A deck adds more than square footage. Done right, it becomes the place your family eats dinner all summer, the spot where guests gather, and the step between your kitchen and your backyard.
At Aurora Interlock & Pools, we design and build custom decks, pergolas, privacy screens and outdoor structures across Aurora, Richmond Hill, Vaughan, King City, Newmarket and the GTA. This guide covers the decisions that matter most: materials, permits, design and what to expect from a professional build.
Why a Professionally Built Deck Is Worth It
A deck is a structure. It carries people, furniture, barbecues and snow load, and it’s exposed to weather every day of the year. A professional build gives you:
- A design tailored to your property and how you live
- Structural strength with proper permitting and code compliance
- Low-maintenance, weather-resistant material options
- Integration with patios, pools, landscaping and lighting
Choosing Your Decking Material
The material you choose shapes how your deck looks, how long it lasts and how much time you’ll spend maintaining it.
| Material | Look | Maintenance | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Composite (e.g. Trex, TimberTech, Fiberon) | Consistent colour, wood-grain textures | Low — no staining; periodic cleaning | Homeowners who want minimal upkeep |
| Pressure-treated lumber | Traditional wood | Higher — regular staining/sealing | Budget-conscious builds, framing |
| Cedar or hardwood | Natural, warm wood tones | Moderate to high — regular finishing | Homeowners who love real wood |
Composite Decking
Composite boards resist rot and don’t need to be stained or sealed. They cost more up front than pressure-treated lumber, but many homeowners choose them to avoid years of sanding and staining.
Pressure-Treated Lumber
Pressure-treated wood is the most economical option and a common choice for deck framing. It needs regular staining or sealing to keep it looking good and to protect it from the elements.
Cedar & Hardwood
Cedar and hardwood give you the beauty of natural wood. They need ongoing care to preserve their colour, but nothing quite matches the look.
Railings
Railings affect both safety and style. Options include aluminum, glass and wood. Glass railings are popular beside pools and views because they keep sightlines open.
Do You Need a Permit for a Deck in Aurora?
This is one of the most common questions we hear. According to the Town of Aurora, decks less than 2 feet (about 600 mm) above finished grade do not require a building permit — but they must still comply with the Town’s zoning requirements. Decks at or above that height require a building permit.
Rules differ between municipalities, so if you’re in Newmarket, Richmond Hill, Vaughan or elsewhere in the GTA, check with your local building department. When we build your deck, we handle permitting and build to code as part of the project.
Single-Level vs. Multi-Level Decks
We build both single- and multi-level decks in a range of styles.
- Single-level decks are ideal for walk-outs and simple, open outdoor living.
- Multi-level decks create separate zones — dining up top, lounging below — and work well on sloped lots or where a deck steps down to a patio or pool area.
Pergolas, Shade Structures & Privacy Screens
A deck without shade can be unusable on a hot July afternoon. Custom pergolas, arbors and shade structures add definition and comfort. If neighbours are close, custom privacy screens and lattice walls give you discretion without making the space feel closed in.
Built-In Features That Make a Deck Feel Custom
Your deck is more than a platform — it’s a lifestyle feature. Popular upgrades include:
- Built-in benches and planter boxes
- Lighting and low-voltage wiring
- Outdoor kitchen platforms or bar areas
- Stairs or transitions down to interlock patios and retaining walls
Our Deck Building Process
- Site visit & design consultation — we measure, listen and plan around your space and goals.
- Custom design presentation — you receive visuals, layout options and a detailed quote. Ask about our 2D and 3D renderings.
- Build & project management — our in-house team builds to code, on schedule, with precision.
- Final walkthrough — we make sure everything meets expectations and provide care tips.
Questions to Ask Before Hiring a Deck Builder
- Will you pull the permit if one is required?
- What footing and framing method do you use?
- What decking and railing options do you recommend for my budget and maintenance tolerance?
- Is the work done by your own crew?
- What warranty applies to the workmanship?
A Deck That Fits the Whole Backyard
Decks look and work best when they’re designed together with the rest of the yard — landscaping, pools, patios and lighting. If you’re planning several upgrades, consider a full backyard transformation so every piece is planned by one team.
Let’s Build Your Dream Deck
We build custom decks across Aurora, Richmond Hill, Newmarket, Vaughan, King City, Bradford, Markham and the Greater Toronto Area.
Phone: (905) 751-0077
Email: sales@poolsaurora.ca
Learn more: Custom Decks & Outdoor Carpentry
