When building a deck, one of the most critical decisions is selecting the right type of foundation. The two most common options are concrete piers and helical piers. Each has its advantages and ideal use cases, so understanding the differences will help you make the best choice for your project. Concrete Piers: The Traditional Choice Concrete piers have been the standard for decades. This method involves digging holes below the frost line, placing a footing, and pouring concrete to create a solid support base. Pros of Concrete Piers: Cost-Effective : Concrete is generally more affordable in terms of material costs. Widely Accepted : Most contractors and building departments are familiar with this method, making permitting and approvals straightforward. Strong and Durable : When properly installed, concrete piers can last for decades without requiring maintenance. Cons of Concrete Piers: Labor-Intensive : Requires significant digging, forming, and pouring, which can increase installation time. Weather-Dependent : Concrete work must be done in suitable weather conditions to ensure proper curing. Soil Conditions Matter : If the soil is unstable or prone to shifting, concrete piers can settle or heave over time. Helical Piers: A Modern Alternative Helical piers are screw-like metal supports that are mechanically driven into the ground. They are commonly used in foundation repair but have become popular for deck construction, especially in challenging soil conditions. Pros of Helical Piers: Quick Installation : No need for digging or waiting for concrete to cure; installation is typically completed in a single day. Works in Any Weather : Unlike concrete, helical piers can be installed year-round without weather-related delays. Great for Poor Soil Conditions : Ideal for areas with clay, sand, or high water tables where concrete piers may not be stable. Minimal Site Disruption : Requires less excavation, reducing mess and damage to surrounding landscaping. Cons of Helical Piers: Higher Upfront Cost : The materials and specialized installation equipment make helical piers more expensive than concrete. Requires Specialized Equipment : Professional installation is necessary, adding to the overall project cost. Less Familiarity : Some local building departments may have additional permitting requirements due to limited familiarity with helical pier technology. An engineer stamp on the helical piers is required and provided by your helical pier installer. Which One is Right for Your Deck? Your choice will depend on several factors: Budget : If cost is a primary concern, concrete piers may be the better option. Soil Conditions : If you have poor soil or a high water table, helical piers are often the more reliable choice. Project Timeline : If you need your deck installed quickly, helical piers can save time. Long-Term Stability : If soil movement is a concern, helical piers provide superior stability over time. Both options are effective and durable, but the right choice depends on your specific site conditions and priorities. Consulting with a professional can help ensure you select the best foundation for your deck project. How Deck Permit Pro Can Help No matter which foundation type you choose, Deck Permit Pro can assist you with designing and creating your deck plans to meet local building codes and permit requirements. Our team specializes in permit drawings for decks, ensuring a smooth and hassle-free approval process. Contact us today to get started on your deck project with confidence!

When it comes to building a deck, it's easy to get caught up in the excitement of the project. After all, a new deck can transform your outdoor space, providing a place to relax, entertain, and enjoy the beauty of nature. However, before you begin construction, it's important to consider the legal and safety aspects of the project. That’s where having your deck designed and permitted by a BCIN (Building Code Identification Number) designer, like Deck Permit Pro, comes in. 1. Compliance with Local Building Codes One of the most important reasons to have a professional BCIN designer handle your deck design is to ensure compliance with local building codes. Every region has its own set of rules and regulations when it comes to construction, and these codes are in place to keep you, your family, and your property safe. A BCIN designer is a certified professional who is well-versed in the local building codes and will design your deck to meet or exceed those standards. This ensures that the structure is built to last and is safe for use. Without the proper permits and adherence to code, your deck could be at risk of structural failure, putting your home and loved ones in danger. 2. Avoiding Costly Mistakes and Delays When you attempt to design and build a deck without professional assistance, you run the risk of making mistakes that can lead to costly corrections down the line. Without the guidance of a BCIN designer, you might overlook critical details such as the proper foundation, material choices, or load-bearing requirements. Additionally, if you build a deck without the necessary permits, you could face fines, delays, or even be required to tear down the structure. By working with Deck Permit Pro, you'll avoid these potential pitfalls, ensuring that your project moves forward smoothly and stays within budget. 3. Peace of Mind with a Permit in Hand Many homeowners assume that they can simply start building a deck without needing a permit. However, this is not always the case. In many areas, a deck is considered a permanent structure that requires a building permit. If your deck is built without the necessary approval, you could face fines or complications when trying to sell your home in the future. Having your deck designed and permitted by a BCIN designer ensures that all the paperwork is handled properly, and you'll have peace of mind knowing that your deck is legally compliant. Deck Permit Pro will take care of the permit application process so that you can make sure that all the necessary inspections are scheduled, and that the work is completed according to code. 4. Increased Property Value A professionally designed and permitted deck can add significant value to your home. Potential buyers will appreciate knowing that the deck was built with the help of a BCIN designer and has all the necessary permits in place. This can make your home more attractive to buyers, and may even help you sell it faster. A deck that is not designed or permitted correctly can raise red flags during a home inspection, potentially causing buyers to question the quality and safety of the structure. By investing in a professional design and proper permitting, you're making an investment that will pay off in the long run. 5. Expert Design and Functionality A BCIN designer like Deck Permit Pro brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to the table. Not only will they ensure your deck is up to code, but they will also create a design that maximizes the use of your space, enhances your outdoor living experience, and complements the aesthetics of your home. Whether you're looking for a simple, functional deck or an elaborate outdoor entertainment space, a professional designer will help you achieve your vision while ensuring the structure is safe and durable. 6. Protection in Case of Future Issues Even if everything seems perfect with your deck when it's first built, issues can arise over time. By having a BCIN designer involved, you ensure that the design is up to code and that you have a professional record of the project. If problems do occur later, you’ll have documentation to show that the deck was built according to the proper guidelines and inspections. This can protect you in case of any disputes, whether with future homeowners or with insurance companies in the event of an accident or structural failure. Conclusion Building a deck is an exciting project, but it’s essential to approach it with the right preparation. Working with a BCIN designer like Deck Permit Pro ensures that your deck is safe, compliant with local building codes, and built to last. With professional design services, proper permitting, and peace of mind, you’ll be able to enjoy your new deck with confidence, knowing that you’ve taken the necessary steps to protect your investment. BCIN certification ensures that your project is designed to Ontario Building Code Standards

