Today’s deck designs are larger, more customized, and built to serve multiple purposes. Popular trends include:

• Multi-level deck configurations that create dedicated spaces for dining, entertaining, and relaxation.
• Composite decking materials that offer durability and reduced maintenance requirements.
• Integrated lighting systems that improve safety and enhance ambiance.
• Built-in seating, privacy screens, and fire features that add functionality and visual appeal.

• Modern patios are evolving into outdoor living rooms that homeowners can enjoy throughout multiple seasons. Current trends include:
• Large-format pavers and decorative concrete finishes.
• Covered patios and pergolas that provide shade and weather protection.
• Outdoor fireplaces and fire pits that extend usability during cooler months.
• Thoughtfully designed landscaping that creates privacy and complements the home’s architecture.

• Built-in grills and cooking stations.
• Refrigeration and beverage centers.
• Durable stone countertops and weather-resistant cabinetry.
• Entertainment systems and bar seating areas.

If you’re like some of us at RWC, you may be a reader who enjoys a lifelong relationship with books. We can remember the ones that got us started on that path. One was that Dr. Suess Alphabet book that captured our imagination and made reading fun. Then there was a book about Babe Ruth that recounted his childhood in an orphanage, his mastery of hitting a baseball, and his larger-than-life off field adventures. That one was the subject of our first book report. It was quickly followed by a book about the great quarterbacks of the NFL, which revealed, in its Y. A. Tittle chapter, that a person could be both bald and an NFL quarterback at the same time, a revelation that amazed us at the time.

By finding books at the library or from a suggestion by a caring teacher or family member, we then discovered stories like Sheila Burnford’s The Incredible Journey. We can remember lying in bed trying to read by flashlight (when our parents wanted us to go to sleep) because we were deeply invested in the welfare of that cat and those two dogs we had come to know so well. And then Harper Lee’s To Kill a Mockingbird sealed the deal, as we learned important lessons, not from a textbook’s endless stream of facts and assignments, but from a work of fiction that touched our minds, hearts, and souls.

Since then, we’ve read hundreds of books that entertained, educated, or captivated us all the way to their thrilling, meaningful, or startling endings. Over time, we also began many other books that we simply couldn’t finish. There are a few reasons why we keep reading books to the end and remember some books all our lives and why we forget the many that we toss aside without finishing.

First, a good author keeps us turning the pages so that the end of each chapter leaves us thirsting for the story to continue. Another is the skill of the author in creating interesting characters who we care about and thought-provoking circumstances in which we can imagine ourselves—in other words a product of such good quality that we simply must have it. Then there is the hook that captures our imagination and makes us want to know whether that cat and those dogs make it home or whether Atticus Finch can get Tom Robinson the justice he deserves.

As builders, we can learn a lot from the books we’ve loved. For example, when a customer sees your billboard or online ad, does he want to turn the page and visit your office or model home, or does he throw that experience on the pile of ads that were easy to ignore or never really grabbed his attention in the first place? Once in your office or model home, what does he think about the quality of the product you want to sell him? Can he picture the happy ending that comes from living out the thousands of pages and hundreds of chapters of his life in the home you will build him, or does he lose interest because nothing you have to offer stands out from the crowd? When he drives into your development, does he think, “Wow, this must be a great place to live,” or does he turn around after a block or two to look for a place that gets his juices flowing?

And don’t forget that hook that draws a reader into a world he wants to experience or, in our case, captivates a potential home buyer. What is your hook? Is it quality of craftsmanship or value? Is it affordability or design? Is it small low maintenance lots or big yards where the kids can play? Or is it some combination of these qualities? If you find the right hook, you’ll be better able to reel those customers in and grow the kind of company you have always dreamed of having.

What’s your story? Is it a well-crafted one whose hook keeps bringing you customers? We hope it’s a page turner that tells your customers and prospective customers that time spent with you will be something they will always remember and give them an experience that positively changes their lives forever.

Speaking of books, there is no better book you can give your customers at contract time than a warranty from Residential Warranty Company. Over more than four decades, RWC has provided warranty protection on over four million homes. We offer a wide variety of warranty options like our standard ten-year warranty, our Day 1 coverage warranty, our extended appliance and systems warranties, and our specialty warranties for remodeling projects, detached garages, and commercial construction. Only RWC has developed and offers its members a customized state warranty that mirrors each state’s statute of repose and accommodates other state specific issues. All RWC warranties provide clear performance standards that help create realistic homeowner expectations and provide a road map to resolve even the stickiest customer complaints.

