Do It Yourself Decks

Do It Yourself Decks

Now that spring has sprung and the weather is getting much warmer may people are venturing outdoors for the first time in months. They are looking at their backyards and thinking this is the year for the new deck.

Building a deck can be a great project for the do-it-yourselfers if you follow a few simple rules.

Keep it simple. Multi-level, multi-tier decks look great but are better left to the professional, especially if this is your first major project.

Check with your municipalities building department for your area regulations. They are a great source of information about setback and how close you can come to the neighbour’s property.

Get a building permit (if required). Most areas will require a building permit for a deck. Don’t skip this thinking “it’s in the backyard no one will see it.” They can make you remove it entirely if you don’t get permit. It may also delay the sale of your home in the future.

Building supply centers are a great source of plans and designs. Many will custom design your deck for very little or free if you purchase the supplies from them. Some plans include framing instructions, a valuable resource if this is your first project.

Don’t rush the build. Take your time and do things right. Your deck should last for many years; does it really matter if you built it fast if it doesn’t last?

Once built all decks require some kind of maintenance. Regardless of manufactures claims about their material all outdoor deck needs some care periodically.


Jamie Woodend
Sales Representative
Remax a-b Realty Ltd Brokerage
88 Wellington Street
Stratford, Ontario, N5A 2L2
519-273-2821 ext 229 Office
519-949-0345 Cell