push it a little harder, I then chucked up a new Makita 3”self-feeding drill bit and proceeded to auger out another 15 holes, drilling completely through a 4x4 PT DF piece of falloff scrap. I stopped only after running out of 4x4s to drill. The GPH01 was happy to keep going. Afterward, a quick check of the LED battery gauge showed a 50% charge remaining. Swapping the battery out and placing it on the charger, it was topped up to 100% in under 15 minutes. I was particularly impressed with how quickly, cleanly and with the level of authority it produced those enormous 3” holes. Awesome.
GDT01 Brushless Impact Driver
The other tool in the GT200D kit is an equally heavy-duty, industrial unit. The Makita GDT01 40V Impact Driver, featuring a brushless, Makita built motor, is capable of delivering a maximum torque of 1950 inch-lbs., spins 3700 RPM at max speed and 4400 IPM (impacts per minute) for expedient fastener driving. So with the understanding that the LXT and XGT batteries have the same watt/hour output (90 Wh), we were curious about the equivalence in power output.
For comparison, we grabbed the 18V LXT XDT16, which is considered Makita’s LXT series flagship impact driver. Tools and charged batteries in hand, we set out to see how quickly we could drive a series of 12” structural screws into a section of LVL header. The XDT16 drove the structural screws in, with an average time of 8.67 seconds. Next, I grabbed the GDT01. It drove the fasteners in, with an average time of 7.97 seconds. So while both batteries have the same watt/hour output rating, the 40 V XGT GDT01 proved to be faster.
I was still surprised by how closely the two models performed. I guess I’d expected the higher voltage GDT01 to be much faster and more powerful (figuring more voltage = more power). In order to determine the actual torque being produced at the collet, I realized I would have to measure it. In order to check manufacturers published specs vs what the tool was actually producing during typical use. To do this I designed and constructed a digital torque test measurement rig. With it I am able to closely measure true RPM, breakaway torque and maximum sustained torque. Below are the actual test values.
18V LXT XDT16
SPECIFIED MEASURED
Top Speed
3600 RPM 3534 RPM
Impact Rate
3800 IPM ————— Max Torque 1600 in.-lbs. 1577 in.-lbs. Breakaway Torque ————— 3300 in.-lbs.
40V MAX XGT GDT01
SPECIFIED MEASURED
Top Speed Impact Rate
3700 RPM 3622 RPM 3800 IPM ————— Max Torque 1950 in.-lbs. 1812 in.-lbs. Breakaway Torque ————— 4000 in.-lbs.
Final Thoughts
After using both platforms side by side, I’ve come to the following conclusions: The XGT platform is more powerful and considerably more heavy duty, with an industrial robustness—but for the industrial user who is less concerned with weight and willing to trade it for power and durability. The XGT line also has advanced features like kickback protection and advanced internal electronics, providing feedback and communication between the user, battery, tool and charger.
They are notable features for sure, but for a user whose needs more closely mirror my own, the benefits are not compelling enough to switch from LXT to XGT. With just slightly less speed/power, we would choose the LXT series. At this point there just aren’t enough features or performance enhancements to offset the additional weight and expense. The GT200D tool combo is an excellent package for the industrial, extreme-duty user. It has an impressive threeyear warranty on the tools, batteries and charger.
Marv Johnson is the principal of Deck Envy LLC, Gig Harbor, WA. Send comments and suggestions for product reviews to emjaybuilding@mac.
NEW NEW PRODUCTS PRODUCTS
The CAMO ClipDrive is designed for fastening CAMO Universal Deck Clips. The ergonomic, lightweight tool attaches to any drill and allows you to stand comfortably while fastening any type of grooved deck board.
The ClipDRIVE features a heightadjustable handle and weighted nose so you can quickly swing the tool from joist to joist and easily target the exposed screw head. With a simple design and reliable performance, you don’t need an instruction manual to get to work with ClipDRIVE. The heavy-duty contractor-grade tool is simple to put together and comes with a T-15 bit that’s easy to install. [camofasteners.com]
Deckorators has added a new color to its Voyage composite decking line—Sedona.
The color has an attractive vertical-grain variegation and comes in 12’ length in groovededge only, as well as 16’ and 20’ lengths for solid- and grooved-edge.
