Author: Stone Deck

Do you have a small backyard but want to make the most of it? Making better use of your deck or patio can be a great way to add extra living space to your home. We’ve got a few ideas of how to maximize the functionality of your backyard deck or patio, extending your living space outdoors.

Think Vertically

One of the keys to maximizing a small backyard is to think vertically. This means utilizing the space above the ground level to create a more functional and attractive outdoor living area. Here are some clever deck solutions that will help you make the most of limited space:

1. Build a Vertical Garden:

Adding a vertical garden to your deck is an excellent way to add greenery and enhance the aesthetic appeal of your outdoor space. Vertical gardens are also practical since they save valuable floor space while providing fresh herbs, vegetables, and flowers. You can build a vertical garden using a variety of materials, such as pallets, gutters, or hanging baskets.

2. Use Tiered Planters:

Another way to maximize a small deck or patio is to use tiered planters. Tiered planters create more planting space and add depth and visual interest to your deck. You can use tiered planters to grow flowers, herbs, or even small shrubs.

3. Hang Decorative Planters:

If you don’t have a lot of deck space, consider hanging decorative planters from your deck’s railings or pergola. Hanging planters allow you to grow plants without taking up any floor space, and they can also serve as a natural privacy screen.

4. Build a Vertical Storage System:

Finally, consider building a vertical storage system to keep your deck clutter-free. You can create a custom storage system that fits your specific needs, such as storing gardening tools, outdoor cushions, or grilling accessories. A vertical storage system will help you maximize your small deck or patio space and keep your outdoor living area organized.

By thinking vertically, you can create a beautiful and functional deck that makes the most of your limited outdoor space. 

Use Multi-Functional Pieces

When working with limited space, maximizing the functionality of every element in your backyard is essential. One way to do this is by investing in multi-functional pieces that serve more than one purpose. Here are some examples of how you can use multi-functional pieces in your backyard deck design:

Benches with Built-in Storage: A bench is a versatile seating option that can double as storage space. Opt for a bench with built-in storage underneath or inside, perfect for stowing away outdoor cushions, gardening tools, or any other outdoor items you need.

Foldable Tables and Chairs: If you only have space for a small seating area, opt for foldable tables and chairs that can easily be stored away when not in use. You can even find options that can be mounted to the wall, saving even more space.

Planters with hidden storage: A planter box with a lid or a bench that doubles as a planter can provide ample storage for garden tools, outdoor cushions, and other items that tend to clutter up your deck.

By using multi-functional pieces, you can save space in your backyard deck design while still enjoying all the amenities you need. Just remember to think outside the box and get creative with your solutions!

Incorporate some of these clever deck solutions, and you’ll be amazed at how much you can do with even the smallest backyard! By thinking outside the box, you can make the most of your small backyard and create a unique outdoor space that reflects your personal style and preferences. Get creative, have fun, and enjoy your deck! Need more deck & patio ideas, including innovative building materials, including pedestal systems? Visit Stonedeck Innovations – Canada’s deck life experts and get more out of your outdoor living space.

If you’re considering adding a deck or patio awning to your home, there are several benefits and drawbacks to consider. In the paragraphs below, we’ll discuss the pros and cons of deck and patio awnings to help you decide if this is the right choice for your home. We’ll cover the potential benefits of having an awning, the drawbacks to consider, and how to choose the right awning for your outdoor space.

What are Awnings?

Awnings are a great way to add shade and protection to your outdoor living space. An awning is a type of covering attached to your home’s exterior walls, usually above windows and doors or over a deck or patio. They provide protection from the sun, rain, and snow while allowing fresh air to circulate. Awnings come in a variety of materials and styles, making them an excellent option for any home. They can be retractable or fixed and constructed from fabric or metal. Awnings can also be motorized or manually operated, so you can choose what works best for your needs. Whether you’re looking for a classic style or something more modern, there are plenty of options to choose from when it comes to deck and patio awnings.

What Are the Benefits of Awnings?

Awnings can provide many benefits to your home and outdoor space. They can increase the amount of shade and coolness in the area, making spending time outdoors during the hot summer months more comfortable. Awnings also add a touch of style to your outdoor living space while providing a great place to relax and take in the view.

In addition, awnings can be a great way to save energy costs. By creating a barrier between your home and the sun, you can reduce the heat transferred through windows and walls, leading to lower air conditioning costs. Awnings can also provide additional privacy for your deck or patio.

