We are a trusted deck builder in Toronto, Richmond Hill, Markham, and other nearby areas.
Ever wonder why two deck quotes for what looks like the same job can be so far apart? The main reasons are usually the materials, the size and features of the project, and the level of detail each builder offers. It might seem confusing or even frustrating when there’s a big difference in price, but there’s almost always a reason behind it.
People ask about deck quotes all the time, and honestly, it makes sense to want straight answers. As deck builders, we know choices like wood versus composite, railing styles, permits, and even when you want the work done can all change the cost. Our goal? Help you spot what’s really included in each quote, so you can feel more confident about your decision.
Key Takeaways
- Price differences usually come from the types of materials and the details in the project.
- Labour quality, permits, and after-care can affect the total cost.
- Local conditions, timing, and contractor reputation also play a role.
Material Differences
Material choices matter—a lot. What we use for boards, brands, and even the screws can change the total price quite a bit.
Pressure-Treated Lumber vs. Composite Boards
The choice between pressure-treated wood and composite boards is usually the biggest factor in deck cost. Pressure-treated lumber is less expensive, and that’s why it’s popular for budget-friendly decks. It’s also widely available at lumber yards across Canada.
Composite boards cost much more upfront—sometimes two to three times the price of wood. They don’t need sanding, staining, or sealing and can last longer without as much upkeep. Composite boards don’t splinter, warp, or get eaten by bugs, but they can get hot under the summer sun and might fade a bit over time.
If we look at average prices (spring 2025), pressure-treated lumber comes in around $4 to $7 per square foot. Composite can run $12 to $18 per square foot, just for boards. That’s a pretty big difference on a 300-square-foot deck.
Decking Brand and Grade
Decking brands and their “grades” can really shift a quote. Some names, like Trex, TimberTech, or Fiberon, cost more than the less-famous brands. Even within a brand, you’ll find “good,” “better,” and “best” lines—each with their own perks and prices.
Wood decking works the same way. Premium grades are straighter, have fewer knots, and just look better, but you’ll pay more per board. Home improvement stores usually carry a few grades—so when you’re comparing quotes, make sure it’s apples to apples.
Fasteners and Hardware Quality
Fasteners aren’t all equal. Stainless steel screws, hidden fastener systems, or coated hardware add to the cost. Lower quotes might use regular galvanized screws, which can rust faster, especially in wet or snowy climates.
Here’s a quick comparison:
| Fastener Type | Cost | Durability |
|---|---|---|
| Galvanized Screws | Low | Moderate |
| Stainless Steel Screws | Higher | High |
| Hidden Fasteners | Highest | High (depends) |
Better hardware means your deck lasts longer and looks cleaner. It also cuts down on future repairs. Sometimes, a quote with pricier hardware means less hassle (and fewer squeaky boards) years down the road.
Scope of Project
When you compare deck quotes, what’s actually included in the work often makes the biggest difference in price. What goes into the deck, how big it is, and any extras you want can quickly affect the final number.
Deck Size and Layout
Deck size is one of the main things we look at when pricing a job. Bigger decks need more lumber, fasteners, railings, and labour. A basic 10×10 foot square deck is way more affordable than a 20×20 wraparound.
Shape matters, too. A simple square or rectangle is faster and cheaper to build than something with curves, angles, or multiple levels. The more corners, stairs, and changes in height, the higher the labour cost—these features take longer and need more careful work.
Here’s a quick comparison:
| Deck Feature | Cost Impact |
|---|---|
| Simple Rectangle | Lower |
| L-Shaped | Moderate |
| Multi-Level | Higher |
| Curved Edges | Highest |
Measure your space and think about what you really need. Sometimes, scaling down by a few feet can make a big difference in price without losing much functionality.
Custom Features and Add-Ons
Extra features can turn a basic deck into your dream backyard spot, but they come at a price. Stuff like built-in seating, lighting, pergolas, privacy screens, and fancy railings are usually not part of a basic quote.
Every add-on means more materials and extra labour. For example, adding a pergola means buying posts, beams, connectors, and spending extra hours on installation. Built-in benches and planters also take time and special carpentry skills, which adds to the labour charges.
Here are some common add-ons and how they affect deck quotes:
- Built-in Benches: Adds cost for wood and carpentry
- LED Lighting: Adds cost for wiring and fixtures
- Privacy Screens: Extra framing and finishing work
- Pergolas/Gazebos: Major boost in both materials and labour
We always review your list of wants and needs to build an accurate quote. It helps us be upfront about what’s included so there are no surprises later.
Labour and Craftsmanship
Labour costs play a huge role in deck pricing. Our experience and the quality checks we use also impact what you pay.
Level of Experience and Training
Not every deck builder brings the same experience or skills. Some teams are just starting out, while others, like us, have worked on hundreds of decks. If we’re more skilled, we work faster and make fewer mistakes, which saves money in the long run.
