2026 Deck Guide: Permits, Materials and Design for Kemptville, Ottawa and Brockville
While the ground remains frozen across Kemptville, Brockville, and Ottawa, the most successful outdoor projects are already in the works. For homeowners envisioning a new outdoor oasis this year, now is the critical time to plan.
Taking action now ensures that the construction phase aligns perfectly with the spring thaw. This allows for your build to be completed just as the weather starts to warm up and invites you outside, meaning you get the maximum amount of time to enjoy your new space this summer. Your Local Handyman Service shares industry insights and key planning considerations so you can make timely and informed decisions.
The Logistics of Timing: Why Early Planning is Critical
1. Beat the Rush
If you’ve been dreaming about a new deck or an extension, you probably started thinking about it last summer—perhaps while hosting a BBQ or wishing you had just a bit more space to lounge. Now that we’re in the early months of the year, it’s time to turn those thoughts into a concrete plan.
In Eastern Ontario, deck builds are in high demand the moment the snow disappears. Because our building season is relatively short, schedules for the most reliable contractors fill up incredibly fast. Planning now doesn’t just "beat the rush"—it ensures you aren't stuck on a waiting list in July while the best weather of the year passes you by. By getting your design and logistics settled now, you keep pace with the season and ensure your backyard is ready when you are.
2. Navigating the Permit Process
One of the most frequent causes of project delays is the municipal permit process. In Ottawa, North Grenville, and Brockville, a building permit is generally required if a deck meets any of the following criteria:
Higher than 24 inches (2 feet) above the ground at any point. (If a yard slopes, the measurement is taken from the lowest point of the ground to the walking surface).
Attached to the house or any other structure.
Larger than 10 square metres (108 sq. ft.) in total area.
Municipalities require detailed drawings, site plans, and structural specifications to ensure the design meets the Ontario Building Code. Approval can take anywhere from 10 to 30 business days (up to a month and a half after submission) depending on the volume of applications. Starting the design and submission process now will help you and your deck builder to navigate these requirements well in advance of the construction season.
More Than Just a Platform: Designing Your Vision
1. Creative Board Orientations
Standard horizontal boards are functional, but custom patterns can transform a deck into a work of art:
Herringbone or Chevron Patterns: These add a high-end, "indoor flooring" feel and can create specific zones, such as a dining area distinguished from a lounge area.
Picture Frame Bordering: Using a contrasting board colour or orientation around the perimeter "frames" the deck, hiding end-cuts and providing a polished finish.
Diagonal Decking: Laying boards at a 45° angle can provide structural rigidity and make smaller spaces appear significantly larger.
2. Multi-Level Solutions
For yards with significant slopes or for homeowners who want to define specific "outdoor rooms," multi-level decks are an ideal solution. Subtle level changes create a natural flow between a cooking station, a dining area, and a lounging space, allowing the structure to blend into the natural topography of the yard.
3. Material Selection and Aesthetics
The material chosen dictates both the look of the deck and the long-term maintenance required:
Pressure-Treated Wood: The most common choice for Ontario decks due to its affordability and natural look. Pressure-treated wood has come a long way from the gross green tinge it used to have; modern "brown" pressure-treated lumber mimics the look of cedar for a cost-effective and aesthetically pleasing look. With regular care and maintenance, the lifespan of a deck constructed from pressure-treated wood can be up to 20 years.
Cedar: Naturally rot-resistant and beautiful, cedar offers a premium look and a pleasant aroma. Cedar contains natural oils that resist rot and is a premium wood that comes at a higher cost versus pressure treated. It requires a UV blocking sealer otherwise it can turn a silver-grey. A cedar deck can last up to 25 years. It is more dimensionally stable than pressure-treated wood, meaning it's less likely to warp or twist over time.
Composite Decking: Made from a blend of recycled wood fibers and plastic, modern composite looks remarkably like real wood but with perfectly consistent coloring. It is a low-maintenance, splinter-free choice that is great for kids and pets, with a lifespan of up to 30 years. Composite sits at a higher price point than pressure-treated or cedar, but it can retain more heat; if your deck faces south with no shade, consider lighter colors to keep the surface cooler underfoot.
PVC Decking: This 100% synthetic option contains no organic material, making it impervious to mold and mildew and ideal for placement around water, such as pools and hot tubs. It is ultra-low maintenance and the most scratch and stain-resistant option available. While it carries the highest material cost of all options, it also offers the longest lifespan—up to 50 years.
Building for Our Eastern Ontario Climate
Constructing a deck in Kemptville, Ottawa, Brockville and the surrounding areas requires specific attention to local conditions. Footings must be deep enough to withstand the "heave" of a Canadian winter, and material choices should consider the high UV exposure of Eastern Ontario summers. Proper planning ensures that the materials and structural methods used are built to last for decades, not just seasons.
How Your Local Handyman Service Can Help
Planning a deck involves a lot of moving parts, from navigating the Ontario Building Code to executing complex design patterns. Your Local Handyman Service provides personalized service with a single point of contact from consultation to build; we're here to take the stress out of "the process" for homeowners and help you get to enjoying your deck faster. We handle all components of the deck building process from start to finish, including the initial permit drawings, personalized recommendations for selecting the optimal layout and materials for your property, and professional construction. Your Local Handyman Service is here to ensure your deck is built safely, legally, and beautifully.
Contact Your Local Handyman Service today for a free consultation.
(613) 851-8828 | info@YourLocalHandymanService.com | www.YourLocalHandymanService.com
Proudly serving Brockville, Kemptville, Ottawa, ON and surrounding areas.