The hue pairs well with Deckorators’ ALX preassembled railing in textured black. [deckorators.com]
Spyder Products has expanded its line of Tarantula Circular Saw Blades, offering seven new options to tackle a wider variety of tough construction, demolition and specialty cutting jobs.
The new blades include a polycrystalline diamond (PCD) blade that quickly carves through fiber cement board. Spyder’s 6-1/2”, 7-1/4”, 10” and 12” blades have gained additional tooth counts and configurations and an 8-1/4” Tarantula blade is available for the first time. [spyderproducts.com]
Nova USA Wood Products has added South Pacific redwood, also known as manilkara, to its exotic hardwood decking line.
Known for its strength, durability and lustrous dark brown or reddish-brown color tones, manilkara is ideal for beautifying outdoor spaces with decking that will last for decades even under the most dramatic seasonal and climatic weather conditions.
Imported from Southeast Asia, the heavy, strong hardwood offers superior resistance to fungal and insect attacks and a high-density rating of 900—1150 kg/m3 at 12% moisture content. In addition to being kiln-dried to minimize shrinkage and warping, it is Lacey Act approved and comes with a V-Legal Document license.
With a 25-year warranty, it comes in 1x4, 1x6 and 5/4x6 S4SEE boards.
[novausawood.com]
Simpson Strong-Tie has introduced a new bottle opener kit, a 4x lumber gable plate, and a series of gazebo ties to its popular line of Outdoor Accents decorative hardware.
The bottle opener comes as a three-piece kit that installs easily on any wood post, including metal bottle opener, UV-protected composite plastic backplate, and removable catch cup to collect bottle caps.
The Avant 4x steel gable plate provides reinforcement for a connection between a wood beam and three angled wood braces, and has angled braces at 45° for 4x lumber. Also finished with ZMAX galvanization and black powder coat, gazebo ties add strength and rigidity to six-sided gazebo connections. [strongtie.com/outdooraccents]
A new hidden clip and fastener system from Versatex Building Products speeds up and simplifies installation of PVC 3/4” trim profiles, while keeping boards firmly in place even at wind loads in excess of 125 mph.
The VZClip is compatible with Versatex Canvas Series and reversible WP4/Nickel Gap trimboards, reducing installation time while ensuring the board is properly secured to the framing member.
The system also eliminates running fasteners through the face of the board, preserving the smooth curb appeal of unmarred PVC or film-laminated color surfaces. No more nail holes or screw holes to touch up, and no plugs to install. [versatex.com]
Benjamin Obdyke has completely redesigned its Batten UV furring strips with improved compression resistance well-suited to open-joint cladding systems.
The new Batten UV strips are designed to maintain a 3/8” space even with the screw-fastening required for composite decking, which is often used to create trendy open-joint cladding systems. The compression resistance mimics that of a wood furring strip, but with the added benefits of air flow and moisture resistance.
Deck Railing Panels from Fence Quarter offer a beautiful, easy-to-install solution for homes of all sizes and styles.
Their patent-pending Fail Not hardware system reportedly produces the strongest insert on the market, exceeding building code requirements by over 11 times. It is made using carbon fiber and designed to withstand temperatures in excess of 120°F. Once installed, the only component of the system that can be seen are the stainless-steel security screws. [fencequarter.com]
ai158344394969_SplitStop_3.25x4.875_Comp.pdf 1 3/5/20 3:32 PM [benjaminobdyke.com]
Crescent Tools is introducing 18 new members to its lineup of industrial plyers: eight VDE insulated pliers, four mini pliers, three plastic-cutting pliers, two long-nose pliers and a wire stripper.
The new VDE Insulated Pliers include lineman’s (available in 6”, 7”, and 8” options), longnose (6” and 8”), diagonal (6” and 7”), and a 7” insulated wire stripper. Each is designed for use in high-voltage areas with protection up to 1,000 volts, VDE certified and built to meet IEC/EN standards.
Laser-hardened cutting edges provide precise cutting capability and the durability needed to do it over and over. Ergonomic anti-slip handles make for comfortable use while providing increased grip strength. [crescenttool.com]
DeWalt’s new 60V MAX Brushless Cordless 7” FlexVolt Grinder with Kickback Brake and Brushless 3” cut off tool is designed to power through heavy-duty grinding jobs with ease.
