Backyard Decks
In our initial consultation we will discuss your needs and desires for your backyard deck. This may include designing areas for dining, a BBQ, entertaining space or an intimate sitting area. In addition your deck can incorporate privacy structures, overhead shade, spas or storage. Each of our decks is not only built by our master carpenters, they are designed to be functional and appealing.
Over the past ten years there has been a growing trend towards low maintenance decking products. Majority of the decks we build today are composite or pvc as they allow more time for you to enjoy your deck rather than spending time on maintenance. For budget friendly decks pressure treated wood and cedar is still available.
PVC and Composite Decking
Man made decking can be broken up into three categories composite, pvc capped composite and pure pvc decking. Composite is the first generation of man made decking which has been around for 25 years. It contains a mix of wood and plastic blended then extruded into a board. Although composite decking is an improvement over traditional wood decking the product can fade and stain.
A desire for an even more maintenance free product lead to the development of pvc capped composite board. A capped composite board has a core similar to the first generation of composite boards, however it is capped with a layer of pvc to avoid any staining or fading issues.
The most advanced man made board available today is a pure pvc board. Being completely plastic the board require the very minimal maintenance. Pvc decking often has realistic variegated wood grain look to it. Many of our customers tell us that they have had friends on their decks that had no idea it was pvc until they were told otherwise.
Man made decking can be installed with hidden fasteners that allow the deck planks to be installed without any visibile nails or screws. Pvc and composite decking is available in variety of colours to match your existing colour scheme and backyard.
Railings, Benches and Pergolas
Elevated decks require railings for safety. They can be built from wood, aluminum, glass or a combination of materials. Benches provide built in seating but can also be incorporated into a design to provide barriers between spaces or at the edge of low decks. Overhead shade structures are known as pergolas, trellises or arbours, properly designed they will provide shade and create intimate areas on your deck.
Wood Decks
Decks made of local wood species include pressure treated and cedar. Pressure treated lumber is chemically treated with a copper based preservative that gives the wood a green appearance(shown above). Cedar is naturally durable due to high levels of extractives and makes a great choice for decks as it has a pleasing appearance.
Wood decks are a great option for budget friendly decks however they will require annual maintenance. Depending on the exposure to sun and weather the surface may need to be sanded and oiled yearly. Wood decks will splinter, fade and rot. To avoid the downfalls of a traditional wood deck we recommend considering building you deck out of composite or pvc.
Deck Designs
Our decks are designed to meet your needs, available space and budget. Designs are drawn out on paper so that along with your written contract you will know exactly what we are building. In addition when necessary for a small fee we can provide you with a 3D rendering of your future backyard deck.
