In the past we have listed some helpful tips and tricks:

• The Ultimate Backyard Fencing Guide
• How to plan for a fence installation – THE CORRECT WAY
• How to Prepare Your Yard for Fence Installation

However we never went over what could go wrong! Today we shall change that fact! Below we list 6 common but costly fencing mistakes!

1. Wrong Kind of Fence for your Home

This is the big one. Choosing the wrong kind of fence is one of the worst fencing mistakes you can make. If your garden fence doesn’t keep large pests out. It is useless. If your dog can escape his fence. It is useless. There are a lot of choices so how do you choose the right one? We dedicated a complete post on this issue: Choose the Right Fence for Your Home. You also might find How to Choose the CORRECT Paint or Stain for your Fence helpful!

2. Unsecured Anchor/Corner Posts

Corner posts are very important to the integrity of a fence. They bear a lot of the pressure, especially when constructing the fence. If you don’t secure them to the ground and support them with braces or other anchors you will slowly see you fence start to cave in. Or your posts might even snap under pressure. And no one wants that. Make sure your corner posts and your gate posts are deeply secured in the ground and properly braced.

3. Underground Utilities

The other day the city was putting up new guard rails on our road. Sometime that morning our internet went out. Then later that day we went out to do some errands and came to the work crew digging every single guard rail post by hand. And lots of new flags dotting the area showing where cable lines were running under the ground. Those guys looked thrilled to be using a manual post hole digger instead of their fancy post drilling machine. So make some calls before you plan your fence. Make sure you won’t be cutting off your neighborhood’s utilities. Make sure you know where your own septic system is. Because that is one fencing mistake you just don’t want to deal with.

4. Wrong Location

So let’s say you’ve spent all your free time fencing in whatever it is you are fencing. You’ve dug in posts. You’ve stretched wire. You’ve cemented in your gate posts and hung the gates. You are super proud of all your hard work. Then you start using the area that is now fenced in and you realized just how inconvenient your gates are. Maybe they are smack dab in the exact area where water and mud gather after storms. Maybe you want to walk you tiller from your shed to the newly fenced in garden and you have to go WAY around to get there. Maybe you didn’t quite plan all scenarios and you now you can’t fit a tractor in through the gate to deliver hay or bush hog or whatever. Before you start any fencing project make sure you have thought out exactly where you need your gates, what they will be used for, and if everything will work as they are supposed to. Because once those gate posts are secured and the fencing stretched…you really don’t want to move your gate. It’s not impossible to do, but it’ll cost you a lot of time and money and cause a headache or two.

5. Incorrectly Spaced Posts

Now let’s say you are crunching numbers for your new fence, and you figure you will save a few bucks by spacing the posts just a little farther then they ought to be spaced. This might work okay for a non-working fence. But let me tell you, if you’ve got an animal inside that pasture, they will be sure to find those weak points in the fence. You don’t want to spend your free time fixing a fence you just put up because the goat knocked it down again. And you don’t want to spend the money to insert new posts to help strengthen the wire. So if your fence needs posts every 8 feet, then put them every 8 feet.

6. Property Lines?

Didi you know that in some places, if a fence is placed on a property line incorrectly and no one contests it, after awhile (years)  that fence becomes the new property line? So if you don’t pay attention you could mistakenly give part of your land away to your neighbor. On the flip side, do you want to take your fence down and move it over a few feet when you neighbor complains that you just fenced in part of his yard? Or even worse, you could get a fine for accidentally fencing in public or government owned property. If you are at all unsure as to where your property line is, then call a surveyor. It’ll cost less in the long run.

So there you have it, 6 Fencing Mistakes That Cost You Time and Money. Whether you are planning a fencing project in the future or mid-job, hopefully you can skip making these mistakes and have a strong, well-made fence that will last a life time!

The post Common Costly Fencing Mistakes first appeared on Capital Deck and Fence.

Avoid the Rush

Most people get their fence installed late spring and early summer because they want the most out of their coming summer. However, that creates a long wait for potential services. Since everyone else is thinking the same thing to start early, the demand for all the best fence installation companies, such as Capital Deck and Fence, goes up. You are far more likely to get a timely booking if you call a reputable fence contractor now.