The grinder delivers 30% more torque than the 60V MAX FlexVolt Grinder and up to 2,300 max watts output. [dewalt.com]
TimberTech has announced a new lineup of products that will be available in January. The offerings include two on-trend composite deck-board colors, French White Oak and Dark Cocoa, and a hidden fastener system to reduce installation time.
The Landmark Collection–part of the TimberTech high performance capped polymer decking line–uses innovative technology to mimic the look of natural, reclaimed wood without harming the environment. New to the collection is French White Oak, a unique, lighttone board with subtly blended shades of natural oak, warm gray, and tannin. Softer tones have become a sought-after trend in indoor flooring, and French White Oak seamlessly extends those trends to the outdoor living space. [timbertech.com]
Milwaukee M12 Cable Stapler is designed to consistently sink the Milwaukee 1” Insulated Staples to the depth electricians need when fastening NM-B cable in stick-framed wiring.
The tool delivers unmatched stapling performance in the most compact battery-powered solution leading to a faster, more efficient roughin process.
Its compact, lightweight design provides users with access to tight stud bays and improved ergonomics when stapling overhead or during difficult-to-reach situations. Movable cable guides ensure proper alignment, and the coilspring mechanism consistently sinks the staples to the appropriate depth. [milwaukeetool.com]
Werner’s LeanSafe X5 fully integrated, 5-in-1, multi-position ladder is ideal for professionals who require flexibility, stability and durability.
It features a one-handed lock adjustment for seamless transitions through all five ladder positions: step ladder, stairway ladder, leaning ladder, twin ladder, and extension ladder. At 6 ft. tall—with a maximum reach height of 14 ft.—it’s easy to store and transport.
A magnetic tool bin holds tools, parts and paint trays for easy access and is safe to lean on flat walls, corners and studs. The fiberglass model supports 375 lbs. and the aluminum model supports 300 lbs. [wernerco.com/leansafe]
The Brass Knuckle Red Warrior SmartFlex gloves provide excellent, spongelike slip resistance with a proprietary polyurethane foam coating process. Plus, they’re 20% thinner than comparable 15-gauge coated gloves, yet thick on comfort and flexibility.
Red Warrior gets its eye-catching red color from a seamless nylon knit material for maximum flex and tactile sensitivity, with an uncoated back and wrist that helps improve ventilation. The seamless and stretchable full knit wrist provides a snug fit and prevents dirt, debris, and cold from getting inside the glove.
The softer feeling, high-quality polyurethane coating covers full fingers and palm in black, in contrast to the red knit, creating a cool-looking glove that workers will want to wear.
The gloves deliver excellent grip without being sticky and even perform against oils, fats, and greases, making them an ideal choice for both dry and light-oil applications. Polyurethane coatings improve tactile sensitivity, slip resistance, and breathability. [brassknuckleprotection.com]
PREMIUM DECKING line from Europe is about to make its debut in the U.S.
Unique British Decking Coming to US
Outlive LLC, St. Paul, MN., has been named as authorized distributor in the U.S. by the premium British decking manufacturer Millboard, to introduce its unique line of materials in the States.
Every piece of Millboard is molded, with molds formed from real timber giving a finish virtually indistinguishable from real wood. It contains a high-performance resin mineral core with added fiberglass, a material widely recognized for its strength and durability across many industries.
The boards are unlike real wood or composite equivalents, eliminating the inevitable rotting, warping and deterioration of alternative materials. The material requires simple maintenance, is extremely slip resistant with a high grip surface even when wet, and is engineered to resist stains from food, drink, and moisture.
LSI Rebrands as Arxada
Specialty chemicals company LSI has rebranded as Arxada, effective Oct. 21. The new name follows the firm’s recent launch as an independent business, after the completion of Lonza Group’s sale of Lonza Specialty Ingredients.
The re-brand reflects the company’s passion for delivering high performance and realizing potential, both for its customers and within its own operations.
The name Arxada derives from arx and arcis, Latin for citadel and fortress. Just as a citadel protects, Arxada’s solutions strengthen the performance of its customers and their products, and protect people, places and the planet.
