The Ultimate Deck Podcast

Deck vs. Patio: Which Is Right for Your Backyard?

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.

Board Spacing 101: Perfect Gaps for Every Deck Material

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.

Joist Spacing & Sizing: What You Need for a Solid Deck

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.

Dry Below: The Best Deck Drainage Solutions for 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.

Top 5 Questions Homeowners Ask When They Are Building a New Deck

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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Deck Busines Slow? 10 Marketing Tips to Help Pick It Up

2024 has been a funny year. I mean, they've all been funny since Covid. But now we are dealing with economic pressures, and many contractors are saying it's tough going out there. So how can you rise above and find those jobs? Here are 10 tips that should get the ball rolling.
 
Find more The Ultimate Deck Shop - Backyard Building Centre:
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https://www.tiktok.com/@theultimatedeckshop
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Scot Scheffield and Korey Welterlich from Fortress Building Products

Our good friends Scot Scheffield and Korey Welterlich from Fortress Building Products are in town - so let's do a podcast! I'd like to say this episode is full of value, but really it's just full of four friends talking about whatever comes to mind. Enjoy.
 
Find more The Ultimate Deck Shop - Backyard Building Centre:
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https://www.youtube.com/theultimatedeckshop
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Avoid BAD Deck Stains. Use This Instead

Everyone has a bad deck stain story. The fact is, the market is full of BAD products - AND... good products in bad markets. Listen up to hear what we think is the best TYPE of deck stain to use... and a pretty passionate endorsement of one of our favs.
 
Find more The Ultimate Deck Shop - Backyard Building Centre:
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https://www.youtube.com/theultimatedeckshop
https://instagram.com/theultimatedeckshop
https://www.facebook.com/theultimatedeckshop
https://www.tiktok.com/@theultimatedeckshop
https://twitter.com/theultdeckshop