Extra Time

Before you call a fence installation company, it is a good idea to check Ottawa or Gatineau’s building codes and bylaws to see if there is anything you need to know before thing about your dream backyard. You should also take a look at your property lines to understand exactly where you can and cannot build your fence. You should have a style of fence in mind before you call as well. Depending on your budget, you may consider anything from wood fencing to PVC fencing to ornamental iron.

We have some help posts to get your creativity started:

• Functional Summer Backyard Ideas
• 10 Most Amazing Backyard Transformations
• 5 Things to do Before Committing to a Fence Company

Less Stress

A lot of homeowners believe spring is the best time for fence installation but the weather during the early spring in Ottawa does not cooperate. The ground frost needs to have thawed before work can begin, because frozen ground is hard to break and will slow things down. If there has been a lot of rain or a late snow, the ground may be too muddy to work with. Not to mention working in and around your lawn while it is wet may cause damage to your grass. However this is not the case in late summer! The weather is perfect for fence installation and that means you have one less thing to stress over about.

So why not give a call at 613-413-7572 or contact us via the web to get you set up with your new fence!

• Best Fencing Company in Ottawa
• What is PVC Fencing?
• How to Maintain Wooden Fences
• Things to Know Before Getting a Fence

The post Is it too late to book my fence installation in August? first appeared on Capital Deck and Fence.

Outdoor projects are relatively simple and straightforward, and most of them can be tackled all on your own. Sure, adding a new fence or a new deck will almost always require you to hire the right professionals to make sure that you get the results you are after – but those are wise investments that always pay big dividends.

Add smart landscaping to the mix

There’s just something about having the greenest grass in the neighbourhood that gives you the pride of homeownership that a lot of people are after these days.

If you want your grass to be as lush and green as possible, you’ll want to make sure that you are feeding your grass on a regular basis, that it’s getting the right amount of water, and that you are supporting your grass with the highest quality landscaping efforts.

Add flowers, vegetable gardens, shrubs, and other landscaping elements to create that really special outdoor space you deserve. The warm season is relatively short in Ottawa, so you want to make the best of it before the cold days return.

Upgrade you fence for style and privacy

Of course, if you really want to go the whole nine yards with your outdoor space you’ll want to think about upgrading your fence and making sure that it adds a considerable amount of style to your outdoor spaces but that it also adds an extra element of safety and privacy.

There are all kinds of different fence options available to pick and choose from today. You’ll be able to find different fence materials, different looks, and different price points across the board – giving you the opportunity to create a fence that is perfectly suited to your needs and your budget. The right fence selection will enhance the look of your yard and add an extra touch to your landscape design efforts.

It’s tough to beat the impact of a new deck

At the end of the day, it’s tough to imagine any outdoor project impacting the look and feel (not to mention usability) of your outdoor space more than a brand-new deck.

If you want to entertain, if you want to transform your space, and if you want to add a lot of extra value to your property, nothing can beat a brand new custom PVC or composite deck.

Capital Deck and Fence is a locally operated Ottawa business that specializes in designing, building and delivering custom decks and fences. Contact us today at 613-413-7572 or directly on our website.

The post 3 Steps to Transform your Yard first appeared on Capital Deck and Fence.

Does the idea of being able to relax on a deck with a cold drink or being able to host a BBQ with your friends and family sound appealing? For many people, it does. Whether you currently have a deck or are looking to build, a deck can add usable living space and increased value to your home. Because the economy is down, more and more people are spending time at home. According to Anthony Esh, “The more people are staying home for entertainment, the more home entertainment amenities are worth.” For those considering building a deck, this means adding great value to your home. The percent of return may vary depending on where you live and the type of deck you decide to build. The average return will be around 75%, a great return for added functional living space! It is important to note that wood and composite wood decking lose their value over time—not what you’re aiming for when you’re trying to add value to your home. In order to see a return on your investment, you need a durable deck that will stand the test of time. This fact ties directly to the first. The more usable living space you have, the more comfortable and appealing your home becomes. During the summer, most people enjoy being able to spend time outdoors with friends and family while maintaining all the comforts of home. Building a deck enables you to achieve that goal by extending your living space. Your new living space can become anything you want: a relaxing, romantic area with a hot tub for those chilly evenings; an outdoor stone kitchen with built-in bar, grill, and flat screen TV to watch the football games on guy’s night; a decorative table and chairs on a stone patio, perfect for doing your nails, having a cup of tea, or drinking a glass of wine on girl’s night; or the perfect place for your toddler’s birthday party. No matter what your dream outdoor space is, a deck can be the first step in creating your outdoor paradise.

