Sickly
Book your 2010 deck or fence job now and get 15% off labor!
Book your 2010 deck or fence job now and get 15% off labor!
When should I stain my deck or seal my fence?
There is a common misconception when it comes to sealing or staining your deck or fence. Pressure treated lumber is treated in such a way that will prevent major damage due to weather and insects for a short amount of time. You can stain your lumber as soon as it can properly absorb the product. Therefore when it comes to a point that dirt is being absorbed and water no longer beads off the lumber it is safe to stain. Although, waiting for the right weather is key. You need a very low moisture percentage on the lumber so it can properly absorb the stain. You also need at least 48 hours of warm dry weather so the stain doesn’t sit on top of the lumber for too long. If this does occur, it will attract dirt and ruin your finish.
Do I need a permit for a deck or fence?
Around the Windsor area, 3 out of the 5 municipalities require a permit for the installation of a deck or fence. If a permit is needed, 3 inspections for a deck installation are required. Permits for fences are required mostly to keep the peace between neighbours regarding their property line. All decks require a minimum satisfaction of the OBC (Ontario Building Code), this ensures a safe and sound structure that will last.
What is the building process?
Fence: The building process for a fence usually starts with us arranging to have the ground marked and flagged for any important lines (such as gas, hydro, bell etc). Once the area is confirmed clear of any lines and we are sure of the property line (site plan provided by home owner), we send the plans in for approval by the municipality if a permit is needed. We then contract our professional auger service to come in and dig 3 feet deep and the proper diameter depending on post size. After the posts are set in with around 50 lbs of concrete holding them down, we begin to frame the fence. After framing is complete, we nail the fence boards with thickcoat galvanized nails that will never rust or deteriorate. The gate is then framed and built while the posts are being cut short and the custom post caps are being made. After all is complete, we would be happy to answer any questions the customer may have about maintaining/improving the look of your new fence.
How to pick the right contractor?
I recently read an article on a local deck builder who had just recently started up his own legitimate deck and fences company. When asked this question I believe (like most people) he lost focus as to what makes a good contractor. With the recent spike in the trade industry due to the tax credits and the downfall of the economy, the market has been flooded with “fly by nighters” looking to cash in on the opportunity. This, I agree on 100%. There have been lots of new comers claiming “20 years of experience” and “expert deck builder” who don’t even have previous clients to speak for them. The key to telling if you have a good contractor is not the amount of insurance he has, not the amount of advertising he can pay for, not even a good portfolio (portfolios can easily be copied). You can tell when you have a good contractor when he can provide you with legitimate testimonials from previously satisfied clients in your area. Treat this as a job interview, ask for names and numbers and do your homework. Take your time and make the right decision.
