Building a deck has been a popular way to enhance outdoor living spaces and provide a gathering area for family and friends. In recent years, the decking industry has witnessed a surge in innovative materials and technologies to improve the durability, safety, and sustainability of decks. Among these advancements, Owens Corning Lumber for Deck Framing, Perma-Column, and FootingPads have emerged as new products we are excited to now offer. In this article, we will delve into these new innovations and explore how they can transform the deck-building process.

Owens Corning Lumber for Deck Framing: The Future of Wood

Traditionally, decks have been constructed using standard lumber, but Owens Corning has introduced a deck framing product that is a rotproof, rustproof composite alternative to traditional wood and steel. It is designed to install like lumber, but it delivers unmatched durability and longevity.

One of the standout features of Owens Corning (OC) Lumber is its resistance to common issues that become problems with traditional wood decks, such as rot, insect infestations, and splintering. This innovative material is highly resistant to moisture, making it a better choice for outdoor applications where exposure to rain and humidity is inevitable.

The installation process for OC Lumber is similar to traditional wood, allowing contractors to seamlessly transition to this new product. Additionally, the composite material reduces the need for regular maintenance, such as staining and sealing, which can save homeowners both time and money in the long run.

“We believe OC Lumber could take the same trajectory that composite decking has over the last 20 years of converting wood business to a low maintenance material,” shared Josh Thompson, VP of Product Management. “While there have been steel products available to replace traditional deck framing, unfortunately, those solutions force contractors to learn a new method of installation. With OC Lumber, contractors can install it just like wood framing. For the homeowner, they get a product that will last as long as their composite decking and comes in a prefinished color. This has made it a nice solution early on for other applications such as pergolas.”

Palmer-Donavin currently stocks OC Lumber in black in all available products.

Perma-Column: A Foundation Transformation

The foundation of any deck is crucial for ensuring stability and longevity, and this is where Perma-Column comes into play. Perma-Column offers a game-changing solution to the common problem of wooden post deterioration due to soil moisture and pests. This innovative product replaces traditional wooden posts with precast concrete columns that are specially designed to withstand outdoor environments.

One of the most significant advantages of Perma-Column is its resistance to moisture-related issues. Unlike traditional wooden posts that can rot over time, its concrete construction makes it resistant to moisture, ensuring that the foundation remains strong and stable for years. Additionally, its design incorporates a galvanized steel bracket that provides a secure connection between the column and the beam, reducing the risk of separation over time.

The installation process is relatively straightforward, making it accessible to both professionals and DIY enthusiasts. Its ability to extend the life of a deck’s foundation without compromising on aesthetics or safety is a game-changer in the decking industry.

Josh shared, “Perma-Column offers a contractor a solution of not putting a treated post in the ground. These have done well in post frame construction and now they are working to develop a market for them in deck construction. There is no need for concrete mix (broken bags) or waiting for the concrete to set up. You just set your post and go. We stock 4×4 and 6×6 posts in 30”x40” and 48” lengths depending on your local building code.”

FootingPads: Enhancing Stability

Another key aspect of deck construction is the footings, which provide the necessary support and stability. Traditional footings often involve digging and pouring concrete, which can be labor-intensive and have environmental implications. FootingPads offer an innovative alternative that simplifies the footing installation process.

FootingPads are engineered composite pads that can be placed directly on the ground, eliminating the need for extensive digging and concrete pouring. These pads are designed to evenly distribute the weight of the deck, reducing the risk of sinking or shifting over time. They are lightweight, easy to handle, and allow projects to be completed faster. The installation of FootingPads is relatively straightforward, and work directly with Perma-Columns.

Thompson added, “These are a great solution to put as a base on your posts when you dig your holes for deck framing. These are quickly becoming a popular product. Inspectors love them because they have been code tested in comparison to a concrete cookie that might not have that same information and might be manufactured using different mixes.”

Palmer-Donavin is stocking 10” to 24” with them available in 10”, 12”, 16”, 20”, and 24”. They are also available in both small cartons and pallet bins.

Innovations in the decking industry, such as Owens Corning Lumber for Deck Framing, Perma-Column, and FootingPads, are transforming the way decks are built and enjoyed. These advancements are paving the way for safer, longer lasting, and more environmentally friendly outdoor living spaces. For your next project, consider incorporating these materials and technologies to speed up the building process and create a deck that lasts for years. For questions about any of these products, please contact our team.