So how much does a deck usually cost? The cost of the project will depend upon a variety of factors though. These include:

• Materials used (concrete, vinyl, wood)
• Location of the addition (on the ground without supports, above ground, on the house with a door already leading out or in an area in which a door addition must be made)
• Size of the addition
• Features, such as a built in barbecue, railings, seating, supports

The material of your deck is almost more important than the design itself. From wood to composite, there are a ton of variables including color, texture, installation, and price. Here are the most common deck materials to choose from. For a full detail guide on deck material is the best for you.

Contact us for a free estimate. Simply call us at 613-413-7572 or if you are phone shy, message us.

Checkout our online portfolio or visit us on Facebook or Pinterest for our works. If you have decided on a deck, here’s how you should plan for one.

The post Why get a backyard deck in Ottawa? first appeared on Capital Deck and Fence.

HOW DO SLIVERS FORM AND HOW DO I GET RID OF THEM? Wood is a natural material and reacts to weather changes. Horizontal surfaces, such as decks and the top of handrails, are subject to significant traffic and will sliver more readily than vertical surfaces. Wood slivers form when the wood surface is subject to repeated wet/dry cycles which cause the wood fibres to bend and twist. The fibres want to return to their natural shape and in trying to do so, may rise above the original surface. Over time, this movement will form a sliver. While the forming of slivers cannot be stopped, you can minimize slivers by applying a protective coating such as paint, stain or a water repellent that minimizes water penetration into the wood and protects the wood from the sun. If the wood has been exposed to the weather for more than two weeks, sand it with medium grit, garnet sandpaper (80-100 grit sand paper) before applying a protective coating to remove weathered fibres. This will allow for better coating adhesion.

HOW DO I MAINTAIN MY STAINED DECK? Exposure to the elements and foot traffic cause deck surfaces to fade. Horizontal areas such as deck surfaces and handrails wear much faster than vertical deck elements such as spindles. Regular maintenance will help maintain the appearance of your deck and also preserve the wood. A wood stain is used to protect and colour exterior wood surfaces. There are two types of stains: film forming (solid stains) and penetrating stains (transparent and semi-transparent). Stain colour varies because of characteristics in the wood and how the wood is treated prior to staining. Wood characteristics such as density and grain vary from tree to tree and even in boards cut from the same tree. For example, a portion of board that is dense will not accept stain as well as a portion of board that has a more open grain. Wood that is rough sawn, unprimed or very dry may absorb stain more quickly than wood that is smooth cut, damp or treated with a sealer. When a wood surface needs to be re-coated, it should be repaired, sanded and cleaned so the new stain can fully penetrate the surface of the wood for maximum durability of the finish. After the wood is prepared, new stain can be applied. This coating will help protect the wood from sun damage. Paint on the other hand, will completely block the sun but it can also trap moisture which encourages faster decay of the wood. It’s important to use the correct type of applicator and the correct application technique to ensure the coating is evenly distributed and provides maximum protection for the wood. For example, a roller-applied stain must first be worked into the wood with a brush to give a more uniform colour and deeper stain penetration. IT’S IMPORTANT TO USE THE CORRECT TYPE OF APPLICATOR AND THE CORRECT APPLICATION TECHNIQUE TO ENSURE THE COATING IS EVENLY DISTRIBUTED AND PROVIDES MAXIMUM PROTECTION FOR THE WOOD. Most stain manufacturers provide detailed brochures that discuss stain product options, surface preparation and application tools and techniques.

Don’t forget our early bird special! View our partial online portfolio now or call us at 613-413-7572 or email us.

The post Maintaining Stained Deck and Getting Rid of Wood Slivers first appeared on Capital Deck and Fence.