Training matters, too. Our crew keeps up with building codes, safety guidelines, and the best techniques. We invest in ongoing education to stay sharp and learn new building methods or tools. When you get a quote, part of what you pay covers our expertise and commitment to doing things right the first time.
Decks built by experienced and well-trained teams usually last longer and look better. It’s not just about putting boards together—it’s about building something that works and holds up through harsh Canadian winters.
Quality Assurance Practices
Quality checks aren’t just a box to tick—they really affect the cost. We follow checklists at every stage: framing, decking, railing, and finishing. This makes sure your deck is square, secure, and safe to use.
Some builders might skip these steps or rush through them, but we take our time for each phase. We fix issues as we go, not after the fact. Here’s what our quality checks usually cover:
- Proper fastener spacing
- Straightness of boards
- Secure post and beam connections
- Level surfaces
Building a deck right the first time avoids expensive repairs down the road. Thorough quality checks do take extra time and planning, and this is factored into higher quotes. For us, peace of mind and your family’s safety are well worth the effort.
Permits and Inspections
We can’t build a deck without dealing with permits and inspections. These steps are not just red tape—they protect your investment and make sure the deck is safe and up to code.
Municipal Requirements
Most cities and towns in Canada require permits before deck construction begins. The rules can be different depending on where you live. For example, some municipalities need detailed site plans, while others may ask for engineered drawings.
Some locations have strict setback or height rules. If a deck is built too close to a property line, a permit could be denied or extra costs may come up to fix the design. If we don’t follow these local codes, we risk fines or having to tear down work.
The inspection process also varies. Some places need only a final inspection, but others may require multiple visits, such as after footings are set and when framing is done. These steps help confirm the work meets all code requirements.
Permit Filing Fees
Permit fees are set by each municipality. They usually depend on the size of the deck or the value of the project. For a small deck, the fee might be under $150. For larger or more complex projects, it can go over $400.
Here’s a quick example table:
| Deck Size | Approx. Permit Fee* |
|---|---|
| Under 150 sq ft | $100–$150 |
| 150–400 sq ft | $200–$300 |
| Over 400 sq ft | $350–$450 |
*These fees can change and should be checked with your town or city.
Permit fees are often included in our quote, but some contractors list them as extra charges. It’s always good to ask how fees are handled before you hire anyone. A clear quote prevents surprises later on.
Warranty and After-Sales Service
Warranties and after-sales service can make a big difference in what you pay for your deck. Some companies may charge more upfront, but the support they offer later can save you a lot of trouble down the road.
Length and Coverage of Warranty
The length and details of a deck warranty vary, and this is often built into the quote. Some warranties last just one year, while others can cover you for five to ten years, or even longer. It’s important to read the fine print.
A longer warranty usually means higher quality materials and workmanship are promised. Some companies offer full coverage on structural issues, while others only cover defects in materials or exclude specific problems like weather-related damage. This table shows a simple comparison:
| Feature | Short Warranty | Long Warranty |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Length | 1-2 years | 5-10+ years |
| Covers Labour | Sometimes | Often |
| Covers Materials | Usually | Always |
| Transferable to New Owners | Rarely | Sometimes |
We recommend asking what is included, because better coverage usually means a slightly higher quote, but provides better peace of mind.
Follow-Up Support
After-sales service is another area where quotes may differ. Some companies check in after the build and offer free repairs for specific issues. Others may finish the job and disappear.
If we build your deck, we like to follow up to make sure everything is holding up as promised. We answer your questions, help with maintenance, and fix problems if they come up under warranty. Our team includes clear details about after-sales support in your quote so you know what to expect.
When choosing a company, it’s important to ask if they’ll still be available when you need help. Good follow-up support can save you time, money, and frustration if anything goes wrong.
Project Timeline and Scheduling
When we give you a deck quote, the timeline matters. Scheduling can affect the price, sometimes more than you might expect.
Some contractors offer faster builds, but these often come with a premium. Rush jobs may need extra workers or overtime, which increases costs. If you’re flexible with your schedule, we might be able to quote a lower price.
Weather plays a role, too. In Canada, rain or snow can delay work. We plan around the seasons, but delays can mean extra costs if crews have to come back or reschedule.
Here’s a quick look at how timing can impact a quote:
| Schedule | Possible Cost Impact |
|---|---|
| Flexible | Standard or lower rates |
| Tight/Immediate | Higher due to overtime |
| Off-season work | Sometimes lower, sometimes more (weather risks) |
Waiting your turn can save you money, but we get that sometimes you just want to enjoy your deck ASAP.
If we’re booking far in advance or during the busy season, we might need to factor in higher material prices or longer supply times. This can affect the overall quote as well.
We like to keep you informed, so you know exactly why the timing of your project influences the price.
