Deck & Fence Installation
Custom decks and fences designed for Ontario's climate — built to code, built to last. Serving homeowners and commercial properties in Orillia, Muskoka, and Simcoe County.
Building Decks and Fences That Survive Ontario Winters
Ontario's freeze-thaw cycles are among the most destructive forces acting on outdoor wood structures. Water penetrates wood grain, freezes, and expands — splitting boards, loosening fasteners, and lifting posts out of the ground. A deck or fence that looks great in June can develop significant structural issues by the following spring if it wasn't built with our climate in mind.
Post footings are a critical area where shortcuts lead to failure. In Central Ontario, the frost line sits at approximately 4 feet deep. Fence posts or deck posts that aren't set below the frost line will heave upward every winter as the frozen soil expands, then settle back — but rarely in exactly the same position. Over several cycles, posts that heaved and settled become loose, leaning, and eventually unsafe.
At Northern Lakes Contracting, we set all structural posts on proper concrete footings poured below the frost line. We use pressure-treated lumber rated for ground contact (ACQ-treated), stainless steel or hot-dipped galvanized fasteners throughout, and proper flashing at ledger connections to prevent water from being trapped against your home.
Built Below the Frost Line
All footings poured at 4 ft depth minimum to prevent heaving in Ontario winters.
Why Northern Lakes Contracting Is Different
Every component matters in Ontario's climate. Here is what separates a deck or fence that lasts 25 years from one that needs replacing in 8.
Code-Compliant Design
We pull the required permits and build to Ontario Building Code specifications. This protects your investment, ensures safety, and is critical if you ever sell your home — an unpermitted deck is a liability that buyers and their lawyers will find.
Below-Frost Footings
Every post is set on a concrete footing poured at a minimum of 4 feet below grade — the frost line in Simcoe County. This prevents the freeze-thaw heaving that destroys deck and fence posts over time.
Premium Material Selection
We use ACQ pressure-treated lumber for structural components, with cedar, composite decking (Fiberon, TimberTech), or IPE hardwood for the decking surface depending on your preference and budget.
Proper Ledger Flashing
Where a deck attaches to your house, water must be prevented from getting behind the ledger board. We use code-compliant metal flashing and sealants to protect the rim joist and house framing from rot — the most common cause of structural deck failure.
Galvanized & SS Hardware
We use hot-dipped galvanized or stainless steel joist hangers, post bases, and fasteners throughout. ACQ treated lumber is corrosive to standard zinc-plated hardware — using the wrong fasteners causes accelerated rust and structural weakening within a few years.
Finished to Last
We apply quality stains, sealants, or finishes to all cedar and pressure-treated surfaces to protect against UV fading, cracking, and moisture absorption. Composite decking is installed with proper gapping for drainage and thermal expansion.
Our Deck & Fence Services
Custom outdoor structures designed for Ontario's climate and your property's unique layout and style.
Custom Deck Design & Build
Ground-level, elevated, and multi-level decks in pressure-treated wood, cedar, or composite materials. We handle design, permits, and complete installation.
Composite Decking
Premium composite decking products like Fiberon and TimberTech offer the look of wood with virtually no maintenance — no annual staining, no splinters, and 25-year manufacturer warranties.
Privacy Fence Installation
Cedar, pressure-treated, vinyl, or composite privacy fencing installed on properly set concrete footings. Ideal for backyard privacy, pool enclosures, and property boundaries.
Decorative & Picket Fencing
Classic white picket fences, decorative cedar fencing, and custom-designed boundary fences that improve curb appeal while defining your property.
Deck Railings & Stairs
Code-compliant deck railings in wood, aluminum, glass, or cable systems. Custom stair configurations to navigate grade changes safely and elegantly.
Deck Repairs & Restoration
Replacing rotted joists, broken decking boards, unsafe railings, or sunken posts on existing decks. We assess the full structure before recommending repair vs. replacement.
Decking Materials Comparison
Every material has its place. Here's how the most common decking options compare for Ontario's climate.
| Material | Durability | Maintenance | Cost | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Pressure-Treated Lumber | 20–30 years | Annual staining | Lowest | Budget-conscious builds |
| Cedar | 15–25 years | Annual staining | Mid-range | Natural look, cottage properties |
| Composite (Fiberon, TimberTech) | 25–30 years | Annual cleaning | Higher upfront | Low maintenance, modern look |
| IPE Hardwood | 40+ years | Annual oiling | Premium | Luxury, extremely durable |
| Vinyl / PVC Decking | 25+ years | Minimal | Mid-range | Pools, high-moisture areas |
Frequently Asked Questions
Detailed answers about deck and fence installation in Orillia, Muskoka, and Simcoe County.
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