At RWC, every guarantee our warranties make is backed by Western Pacific Mutual Insurance Company, RRG. Western Pacific has an A- rating from A. M. Best and only insures home warranty and similar new home construction risks, like builders’ general liability, which can be offered through the RWC Insurance Advantage program to RWC members. No other warranty company has an insurer with this kind of strength solely dedicated to covering builders and their homes.

Each person or company is the author of their own destiny. Here’s hoping that yours is a bright and successful one and that, with RWC at your side, your homes are best sellers!

Have a great summer!

Here are a few key warranty highlights we find our builders appreciate*.

• Only warranted elements which are specifically designated in the warranty standards are covered by this Limited Warranty.
• Actions taken to cure Defects will NOT extend the periods of specified coverages in this Limited Warranty.
• When the homeowner’s request for warranty performance is determined to be a warranted issue, the Warrantor reserves the right to repair or replace the warranted item, or to pay them the reasonable cost of repair or replacement.
• The homeowner must provide the Warrantor and/or Administrator with reasonable weekday access during normal business hours to inspect the condition of your Home and/or to perform their obligations.
• Under this Limited Warranty, the Warrantor is not responsible for exact color, texture or finish matches in situations where materials are replaced or repaired, or for areas repainted or when original materials are discontinued.
• Cost incurred for unauthorized repairs to warranted items are not reimbursable. Written authorization prior to incurring expenses must be obtained from the Administrator.

Notable Exclusions from Coverage:

• Any Consequential Damages.
• Loss or damage to, or caused by, recreational facilities; driveways; walkways; patios, porches and stoops not structurally attached; decks and balconies which are not bolted to or cantilevered from the main structure of the Home; boundary and/or retaining walls; bulkheads; fences; landscaping, sodding, seeding, shrubs, trees and plantings; subsurface drainage systems (other than footer drains); lawn sprinkler systems; off-site improvements, including streets, sidewalks, adjacent property and the like; or any other improvements not part of the Home itself.
• Any Defect consisting of, caused by, contributed to, or aggravated by moisture, wet or dry, rot, mold, mildew, fungus or rust, regardless of the originating cause of any moisture or water penetration that leads to the Defect.
• Loss of damage to the Home, persons or property directly or indirectly caused by insects, birds, vermin, rodents, or wild or domestic animals.

Should you have any questions regarding coverage please reach out to our Warranty Resolution Department at 800-247-1812.

*Some items not applicable in New Jersey (#317 warranty booklet).

By Sandra Sweigert, RWC

JUNE 4, 2026

Meeting held at:
Residential Warranty Co, LLC
5300 Derry Street
Harrisburg, PA 17111

Here’s a true story. The name of the builder has been omitted to preserve privacy.

Years ago we sold a Builders Risk insurance policy to a builder in New Jersey. The project was near the coast. Flood insurance could have been added to the policy, but the premium was a bit stiff given the proximity of the Atlantic and the fact it was still hurricane season. This builder’s project was just getting underway. A foundation had been laid, but not much else was done. It was fairly late in the hurricane season. Now, we all have to make business decisions that often entail risk. Our builder made his decision, which may have been to save the cost of adding flood insurance to the Builders Risk policy. Whatever the reason, it was only a short time later that Superstorm Sandy devasted the East Coast. At the time, it was the second costliest hurricane on record. Our builder had approximately $60,000 worth of materials at the jobsite when the storm hit. It was a total loss. None of it was covered.

There are three ways to deal with risk. One is called avoidance. Don’t build close to the Atlantic Ocean during hurricane season. That’s a simple sounding approach, but hardly practical. The second is assumption of risk. This is the method our builder chose. You may not think this was a conscious decision, but deciding not to insure a risk doesn’t make the risk go away. Of course, the third method is risk transference. We purchase insurance and in exchange for the premium we pay, we transfer the risk to our insurance company.

I hope I’m not insulting anyone’s intelligence with these very simple ideas, but the fact is the risks of flood are seriously underestimated by many. Here are some sobering statistics from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA):

• Floods are the #1 natural disaster in the US.
• Each year in the US, floods causes billions in losses.
• Just one inch of water can cause severe damage to property.
• Most property insurance, including Builders Risk, does not automatically cover flood losses.
• 30% of all flood insurance claims are made in low to moderate risk areas.
• New construction can increase flood risk, especially if it changes natural runoff paths.
• Only about 5 million Americans have flood insurance. Millions more are either unaware of the their risk or don’t know the options available to them.