Our custom decks can bring a gorgeous look and lot of functionality to your backyard. You can expect a knowledgeable consultant to meet with you and discuss your options. Whether you have an idea in mind or plan to rely on us for suggestions, we’ll provide the expertise, insight, and finishing to make your vision become a reality. Learn more about our decks.

We specialize in residential wood, vinyl and ornamental aluminum fencing. We offer a variety of different products so we can customize your fence to your exact specifications. Learn more about our fences.

Safety and security is an increasing concern for many people. No matter how secure you think your home is, there is always something more that can be added. From estate gates to garden-fence gates, your property can be made more secure in a short time. Find out more about our gates.

Pros

Specials

Professional Installers

Our installers are not only trained to install your deck and fence properly, but are trained in customer service as well. They are always happy to answer any questions you have and explain any construction detail that you may be curious about so that you’ll have the peace of mind that you won’t have any headaches down the road. Our contractors respect your property and they make sure that everything is neat and clean when the project is completed.

Quality Product

Once you’ve landed on a design idea it’s important to know that you’ll be getting material that is going to look great in the long run. Capital Deck and Fence uses select vendors who all have a reputation of delivering the highest quality lumber and fasteners.

Free consultations

There are many pieces towards building your perfect deck and fence including budget, type of material, layout etc. Our consultants can offer professional suggestions and work with you to design a deck or fence that meets your needs and provide stunning look to your yard.

Product variety

Some companies may specialize in one particular type of deck or fence. We specializes in knowing what type of deck or fence is right for you based on your preference, budget, and engineering. Whether its cedar, redwood, pressure treated pine, composite, or other, each product has its pros and cons. We’ll share our knowledge in each product so that you can decide which fits your needs the most.

Amazing Warranties

Capital Deck and Fence guarantees that all products shall be supplied in accordance with normal tolerances, variations and limitations and that all service work shall be completed in a good and workman like manner, as is familiar within the fence industry. These Products & Services are warranted; under normal and intended uses, and as per all terms and conditions as listed in this Product & Service Warranty; for a period of time as displayed in the Warranty Periods Chart.

Excellent Portfolio

We have experience and numerous past works. View our  a partial portfolio. For our full portfolio, contact us.

The post Best fencing company in Ottawa first appeared on Capital Deck and Fence.

1. Check their certifications

This is one of the most important things to check when looking for a company to install your fence in Ottawa. It’s important not only for quality control, but also for your own protection. Should an accident occur, Ottawa fence companies who don’t have liability insurance could in fact pursue legal action against the homeowner. As a homeowner, it’s your responsibility to check for accreditations such as a WSIB clearance certificate, which declares the business is registered with the WSIB and has an insurance account in good standing.

2. Check out reviews

When looking for a company to install your new fence in Ottawa, a little research can go a long way. Online review sites are a great starting point, but you’ll also want to check out Google reviews, the company’s website, and any affiliated social media accounts. In addition to reviews, it’s also a good idea to look for complaints. Find out if there are any complaints lodged against the company by checking with the Better Business Bureau or through your local Chamber of Commerce and Department of Consumer Affairs. Better yet, ask the company directly for a list of recent references!

3. Check out their work

Most Ottawa fence companies have an online portfolio. Check out their Facebook page if they have one. Take a look and don’t be afraid to ask for more examples!

4. Give ’em a call

You wouldn’t hire an employee without conducting an interview, so why would you hire a fence company in Ottawa without talking to them first? Most Ottawa fence companies will offer a free on-site quotation and you can use this opportunity to ask a few questions. A few important things you’ll want to know:

• Are they familiar with local bylaws? Will they get any permits on your behalf?
• What happens if the contract is cancelled prematurely?
• How do they handle disputes?

Call Capital Deck and Fence today: 613-413-7572.

5. Beware of Scams

Unfortunately, there are fraudulent contractors out there giving the industry a bad name. Every year, the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre investigates thousands of scams and a recent report indicated a rise in home improvement schemes. So how do you protect yourself from untrustworthy Ottawa fence companies? Here are a few key things to look out for:

• Companies that only accept cash or ask you to pay everything up front.
• Contractors who don’t provide any paperwork.
• Companies who have no online presence.

If you’re in the market for a new fence in Ottawa, protect your home and investment by doing your research. The time you spend choosing the right company is a small price to pay for a well built, long lasting new fence!