Finally, awnings are often seen as an excellent investment for homes because they can increase the value of the property by making it more attractive and inviting. 

What Are the Drawbacks of Awnings?

Awnings come with both pros and cons. 

First, awnings may require some level of maintenance to remain in top condition. Regular cleaning and occasionally replacing torn or faded fabric can help keep your awnings looking their best. Depending on the awning’s material and the wind’s strength, the fabric may flap loudly and cause unwanted noise. Be sure to take this into consideration when choosing an awning material. 

Strong winds can potentially damage awnings and cause them to collapse. If you live in a high-wind area, be sure to check the maximum wind speed rating of any awning before installing it. Finally, even though awnings are typically made with durable materials, they can still fade or discolour over time due to exposure to the sun’s UV rays. 

How Do I Choose the Right Awning for My Deck or Patio?

Choosing the right awning for your deck or patio can be difficult. There are many types and sizes of awnings to choose from, so it is essential to consider your space, budget and needs before deciding on the best option. 

First, measure the area you want to cover and compare it to the available awning sizes. Some awnings are designed to fit standard sizes, while others are custom-made to fit your exact dimensions. Consider the design and colour options available to find an awning that will look great with your existing deck or patio.

Next, you should decide what material you want your awning to be made from. Common materials include canvas, vinyl, and aluminum. Each has unique characteristics, such as durability, sun protection, and ease of installation. Consider how much maintenance you are willing to do and if you are looking for a temporary or permanent solution.

Finally, think about what type of mounting system you prefer for your awning. Do you want to install it directly onto your deck or patio or use a freestanding frame? Both options have advantages and disadvantages, so consider all of them before making your final decision. Choosing the right awning for your deck or patio can be tricky but worth the effort. Consider your space, budget carefully, and needs before purchasing to get an awning that will look great and last for years.

Are you looking for fresh, innovative ideas for your deck or patio? Look no further than Stonedeck Innovations, Canada’s deck life experts! With an incredible selection of ideas and options, including pedestal systems, you can bring your deck and patio dreams to life. Visit us today to get inspired and to find out more!

Any wood deck that is structurally sound and free of warped, rotted or otherwise unsafe planks can be given a facelift. Resurfacing a wood deck is a simple process, and you’ll find it easier and more cost-effective than rebuilding your deck or even replacing the planks. We’ve got three excellent wood deck resurfacing options to give your wood deck a makeover!

Structural Wood Deck Tiles

Wood tiles are all the rage this year. The least expensive option is structural wood deck tiles. These tiles have solid wood slats screwed to wooden support bearers, with rubber support pads placed under each corner. Structural wood deck tiles are a somewhat forgiving option if your existing deck boards are a little warped or uneven, as minor height adjustments can be made with rubber shims. You should know that, like other wood options, structural wood tiles fade over time and will turn silvery grey over time.

Modular Wood Tiles

If wood-look is your thing, it doesn’t get much easier than modular wood tiles. Easily installed over top of your existing (structurally sound) wood deck, modular wood tiles are a convenient, versatile deck resurfacing option. Made from responsibly harvested wood like IPE and bamboo, these hardwood tiles are weather resistant and available in standard and FSC® Certified (SCS-COC-002585) species.

While modular wood tiles interlock, they work best when installed with a pedestal system. A pedestal deck support system raises the tiles, allowing water to drain freely below the tiles, while the tile connecting tabs or kerf cut design makes it easy to keep the tiles correctly spaced and aligned. Mounting your tiles on pedestals allows easy tile attachment, removal and replacement. Wood tiles come in a variety of sizes and can be interlocked with each other for complete design freedom.

When installing modular wood tiles directly on the surface of your existing deck, it is very important that the deck boards below be even with no warping to avoid the tiles rocking and creating a trip hazard. However, when installed using a pedestal system, the pedestals can be easily adjusted to account for slope or uneven surfaces below. 

Porcelain Pavers

For those looking to upgrade and modernize their deck, there are porcelain pavers. Available in a wide range of colours, sizes and styles, including wood-look, porcelain pavers are the low-maintenance option deck lovers need. Porcelain pavers will not stain, fade or mildew and only require an occasional power washing to restore them to their freshly installed good looks. They resist scuffs and scratches and are unaffected by frost. 