Contractor Reputation and Overhead
When you’re shopping around for deck quotes, the contractor’s reputation really does sway the price. The big names? They’ll usually charge more—they’ve earned some trust, and folks are willing to pay for that peace of mind.
Overhead costs sneak in too. If a contractor’s running a big crew or leasing a fancy office, those expenses—rent, insurance, trucks, office staff—will show up in your quote, whether you notice or not.
Here’s a quick look at what makes up overhead:
| Overhead Item | What It Pays For |
|---|---|
| Insurance | Protection for us and you |
| Wages | Good help isn’t cheap |
| Vehicles | Trucks, trailers, fuel |
| Rent/Utilities | Office, warehouse, electricity |
Smaller or newer companies sometimes offer lower prices by keeping overhead down. Maybe they work from a spare bedroom or skip the big office. That doesn’t always mean they cut corners, but response times or support might not be as quick if something goes sideways.
A strong reputation usually means we stand behind our work. You might get better warranties or more reliable service, but you’ll pay a bit more. It’s like paying extra at your favourite coffee shop because they never mess up your order—and maybe even remember your name.
Geographic Differences
Where you live in Canada really shapes deck costs. Labour rates in big cities? Higher, no surprise. Smaller towns usually get cheaper quotes. If you’re way up north or out in the boonies, expect to pay for travel time and those little extras.
Material costs jump around too. Some places have local lumber yards, others rely on stuff shipped in from far away. The farther materials travel, the more you’ll pay.
Here’s a quick look at how prices may differ:
| Location | Typical Labour Rates | Material Costs | Permits/Regulations |
|---|---|---|---|
| Big Cities | Higher | Average to High | Stricter, Pricy |
| Small Towns | Lower | Low to Average | Usually Cheaper |
| Remote Areas | Highest (travel) | High (shipping) | Varies, sometimes strict |
Local building codes can be a real headache. Some provinces or cities have tough rules for decks, which means more paperwork, inspections, and permit fees.
In places with harsh winters, we often need special footings or pressure-treated lumber to handle the freeze-thaw cycle. Weather and soil conditions around here can totally change how we build and what we use.
When you’re comparing quotes, check where the builder’s based. Local experience helps us know what extra costs and rules we’re up against.
Seasonal Considerations
The time of year? It matters—a lot. Spring and early summer get crazy busy. When everyone wants a deck at once, prices creep up.
Fall or winter? You could save some cash. Fewer jobs mean suppliers sometimes drop prices too.
Here’s a quick comparison:
| Season | Demand | Material Prices | Typical Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| Spring | High | Standard/High | Higher |
| Summer | High | High | Highest |
| Fall | Medium/Low | Low | Lower |
| Winter | Low | Lowest | Lowest |
Weather plays games with the schedule. Pouring concrete or staining wood in the cold or rain? Not ideal. Delays happen, even if the price is right.
If you want your deck ready for summer, reach out early. If you’re flexible, booking for fall or winter could mean a better deal—just be ready for a bit of weather roulette.
Frequently Asked Questions
Deck quotes can look wildly different, and there are plenty of reasons for that. Here’s a breakdown of the main things that drive the price—materials, labour, permits, and a few other curveballs.
What determines the cost variance when getting estimates for a new deck?
Deck prices swing because of materials, labour, design details, and local rules. Each company has its own overhead and warranty options, too.
Sometimes, you’ll see extras like site cleanup or removing your old deck in the quote. Always check what’s included before comparing.
Can differences in materials significantly affect the final price of a deck build?
Absolutely. The materials you pick can change everything. Pressure-treated lumber’s the cheapest. Cedar, composite, or PVC? Those bump up the total.
Even hardware and railings add up. Two builders might use the same wood but choose different grades or brands—so, yeah, it matters.
How do labour rates impact the overall cost of deck installation?
Labour rates depend on the contractor’s experience, local demand, and even the season. Skilled, insured pros charge more, and honestly, you usually get what you pay for.
If your deck’s complicated or hard to access, we’ll need more time or a bigger crew, which means higher labour costs.
Does the complexity of the deck design influence the quotation price?
No question. Simple, single-level decks are the cheapest. Curves, multiple levels, custom railings, built-ins—they all add up.
Unique layouts or extras like lighting or pergolas will push the price higher.
How do permit fees and local regulations alter deck construction costs?
Most places require permits for new decks. The fees depend on your city or town and can vary a lot.
We have to meet local building codes, which sometimes means deeper footings or extra supports. That bumps up both material and labour costs.
What role does deck size play in the final quote for building one?
When you go bigger with a deck, you’re signing up for extra materials and more hands-on work. Even a simple, straightforward design gets pricier as the square footage grows—think more boards, more hardware, just more of everything, really.
Also, depending on where you live, a larger deck might bump up your permit and inspection fees. Local rules can be a bit unpredictable that way.