Deck Medic: Restoring America's Outdoor Living Spaces

Founded in 1990 by Mike Nastepniak in the Chicago metropolitan area, Deck Medic has established itself as a premier provider of outdoor wood restoration services. With over three decades of industry experience, the company developed proprietary products and a comprehensive five-step process that distinguishes it from competitors.

Headquartered in Frankfort, Illinois, Deck Medic began franchising in 2016 and has since expanded across the United States with more than 20 franchise locations. Deck Medic specializes in the cleaning, staining, and restoration of outdoor wood structures such as decks, fences, pergolas, and gazebos.

The franchise’s restoration system utilizes exclusive cleaning solutions and high-performance stains, ensuring both the beauty and longevity of the treated wood. This targeted and consistent service approach has made Deck Medic a trusted name among homeowners looking to preserve and enhance their outdoor living spaces.

What sets Deck Medic apart is its commitment to delivering specialized services using proprietary materials that aren’t available to the general public. Its five-step restoration process goes beyond standard industry practices, resulting in superior outcomes.

Training

Deck Medic provides a comprehensive training structure designed to prepare franchisees and their teams for business operations. Here are the key training programs:

1. Initial Training Program
   The franchisor requires the Managing Owner and one designated manager to complete an initial Training Program within 30 days of the scheduled or actual opening. This training may be held in person or remotely and includes both classroom and on-the-job instruction. Additional participants may attend for a fee of $600 per person.
2. Supplemental Training
   The franchisor may offer supplemental training either in the franchisee’s territory or remotely. This training costs $600 per trainer per day plus travel and accommodation expenses. It may be required if performance issues arise or if a new Operating Manager is hired.
3. Refresher and System-Wide Training
   Franchisees and their managers must attend additional training programs, courses, or seminars as required. These events are periodically designated by the franchisor, and attendees are responsible for all related costs including transportation, lodging, and registration fees.
4. Training Approval and Qualification
   All individuals attending the training must be pre-approved by the franchisor and must qualify as an Owner or Operating Manager. They must also sign required agreements such as confidentiality or guaranty agreements before attending.

Territory Protection

Deck Medic provides franchisees with an assigned Operating Territory where they have the right to operate and market the approved services and products. Franchisees must limit their business activities, including marketing and service delivery, to this territory unless specific exceptions apply.

Marketing must be directly targeted to their territory, and providing services outside of it generally requires compliance with defined “Out of Territory Rules.” However, the franchise does not grant exclusive territorial rights.

The franchisor retains the right to operate, or authorize others to operate, Deck Medic or other businesses—including potential competitors—within a franchisee’s territory. This means franchisees may face competition from company-owned units, other franchisees, or alternative channels authorized by the franchisor.