Mounted on top of a pedestal system, porcelain pavers offer an upscale appeal, free of the maintenance wood requires. Sometimes known as outdoor porcelain tiles, they’re durable, non-slip and offer impressive load-bearing strength. This makes them an ideal deck resurfacing option, and they can also be used around the pool, walkways, rooftop patios and even driveways.

Unlike thinner ceramic tiles, porcelain pavers are typically 20mm thick and are designed to be supported under each corner. Installation with a pedestal system is quick and straightforward, requiring no grout or adhesives. 

For more information about using porcelain pavers, pedestal systems or wood tiles to resurface your deck, please visit Stonedeck Innovations – Canada’s deck life experts.

Outdoor Porcelain vs. Natural Stone: What’s the Difference?

For any outdoor landscape project, two of the most sought-after materials today are natural stone pavers and outdoor porcelain tiles. Granite and limestone, two classic choices, have long been cherished for their sturdiness and classic aesthetic. In contrast, outdoor porcelain tiles are a more recent option, with manufacturers taking pains to give them the same look as concrete, wood, and natural stone.

Four distinct differences exist between natural stone and outdoor porcelain tiles. These include:

• Aesthetics
• Installation & Cost
• Water Absorption and Moisture Resistance
• Maintenance

With similar appearances, it’s easy to overlook the distinctions between these materials. But understanding these distinctions can be instrumental in selecting the right material for your project. 

Aesthetics

Natural stone is quarried, giving the material a unique finish, in addition to providing a broad spectrum of options from granite and slate to basalt, limestone, and sandstone. Every stone is exclusive, with no two being identical, producing a timeless, high-end, and personalized appearance for your project.

In contrast, outdoor porcelain tiles are manufactured in accordance with the most demanding standards available in the market. These items are constructed from high-grade clay that has been fired in extreme heat. This technique of brickmaking has been used for centuries.

Outdoor porcelain tends to be consistent and incredibly tough because of its structured production process. Its purpose is to replicate the look and texture of natural stone, but its most remarkable aspect is its evenness.

Moreover, you can create a selection of design motifs with outdoor porcelain, from traditional to modern and everything in between. Additionally, porcelain tiles can easily replicate the appearance of wood, resulting in a no-hassle wood-look porcelain deck. 

Installation and Cost

While natural stone can be more costly than outdoor porcelain, it results from various contributing factors. Raw material, fabrication and transportation are some of the significant factors when it comes to its pricing. In addition, certain types of natural stone may be limited in stock, thus, increasing the cost. Moreover, when it comes to installation, its price may also spike due to its texture, weight and irregularities, which require more robust adhesives and the labour that comes with it.

In contrast, outdoor porcelain tiles provide superior consistency and effortless workability. Each tile is crafted to perfection, precisely measured, and precisely calibrated. Additionally, porcelain tiles are available in large formats to cover more square footage with every installation, meaning that your projects can be completed more quickly and efficiently. 

Water Absorption and Moisture Resistance

Outdoor porcelain tiles provide a more water-resistant solution than natural stone, making them ideal for pool decks, patios, walkways, and even driveways. Porcelain pavers are impermeable due to the lack of pores on their surface, unlike natural stone, which contains tiny holes and flaws, increasing the risk of stains and water infiltration. However, if you choose to use natural stones, a premium sealer may offer extra protection but at an added cost and extra effort.

Maintenance – Or Lack of it!

Porcelain tiles provide ease of maintenance with minimal upkeep requirements, in contrast to natural stone. For example, sandstone and limestone must be sealed and cleaned every few years, while granites are more durable and require less attention. Outdoor porcelain tiles stand out due to their UV resistance, ensuring they remain vibrant over time.

Porcelain is undeniably the superior option for a hardwearing and stylish aesthetic, particularly with Stonedeck’s outdoor porcelain tiles. They boast incredible characteristics such as low water absorption, simple upkeep, eco-friendliness, and frost resistance, making them an outstanding replacement for natural stone pavers.

As Canada’s deck life experts, we are often asked about outdoor porcelain tiles. Every day, contractors, landscape architects and homeowners reach out to us with their questions about using porcelain tiles in their outdoor projects like decks, patios and even driveways. Here are the top 12 questions we receive about outdoor porcelain tiles: 

Can Porcelain Stay Outside in Winter?

