Build the patio of your dreams

What would summer be without a deck or patio to enhance the pleasures of life outdoors? Whether you are planning to build a brand new terrace or to make improvements to your existing one, be sure to explore the vast range of possibilities that will help you create your ultimate outdoor living space.

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Planning, an essential step
Selecting the right materials
Choosing a model of deck or patio
Maintaining your deck
Terrace trends
Our plans: do it yourself!

Planning, an essential step

As for any construction or renovation project, planning is the key to success.
Before you begin, contact your municipality to check the by-laws that may apply to your project, especially regarding deck size and materials, height of railings and construction of steps. A building permit may well be required.
How will your deck be used? Is the aim to create an eating area, an outdoor kitchen or a relaxing living space? Keep in mind that the size of your deck or patio will have a bearing on your overall level of comfort. Plan an average of four feet by five feet (20 sq. ft.) per person. Divide the space up according to your needs and interests; use split levels to define different areas.

Remember to consider which way your deck will be facing in relation to the sun, as well as the position of any trees or buildings in your yard. The direction of prevailing winds is also an important factor to take into account.

Once you have dealt with all these aspects, you can set about choosing the most suitable type of foundation depending on the type of soil you have. Next, draw your plan to scale. A scale drawing helps you calculate the quantities of materials required, and of course it is much easier to make changes on paper than it is once you've actually started to build.

For more help on planning your deck:
Planning Guide Building a deck (PDF)
Deck foundations
Building a solid concrete staircase with landing

Selecting the right materials

Invest in good-quality materials to ensure your deck remains low maintenance and in good condition for longer. There are many possibilities when it comes to selecting decking or patio materials; your needs, priorities, and of course your budget will help you decide. Regardless of your choice, bear in mind that a deck’s basic structure is usually made from treated wood and it must be supported by strong foundations.

Treated wood is a long-lasting material that requires little or no maintenance apart from a protective coat of sealer, stain or paint to increase its durability. This type of lumber is affordable and easy to work with.

Cedar’s composition makes it naturally weather- and rot-resistant, so it does not need to be treated with chemicals. It can be stained, preferably with a translucent finish to let the beauty of the grain show through. The only drawbacks with cedar are its moderate cost and the fact that it is not always readily available.
Composite decking material is made from a mixture of wood fibre and plastic. Durable and resistant, it will not warp, rot, splinter or crack. These qualities explain its relatively high cost. Composite decking is maintenance free and has the authentic look of real wood.
Would you rather have your patio at ground level? Concrete pavers are ideal for terraced areas. Durable and maintenance friendly, they also look elegant. Paving stones and tiles come in an array of colours and textures, allowing you to create a natural, rustic or contemporary look.

To find out more about the materials available:
Deck construction materials
Paving slabs, pavers and retaining walls

Choosing a model of deck or patio

Multi-level, elevated, platform-style or at ground level, your deck or patio should be designed to meet your needs in terms of safety, privacy, leisure activities and so on. A deck can be anchored to the house or stand alone.

A tiered or split-level deck allows you to create separate areas for specific purposes, such as eating meals, relaxing, swimming or playing.

An elevated or raised deck will provide you with a great view, but safety can be an issue if you have young children and you will also be more exposed to neighbouring yards. Any deck higher than two feet above the ground should have railings.
A ground-level deck or patio blends naturally with the environment. It is less partitioned and therefore more open, but this makes it more likely to attract passing cats, dogs or other animals.

For more ideas on deck and patio models:
Building a one-level deck
Building a two-level deck
Building a concrete paver patio/sidewalk

Maintaining your deck

It is important to check the condition of your deck’s structure every year and to take the necessary corrective steps as soon as you notice any problems. Use a suitable cleaning product to renew the decking material.

If your deck is made of wood, you should protect it with a coat of sealer, stain or paint. Sealer provides excellent protection and leaves a semi-porous finish. It should be applied once every five years. Recently available on the market are linseed oil water-repellent sealers in transparent or semi-transparent finishes, which treat the wood without leaving a surface film. Sealer comes in a more limited range of colours than paints or stains.
Stains are available in transparent, semi-transparent or opaque (solid) finishes and can be either latex or oil based. They are applied to bare wood and only one coat of treatment is required. Staining wood generally protects it better than painting it, because stain is less inclined to peel or flake.

Paint seals the wood’s surface by coating it with a film. Temperature fluctuations and humidity levels will eventually cause the paint to peel, which means that the deck will need to be repainted fairly regularly. Paint gives wood a smooth, washable finish. This can make it slippery, so it’s a good idea to mix in a non-skid compound when painting deck floors. Epoxy oil-based paint is considered to be the most durable type of paint for decks.

To learn more about deck and patio maintenance:
Painting your deck
Sealing your patio
Staining your deck
Protecting and cleaning your paving stone driveway

Terrace trends

As we carry interior design through to the outdoors, the outside living area is gradually becoming an extension of the home. The patio is becoming a living room in its own right, decorated with plants, accessories and furniture and designed with comfort and conviviality in mind. Some rugs and wood tiles have the look of regular indoor flooring but are made with water-repellent, UV-resistant materials. Other accessories, such as cushions made from water-resistant fabrics, can be used inside or out.

Outdoor kitchens are becoming better equipped and more functional, with hi-tech utensils and equipment such as barbecue grill, mini-refrigerator and storage spaces. A bar area with stools and a counter is also a very popular feature.
Gazebos and retractable awnings are ideal for creating a private outdoor living space that can be enjoyed in all weathers. Fans and patio heaters allow you to adjust the temperature in hotter or cooler weather, as needed.

To read more on this year’s trends:
2010 Outdoor design trends

Our plans: do it yourself!

Ready to get started on a patio construction project? All our plans include a list of materials, step-by-step instructions and easy-to-understand diagrams.

Download our free plans:
Building a pergola
Building an oasis-style deck and pergola
Building an oasis-style pergola
Plan for a two-level deck
Building a cedar terrace - global village style
Build criss-cross railings - oasis style
By following the steps and taking the time to plan your project in detail, you will be able to create a comfortable, inviting space to be enjoyed for many years. Tools at the ready!
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