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Tips to Ensure Your Custom Deck Doesn’t Fall Foul of Pests

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Custom decks can make a beautiful addition to your back yard. Install one in yours, and you’ll have a comfortable space to sit and enjoy Toronto’s summer weather and entertain guests. However, if it becomes infiltrated by pests, the party will be over. In order to keep your deck as peaceful as possible, follow these tips.

How to Stop Pests from Getting into Custom Decks?

Are you wondering how to turn your garden into a pest-free zone? Decking can sometimes provide a good hiding place for them, but it doesn’t have to. Read on to find out the best ways to keep pests away from your decking.

  • Use the Right Materials – The type of material you choose for custom decks can have a considerable impact on the likelihood of it getting an infestation. Choose a bug-resistant material, such as composite material or pressure-treated wood, and you’ll increase your chances of being termite-free.
  • Fill the Gaps – Any gaps underneath your deck present an opportunity for rodents like opossums, rats, squirrels and skunks to get in and create nest in the warm, dark space. Once they’re in there, you could end up having to pull the whole thing apart to eradicate the problem. To prevent such a catastrophe, put in a skirting board around the bottom to cover any gaps between the decking and the ground.
  • Use Mesh – Mesh can be a great tool to combat insects and other pests, which is why it’s commonly-used for bug screens. Consider installing some on the underside of your decking boards in other to stop any critters from being able to crawl through.
  • Install Lighting – This may seem counter-active, as light can attract insects, but if you use the right kind, they’ll actually keep them away. You can use a bug zapper light to get rid of them, but if you’re looking for a less lethal and more subtle option, get yourself some yellow bug lights. These bulbs have a lower ‘colour temperature’ than standard ones, and therefore don’t attract insects. They’ll provide the same illumination for you though, and will also give your deck more ambience.
  • Get Rid of Water – It’s hard to enjoy sitting outside on a summer’s evening when mosquitoes are buzzing around you and you’re having to constantly swat them away to avoid getting bitten. To make your deck a more pleasant area for you to relax in, you need to make it less appealing to mosquitoes. The best way to do that is to eradicate any standing water, as it provides a breeding place for them. If your yard is prone to puddles, fill the problem areas with extra soil, rocks, or any kind of decoration you like. Also, use a drainage system to draw water away from the decking area. That way, those pesky bugs will be more likely to go somewhere else.
  • Seal It – It goes without saying that the wood that’s used for custom decks needs to be treated before being installed. If you don’t, the sun, rain and varying Toronto temperatures will cause the wood to warp, mildew to form, and cracks to appear. All of these factors create the perfect environment for pests, so use an initial coating of sealant and be sure to maintain it by topping it up regularly.

Protect Your custom Decks

Custom decks can add value to any home and make a garden a more functional, enjoyable space, but that’s only if they’re well-maintained. Besides, the last thing anyone wants is to have to call in pest control. Follow the advice above, and you won’t have any issues.

Our Deck Builders Explain Some Common Maintenance Mistakes

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If you’re completely clueless as to how to take care of your decking, you’re not the only one. Plenty of people are doing it the wrong way. Deck builders know this because they’re often having to make repairs and replacements to make up for it. To avoid this situation yourself and keep your deck in great condition, see below for our top maintenance tips.

Advice from Toronto Deck Builders on Proper Maintenance

Before you do any maintenance on your decking, read on for the mistakes that contractors commonly see, and be sure not to make them yourself.

Not Considering the Material

The type of maintenance required for your deck depends on the type of material it’s made out of. There’s no one-size-fits-all solution. Some types of wood may require little to no maintenance at all, whereas others need regular cleaning and extra coatings of sealant. In some cases, the wrong type of treatment could actually cause damage.

Using the Wrong Contractor

If you’re going to hire deck builders to install your decking, it pays to do you research and use a reputable company with a proven high standard of work. Otherwise, you could end up with a sub-standard job that you regret paying for. The same goes for deck maintenance. If you choose to get contractors to take care of it for you, make sure you use the right ones.