Now that you know more about the risk of flood, what about taking a good look at your risk? FEMA has a helpful website: www.floodsmart.gov. Here you can find out if your project is at risk. Then, give us a call at 866-454-2155 x2124 and ask for Allison Jefferies. If you already have Builders Risk with us, she can determine if flood insurance is available. Not insured with us, or looking for Builders Risk? We can help. Visit our website to learn more and to get a quote.

www.rwcinsuranceadvantage.com/products/builders-risk/

The RWC Insurance Advantage (RIA) program is offered exclusively to our builder members. Because of that, we are able to avoid the high risks associated with other
commercial operations. Thus, we keep the cost of claims low and pass the savings on to you.

866-454-2156 or info@rwcinsuranceadvantage.com.

By Doug Davis, EAIC / RWC Insurance Advantage

WHY DOES REMODELING MONTH MATTER?

POSITION YOUR BUSINESS FOR MAXIMUM IMPACT

• “What does a kitchen remodel actually cost in 2026?”
• “How long will my home be disrupted?”
• “Which upgrades give the best ROI?”

• Project timelines
• Unexpected challenges and how you solved them
• Client testimonials that speak to communication and reliability

• Promote limited booking windows
• Offer free consultations or design audits
• Highlight projects that can be completed before fall

• Energy-efficient windows and insulation
• Sustainable materials
• Electrification upgrades (heat pumps, induction cooking)

• Hybrid office/guest rooms
• Finished basements with flexible layouts
• Garage conversions and ADUs

• Curbless showers
• Wider doorways
• First-floor living conversions

MARKETING MOVES THAT ACTUALLY WORK

OPERATIONAL CHECK-IN

• Are your project timelines realistic?
• Is your pricing keeping up with material and labor costs?
• Is your team prepared for increased demand?

At Residential Warranty Company LLC (RWC) and HOME of Texas, protecting homes has always been at the heart of what we do. But building stronger communities goes far beyond service contracts and coverage plans—it’s about showing up, giving back, and investing in the people and neighborhoods we serve. That’s why we are proud to collaborate with HomeAid Houston through one of its most exciting and impactful events of the year: the HomeAid Houston Golf Tournament, to be held this year on April 16 at the Wildcat Golf Club. This partnership represents more than just a sponsorship—it’s a shared commitment to strengthening Texas communities.

A MEANINGFUL COLLABORATION
The HomeAid Houston Golf Tournament brings together industry professionals, local businesses, and community leaders for a day of connection, competition, and purpose. For RWC and HOME, participating in this event is a natural extension of our mission. As a company dedicated to helping homeowners feel secure and supported, aligning with an organization that works tirelessly to uplift communities is both meaningful and inspiring.

Through strategic advertising and event collaboration, we are able to not only increase awareness of our services but also shine a spotlight on the incredible work HomeAid Houston is doing across Texas.

THE GOOD HOMEAID HOUSTON BRINGS TO TEXAS
HomeAid Houston has built a powerful reputation for its commitment to helping vulnerable populations, including individuals experiencing homelessness, and families in need of housing support. By partnering with builders, developers, and community organizations, HomeAid Houston creates opportunities for safe shelter, education, and long-term stability.

Their work doesn’t stop at housing. HomeAid Houston actively invests in programs that promote self-sufficiency, dignity, and hope—helping individuals rebuild their lives and communities grow stronger together. Every initiative is rooted in compassion and driven by the belief that everyone deserves a place to call home.

MORE THAN A GAME OF GOLF
The annual golf tournament is more than just a day on the green—it’s a catalyst for change. Funds raised during the event directly support HomeAid Houston’s outreach programs, making a tangible difference in the lives of countless Texans.

For RWC and HOME, being part of this event means contributing to something bigger. It’s an opportunity to connect with like-minded partners, engage with the community, and reinforce our commitment to service—not just to homeowners, but to humanity.

LOOKING AHEAD
As we continue to grow, Residential Warranty Company LLC remains dedicated to making a positive impact beyond our core business. Our collaboration with HomeAid Houston is just one example of how we strive to combine business success with social responsibility.

Together, we are building more than homes—we are building hope, opportunity, and stronger communities.

The 2026 International Builders’ Show (IBS) in Orlando proved once again why it remains the premier event in the residential construction industry.

