For over 30 years, the Villandry name has been synonymous with quality craftsmanship. Formerly known as Rick Villandry Remodeling, Villandry Home & Outdoor Living is a family-run business that services southern New Hampshire. At the heart of the business is Rick Villandry Sr. and Rich Jr., a father-son team with a shared passion for doing things right the first time and exceeding client expectations. Together, Rick, Rich and their skilled team have earned a reputation for designing indoor and outdoor living spaces that are built to a higher standard.

When old-school wood deck construction falls short

Like many second- and third-generation craftsmen, Rick and Rich Villandry came up through the trade working with traditional lumber. It is what they knew, what many clients expected, and what has largely been used in deck construction. But over the years, they started seeing problems they could not ignore. After all, Southern New Hampshire's weather can be brutal (freezing winters, hot summers and plenty of precipitation throughout the year). Over time, these conditions can wreak havoc on pressure-treated wood, leading to warped and twisted boards and a completely deteriorated deck frame (moisture being the main culprit).

The material's poor track record in harsh weather conditions, combined with the growing realization that the quality of today's lumber isn't what it used to be, challenged the Villandrys to reconsider their deck framing methods. As a company that takes pride in going above and beyond for its clients and maintaining a legacy of quality craftsmanship, framing with a subpar building material was unacceptable.

Switching to steel deck framing for its outstanding quality and durability

In their search for a built-to-last deck framing solution, the Villandrys discovered Evolution steel deck framing by Fortress Building Products. After putting the comprehensive system to test, they were sold on the “outstanding quality and durability” it brought to their outdoor projects. “We knew we had found something solid—something that would last. There was no turning back,” they reported.

Today, Villandry Home & Outdoor Living frames exclusively with Fortress® Evolution. “Steel deck framing will not warp, twist or shrink like wood,” they explained. “It stands up to common issues like moisture damage, rot, insect infestations and fire concerns.” Because Evolution leverages the proven strength and lasting durability of steel, it can also support heavy loads without warping or sagging, making it a reliable and sustainable choice. That muscle and brawn also empowers the Villandry team to deliver custom decks that incorporate the most in-demand outdoor living amenities, like luxe outdoor kitchens. Its many performance qualities make Evolution a no-brainer for legacy contractors who are determined to deliver safe, durable, and low-maintenance outdoor spaces.

Leading the next generation of deck builders

As seasoned professionals in the outdoor home remodeling industry, Villandry Home & Outdoor Living is sharing their steel deck framing experience with the next generation of builders. In late April 2025, they co-hosted a regional Master Class Workshop with Fortress Building Products in Boston, Massachusetts, along with Fortress® Alliance Member Kevin Choquette of Ravin Builders. The main objective of the advanced hands-on training session was to show participants the ins and outs of working with steel because they’re convinced that once you get your hands on the product—you just get it.  

By helping other tradesmen experience the benefits of steel firsthand, the Villandrys are not just inspiring the construction of bigger, better and stronger decks— they’re helping people build their businesses.

Ready to embrace the next generation of deck framing? Check out our upcoming Fortress® Master Classes and sign up for one in your area.