Tag Archives: decks

The differences between composite and natural building materials

Over the past 20 years, composite and plastic composite decking products have increased their share of the Canadian decking market versus traditional building materials (i.e. wood), and for good reason. With warranties against colour fade, and manufacturer defects often exceeding 20 years, claims of extreme durability, splinter-free finishes, hidden fastener systems, and essentially a maintenance-free deck upon completion, why would one choose any other product for their deck other than composite?

+ Read More

Building dream decks

Decks have always been a common place to gather with friends and family to enjoy a sunny summer day, or a warm summer evening. In its purest form, a deck is a raised structure attached to, or near the exterior of, a structure that is unprotected and left exposed to the elements. In the last 10 years, with the eruption of the Internet, ‘how-to’ manuals, and the advent of do-it-yourself (D-I-Y) television channels/programs, decks have morphed from their traditional form into some of the most elaborately designed structures associated with home construction.

+ Read More

New building options for above-ground pools

When it comes to selling and installing above-ground swimming pools, today’s builders are no longer limited by the traditional installation methods concerning these pools, which are typically built ‘above’ or ‘on’ the ground. Thanks to product development by various manufacturers, new options are available to homeowners that allow these pools to be installed above-ground, semi-inground, or even completely inground. Further, these options provide both retailers and builders a variety of selling options to meet a number of consumer price points and backyard configurations.

+ Read More

Preventing slips, falls, and injuries with rubberized safety surfacing

Splash pads are a fun and affordable addition to a community park or garden, amusement facility, zoo, hotel, or campsite. In fact, with the recent release of new data from the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) stating children younger than five represent nearly 75 per cent of those most at risk from drowning, splash pads are quickly becoming the go-to water attraction for these facilities. With zero-depth standing water, they incorporate both water treatment and recirculation systems as well as provide assorted play features while limiting water waste and the risk of drowning.

+ Read More

Patio design and installation tips

Patios have become extensions of the home and are increasingly being incorporated in a family’s daily life. They play host to a multitude of events such as birthday parties, meetings, family meals or even quiet, fire-side chats. For homeowners looking to install a new deck or patio, builders that can provide multiple design options, along with various construction materials, become the logical choice when it comes to selecting a company for the job.

+ Read More

Concrete coating systems

Today’s concrete pool decks no longer need to be plain grey. There are many options on the market that allow pool designers/builders to beautify a concrete pool deck. Aside from esthetics, should builders go to the trouble of designing an elaborate concrete deck, they should also understand the advantages of protecting it with a deck coating system.

+ Read More