Press contact:

Kat Williams

Senior Business Manager, Universal Consumer Products

208-284-3771

kat.williams@deckorators.com

For Immediate Release

Program helps match Deckorators Certified Pros with qualified apprentices

GRAND RAPIDS, Mich., September 26, 2018 – Deckorators®, a leading brand of Universal Forest Products (Nasdaq: UFPI), has introduced a unique new program to help its Certified Pro contractors meet the challenges of the skilled labor shortage. The Deckorators Deck Builder Summer Apprenticeship Program will connect qualifying Deckorators Certified Pros with vetted and trained local apprentices for the summer 2019 deck-building season.

The Deckorators Certified Pro Program is designed to help contractors increase opportunities and drive deck sales and installation services by aligning with the leading brand in composite decking, railing, balusters, post caps and related products. To land apprentices who can extend their crews and boost production, Certified Pros can participate in the apprenticeship program through a straightforward, four-step process:

Step 1: Application

Certified Pros may review qualifications and apply to participate in the program through November 30, 2018, at www.deckorators.com/apprentice.

Step 2: Apprentice Recruitment

Deckorators will assist approved Certified Pros with recruiting local apprentices. From November 2018 through February 2019, the Deckorators team will:

  • Work with the Certified Pro to develop a job description
  • Perform an in-depth interview
  • Review references

The Certified Pro will have the option of conducting his or her own interview with the recommended apprentice before final approval. All apprentices will be selected by March 15, 2019.

Step 3: Deckorators Training Week

All apprentices must complete one Deckorators Training Week — April 21-27 or May 5-11, 2019 — in Prairie du Chien, Wisconsin. Training Week will cover a variety of topics, including:

  • Hands-on installation for decking and railing
  • Best tips and tricks for deck-building practices
  • How Deckorators products are manufactured

The Certified Pro is responsible for airfare, lodging and meals for the apprentice during Training Week. By the time the apprentice arrives for training, he or she must be on the Certified Pro’s payroll. After the apprentice completes the training, Deckorators will post 2,500 points to the Certified Pro’s account — one point equals $1 —to offset or cover the out-of-pocket training costs.

Step 4: Deckorators Apprenticeship Period

The apprenticeship term runs from June 1 to August 31, 2019. At the end of the apprenticeship term, the Certified Pro may choose to hire the apprentice as a full-time team member.

“In meetings around the country, our Certified Pros have shared their challenges with finding enough good labor,” said Kat Williams, Senior Business Manager for Deckorators. “The Deck Builder Summer Apprenticeship Program was built to align our partners with qualified builders who can make a real impact on their business.”

For complete details about the apprenticeship program, visit www.deckorators.com/apprentice.

About Deckorators

Deckorators, the first name in decking, railing and accessories and the originator of the round aluminum baluster, is a brand of Universal Consumer Products, Inc., a subsidiary of Universal Forest Products, Inc. Deckorators started the low-maintenance aluminum balusters category with the Classic Series and has since led the industry with many new and innovative decking and railing products. Its approach to developing exciting and distinct products allows both DIYers and builders to bring the personal creativity of interior design to outdoor living.

To learn more about Deckorators decking and railing accessories, visit www.deckorators.com or call 800-332-5724.

Follow Deckorators on Instagram: @Deckorators
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UNIVERSAL FOREST PRODUCTS, INC. (NASDAQ: UFPI)

Universal Forest Products, Inc. is a holding company with subsidiaries and operations around the world that supply three markets: retail, construction and industrial. Founded in 1955, the Company is headquartered in Grand Rapids, Mich. For more information about Universal Forest Products, Inc., or its affiliated operations, go to www.ufpi.com.

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