Porcelain tiles are virtually impenetrable, making them a perfect choice for exterior use in regions with temperatures that dip below freezing. Thanks to their water-repelling nature, these tiles won’t crack due to extreme cold – making them one of the most weatherproof materials available.

Is Porcelain Tile Strong?

Yes, porcelain tile is a strong and durable option for flooring and other surfaces. Boasting an exceptional load-bearing strength, it is highly resistant to scratching, chipping, and moisture absorption, making it an excellent choice for high-traffic areas in both residential and commercial spaces. Porcelain tile is even used in driveways.

Can I Use Porcelain Tile Outdoors?

Yes, porcelain tile can be used outdoors. Porcelain tiles are suitable for outdoor applications as they are highly durable and resistant to temperature changes and other elements. Porcelain’s impermeability means it does not absorb moisture, so it can resist winter’s freeze & thaw cycles. Additionally, when installed with a pedestal system, it allows for the water drainage of any moisture or rainfall that may accumulate on top of the tile. 

Are Outdoor Porcelain Tiles Frost Proof?

Yes, porcelain tiles are known for their frost-resistant properties, making them a popular choice for outdoor applications.

Are Outdoor Porcelain Tiles Slippery in the Winter?

Outdoor porcelain tiles are exceptionally slip resistant, making them ideal for winter outdoor patios, around outdoor hot tubs or even walkways. 

Does Porcelain Tile Lose Its Shine?

Porcelain tiles are made to be long-lasting and resilient, and the high-gloss finish that it comes with can last for a long time if maintained properly. Avoid using cleaning chemicals and simply power wash it instead to retain its freshly installed good looks. 

Do Outdoor Porcelain Tiles Crack Easily?

Outdoor porcelain tiles are a popular choice for exterior paving because of their high durability and low maintenance requirements. Porcelain tiles are highly resistant to cracking and chipping, making them an ideal choice for outdoor use. While they can chip or break under extreme conditions, such as impacts from large objects, they are generally much more durable than other types of tile material and rarely crack in normal outdoor conditions.

How Do You Clean Outdoor Porcelain Tiles?

Porcelain tiles require minimal maintenance. Simply give them a good power washing at the beginning of the season to return them to their freshly installed good looks. 

Do Porcelain Tiles Need a Concrete Base?

You can use a concrete base with outdoor porcelain tiles, but better solutions exist. Adjustable pedestals are an easier alternative, one that can save you time, labour and money. 

Can You Scratch Porcelain Tile?

Porcelain tiles are made from fired clay and are generally more durable than ceramic tiles, so they should not easily be scratched.

How Long Do Porcelain Tiles Last?

Porcelain tiles can last for a very long time. Depending on the environment, quality of installation and other factors, porcelain tiles can easily last decades without showing any signs of wear or damage. 

Can Water Damage Porcelain Tiles?

Porcelain is exceptionally water-resistant. They are ideal in places where they might get wet, like patios, pool decks and around a hot tub. However, you probably don’t want to immerse them in water for long.  For more information about how you can use outdoor porcelain tiles in your projects, and their benefits over alternative materials, visit Stone Deck.ca – Canada’s hardscaping experts or contact us directly.

Building Around Your Pool

While the smart money is on designing your outdoor living space with a future pool in mind, often, this isn’t the case. Far too often, people invest in a pool, whether above-ground or a permanent in-ground pool first and leave the rest of the yard for later. 

So, you’ve now got a pool in your yard, and it’s time to spruce up the rest of your yard. Designing around an existing water feature limits your options, but we have some great ideas for hardscaping and landscaping around your pool. 

Build a Deck or Patio

Building a deck or patio around your pool will give it a more polished look, making it feel complete and giving your yard some structure. Instead of a wood deck or concrete patio, consider a more modern look using porcelain pavers. You’ll avoid splinters in your feet, and a slip-resistant porcelain deck is sure to add to your home’s value.

Consider an Outdoor Kitchen

An outdoor kitchen is one of the most effective ways to upgrade your home, adding both form and function to your outdoor living space. Summer meals are a pleasure when cooked outside, and an outdoor kitchen will increase your enjoyment of your outdoor space all year round. 

Convert an Old Shed into a Pool-Side Bar

It doesn’t take much to transform an old shed into a poolside bar. This simple addition will give your yard the feeling of a resort right in your own backyard. 

