As all home builders and general contractors know, product innovations, design trends, and the demand for longer-lasting, high-performance materials often shape the material decisions in modern home construction. Across all product categories, manufacturers regularly develop new products, iterate on existing collections, and focus on higher-durability products with new features, installation improvements, and more. This constant innovation feels especially visible in the outdoor living category.
Talbert Building Supply has long supported outdoor living spaces, investing heavily in product stock, showrooms, and category experts to ensure that customers can make the best product and design decisions for their projects. In this blog, we discuss a few of the biggest trends for 2026, introduce you to our Outdoor Living team, and discuss what they see as the biggest products and innovations in the category.
Bringing Indoor Comfort Outdoors
As outdoor spaces continue to evolve, homeowners are increasingly seeking to create spaces they can spend more time in year-round. Many are no longer satisfied with a basic deck and a grill and want fully realized living spaces that can be enjoyed comfortably throughout more of the year. This means fireplaces in winter and pergolas or screened porch systems for shade and protection in the summer. It could also mean designing a dedicated outdoor kitchen or bar area, one of the fastest-growing segments in the category. Grills, pizza ovens, and cabinetry are being combined into a cohesive designated cooking area.
These outdoor spaces are also no longer just for meal prep. With upgraded furniture and connections for TVs and audio systems, the outdoor kitchen also becomes a place to relax and hang out.
In regions like North Carolina and Southern Virginia, where spring and fall offer long stretches of comfortable weather, extending the usability of outdoor space simply makes sense.
Low-Maintenance, Longevity, and Sustainability
This is where product innovation has increased dramatically. Talbert partners such as Trex, Decorators, Fiberon, and TimberTech, among others, continually introduce high-performance, low-maintenance decking and railing systems that enhance the longevity of the construction. Composite PVC decking resists rot and fading, doesn’t require staining, and stays cooler underfoot during the hotter months. While treated wood is a cheaper entry point, the value PVC decking delivers is often higher and requires less maintenance.
It’s not limited to the deck surface either. With products like TimberTech’s Aluminum Frame providing the foundation for decks, the space gains even more strength and longevity. Made from recycled aluminum, it exceeds the durability of comparable wood sizes and provides the warranty you’d expect. These are the types of innovative products, both visible and behind the scenes, that attract customers because they enable them to build longer-lasting systems and maintain a great-looking deck for decades.
Better Lighting
With technology for smarter indoor lighting systems proven over the past decade, the natural next step is to develop systems for outdoor living spaces. Built on apps or voice-controlled devices, these systems enable outdoor parties, family gatherings, or quiet nights of reading to continue after sunset. Talbert Building Supply’s key partner in these versatile technologies is in-lite – a brand with a well-engineered collection of outdoor lighting that can be integrated seamlessly into any new deck or remodel. Layered lighting, including recessed lights, wall fixtures, path lighting, and more, helps define spaces while improving safety and usability at night. User-friendly lighting makes the outdoor area feel less like a separate space and more like an extension of your home. You can view some of in-lite’s offerings at our Durham Showroom.
The Team
Mike Miller, Talbert Building Supply's Director of Outdoor Living, brings more than 20 years of industry experience to every project. His background provides deep insight into the products and key considerations when developing a deck, patio, or any outdoor space. “We’re here to provide design services to homeowners who might not really know what they want. Many customers are working with existing decks and want an upgrade,” says Mike. “We try to make that process easier for everyone involved.”
Justin Cox is our specialist based in Durham, serving much of the Triangle. He’ll work with contractors and professionals, or with a DIYer who is comfortable doing the work themselves. “My job is to be a resource you can actually rely on, not just someone selling materials”, Justin says. “From product knowledge and accurate takeoffs to hands-on support, we help contractors and confident DIYers avoid costly mistakes and wasted time.”
Matt Wise is the latest addition to the Talbert team and works with the same homeowners and contractors in and around the Triad. His 12 years of industry experience as a deck builder give him insight into how often people underestimate what outdoor living spaces can truly be. “Outdoor living is more than just decks and rails,” he explains. From pavers and stone fireplaces to full outdoor kitchens and pergolas, Matt helps customers think beyond the basics. He’s very familiar with the common pitfalls homeowners and contractors often encounter when planning a backyard project. “The right materials matter, but the plan matters more”.
Working with Talbert
If your outdoor area needs a full transformation or just a few smart upgrades, Talbert can help. With extensive showrooms across the region and a team eager to support both established builders and walk-in homeowners, it’s never been easier to create great outdoor spaces.
“We have collections of quality products on display and the specialists to help select the material best suited for the project”, says Mike.
Talbert’s customer service is hands-on, and our outdoor living team will guide you through every step, from design to accurate takeoffs and ongoing support. “Talbert will help customers understand what’s available, and educate them on the products, and walk through the pros, cons, and pricing options,” Mike explains.
From there, we will work from design drawings that customers have or do a home visit and help with measurements. “You can take home samples and pick which one you want in the comfort of your home, too,” continues Mike.
Contractors also love working with Talbert, and our team will help with plans and material takeoffs at no extra charge. “We want to support contractors because they already wear a lot of hats,” Mike explains.
And if you want to explore the latest trends, meet manufacturers, and see new products up close, join us at Talbert’s Outdoor Living & Deck Expo on April 22, 2026 in Greensboro. With 60+ vendors, expert insights, discounts, plus food and beverages, it’s a great opportunity to kickstart your next outdoor project. Learn more here.
To view some of the outdoor living products we offer, visit our product page. For more ideas and inspiration, come visit one of our locations. We can’t wait to assist you with your outdoor living project — contact us today to get started!