As the outdoor construction industry evolves, it鈥檚 time to rethink how to enhance aesthetic appeal while prioritizing durability and sustainability. , a family-owned deck builder and material supplier, leads this charge in St. Louis County. With over 30 years of experience, they have established a strong reputation for quality craftsmanship and customer satisfaction. For owner Patrick Leahy, the most significant decision the company has made is to focus on building with and supplying materials that not only enhance functionality but also promote long-term sustainability.
鈥淎s professionals, we need to recognize the importance of our material choices, not just for their immediate benefits but for their long-term performance,鈥� Leahy explained. 鈥淲e design and create the best outdoor spaces using the best materials because we care about the finished project now and decades into the future.鈥�
Traditionally, wood has been the go-to material for crafting decks. However, as awareness of its limitations鈥攕uch as susceptibility to decay and pest infestations鈥攇rows, more homeowners seek innovative alternatives that offer a sense of security. Steel framing has emerged as a solution that combines strength, longevity, and low maintenance, revolutionizing outdoor living spaces and providing homeowners with a durable and secure investment.
Leahy鈥檚 transformation began over a decade ago when he integrated steel framing into his own deck renovation project. 鈥淓xperiencing firsthand the ease of construction, exceptional durability, and superb steel performance was a revelation,鈥� Leahy said. 鈥淎fter spending over two decades using conventional building methods reliant on wood, steel was a game changer.鈥�
A particularly eye-opening phase in Leahy鈥檚 career involved navigating a series of warranty claims stemming from failures of treated lumber projects. This rude awakening led him to a firm conclusion: steel was not merely a viable alternative; it represented the future of his company. 鈥淭hese experiences underscored the limitations of wood framing, particularly with today鈥檚 subpar treated lumber,鈥� Leahy remembered. 鈥淎s the next generation of builders, including my son, enters this field, we must establish new standards.鈥�
Sourcing steel deck framing products from was a turning point. 鈥淭heir commitment to innovation and quality has revitalized our approach,鈥� Leahy said. 鈥淣ew Castle has completely transformed how we envision and construct outdoor living spaces that are not just functional but also monumental in their longevity and strength.鈥� This collaboration has enhanced Outdoor Living鈥檚 distribution capabilities and empowered them to better inform and educate customers about the advantages of offering steel to their clients.
Homeowners are no longer asking Leahy for traditional decks; they are inquiring about the benefits of steel, particularly its resilience against harsh weather and the lower maintenance it offers compared to wood. 鈥淭he increase in demand for steel framing has been remarkable,鈥� Leahy says. 鈥淭he word is out that treated lumber is not the quality or consistency it once was. A 2脳4 from 60 years ago would have had 60 growth rings; today, that same product may only have five or ten growth rings.鈥� While treated lumber and other decking systems may appear sturdy, Leahy trusts New Castle Steel to stand the test of time without risks of shifting, splitting, warping, rotting, or rusting.
By switching to New Castle Steel framing, Outdoor Living and its customers benefit from faster construction timelines, increased precision, and stable structural integrity, all while ensuring cost-effective outcomes and client satisfaction. 鈥淎s the construction industry continues to evolve, New Castle Steel has elevated our offering and capabilities,鈥� Leahy said. 鈥淲hile lumber can be difficult to bend correctly without compromising quality, a steel-framed deck is much easier to design to fit all our client needs and lifestyles.鈥� New Castle Steel鈥檚 superior strength allows for longer spans and greater versatility in creating innovative and multi-functional outdoor spaces that combine relaxation, entertainment, and practical functionality.
In the ever-changing construction landscape, finding ways to stay ahead of the competition while maximizing profits is essential. For dealers considering investing in alternative framing solutions like New Castle Steel, Leahy has one key piece of advice: do your homework. 鈥淯nderstanding the products you鈥檙e offering is crucial,鈥� he explained. 鈥淓xamine the specifics鈥攁nalyze how long the product has been on the market, evaluate its workability, and, most importantly, learn the installation process.鈥� By opting for a steel frame, dealers can also enhance their reputation. A well-installed steel frame not only benefits the dealer鈥檚 reputation but also provides significant advantages to customers, especially when paired with the right products on top of it.
The shift towards steel framing in outdoor construction is not just a trend; it鈥檚 a fundamental change driven by the need for enhanced durability, sustainability, and aesthetic appeal. By prioritizing quality and innovation, suppliers like Patrick Leahy and Outdoor Living, Inc. can stay ahead of the curve, providing functional outdoor areas with lasting value.
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