Add Creative Lighting

From moonlight swims to enchanting evening dinner parties, lighting sets the mood. String lighting is all the rage these days, while there are also some great recent innovations in deck lighting. Don’t forget safety lighting, especially around the pool.

Additional Privacy

You’ll definitely want additional privacy in your yard when you have a pool or enjoy entertaining outdoors. Privacy features can easily be constructed with large bushes or small trees or through outdoor privacy shades. You might also consider a shade structure or pergola, which will offer you a shady spot to relax while providing privacy from the neighbours. 

How to Make Building Around the Pool Easier

When building around an existing pool, a pedestal system is sure to make the task easier, faster and more affordable. Pedestals are the ideal way to install a deck or patio around the pool, providing inherent drainage and keeping things safe. If you already have a pool in your yard, you may have trouble getting a large truck back there, making concrete difficult. Pedestals are lightweight and a great solution in tight spaces. 

Working hand in hand with a pedestal system, outdoor porcelain pavers will take your outdoor projects to a whole new level. Slip-resistant, and low maintenance, they’re ideal for outdoor projects like decks, patios or around the pool or the floor of an outdoor kitchen. If you’re interested in upgrading your outdoor living space and need to build around a pool, Stonedeck.ca has the materials to make the job easier, saving you time, labour and money. When porcelain pavers are used in conjunction with a pedestal system, installation is easy enough for most DIY’er, delivering professional-grade results. If you’d like to learn more about our innovative deck products, including porcelain pavers and pedestals, visit stonedeck.ca today!

Whether you’re seeking to increase your enjoyment of your home’s outdoor living space or trying to get the highest return on a property flip, porcelain pavers are the way to go. 

Durable, affordable and versatile enough to offer unlimited design options, porcelain pavers can completely transform the look of your outdoor living space. Easy to install and a great DIY project, porcelain pavers will help you maximize your backyard’s potential while adding to your home’s value. Here are a few great ways to get the most from porcelain pavers. 

Simulate the Look of Luxurious Marble with White Porcelain Pavers. 

White porcelain pavers offer the look of luxury on a not-so-luxurious budget. Simulating the appearance of marble, white porcelain pavers offer the durability, stain-resistance, slip-resistance and affordability of porcelain while providing an upscale appeal.

Use your white porcelain pavers on decks & patios, rooftops or even walkways. White porcelain pavers are perfect for creating a luxurious-looking pool deck thanks to their slip-resistant properties. 

Create The Illusion of More Space

Who doesn’t want a bigger yard? Porcelain pavers can’t make your backyard physically bigger, but the right colour choices can make it feel and appear larger, just as with clothing and paint colours.

While white isn’t for everyone, porcelain pavers in light grey can help create the illusion of more space and add dimension. The lighter colours reflect the sun’s rays, making your yard seem brighter and bigger. The light colours will also contrast with your green grass, giving your outdoor living space a sleek sense and feel. 

Add to Your Home’s Outdoor Living Space

Porcelain pavers are the ideal surface for outdoor living areas. From outdoor kitchens and backyard pool decks to beautiful entertaining spaces, porcelain pavers add class and modernity to your yard. From backyard barbeques and pool parties to movie nights on the patio, your porcelain deck will quickly become the focal point of quiet evenings and weekend get-togethers. 

Porcelain pavers offer a simple, classic look. Most porcelain colour schemes are designed to pair well with the colours of other outdoor features and materials. Requiring little maintenance, you need not worry about staining or discolouration – simply power wash occasionally to restore them to their freshly installed good looks. 

Add a Feeling of Calm Serenity

Colour can provoke a variety of moods. Porcelain pavers are available in virtually any colour or can replicate other materials like wood, marble or other stone. Transform your yard into a calming oasis with soft earth tones like sand-coloured porcelain pavers. Pair them with greenery, perhaps natural wood fencing or privacy walls and enjoy a sense of peace. 

Add matching pool copings to ramp up the appeal, creating a spa-like atmosphere and making your pool deck appear even larger, or opt for contrasting porcelain pavers for a chic and modern appearance. 

When you’re ready to bring your outdoor living space to life, Stonedeck.ca has the materials to make the job easier, saving you time, labour and money. When porcelain pavers are used in conjunction with a pedestal system, installation is easy enough for most DIY’er, delivering professional-grade results. If you’d like to learn more about our innovative deck products, including porcelain pavers and pedestals, visit stonedeck.ca today!