DeckLeaving it Down to Nature

Cleaning your decking is something that’s easy to put off, and many of us find ourselves making excuses to do so. One of the most common is that Toronto’s rainy spring weather can do the job for you. However, that’s not the case. It may look like it’s removing the dirt, but it’s really just moving it around. While the rain will wash some dirt away from the surface, it won’t stop it from building up underneath the deck. The moisture could cause mould to grow, too. Instead of waiting for the rain to come, be proactive and clean it yourself.

Oiling it Without Cleaning Thoroughly

Some decks require regular oiling to keep the wood in good condition. When it’s time to put another layer on, it’s important to give the deck a good clean first. That means more than just a quick sweep. Any residual dirt and grime left behind will prevent the oil from soaking into the wood properly, so make sure it’s all clear before you put any oil on.

Not Letting the Oil Sit for Long Enough

 Experienced deck builders will tell you that treating the wood requires planning ahead. If the oil doesn’t have enough time to sit, it could end up being patchy and uneven, requiring more work. Before you treat your deck, check the weather forecast to make sure it’s not about to rain, and ensure that no one will be walking on it any time soon. If you don’t, you might have to repeat the whole process again.

Ignoring the Gaps

Letting dirt and debris build up in the gaps under and around your decking is a crucial mistake. While it may be out of sight and out of mind, it could cause damage that will take you by surprise later on. If left there for too long, it could cause the wood to rot or warp due to moisture. It can also provide a great hiding place for animals and bugs. Make sure you clear gaps out regularly.

Power Washing the Wrong Way

Power washers can be great tools for maintaining decks, but they can also cause damage if they’re not used correctly. Using the wrong tip, holding it too close to the deck, or setting the PSI too high, are all big mistakes.

Your Outdoor Kitchen: Should It Be Big or Small?

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When summer time comes around, there are fewer better places to be than in your garden in Toronto, surrounded by friends and family, enjoying a barbeque or a cookout. There’s no better way to entertain guests in your yard than with an outdoor kitchen Toronto, but still one question remains – should it be big, or small? Well, that depends on you.

Outdoor Kitchens – Big or Small?

Before we get into deciding which is better for you, let’s first look at the standard sizes for several features of an outdoor kitchen.

  • Countertop Height: Standard height is 36”, or slightly more if wanting to accommodate a fridge. Designed to be lower than your bent elbow to the ground.
  • Bar Counter Height: Typically between 42” – 46” tall, usually dictated by bar stools.
  • Cantilever Height: 10” to allow for knees.
  • Tabletop Height: Standard is around 30”

With those in mind, let’s get around to looking at why you might pick a big or small outdoor kitchen.

Big Outdoor Kitchen – Pros and Cons

There are plenty of reasons to want a larger outdoor kitchen. If you’re planning to cook there more regularly, then a larger kitchen will prove to be more comfortable and practical in the long run – you don’t want to run out of counter space and have to put things on the floor or in the house!

Secondly, as you’ve read above, if you’re planning on getting a fridge in your outdoor kitchen then they’re naturally bigger and taller. A fridge would make life easier, saving you from having to run back and forth through your home to get the ingredients for cooking, so you’ll need to keep that in mind when it comes to deciding whether to go big or small.

Thirdly, when it comes to entertaining, bigger is better. Bigger means more tables, surfaces and counters for your guests to gather and talk around, helping it to be a real social hub. Bigger also means you’ll be able to fit more around the table for a meal, and no one will end up sat on your petunias.

However, bigger also means more expensive, which may deter a lot of people if they don’t see the value in it. It also means that it will take up more of your garden, which will see you sacrificing green space for it.

Kitchen
Outdoor Kitchen

Small Outdoor Kitchen – Pros and Cons

Yards are meant to be enjoyed for what they are – natural green spaces. Rather than opting for a larger kitchen that dominates your garden, you might find more harmony and balance in selecting a smaller one that complements, rather than covers your yard.

