Frequently Asked Questions
If you have any further questions please contact
My backyard is a bit of an embarrassment! What can you do?
We can do anything you want. We specialize in high-end custom decks and outdoor living solutions while offering a wide variety of materials including exotic hardwoods such as Ipe, Garapa, heat-treated Ash, PVC, composites and Cedar. Flip through a magazine, look online – send us pictures of what you want your space to look like, and we can book a consultation to discuss.
Are you licensed and insured?
Yes, we are licensed master carpenters. We have public liability insurance up to $2,000,000 and have good standing WSIB insurance.
We don’t have much property but our house is on high ground. Is it possible to build a high deck that allows the use of the space underneath it?
Yes again! Our premium-level custom-made rubber membrane waterproofing systems will ensure that area stays dry. This enables you to maximize your living space, watch TV and relax outdoors no matter what the weather throws at you.
How big is your operation?
Our teams, each of which consists of a Lead and Assistant Carpenter can work both independently and collectively depending on the size of the job. Each team aims for the same high standard and quality of workmanship. The Lead Carpenter is empowered to address any questions or concerns you may have throughout the project. Our team of carpenters has a combined 60 years of experience creating outstanding outdoor living spaces.
Our kids are driving us crazy with the pandemic keeping us all home-bound! Can you help us build something fun for them in our yard?
Absolutely! This is one of the most enjoyable parts of our job! We can build a personal playground with options including rock climbing walls, swings, slides, and sandboxes! If your kids are older, we can also do basketball courts, artificial putting greens, and more!
Can you help me sort out options for decking material?
Yes! During our consult, we outline the practical and aesthetic qualities of natural wood and synthetic materials. Natural products are inherently beautiful but have higher maintenance requirements than synthetic products. Striking the perfect balance is the key to the in-home consultation.
Ipe is by far the best and most durable decking you can get. Ipe or (Brazilian Walnut) has beautiful grain tones, is extremely dense, and can last up to 70 years. It does require annual staining to keep it looking its best, but if that’s something you’d rather not do you can leave it alone and over time it will turn into a beautiful silver patina.
Heat-treated Ash is another wood product that is very stable and a great option for areas that experience more extreme temperature fluctuations with the changing of the seasons. The thermal modification process makes the wood less likely to warp, check, bow, cup, or twist. It also increases durability and can last over 30 years before decay. The process alters the wood’s cell structure, making it moisture-resistant and dimensionally stable. If you put a piece of this in a bucket of water for a week along with a piece of untreated wood, the heat-treated product will absorb five times less water. Expansion and contraction are five to 10 times less than the untreated all-natural, chemical-free thermal modification process. JEM Joint (Joint End Matched) allows for faster installation similar to indoor hardwood flooring, and less waste (over 98% yield).
All this said, if your priority is low maintenance, then PVCs and composites are your best option. You won’t have to worry about cracks, splinters, or other common problems associated with wood. No staining is required. PVCs and composites are also more affordable and have improved in recent years with better durability and reduced fading from UV exposure. Fade and stain warranties vary from 20 to 50 years.
What is your warranty?
Our ten-year warranty on workmanship is the best in the business. Our decks and structures are built to exceed code. If for any reason you’re not happy with the work we have completed within the 10-year warranty period, we will fix the issue without charge. This does not include cupping, checking, warping, normal wear and tear, natural disasters, or random acts of God.
Do you allow for changes once the work has begun?
Yes, through mutual agreement, variations to the contract can be approved and noted in the contract.
Do you have references?
Yes of course. You can look at over 50 reviews on HomeStars and Houzz as we have built an online presence over the years. You can look at our Facebook page to see all of our projects from start to finish. And if you want references as well, we will happily furnish you with them on request.