The post 5 Things to do Before Committing to a Fence Company first appeared on Capital Deck and Fence.

Winter is here, and all is quite. While you are cozy in your home, why not plan ahead for the summer for a great outdoor deck?

If you are planning a fence, I highly suggest you to check out the following posts, where I laid out all the key information you need to consider:

1. Things to Consider When Designing a Backyard Fence
2. Pros and Cons of Vinyl/PVC Fences, Wood Fences, Iron Fences and Chain Link Fences
3. Things to Know Before Getting a Fence

Now back to backyard decks. Let’s get right into it.

Know your limits

The Ontario Building Code requires that a permit be issued prior to starting the construction of a deck that is: attached to the house, the elevation exceeds 24″ above grade, or the deck exceeds 107 sq ft.

The City of Ottawa webpage states:

A building permit is required for a deck that is attached or adjacent to a building having a walking surface of greater than 24″ above adjacent grade. Other decks, not described above, that have a walking surface greater than 24″ above adjacent grade and area greater that 10 square metres (approximately 108 square feet) also require a building permit. For more information, please visit our Sundeck web page.

Regardless of whether or not a building permit is required for your deck, you should contact the Development Information Officer (DIO) for your area to determine whether or not your proposed deck will meet the zoning requirements for your property, mainly the setback to lot lines. You may contact the Development Information Officer for your area by telephoning our Call Centre at 3-1-1, or by visiting the Client Service Centre that is closest to your home address.

So do your research before planning. You don’t want your dream deck to go down in flames due to unforeseen regulations.

Know your needs

Write down a list of what your needs are for the deck. Is it going to be a place full of memories, parties, or is it going to be a place of relaxation? Depending on what your needs are, your deck can turn out every different.

Know your style

Now that you have figured out your needs, find out what style of deck you want. Do you want stairs? Protective railings? Is it going to be a two-story deck with entry on two different floors? How big is the deck going to be? Set your parameters and ask for feedback from the people around you. If you are having trouble finding a style, stay tune for our next post for some inspirations.

One of our past works. (Kanata, Bridlewood)

Know your material

Different style will need different material. Not sure what material is the best? Not to worry! We provide consultations at no extra costs. Here’s a little quick rundown:

• Pressure-Treated Lumber, the #1 choice in deck material. Affordable, accessible, and easy to cut and fasten with nails or screws. Most are made from southern yellow pine, and then chemically treated to resist rot, fungus and wood-boring bugs. A con of pressure-treated lumber is that it requires maintenance. It has a tendency to crack, split and warp. Routine maintenance is necessary to prolong the life and look of the deck. This will include an annual power washing and an application of stain or wood preservative every two or three years.
• Redwood and Cedar, the old favourites. Not drenched in chemical, full of rich color and natural beauty. Both contain tannins and oils that make them naturally resistant to rot, decay and voracious insects. However, a thing to consider is that the level of weather- and bug-resistance is directly related to the amount of heartwood in the boards. Heartwood grows closer to the center of the tree, and is relatively hard and very resistant to decay. Sapwood grows in the outer part of the tree, near the bark, and is softer and more susceptible to decay. Furthermore, to maintain the wood’s natural color,  you’ll have to apply a stain. If you don’t apply a stain, both redwood and cedar will eventually weather to a soft silvery gray.
• Composites
• Tropical Hardwoods

Contact Capital Deck and Fence to find out more about your options.

Know your budget

Set yourself a limit. Consider how much you make. Keep track of your monthly spending as of right now. Be realistic. Get a second pair of eyes. Request a free quote from us. Start saving if needed.

The post How to plan for a backyard deck first appeared on Capital Deck and Fence.

What is a deck?

Decks are typically constructed of wood or vinyl. Though they can be built near the ground, they are not placed directly on the ground and feature some type of support system to hold up the addition. Decks may be built off of the lower floor of a home, such as the living room or kitchen, or they might be added to an upper level room or even on a rooftop setting. Decks are typically enclosed with some type of railing and often offer the homeowner excellent views of their surroundings.