A smaller outdoor kitchen would also be cheaper and much easier to clean. If you’re not bothered about an outdoor fridge, there no point in paying extra for one and taking up more yard space. Less counters and surfaces also means that it’s easier to clean and maintain, giving you more time to spend enjoying your garden.

However, if entertaining is something you plan on doing a lot, you might want to go for a bigger size in order to accommodate all your guests and keep them comfortable. You don’t want rumours spreading in Toronto about your lack of hospitality!

It’s Down to You

It’s a matter of personal preference in the end. Are you someone who values your garden and green spaces, or do you live to host and entertain guests? Can you compromise between the two? Whatever you decide, an outdoor kitchen is a great asset to any home, and we’re sure you’ll have made the right choice.

Is Your Deck Design Missing Anything?

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We all know that summer in Toronto can be a very special time of the year, and most of us enjoy a little time outdoors when the sun is shining. That garden deck design project which lost its appeal through the toe-numbing winter now seems a much more attractive proposition. The weather is on your side, you know a good deck building company, you have a layman’s understanding of the principles of decks Toronto design, and most importantly of all, and you have the budget for it after saving up through the winter.

Unfortunately this is where many of us can go off track. A combination of eagerness and too much enthusiasm can cloud our judgement, leading us way deep into a project before unthought-of complications start spoiling what should have been a smooth ride.

So, if you are considering transforming your garden with a head-turning piece of deck design, maybe you should consider running through a checklist before you start. check our Portfolio to see what we done for our customers

Important things that should be looked at before you begin Deck Design

Deck Design in Toronto

Need Permission Before Begin Deck Design

You might not need permission from your local building authority, but not checking before you start is asking for trouble. A phone call or an email to the appropriate department will get you the assurance you need, or you may discover there’s something in your plan that needs amending. Rather find out now than later.

Best Materials to Begin Deck Design

You can hire the best team on the planet, but if your deck design is constructed with the wrong materials it will start to show signs of fatigue very quickly. Using untreated timber, or staining timber that should have been properly dried out first, are two common mistakes that will certainly cause you problems later on.

String Lines

No matter how small your deck design, it should always be marked out with string lines. Levels and straight edges are so easily defined when following a string line, but simple measurements can be overlooked without their guidance. A very common mistake in decking is not having the proper run-off for rain water. If the deck is perfectly flat water will pool, eventually causing deterioration to the wood, or worse, possible damage to your home.

Ground Preparation

The most tedious and labour intensive part of transforming your garden will be ground preparation. If the foundation is sloppy you will have guaranteed problems in the future. Ensure whoever you hire follows these recommendations in detail. If it’s necessary to dig 12 post holes to a depth of 1000mm, don’t allow them to dig 10 at 900mm. We all suffer from “that’ll do” syndrome sometimes, but their labour (and your spend) will be in vain if the ground work is poor.

These suggestions should help plan a deck design with minimum risk. Of course there are lots of smaller problems which can arise as in any project; plans can be compromised when the desired material can’t be sourced or specialist tools can’t be acquired. Sometimes what we envision isn’t quite as awe inspiring as we’d thought when we see it for real. Plans get scaled up or down, and compromises are often made along the way. The best way to avoid running into any of these problems to all in a company with years of experience to do the job. Attempting to do everything yourself can seem like the ideal summer project, but things rarely go smoothly if you don’t know what you’re doing. And anyway, summer is the time to relax, right?!

If you are looking to Begin Deck Design Project and need Expert Advice contact Toronto Custom Decks @ 647-878-8780

How to Ensure Your Custom Deck is Fit for Most Weather Types

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When anyone begins planning to build a custom deck, most often they are motivated by thoughts of endless summer days spent lounging lazily under another beautiful  decks Toronto sky, friends and family around and perhaps even a few mid-afternoon cocktails if that’s your thing. And while these are the days when your deck can seem like heaven on earth, it is absolutely vital that you take some steps during your planning process to ensure your custom deck not only makes you smile on sunny days, but also on those days in which the elements seem to have picked a fight with your deck. For when the first Toronto snow storm hits, you want to make sure your deck is ready.
Lucky for you, we have compiled a list of some key features that you can implement during your custom decks planning stages to make sure your deck design is ready for anything Mother Nature has in store.

