Dr Decks: Live Q & A

Meet Dr. Decks: Jason Russell’s Journey in the Deck Building Industry

Dr. Decks has an incredible reputation for sharing real-world insights and practical tips that will improve your deck-building game. Whether you’re looking for business strategies, tech tips, or just some honest, builder-to-builder conversations, you’ll want to tune in.

In this special episode of the We Love Deck Builders Podcast, we’re joined by Jason Russell, better known as Dr. Decks. He is the founder of Dr. Decks, a brand that’s become synonymous with pushing boundaries and offering hands-on, practical advice. Jason has been a key influencer in the deck building industry for years, known for his innovative approach to deck design and his commitment to educating others. His expertise has shaped the way many builders approach deck building, bending decking, and even running their businesses.

Building the Dr. Decks Brand

The Dr. Decks brand grew organically out of Jason’s obsession with bending deck boards and finding creative solutions to common deck building challenges. What started as a passion project quickly gained traction when Jason started sharing his results and experiences. Soon, his content spread across the industry, and what he once did as a personal challenge became a valuable resource for other builders.

Jason’s commitment to innovation didn’t stop with his technical abilities. He’s been an advocate for educating others and creating a community of deck builders who can learn from each other’s mistakes and successes. Whether it’s teaching new techniques or offering tips on running a successful deck building business, Jason’s content has become a go-to resource for builders everywhere.

Overcoming the Challenges: Deck Building in Washington

Building decks in Washington presents its own unique set of challenges, especially when it comes to dealing with the weather. Jason shares how the constant rain and wet conditions can make working in the Pacific Northwest both challenging and frustrating. It’s not just about protecting tools and materials; it’s about staying mentally strong and motivated to keep going when the weather doesn’t cooperate.

On top of the weather, Jason discusses the permitting challenges that deck builders face in Washington state. With so many different jurisdictions and requirements, getting the proper permits for a deck project can be a daunting task. Jason shares his own struggles with getting permits approved, especially when dealing with complex sites and the need for specialized surveys and testing.

Building and Innovating: Deck Building in the Modern Era

Jason’s passion for innovation extends to every part of his deck-building process. From building custom bending jigs to experimenting with new materials, Jason has always been at the forefront of change in the industry. He shares how his creativity has led to breakthroughs in deck design, particularly in bending composite materials, and how he’s influenced the industry with his innovative approaches.

But innovation isn’t just about creating something new—it’s about making it accessible and practical for other builders to use. Jason talks about how he built his own bending oven and developed techniques to make composite materials more flexible and easier to work with. He wasn’t just looking to push the boundaries for himself; he wanted to create something that could help other deck builders do the same.

The Importance of Transparency and Learning from Mistakes

One of the core principles of Dr. Decks is transparency. Jason believes that by sharing both successes and failures, he can help other builders learn and grow. He often talks about his own mistakes, from burning materials while experimenting with bending techniques to not having the proper tools and equipment at the start of his journey. But rather than hiding these failures, Jason openly shares them with his audience so they can learn from his experiences.

He also stresses the importance of continuing to learn and adapt. In an industry that’s always evolving, it’s crucial to stay on top of new trends, techniques, and tools. Jason encourages builders to always look for ways to improve and not be afraid to try new things, even if it means making mistakes along the way.

Building a Strong Team and Business Culture

Jason’s business success goes beyond his technical skills—it’s also about building a strong team and creating a business culture that supports growth. He talks about how his wife, Kiki, has played a crucial role in the business, handling the administrative side and ensuring that everything runs smoothly. Without her support, Jason admits, the business would not be as successful as it is today.

Jason also emphasizes the importance of collaboration and support within the deck building community. He shares how he has learned from other builders and how his willingness to help others has strengthened his relationships in the industry. By being open to learning and sharing knowledge, Jason has built a strong network of like-minded professionals who are all striving to improve their craft.

Advice for Aspiring Deck Builders

Jason’s advice to aspiring deck builders is simple: be persistent, stay true to your vision, and never stop learning. He stresses that the road to success is rarely smooth, but if you keep pushing forward and remain committed to your goals, you will eventually find success. And, most importantly, don’t be afraid to make mistakes along the way.

The deck building industry is full of opportunities for innovation and growth, and Jason believes that by embracing new technologies and staying ahead of the curve, deck builders can continue to thrive. His passion for the craft and dedication to helping others succeed make him a true leader in the industry.

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