This year, 13 members of our team traveled from across the country to represent RWC, HOME, and its affiliates at IBS. With 75,000 attendees at IBS and an impressive 117,000 combined attendees alongside KBIS, the scale and opportunity were undeniable.

Our booth activity was nothing short of electric.

We acquired hundreds of qualified builder leads, driven largely by our new interactive attractions. The debut of our Putt-Putt Plinko game was a true showstopper. It quickly became a sensation on the floor—drawing passersby in to test their luck for a chance to win prizes, including $50 cash on the spot. The generosity caught many attendees by surprise and created an atmosphere of excitement and appreciation.

In addition to daily prizes, we gave away a $1,000 cash prize to a qualified builder lead, which was ultimately won by Kauffman Builders of Indiana. Moments like that created buzz, drove meaningful conversations, and reinforced our brand as both engaging and builder focused.

Attendees visiting the booth also received fun promotional items and the opportunity to join our warranty program with either 50% off or a free discount incentive—a compelling offer that generated strong interest and valuable conversations.

From setup to breakdown, our team operated like a well-oiled machine. Aside from occasionally navigating the maze of a show floor still under construction, execution was seamless. Collaboration, professionalism, and hustle were on full display all week.

It wasn’t all business. One of the highlights of the week was our team dinner, where we celebrated year-end achievements and recognized top performers and 2025 Account Executives of the Year.

2025 Account Executive Awards:

Freddy Pesqueira – 3rd Place

Tiaira Satchell – 2nd Place (her first recognition in this category — a huge accomplishment)

Staci Cool – Account Executive of the Year
Recognized for her consistent production, professionalism, and willingness to go above and beyond the scope of her role.

Celebrating these accomplishments together reinforced the strength of our culture and the talent within our organization.

The IBS House Party brought the team together for drinks, great food, live music, and some very entertaining bull riding — with RWC proudly represented in the action.

Some team members even braved the carnival swing ride soaring several hundred feet in the air, while others formed what can only be described as an Orlando scooter gang, buzzing through the city streets on Electric Lime scooters.

It was the perfect blend of hard work and camaraderie.

IBS 2026 was both fun and highly productive. The connections made, the qualified leads generated, and the brand presence established will undoubtedly translate into meaningful new business for RWC in the months ahead.

Just as importantly, the experience strengthened our team and reinforced the culture that drives our success.

Next stop: Las Vegas for IBS 2027.

By: Rich McPhee, National Sales Manager

A new year is the perfect excuse to refresh more than just your routine. In 2026, why not make your home part of your New Year’s resolutions? Small, thoughtful upgrades can make a big difference in how your space feels—and how you feel living in it.

January: Build a home gym

Skip the commute and make workouts easier by turning an unused room into a simple home gym. A mirror, rubber flooring, a fan, and a TV for workout videos go a long way—and can save serious money on gym memberships.

February: Upgrade your windows

Cold months are ideal for replacing drafty windows. Energy-efficient options keep your home warmer, lower energy bills, and add resale value.

March: Declutter and spring clean

Less stuff = less stress. Tackle one room at a time, donate what you don’t use, and enjoy a cleaner, healthier, more productive home.

April: Add a three-season room

A sunroom or screened-in space gives you more room to relax and enjoy the outdoors—without committing to a full addition.

May: Organize home records

Gather warranties, manuals, and renovation receipts in one place. It’ll save time, money, and headaches later—especially if you sell. (And remember – your RWC warranty stays with your home, which is a notable selling point!)

June: Boost curb appeal

Fresh landscaping, new outdoor furniture, or even a garage door upgrade can instantly improve first impressions and home value.

July: Schedule a plumbing check-up

A quick inspection now can prevent costly surprises later. While you’re at it, test shut-off valves and check for leaks.

August: Go smart

Smart thermostats, doorbells, and security systems make everyday life easier—and appeal to future buyers.

September: Plan a remodel

Thinking kitchen or bath? Start planning early. Gather inspiration, get quotes, and talk to a local agent about what actually adds value.

October: Switch to LED lighting

LED bulbs use less energy, last longer, and can save you hundreds a year—an easy win as nights get longer.

November: Freshen up with paint

Paint is one of the cheapest ways to transform a space. Go neutral if you’re selling, or have fun with color if you’re staying put.

December: Reflect and reset

Take a moment to appreciate everything you improved this year. Staying on top of home maintenance really does pay off—and you’ve earned that celebration.