Angelene's Picks

Angelene has been part of the DecksDirect team for nearly 3 years. She has participated in multiple building projects including the construction of a deck railing with lighting at her own home. Angelene is responsible for marketing and communication strategies. Most of her time at DecksDirect is spent photographing products, creating web and print content, as well as providing expert advice to customers (or anyone for that matter).

Tehk™ Premium Round Aluminum Baluster

Why Angelene likes this product: With the large selection of aluminum balusters out there, Tehk sets themselves apart with their textured finishes. The Crushed Black, Sanded Bronze and Weathered Brown finishes catch the light beautifully without being glossy. I believe this adds a natural feel and highlights wood rails wonderfully. When choosing a baluster for the deck on my home, I went with the Tehk brand.

Special product notes: A concealed baluster connector is available in both standard and straight. Stair balusters can be cut to the correct angle and installed using these connectors creating a seamless look.


Key product features:
• Colors Available: Crushed Black, Sanded Bronze, Weathered Brown
• Package Size: 10 Balusters
• Baluster Shape: 3/4" Round
• Baluster Lengths: 26" and 32"

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Kichler Half Moon Deck Light

Why Angelene likes this product: This half moon light is available in so many finishes it would be surprising not to find one that matches your deck. Also, you can get it in both incandescent and LED, expanding your options even further. Solid-built construction and quick connects are included with every light; what's not to love?

Special product notes: Keep in mind that this light is slightly larger than a 4x4 post but will still work for this application. Matching path light available.





Key product features:
• Finishes: Textured Architectural Bronze, Beach, Brass, Bronzed Brass, Brushed Nickle or Textured White (not all colors available in both incandescent and LED)
• Bulb Type: Incandescent or LED

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Highpoint LED Transformer

Why Angelene likes this product: You can tell by the weight of this transformer that it is built with substance. This transformer has a high quality Iron core which is one reason it is so heavy. Another reason I like this transformer is for its built-in photo eye that allows it to turn off during daylight hours. You can also plug the transformer into a timer if you would like the transformer to turn off before the sun comes up. You can't beat a product that is made in the USA!

Special product notes: If you are testing your system during daylight hours, don't forget to place a piece of tape over the photo eye. Also, as with all transformers, when doing a maintenance check on your transformer, any black smoke marks on the inside are usually a result of loose wires or terminal blocks.

Key product features:
• Voltage: 12 volts DC
• Wattage: 36 or 60 watt
• Material type: Indoor/Outdoor damp location enclosure - NEMA 3R RAINTIGHT WHITE ENCLOSURE, UL RECOGNIZED/LISTED
• Warranty: 10 year manufacturer warranty
• Other: Photocell, and 6ft Input Cord
• Other: Manual Reset Overload Protection and On/off switch

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IPE Postcaps by Acorn

Why Angelene likes this product: One reason these post caps are so great is because they are handcrafted in America. These Acorn caps are made from a single piece of IPE; a beautiful and durable hardwood. Even if you don't have an IPE deck, these caps accent other types of wood perfectly. The Boulevard design has a flat top which is perfect for resting a drink!

Special product notes: Although IPE can be left to weather naturally, I prefer to finish these caps with Penofin Exterior Hardwood Formula. This wood finish protects and maintains the beautiful dark color of the IPE caps. All Acorn IPE caps come pre-treated with Penofin Hardwood Formula. Also, when installing these caps, nails and screws are not needed...simply use an exterior grade adhesive.

Key product features:
• Styles Available: Amherst, Tucson, Yellowstone and Boulevard
• Sizes Available: 3-5/8" and 5-5/8"
• Material: IPE

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Penofin Ultra Premium Exterior Red Label Formula

Why Angelene likes this product: Wow! This penetrating oil finish protects and beautifies wood like no other. Why is it different from other stains and sealers on the marker? For one, it's a low-solid formula which allows it to penetrate the wood, while other coatings sit on the surface and wear off in a short period of time. Penofin also uses high quality ingredients, like Brazilian Rosewood Oil (the only stain that contains this unique oil) and they use the highest grade of mildew-cide and UV protecting pigments.

Special product notes: "Don't forget to wipe." Follow the instructions on the can and don't forget to wipe off the excess oil around 20 minutes after application. Also, note that the clear/natural finish does not offer 99% UV protection; this color works best indoors where there is not a lot of sun exposure.

Key product features:
• Sizes Available: Quart and Gallon
• Colors Available: Clear, Transparent Cedar, Transparent Sierra, Transparent Chestnut, Transparent Sable, Transparent Mission Brown, Transparent Redwood and Transparent Western Red Cedar
• Special Order Colors: Transparent Bark and Transparent Hickory
• Gallon Coverage: Smooth surfaces = 175-300 square feet, Rough surfaces = 125-175 square feet

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