Custom Decks by Toronto Custom Decks

Choose Your Wood Wisely for all weather Custom Decks

While there exists no wood that is completely immune to rot and decay from the elements, there is definitely a lot to be said about equipping your deck with a solid wood to stand up better against adverse weather. There are in fact, certain woods that are inherently more resistant than others. So rather than going against the grain, why not get on nature’s side from the beginning and equip your custom deck with naturally more resistant wood. Some of the most commonly used woods with the greatest resistance to the elements include black locust, teak, ipe, and California Redwood. These woods are used not only because of their toughness, but that they also look great even as they age.

Don’t Skimp On Deck Furniture

As your deck will be the place for many gatherings, you will want to surely have enough furniture to keep everyone comfortable. But to make the most out of your furniture, we recommend you invest in higher quality furniture at the beginning so you won’t be needing to replace it after every season. For wooden tables and chairs, refer to the list of resistant woods above to make sure they are ready for the seasons. Another good option would be to invest in cast iron furniture and you will have it for many years to come. And once the frost has officially set in and your last official dinner on the deck has come and gone, be sure to bring your deck furniture in for storage. Storing it during the cold seasons will help increase its overall longevity, and save you money. Cha Ching!

Don’t Screw Your all weather Custom Decks

Many people think that when building a new custom deck the wood is the only thing that will determine its longevity, however, this is far from true. In fact, what leads to the demise of most decks is not the actual wood itself, but the screws that hold it together. Cheap screws will rust and deteriorate very quickly in the vicious Toronto elements. Therefore, to ensure a long life you should invest in stainless-steel screws. It is a simple fix, but one that many people unfortunately forget and try to save a few extra dollars on cheaper screws. Long story short, do not go the cheap route when designing your deck’s very foundation – you will be very happy you didn’t in the long run!
Natives and newcomers to Toronto alike know very well that the seasons in this city are no joke. Its ruthless winters and harsh climate can test the spirit of just about anyone, and leave you daydreaming of those summer days spent outside. But while you’re cooped up inside daydreaming, your deck is still out there fighting off the relentless elements. So be sure to begin your deck on the right foot, and plan with longevity in mind.

To know more about all weather custom decks contact Toronto Custom Decks Today!

6 Questions Your Deck Builders Should Ask You Before Starting (If They’re Any Good…)

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Chances are if you played any part in designing your current or previous home, there were countless questions not only on your end, but also from the deck contractors to make sure the finished product would be just what you had in mind. Any legitimate contractor should be just as open to his customers’ demands as he is to his own visions of the final product. It is after all, your home. And when it comes to hiring a deck contractors toronto to bring to life your dream deck, you want to make sure they are also asking the right questions to ensure that your Toronto deck design The perfect fit for you.

 6 key questions deck builders should ask you before taking on your project.

1. What Purpose Will Your Deck Serve?

This is one of the most fundamental questions a deck builders should always ask before starting. Every person has their own unique purpose for their deck, and it is vital that the builder knows this right from the very beginning. Perhaps you desire a massive deck with lots of room for cooking, lounging and the occasional water gun fight. Others might want a smaller and simpler design with a more romantic vibe. The closer your ideas match those of the deck builders, the best chance you will have for success.

2. What is Your Budget?

If your deck builders fails to cover this vital question with you, do proceed with caution. Unless your house is shaded with rows of money trees, chances are you will have a budget in mind and will not want to stray too far from it. Once you and your deck builders are on the same page as far as costs, you can both have a realistic idea of what to expect with regards to the finished product and not be surprised by either a lack of vibrancy or a very expensive bill. Communication is absolutely vital, especially when dealing with dollars and cents.

