The Ultimate Deck Podcast

The Ultimate Deck Podcast is your go-to show for everything backyard building — from decks and railings to patios, pergolas, and fences. Whether you’re a DIY homeowner planning your dream outdoor space or a contractor looking for smarter tools and materials, this podcast delivers expert advice, product insights, and real-world tips to help you build better. Hosted by Shane Chapman from The Ultimate Deck Shop, each episode tackles common questions, new trends, and industry know-how — with zero fluff and lots of practical value.
Episodes
Episodes
4 days ago
4 days ago
Deck building can be more than just a weekend project—it can be an unforgettable family bonding experience. In this episode, Shane and Wade share why bringing your kids into your DIY projects is one of the most powerful things you can do. From passing down skills to building lifelong appreciation, you’ll hear how to keep it fun, productive, and safe.
Visit our site for more deck building products and info: The Ultimate Deck Shop
Friday Jun 27, 2025
Joist Flashing 101: Joist Tape vs Deck Coating
Friday Jun 27, 2025
Friday Jun 27, 2025
In this episode, Shane and Wade dive into the often-overlooked world of joist flashing. Learn how protecting your framing can extend the life of your deck, save on future repairs, and boost long-term performance. We compare flashing tapes and brush-on coatings, explain when to use them, and spotlight two standout products—G-Tape 3040BK and FastenMaster Deck Coating. If you’re a homeowner or contractor debating deck flashing, this is a must-listen.
Shop for G-Tape
Shop for FastenMaster Deck Coating
Shop for Pylex Waterproof Strip
Visit our site for more deck building products and info: The Ultimate Deck Shop
Tuesday Jun 24, 2025
7 Money-Saving Composite Deck Tips
Tuesday Jun 24, 2025
Tuesday Jun 24, 2025
In this solo episode, Shane shares 7 practical tips to build composite decks more efficiently — saving time, money, and materials. Learn how to design with standard board lengths, avoid unnecessary framing, use layout tricks like picture frames and seam boards, and repurpose offcuts for blocking and fascia. Whether you're a homeowner or contractor, these strategies will help you reduce waste and build smarter with composite materials.
Friday Jun 20, 2025
Deck vs. Patio: Which Is Right for Your Backyard?
Friday Jun 20, 2025
Friday Jun 20, 2025
Not sure whether your project calls for a deck or a patio? Shane and Wade break down the key differences between the two; from budget and elevation to style, function, and longevity. They cover which heights make the most sense for each option, when one outperforms the other, and what to consider before you start digging or framing. If you’re planning a backyard transformation, this episode will help you make the right call.
Tuesday Jun 17, 2025
Board Spacing 101: Perfect Gaps for Every Deck Material
Tuesday Jun 17, 2025
Tuesday Jun 17, 2025
How much space should you leave between deck boards? It depends on the material, the climate, and the tools you're using. In this episode, Shane and Wade break down the ideal spacing for pressure-treated lumber, cedar, composite, and PVC boards. They also cover the best tools to get it done right and explain what happens when you get it wrong. Whether you're a DIYer or a seasoned builder, this episode helps you build smarter, one board at a time.
Friday Jun 13, 2025
Joist Spacing & Sizing: What You Need for a Solid Deck
Friday Jun 13, 2025
Friday Jun 13, 2025
Joist spacing might not be sexy, but it’s what keeps your deck from bouncing like a trampoline. In this episode, Shane and Wade break down everything you need to know about joist sizing and spacing: 12" vs 16" on center, when to use 2x8s vs 2x10s, span rules, structural pros and cons, and how it all affects your budget and your build. Whether you're planning your first deck or dialing in your crew's standards, this is a must-listen for getting framing right.
Wednesday Jun 11, 2025
Dry Below: The Best Deck Drainage Solutions for 2025
Wednesday Jun 11, 2025
Wednesday Jun 11, 2025
What’s going on under your deck? In this episode, Shane and Wade dive into the unsung heroes of backyard projects: underdeck and drainage systems. From Trex RainEscape to Haven, ZipUP Ceilings, Dexerdry, and Duradek, they break down the pros, cons, and use-cases for each. Whether you're a homeowner looking to maximize dry space or a contractor avoiding callbacks, this episode is packed with insight to help you build better from the top down.
Monday Sep 09, 2024
Top 5 Questions Homeowners Ask When They Are Building a New Deck
Monday Sep 09, 2024
Monday Sep 09, 2024
Building a new deck can be a stressful experience for a homeowner. There are so many unknowns, and so many questions - so here are the answers to the top 5 questions homeowners ask when they are about to tackle a deck project.
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