PR May 2006

Materials such as glass, wire and engineered composite products are winning over traditional wood offerings in railings and balusters. Consumers are interested in the new products with an eye toward durability and design.

Variation in climate and conditions, lot size and zoning restrictions make it difficult to normalize decking trends; however, one driving force in all markets is maintenance.

The same way a thoughtfully chosen frame enhances a work of art, the landscaping that surrounds this spec-built luxury ranch creates a lush, secluded setting for this Wallace Neff-inspired beauty in Irvine, Calif.

The stay-at-home trend coupled with the home-improvement boom continues to bode well for contractors who specialize in deck building and outdoor living areas. One way to operate the most profitable business possible is to implement highly efficient systems.

Harvard's Joint Center for Housing Studies says the estimated recent growth of homeowner remodeling spending has eased substantially but still remains near its long-term rate of 5 percent.

  Lasco Bathware       Lasco Bathware has partnered with the Los Angeles design firm Blue Design to develop five contemporary baths for its new…

Products being used for today's decks are featured.

As America's population ages, especially the large baby boomer generation, the opportunities for remodeling projects suited to their changing needs grows. Contributing Editor Tom Swartz asks two industry professionals their opinion on how to make the most of the growing market.

The most successful people I know in business and life are continuously learning. As leaders, when any of us stops learning and growing, so will our business.

Professional Remodeler Editor in Chief Michael Morris responds to important questions received from readers.