3. What Colour Suits You?

It is a fact that the colours that surround you alter your mood, and this is true indoors as well as outdoors. An experienced deck builders will have many suggestions as to what colour will look best on your deck, but you should be the one making the final decision. Perhaps you want a natural stained deck to give a more rustic appeal, or a modern colour that pops and will be seen for miles. Choosing the best colour to match your taste and the environment is something every good deck builders will want to get straight right from the get go.

4. Maintenance, Is That a Problem?

Decks are either built to last, or built to last a season only to need replacement soon thereafter. What determines which one your deck will be is no luck of the draw, rather a very integrative part of the planning process. When purchasing the building materials, a good deck builders will know if your deck will be built to last or built to maintain. For obvious reasons, this question should be at the top of their list before beginning the job.

5. What Will the Layout Be?

The layout of your deck will determine not only how it is used by you and your guests, but the overall vibe that it gives off. With a wide single layer deck, you will have no trouble manoeuvring around, even mingling with a handful of people without anyone needing to fight for space, although this design may be a bit dull for your taste. If your deck has multiple levels and little nooks and crannies it will certainly encourage more private seating amongst friends and family, and offer a very different experience.

6. Open or Closed Deck?

If you opt for an open deck, chances are you imagine yourself sitting out and watching the sunset as night falls over the land, or something of the sort. Bottom line is that an open deck gives you a front row seat to whatever view your house is already equipped with. And if your house is literally scrunched right up next to your neighbour, perhaps a closed deck is the right choice. This style of deck can extend the peace and privacy of indoors to your outdoor oasis. Any questions deck builder who has their head on straight will surely want to know which of these style decks you have in mind.

This  6 key questions deck builders you should definitely ask before the project begin.

And there you have it, getting these questions out of the way in the beginning will ensure you the best chance of having that dreamy Toronto deck that will bring many great memories for years to come. Communication between you and your deck builders is paramount, so be sure to be open and always speak your mind.

Questions Deck Builders unless you feel comfortable, because it’s your money and Time. Feel Free to Contact Toronto Custom Deck for any question.

Outdoor Kitchens Vs The Alternatives

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The consensus is in: outdoor kitchens can provide a host of opportunities that are sure to please friends and family.

There are many backyards in Toronto sufficient with the usual suspects: a charcoal grill or perhaps a chic brick oven. However, there’s no better time than now to turn that promising space into a truly elegant experience.

A new outdoor setup will not only provide a fresh backdrop for guests to relax in luxury, but it provides the setting for the pampering you deserve.

How to Think Big with Your Outdoor Kitchen

Outdoor Kitchen Ready for the Warmer Toronto WeatherA well-executed vision and plan will have you sitting on top.

  • Visualize Your Future

    Whether it’s cooking for one or a neighbourhood get-to-together, there’s ample ways to utilize and furnish an outdoor kitchen to fit the need. Imagine the accolades you’ll receive when the family expounds upon the dining experience in your own backyard. Are large gatherings on the horizon? Perhaps you’ll require a fully equipped kitchen – grill station, cabinets, prep space – the details are endless. It all begins with a vision.

  • Consider the Layout

    Of course, everyone’s circumstances are different. That’s why flexibility is paramount when designing the perfect space. We will work with you to create a space that is functional, without losing any of the aesthetic charm you seek. Your vision will encompass how you see you and your family using the area provided. Whether you’re starting from a clean slate or adding to an existing setup, let us help you design an outdoor kitchen that seamlessly blends in with its surroundings and molds into your individual lifestyle.

  • In with the New

    Now is a good time to take it to the next level. Many people have a grill resting in their backyard, and not much else in terms of equipment. To erase the constant shuffling between indoor kitchen and outdoor grill, many have elected to bring the comforts of indoor convenience outside. We offer a polished design that brings all of your essentials into one unique platform that caters to your specific goals and dreams. Why not incorporate those time-trusted necessities of old and remake them into a modern, sleek, and eye-catching outdoor kitchen of today.