AZEK Decking Wins Sustainability Award
The Vinyl Sustainability Council presented its inaugural 2021 Design for Reuse Award to TimberTech AZEK Landmark Collection decking.
“TimberTech AZEK’s new Landmark Collection decking was designed with recycling at end of life in mind,” said Jay Thomas, executive director of the council. “This is a perfect example of design for reuse that is necessary to increase the recycling rate of vinyl building products.”
The award recognizes vinyl products purposely designed for disassembly, recycling or reuse at the product’s end of life.
NADRA Sets Celebration
The North American Deck & Railing Association will honor outstanding successes in the industry at an industry awards presentation March 24-25 in Clearwater Beach, FL.
Tickets include entry to the awards dinner, networking event, and farewell luncheon.
Key-Link Dreams Up Railing Visualizer
Aluminum railing manufacturer Key-Link Fencing & Railing is utilizing Chameleon Power’s visualization platform to help customers with outdoor railing design. The platform provides a photo-realistic view of the Key-Link railing products within actual outdoor scenes, assisting users with type and color decisions. In a few clicks, consumers, contractors, and distributors can select and view Key-Link railings within selected scenes. “We knew that strong visuals were incredibly powerful, even before the pandemic. Now they are even more important. With the focus on outdoor living space or connecting with nature, the visualizer lets people dream about and see how their space can be,” said Heather Bowman, director of marketing. Key-Link noticed a strong trend of homeowners wanting hands-on participation in deck design, and wanted to give them the ability to visualize what unique railing could add to their outdoor living area. “When homeowners see how Key-Link railing can enhance a space, they are going to reach out to their contractor or dealer and ask for this product specifically,” said Bowman. “That makes the visualizer a tool that benefits our entire channel.” The solution is a new Chameleon visualizer that makes it easy to envision KeyLink railings as part of an outdoor living space.
The new technology also takes the experience a step further with a unique feature to independently change the scenic background. Now users can select a scene and railings, and then switch the background to options like a beach or a landscape to best reflect the project environment.
NEW VISUALIZER provides a photo-realistic view of Key-Link railings within actual outdoor settings.
Careybrospros.com Podcast
A podcast for pros with advice from professionals on marketing, business and products to improve the bottom line. Spotlighting interesting guests that will help you bring it all together.
Southwest Pool & Spa Show
When: Jan. 19-22 Where: Henry B. Gonzalez Convention Center, San
Antonio, TX. What: The 2022 Southwest Pool & Spa Show will showcase a growing exhibit hall as well as an expanded schedule of industry certifications and educational classes for all aspects of your business and for every level of your team from the owner to the techs. More info: swpsshow.com
International Builders Show
When: Feb. 8-10 Where: Orange County Convention Center, Orlando,
FL. What: The NAHB International Builders’ Show (IBS)—the premier, once-a-year event that connects, educates and improves the residential construction industry—is a hub for new product launches, construction demos, industry thought leader sessions, workshops, panel discussions, and more. More info: buildersshow.com
Home & Outdoor Living Spring Show
When: Feb. 11-13 Where: Grand Park Events Center, Westfield, IN. What: Show that aims to connect area homeowners with home improvement businesses. More info: suburbanindyshows.com
Mid-Atlantic Home & Outdoor Living Show
When: Feb. 12-13 Where: Virginia Beach Convention Center, Virginia
Beach, VA. What: At the Coastal Virginia Building Industry
Association’s 37th annual, pros and suppliers will showcase the latest in style, technology and decor to refresh homes and outdoor living spaces. More info: suburbanindyshows.com
FenceTech
When: Feb. 15-18 Where: Ernest N. Morial Convention Center, New
Orleans, LA. What: FenceTech is back! This year’s American
Fence Association expo will again feature an outdoor-living-focused DeckTech Pavilion. More info: americanfenceassociation.com
Buildex
When: Feb. 16-17 Where: Vancouver Convention Centre West,
Vancouver, B.C. What: Forum connecting decision-makers from all levels and regions of the building industry. More info: buildexvancouver.com
The OKC Home + Outdoor Living Show
When: March 25-27 Where: OKC Fairgrounds, Oklahoma City, OK. What: Thousands of homeowners will spend three days meeting with 265 exhibitors and experts to discuss their projects. More info: homeshowokc.com
North American Deck & Railing Association – Awards Dinner & Networking Event
When: March 25-26 Where: Sheraton Sand Key Resort, Clearwater
Beach, FL. What: NADRA will honor the year’s best decks at a prestigious awards presenation. Other activities include workshops, 2nd annual Beach Olympics, and farewell luncheon on the beach. More info: nadra.org
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29 526 Events www.526.events
Absolute Distribution Inc. www.absolutedist.com
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Cover IV Atlantis Rail Systems www.atlantisrail.com
Arxada Wood Protection www.wolmanizedwood.com
Avon Plastics www.armadillodeck.com
Cover III
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60 Coastal Forest Products www.ironwoods.com
DESIGNED FOR BEAUTY, MADE FOR LIFE.