Are you looking to upscale your home’s hardscaping? One of the easiest ways to accomplish this and improve your home’s value is by upgrading your driveway. Instead of pitted concrete or cracked & faded asphalt, you may want to consider using porcelain pavers. 

Aside from the beautiful look that porcelain pavers will add to your home’s curb appeal, porcelain pavers offer a variety of advantages over traditional and outdated concrete or asphalt driveways. 

Here are a few advantages of a porcelain paver driveway:

Low Maintenance – Forget sealing and scrubbing! Porcelain pavers are exceptionally low maintenance. Just give your porcelain driveway a quick power wash in the spring to return it to its freshly installed good looks. 

Stain-Free – We’ve all seen oil stains on driveways. In the case of asphalt, an annual sealing might cover it up. With concrete driveways, it is impossible to get rid of stains. Porcelain is non-porous, which means it will not absorb stains, keeping your driveway in pristine condition. Porcelain pavers do not need to be sealed and are easy to clean. They are also resistant to abrasions, scratches, moss, and mould.

Appeal – Imagine LOVING your driveway! A porcelain driveway provides a neighbour-envy, upscale look.

Durability – Over time, especially in Canada, where hardscapes need to withstand freeze & thaw cycles, concrete driveways will begin to shift and crack, destroying your driveway’s appearance and even causing tripping hazards. Porcelain pavers are more durable than both asphalt and concrete driveway alternatives. You won’t need to deal with cracking or replacing it every 15 years.

Design Versatility – The sky’s the limit when designing outdoor porcelain paver hardscapes, including driveways. Have your driveway match your steps and walkways, choose porcelain as a border, or choose whatever other design option that strikes your fancy. Customize your driveway any way you’d like, completely original to your home, family and taste. Try that with asphalt or concrete!

Heating Options – Constructing a porcelain driveway opens up an opportunity to integrate heating systems. Just imagine never having to shovel again!

Fade-Resistant – Regardless of the amount of sunlight porcelain pavers are exposed to, they will not fade.

Eco-Friendly – Concrete is one of the worst materials for the environment, and asphalt is not far behind. Porcelain pavers are a much more eco-friendly alternative. A safe and completely recyclable material, porcelain is hygienic, hypoallergenic and odourless, does not release harmful substances, and is ideal for any application.

By installing a porcelain paver driveway, you’ll enjoy all these benefits and more. Constructed to withstand vehicular traffic, the strength and durability of porcelain pavers will provide the long-lasting results you’re looking for with the upscale appeal you crave. 

If you’re looking to explore porcelain pavers for your driveway, consider Frontier20 Porcelain Pavers from Landmark Ceramics. These 20-mm porcelain pavers are ideal for driveways and other hardscaping projects, adding a modern and contemporary look to your home’s entrance. Stronger, more durable and denser than concrete or asphalt, Frontier20 porcelain pavers offer superior strength. Frost-proof, porcelain pavers will not crack from winter’s frigid temperatures, and their ultra-low water absorption rate provides exceptional stain resistance, resulting in minimal maintenance. For more information about how porcelain pavers can be used in your new driveway construction while providing a variety of benefits over alternative materials, visit Stone Deck.ca – Canada’s hardscaping experts or contact us directly.

While many assume spring is deck-building season, this is a common misconception. There are plenty of reasons to do it in the fall. Here are six great reasons why fall is the best time to build a deck. 