  • Imagine the Possibilities

    The hallmark of our design is our ability to turn the outline in your mind into the ready-to-use, modern creation of today. A person could envision: kitchen equipment that offers modern elements, design patterns that integrates seamlessly with the theme of the available space, lighting that will set the mood for your next gathering. More so, our team will present to you options that may become a light bulb moment for you: spacious sinks, countertops, cupboards, ice chests — artfully put together in a way to make your dining experiences efficient and grand.

  • Think Big

    There’s a kitchen for every occasion and you’ll delight in knowing yours was specially crafted with you in mind. We believe luxury can be extravagant without losing the comforts of that long-referenced refrain: there’s no place like home. Perhaps your outdoor kitchen will be used for special family gatherings or simply used as a means to unwind. Maybe the children will sit poolside while you fix up a plate of your famous edibles. No matter what, think big and let your imagination lead to reality.

At Toronto Custom Decks we believe in the quality of the relationships we forge and the outdoor kitchens we build. Satisfaction is a cornerstone and a standard we take pride in.

If you’re ready to take your dream to the next step call us at 647-878-8780 and speak with one of our specialists today.

Deck Design: Railings or No Railings?

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In this article, Torontocustomdecks focus on Railings- No Railings. What to consider?

Homeowners in Toronto interested in installing a deck have an important question to ask themselves: Should I build a deck with or without railings?

Railings are an important aspect of deck design, they can change the entire feel and function of a deck.

That’s why homeowners should consider the pros and cons of a deck with or without railings before having one designed and built.

Railings or No Railings: A Key Decision in Deck Design

The advantages and disadvantages of decks with or without railings:

  • A Deck with Railings Provides Safety and Peace of Mind:

    The most obvious reason Toronto homeowners should consider railings in deck design is the safety they provide — especially for elevated decks. No deck owners want to deal with the headache of broken bones or the threat of a lawsuit from a nasty fall. Not having railings is a hazard that cautious homeowners should think twice about.

  • Railings Offer Another Opportunity to Make Your Deck Beautiful:

    Railings add another way for homeowners to spruce up their yard and make their deck look spectacular. They are the perfect place to hang flower beds, lights, bird feeders, flags, or other decorations. And the style and design of the railings — from wrought iron, steel, and wood — can give your deck another intriguing dimension.

  • A Deck With Railings Gives Your Deck The Comfort You Need:

    Leaning on railings is something we all do much more than we realize. When we have a conversation, check our phones, or just relax from standing all day, many times it is against railings. Railings also give ease of mind to those afraid of heights or get vertigo easily. Railings designed and decorated with care can give your deck a cosy spot to spend time in.

  • Railings Can Make Your Deck Feel Squeezed:

    Decks with railings sometimes feel like they suffer from a lack of space and freedom of movement. If you think you will have numerous guests over often to your home then you might want to consider a deck without rails so your visitors can mingle without feeling cramped. Nobody wants an overcrowded deck at their next barbecue.

  • No Railings Turns Your Yard Into the Ultimate Space:

    Decks without railings are the ultimate way to mesh your yard and deck into one seamless space. Instead of the deck and yard feeling like two separate areas, visitors can move on and off the deck freely without having to swing open a gate or walk down a flight of stairs — useful when you use multiple areas in your yard often.

    Decks Without Railings Offer More Versatility:

    Decks built without rails have a very open and versatile concept. They can be built feet from the pool, outfitted with outdoor kitchens, or lined on the outside with benches to seat as many people as possible. They also give homeowners unique and creative deck design ideas: Want a tree growing through the centre of your deck? Or a gazebo connected to it? Or a hot tub at ground level? No railings is the way to go if you want a deck that breaks the mold in a way that elevated railed decks can’t.

As you can see, choosing railings or no railings for your future deck comes with many things to think about.

And as Toronto’s premier deck design specialists, Toronto Custom Decks’ experts can help you with the decision then design and build a deck that fits you and your yard’s needs.

Call us on 647-878-8780 today to find out how we can help you.