The Intersection of Materials and Safety in Outdoor Living

The Intersection of Materials and Safety in Outdoor Living

to take this course
Tuesday, October 28, 2025 Season 1, Episode 6

This course explores how modern material innovations are redefining outdoor living design through improved performance, safety, and sustainability. Participants will examine the shortcomings of traditional framing and decking systems and learn how composite and alternative materials address common structural failures, moisture intrusion, and durability challenges. Through analysis of building codes, real-world case studies, and evolving industry standards, design professionals will gain practical insights to enhance occupant safety, extend system longevity, and achieve more resilient exterior environments.

Learning Objectives: 
  1. Identify the leading causes of structural failure in decks and outdoor living systems and explain how proper material selection and detailing can mitigate those safety risks.
  2. Evaluate the performance, durability, and wellness impacts of traditional versus alternative framing and decking materials in compliance with current codes and standards.
  3. Assess how lifecycle cost, sustainability, and warranty considerations influence long-term design decisions for exterior environments.
  4. Apply lessons from case studies to develop best practices that improve safety, occupant comfort, and environmental resilience in outdoor spaces.
Professions: 
Architecture
Design Category: 
(00) Special Topics
Podcast Host: 

Megan Vipond

Megan Vipond

With a Master’s degree in Architecture, Megan has a unique blend of technical expertise and practical experience. She has a foundation in architectural design and an understanding of both design and construction processes, honed through years of hands-on project coordination and fostering on-site relationships. Currently, as a Specification Consultant, she works closely with architects to introduce innovative new products and navigate the latest advancements in the industry.

Podcast Guest(s): 

Casey Ingle

Casey Ingle

Strategic Innovator, Brand Architect and Creative Instigator. Casey Ingle is a commercial-focused leader determined to change the world and make new happen. After a decade of crafting game-changing strategies for iconic brands ranging from Nike, Carhartt and Cadillac, to Jones Soda and the Olympics, he is now one of the driving forces behind Owens Corning’s Lumber segment with a passion to improve the Contractor experience across building products.

Jason Foura

Since graduating from Bucknell University, Jason has held sales, corporate training and management positions with various building products companies, including Cooper Tools, Pella Windows and Doors, and AZEK Building Products. He joined WOLF in 2010 as a decking product manager and is currently the VP of Market Development overseeing the architectural and down-streaming efforts to the contractor base.

Jeff Surovi

Jeff Surovi

Jeff has been an active member of the building materials supply industry for over 40 years. His background includes two-step distribution and manufacturing, primarily in fenestration. Jeff has been with KEYLINK for 3 years. Jeff is a 30 + year member of the Construction Specifications Institute and is credentialed as both a Certified Construction Products Representative (CCPR) and Construction Documents Technologist (CDT).

Applicable Credits