Cost of a Deck

As with all renovation projects, your budget will likely impact your choice, and the range for a deck or patio addition project can be large. For instance, Remodeling Magazine’s Cost Value Report in 2013 states the average cost of a midrange deck addition project runs around $15,000 USD for a composite deck and $9,327 USD for wood. The cost of the project will depend upon a variety of factors though. These include:

• Materials used (concrete, vinyl, wood)
• Location of the addition (on the ground without supports, above ground, on the house with a door already leading out or in an area in which a door addition must be made)
• Size of the addition
• Features, such as a built in barbecue, railings, seating, supports

Another consideration to factor into the addition equation is the slope of the yard on which you plan to place the patio or deck. For instance, since a patio is placed directly on the ground, you’ll want to choose a space that is level. Patios may not be the best choice for uneven ground because the cost to create a level foundation can double or triple the cost of the actual addition.

Deck is a good investment

Aside from the initial cost to construct a deck, you should consider your return on investment (ROI) if, in the future, you plan to sell. Renovations done to the outside of the home, such as decks and patios, often offer a good ROI, because most homeowners want to have some type of outdoor living space. The average return on investment for a new deck addition runs around 75%; on a patio, HouseLogic notes the ROI averages somewhere between 30-60%. What does this mean for you? Remodeling Magazine shows that a new wooden deck in the midrange project category will average $9,327 USD; the resale value places that deck at $7,213 USD. In this case, the homeowner would recoup around 77.3% of what was paid. 

Overall decks offer a positive ROI and unlimited possibilities for entertaining, socializing, or simply relaxing in an outdoor space. Contact us today for a FREE quote estimate!

The post What are the benefits of a backyard deck? first appeared on Capital Deck and Fence.

Wood Decks

Wood is strong, natural, and feels the best to touch. But it requires the most maintenance over any other deck material. Annual cleanings are a must and wood decks must be treated and re-sealed every two to three years. That still won’t prevent a wood deck from breaking down from rotting, warping, and splintering, though, which are pretty common in older decks. If your deck is really showing signs of wear you can apply a colored protectant which should add a few more years to the life of your deck.

There are three main types of wood you can use:

• Pressure Treated wood decks are the least expensive, but install with care, since the chemicals they are treated with is toxic and corrosive. They can be painted and stained an unlimited amount of colors. These decks can last 15-20 years.
• Redwood and Cedar are the most popular natural wood decking choices for they’re overall beauty and resistance to bugs and rot. They are soft woods that can be easily damaged, but they can last 20 years with proper maintenance.
• IPE hardwood decking is a dense dark wood sourced from South America that is very resistant to wear, rot, splintering, bugs, and even fire. It’s the most expensive wood deck option, but will last 25 years or more.

If you don’t mind the maintenance that comes with wood decks, then you’ll save money on the front end. But remember, you’ll need to spend a bit every couple of years to wash, stain, and scrub the deck to keep it in good condition too.

For DIYers, wood decks are the best option as there are many plans and books available to help guide you through the process. A wood deck can also be built using standard tools and hardware, unlike some composite or PVC decks which can require special clips or fasteners.

With all wood options, buy woods certified by the Forest Stewardship Council, which indicates that sustainable practices have been used to harvest the wood.

Composite Decks

Composite decks are made from a blend of plastic and waste wood fibers, which make it resistant to rot and wear. These decks most resemble wood. You buy the color you want and there is no need to paint or stain them. Overall composites are more expensive than wood, but the only maintenance they need is an occasional gentle scrubbing using deck cleaner and pressure washing to prevent mildew.

These decks are installed using clips, deck screws, or hidden fasteners for a seamless look.

Trex and TimberTech are industry leaders in composite decking, and between them you should just aim to find a color and style you like.

PVC Decks

PVC (polyvinyl chloride) decking is 100% recyclable and won’t rot, stain, or fade. Plastic decks are less expensive than composite decks and have closed the gap in appearance and touch to composite decks. From a distance a PVC deck may look like wood but when you stand on it there is no mistaking it’s plastic.

Fiberon Paramount PVC decking is available in a variety of colors and most mimics natural wood. AZEK is another major PVC decking manufacturer that offers limited lifetime warranties on their decks.

The post Best Material for your Deck first appeared on Capital Deck and Fence.