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Learn From the Pros

Practical guidance on planning, building and living with an outdoor space in Ontario, written from what we run into on real sites across the GTA and Simcoe County.

Featured guide: how to winterize a deck in Ontario.

Swim spa and hot tub with covers on in an Ontario backyard winter dusk

Swim Spa or Hot Tub: Which Handles an Ontario Winter Better?

Choosing a swim spa vs hot tub for an Ontario winter comes down to how… Learn More →

04
Nov
Automatic pool cover housing built into the edge of a backyard pool deck

What Pros Wish Customers Knew About Automatic Pool Cover Vault Drainage

Standing water in your automatic pool cover's vault is common, not automatically a problem. Here… Learn More →

12
Oct
Deck framing under construction with a reinforced section built for extra weight

Will My Hot Tub Crack the Deck Framing? What Site Crews Calculate

A deck built for entertaining is not automatically built for a hot tub. Here is… Learn More →

08
Oct
Steel and wood deck framing joists shown side by side under construction

Steel Framing vs. Pressure-Treated Joists Under Composite Decks

The boards are not what usually fails first on a composite deck. Here is how… Learn More →

28
Sep
Backyard inground pool with stone patio in an Ontario yard

Fiberglass vs Vinyl Liner vs Concrete Pools: Which Fits Your Ontario Backyard?

Fiberglass, vinyl liner, or concrete: how each pool type is built, what it costs to… Learn More →

23
Sep
backyard pool deck landscape design

Pool Landscaping Ideas That Make a Big Impact

Plan a pool landscape that feels connected, comfortable, and easier to maintain with practical guidance… Learn More →

28
Nov
Second-storey composite deck with glass railings above a backyard patio

Planning a Multi-Level Deck: Design Tips That Matter

Learn how to plan a multi-level deck around grade, circulation, structure, privacy, and the way… Learn More →

21
Nov
Ground-level PVC deck with dining and barbecue areas behind a Greater Toronto Area brick home

Best Deck Designs for Small Backyards in Ontario

Use a small backyard more effectively with deck layouts that protect circulation, privacy, planting, and… Learn More →

13
Nov
Composite deck with glass railing overlooking a landscaped backyard at sunset

Composite vs Pressure-Treated Decking: What is Best for Your Backyard?

Compare composite and pressure-treated decking by cost, maintenance, appearance, comfort, durability, and the complete deck… Learn More →

05
Nov
Diamond Decks crew installing composite decking behind a Greater Toronto Area brick home

How Long Does It Take to Build a Custom Deck?

Understand the full custom deck timeline, from site review and design through permits, material ordering,… Learn More →

25
Oct