Deck Specialist www.deck-specialist.com
Deck2WallARMADILLODECK.COM
www.deck2wallspacer.com
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25 Deckorators www.deckorators.com
DeckWise www.deckwise.com
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41 Digger Specialties www.diggerspecialties.com
FastenMaster www.fastenmaster.com
FootingPad www.footingpad.com
Great Southern Wood www.yellawood.com
Humboldt Sawmill www.mendoco.com
Cover III
49 Iron Woods www.ironwoods.com
MFM Building Products Corp. www.mfmbp.com 37
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50 MOSO North America www.moso-bamboo.com
Nichigo G-Tape www.gtape.com
On the House Media www.onthehousemedia.com
Cover II-3 Pacific Woodtech Corp. www.pacificwoodtech.com
9 RailFX www.railfx.net
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11 Sakrete www.sakrete.com
Simpson Strong Tie www.strongtie.com
SpecRail www.specrail.com
Titan Metal Werks www.splitstop.com
TIVA Building Products www.tivabp.com
Wahoo Decks www.wahoodecks.com
Woodbrid www.woodbrid.com
13 Yellawood www.yellawood.com
Welcome Aboard!
Deck Specialist is excited to introduce readers to first-time advertiser Woodbrid, supplier of innovative hybrid composite decking, railings and siding. See their ad on page 11, and keep them in mind when you are looking for such products!
LA Paradise
Being in show business, fashion photographer Robert Deutschman and his wife, film designer/stylist Sybile Kohn-Deutschmanhad, immediately recognized that their newly purchased ranch had beautiful natural light and the makings of a great film location. If perfected, they might be able to rent the property out to film and television productions.
The Rum Punch House is a 5,000-sq. ft., ranch-style, two-story property on a half-acre in Woodland Hills, CA. The new owners wanted a unique, stylish deck that reflected a strong Caribbean aesthetic and paired well with the vibrant colors. But the journey to a successful build would be an uphill battle.
The homeowners had a very specific layout they wanted to adhere to and the existing pool that came with the property was cracked and damaged. This presented a major challenge.
The owners had to do a total repair to the outdoor area by pushing out one end of the pool, adding coping, and resurfacing it a dark blue to give it a pond-like feel.
They then wanted to wrap a 600-sq. ft. deck around the pool. The idea to use Kebony modified wood as paths around the pool came from the beautifully aged dove-grey boardwalks in the dunes of the East Coast; inspiration for the deck hanging over the pool came from a hotel in Greece.
The couple also wanted to add two buildings outside: the smaller colorful building is a prayer and meditation room, and the pool house is an amalgamation of all their favorite Caribbean beach bars.
UPPER: Two additional buildings outside reflect the couple’s hobbies and interests. One building is a prayer and meditation room, and the pool house is an amalgamation of their favorite Caribbean beach bars.
MIDDLE: The deck is designed to reflect the owners’ strong Caribbean aesthetic and pairs well with its vibrant colors.
LOWER: To accommodate the build, one end of the pool was pushed out and the entire pool was resurfaced to a dark blue to give it a pond-like feel. Submit photos of your latest and greatest project to sornelas@ 526mediagroup.com
151 Kalmus Dr. Ste. E200 Costa Mesa, CA 92626-5959
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