Are you a homeowner in Ontario looking to build a deck but dreading the tedious permit process? Look no further – there's a new solution in town that will streamline the entire process for you. Deck Permit Pro is a service that specializes in creating permit drawings for decks, making it easier than ever for customers to secure their deck permits. Their service is designed to provide homeowners with all the necessary information and documentation required to get their deck project approved quickly and efficiently. One of the key features of Deck Permit Pro is its lightning-fast turnaround time. No more waiting weeks for your permit drawings – with Deck Permit Pro, you can have them in your hands in no time. This quick and easy process sets this service apart from the rest, making it the go-to choice for homeowners looking to get their deck project off the ground without any hassles. By using Deck Permit Pro, you can say goodbye to the headache of dealing with confusing permit requirements and paperwork. They will walk you through the entire process, ensuring that you have everything you need to get your deck permit approved without any delays or setbacks. So why waste time and energy navigating the complex world of deck permits on your own when you can rely on Deck Permit Pro to do all the heavy lifting for you? Take the stress out of the permit process and let this convenient service handle all the details for you. Get started today and make your deck project a reality with Deck Permit Pro. It's the smart choice for homeowners who want to streamline the permit process and get their deck project approved with ease.

Are you looking to build a deck for your home but finding the permit process overwhelming? Look no further, as we have found a solution for you! Deck Permit Pro has revolutionized the deck permit process by offering quick and efficient permit drawings for homeowners. Their user-friendly site allows customers to easily secure their deck permit and provide all the necessary information in a seamless manner. One of the key benefits of using Deck Permit Pro is the fast turnaround time for deck drawings. This not only saves you time but also streamlines the entire permit application process, making it hassle-free for customers. With a focus on providing excellent customer service, Deck Permit Pro ensures that homeowners have all the support they need to get their deck project off the ground. From guiding you through the requirements for a deck permit to assisting you with any questions or concerns along the way, Deck Permit Pro is there every step of the way. So, if you're ready to turn your dream deck into a reality, consider using Deck Permit Pro to help you navigate the permit process quickly and efficiently. Say goodbye to the stress of permit applications and let Deck Permit Pro take care of it for you. Your deck permit is just a few clicks away!

Getting a building permit is essential prior to starting to build or replace your deck in Calgary Thinking about building a deck in Calgary? Before you start picking out materials and inviting friends over for a backyard BBQ, there’s one important step you can’t skip: getting a building permit. But don’t worry—it’s easier than you might think! Here’s everything you need to know to get your deck project approved and ready to build. Do You Need a Permit for Your Deck? Not every deck requires a permit, but many do. Here’s a quick breakdown: You DO need a permit  if your deck is more than 0.6 meters (2 feet) above the ground . You DON’T need a permit  if your deck is lower than 0.6 meters and is not attached to your home. If you’re not sure whether you need a permit, it’s always best to check with the City of Calgary or a professional like Deck Permit Pro. Zoning Restrictions You Should Know Before you start planning, it’s important to check zoning regulations for your property. These rules may affect: Deck placement  – Your deck must comply with required setbacks from property lines and buildings. Lot coverage  – Some properties have limits on how much of the lot can be covered by structures, including decks. Height restrictions  – In some cases, decks above a certain height may have additional requirements. Heritage and special districts  – If you live in a designated heritage area or a special zoning district, there may be extra rules to follow. You can find specific zoning regulations on the City of Calgary’s website or consult a professional to ensure your deck complies. Steps to Getting a Deck Permit in Calgary 1. Gather Your Information Before you apply, you’ll need to prepare a few documents, including: A site plan  showing where your deck will be located on your property. A deck plan  with details like dimensions, railing height, stairs, and support posts. Information about the materials you’ll be using. Confirmation that your deck complies with zoning regulations. 2. Submit Your Application You can apply for your deck permit online through the City of Calgary’s website. If online applications aren’t your thing, you can also submit your paperwork in person at City Hall. 3. Wait for Approval Once you submit your application, the City will review it to make sure your deck meets the rules. This can take a few days to a few weeks , depending on how busy they are. 4. Start Building! Once your permit is approved, you can start building your deck. Keep in mind that you may need inspections along the way to ensure everything is up to code. Why Getting a Permit is Important Skipping the permit process might seem tempting, but it can lead to problems down the road. If you ever sell your home, unpermitted work can cause legal issues or lower your home’s value. Plus, the city can issue fines or even require you to tear down your deck if it doesn’t meet safety standards. Need Help? Deck Permit Pro Has You Covered! If the permit process sounds like a hassle, we’re here to help. At Deck Permit Pro , we handle the paperwork, drawings, and approvals so you can focus on your dream deck. Contact us today, and let’s get starte