Deckorators, UFP Industries: 2026 report shows porch-first shift and fire‑resistant decking innovations

Deckorators’ 2026 report signals a porch-first shift

Porch Renaissance Shapes Deckorators' Product and Market Focus

Deckorators, the outdoor decking and railing division of UFP Industries, releases a 2026 Outdoor Living Report that documents a pronounced move from backyard-only projects toward front-of-home outdoor spaces such as porches and entryways. Drawing on contractor interviews, industry research and market analysis, the report says homeowners increasingly prioritize areas that are visible from the street for everyday use, curb appeal and long-term home value, a trend the company frames as both emotional and practical.

The report identifies design and functionality shifts shaping product demand, including darker, high-contrast palettes replacing millennial gray, multi-zone layouts for dining, relaxing and wellness, pet-conscious decking and personalized waterfront features. Contractors and homeowners are reported to align on features that blend style with practicality — low maintenance, safety and durability — making conspicuous outdoor spaces a central consideration in renovation and new-build decisions.

Responding to these trends, Deckorators expands its product portfolio and marketing emphasis to support visible, daily-use outdoor areas that offer measurable benefits. The company highlights product innovations intended to address homeowner concerns about fire performance, longevity and maintenance while enabling contemporary aesthetics and multi-use layouts. South Fork Decking owner Randy Steyert says homeowner demand for durable, attractive outdoor investments is strong and confirms Deckorators products are instrumental in delivering long-lasting, high-quality results.

Product upgrades underline safety and ease of ownership

Deckorators introduces Altitude composite decking in three colors with a Class B flame-spread rating, upgrades Vista decking with a fire‑resistant core now rated Class B, and adds a new Shoreline color to the Venture decking line. The firm positions these enhancements as responses to homeowner and contractor emphasis on fire performance and low-maintenance materials that protect investment and reduce lifecycle costs.

Contractor and marketing perspectives reinforce the trend

Michelle Hendricks, Deckorators’ director of marketing, says the annual forecast spotlights how visible, front-facing outdoor spaces provide emotional benefits and practical returns. The report, based on nationwide contractor input and market analysis, frames Deckorators’ product and service moves as aligning industry supply with evolving homeowner priorities.