1. You’ll Save Money – Retailers and other sellers of decking materials clear out inventory in the fall and reduce their overhead. You can find some great sales on decking materials in the fall, with clearance sales offering generous discounts. Not only will you get liquidation pricing, but you’ll also avoid the natural price increase that is bound to happen in the spring. That’s a double win! Want even more savings? Contractors aren’t as busy in the fall and may be more willing to negotiate on pricing. 
2. Your Deck Will Be Ready for Spring – You know that weird warm day in March? Or that week in April? When you build your deck in the fall, it is ready for you to enjoy at the first opportunity. Waiting until spring can mean waiting until the rainy season has passed and the ground has dried, meaning you may not get to enjoy your deck until June or later. This also frees up time in the spring for landscaping, gardening and other things on your list, including decorating and furnishing your new outdoor living space. 
3. Reduced Impact on Your Yard – Building your deck in the fall means your plants, grass and flowers won’t get trampled; or it won’t bother you so much, at least. As your yard’s foliage prepares to go dormant for the weather, the wear and tear caused by your deck builders will have less impact. It will all rebound in the spring like nothing ever happened, and you can enjoy its beauty from your new deck.
4. Fewer Issues – If you’re building a deck with pressure-treated lumber, a deck built during the humid months may have more problems. The wood will dry more slowly during the humid months, and the hot sun can cause it to warp or twist. A wood deck built during the fall will dry in a more even and controlled manner, potentially avoiding a lot of the cupping, twisting and splitting that affects wood decks. 
5. Contractor Availability – In the spring, it can be difficult to get a contractor. After all, they’re busy building other people’s decks and fences. Most contractors book several months in advance, and sometimes entire seasons ahead. If you join the queue in the spring, you’ll wait a long time for your deck to be built. 
6. Weather – Not only are contractors easier to get in the fall; they’ll be happier working in the cooler weather. In the spring, the weather can be pretty unpredictable, oscillating between rain, snow and a hint of sunshine. Plus, the mud; there is so much mud in the spring. Fall weather is the perfect deck-building weather with moderate temperatures. 

Why wait until spring? Fall is the perfect time to build a deck. From weather to savings, there really is no downside. If you’re ready to build your dream deck, visit Stone Deck Innovations – Canada’s deck life experts for some great deck ideas that will save you time, money and labour. 

You’ve been dreaming of the ultimate backyard deck for a long time, and it’s now finally time. You’ve decided on shape, size, colours and materials. Now you just have to figure out how to get it built.

When it comes to getting a deck built, you have a few options. Making a choice will usually be determined by your budget, how handy you are, and how much of the load you want to handle yourself.

DIY Deck – Do it Yourself Deck
A deck you’ve built yourself is something you can take pride in each time you kick back on your new deck. There’s a certain satisfaction that comes with constructing something yourself; however, building a deck does take some skills, or at least handy friends with skills. Along with know-how, you’ll also need the right tools and plenty of free time. A DIY deck is probably the option with the lowest cost, but you’ll need to invest time, legwork and decision-making. In some areas, you’ll need to apply for a building permit to ensure the project meets building code requirements, which can sometimes be tricky for
those unfamiliar with the process.

Hire a Contractor
Certainly, the easiest option, hiring a contractor, is the most expensive option here. It makes it possible to build your dream deck but leave it in the hands of an experienced team. Not only will they do all the work, but they’ll also make sure it’s done right – the first time. Many contractors will handle building permits if they are required or at least walk you through the process.

A contractor has all the skill, tools, experience and ability to make any deck building project look polished, boosting your property value simultaneously. Some contractors can also help with the extras, like lighting or gas bbq installation on your new deck or even landscaping.

When hiring a contractor, we recommend obtaining quotes from three potential choices. This will help you feel confident about pricing, the work involved and who you want to work with. Make sure they are fully insured, including Workers’ Compensation.

Managed Installation
Managed installation of your deck is a hybrid between doing it yourself and paying a contractor. You may be familiar with managed installation services offered by big box stores. Essentially, they supply the product and take a commission from the installation part of the process. While the stores claim to have vetted their installers, keep in mind that these are 3rd-party contractors. You may find it challenging to escalate issues, and you are stuck with using only the products offered by the store.

Assisted DIY
While enticing your friends with beer & pizza to help build your deck may count as assisted DIY, there is another way. You can hire an experienced contractor to handle the more intricate jobs like stairs or framing while you tackle the heavy lifting and cosmetic work yourself. This great hybrid helps you get the important stuff done perfectly and up to code while you finish the more straightforward tasks like laying your surface materials or installing railings. You’ll save some money and enjoy knowing you played a role in the build.

Whether you build your deck yourself or get professional help, you’ll want to consider the impact of choosing the right materials. Rather than dealing with the regular maintenance and pre-mature replacement of wood decking materials, there are options. For example, products like pedestal systems, metal deck framing and outdoor porcelain tiles will go the extra mile. These innovative materials are easier & faster to install than other methods, require minimal maintenance, and will last a lifetime.

For more information about how these outstanding, durable deck-building materials can make building your deck an easier, faster and cost-effective process, visit Stone Deck Innovations – Canada’s deck life experts or contact us directly.