How to Install Deck Railing for Safety and Style: Complete DIY Guide

new white deck from the back of the house veranda vinyl outside porch

Installing deck railing properly combines essential safety compliance with style enhancement, creating an outdoor space that protects your family while adding visual appeal to your home. Deck railings serve a critical dual purpose: preventing falls from elevated decks while transforming basic decking into an attractive, finished living area that increases property value. This comprehensive installation…

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PVC vs. Composite Decking: What’s the Difference?

Modern multi-level composite decking in ash grey with subtle deck lights for contempo

Building a deck is one of the best ways to expand your outdoor living space, but choosing the right material can be confusing. Homeowners often compare PVC vs composite decking, and while both offer low maintenance and long lifespan, their composition and performance differ in key ways. This guide breaks down how each material is…

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Cost of Deck Remodel Toronto 2025: What Homeowners Really Pay

Aerial View of Sunny Suburban Deck with Fire Pit and Gazebo

Thinking about refreshing or rebuilding your deck in the GTA? You’re not alone. Outdoor living is huge in 2025—and a smart deck remodel can boost everyday comfort and resale appeal. Homeowners can see a ~65–75% return on their investment in a new deck, depending on market conditions and finish quality. In many Toronto remodels, labour…

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Preparing Your Deck for Winter: Checklist

Modern outdoor hot tub on a wooden deck in the cold winter day

Canadian winters are harsh, and few outdoor structures feel it as much as your deck. Between snow, ice, freezing rain, and sudden temperature swings, a deck that isn’t properly prepared can suffer lasting damage.  Boards may warp, railings can loosen, and surfaces might rot when moisture penetrates and freezes. What starts as minor neglect in…

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TimberTech vs Trex: Which Composite Decking Is Right for You?

Curved composite deck with dining set and elegant railing, offering scenic suburban views.

Building a deck is a long-term decision. Once the framing and footings go in, the surface you pick will shape your yard’s style, maintenance routine and resale value for decades.  Among composite brands, TimberTech and Trex dominate Canadian showrooms, and for good reason. Both pair wood-like beauty with a recycled core, yet each takes a…

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Benefits of TimberTech for Decking

Modern TimberTech Deck with Scenic Forest View

Backyard decks face blazing sun in July and sub-zero ice in January. Pressure-treated boards crack, twist, and fade after a handful of seasons, turning weekend retreats into repair projects. Many homeowners try budget composites, only to find surfaces that overheat, stain, or look like plastic siding. TimberTech rewrites that story. By blending advanced PVC and…

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How to Prevent Your Deck from Warping

Prevent Your Deck from Warping

Deck warping isn’t just a cosmetic problem; it can ruin the function, safety, and longevity of your outdoor space. Whether your deck is made of pressure-treated wood, cedar, or composite, warping can lead to uneven surfaces, cracked boards, and costly repairs. If you’ve invested in a custom deck, the last thing you want is to…

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How Long Does a Deck Last? Lifespan by Material

decking lifespan

A new deck can serve as an open-air lounge, family dining room, and weekend retreat, but only if it stands the test of time. Ask five neighbours how long a deck should last, and you’re likely to hear answers ranging from ten to fifty years. The truth sits somewhere in between and depends heavily on…

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How Does a Deck Add Home Value?

luxury wooden deck around pool in home backyard

Adding a deck is more than just a backyard upgrade; it’s one of the smartest ways to increase your home’s value and boost its appeal to buyers. Whether you’re planning to sell in the next few years or just want to get more out of your outdoor space, a professionally built deck can deliver returns…

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How to Make Your Deck Slip-Resistant

deck slip resistant

A well-built deck should be a safe, relaxing extension of your home and not a slip hazard waiting to happen. Whether you’re dealing with rainy weather, morning dew, or icy winters in the GTA, slippery deck surfaces are more than just inconvenient; they can be dangerous. At Green Side Up Contracting, we’ve spent over 24…

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How to Clean Trex Decking

cleaning trex decking

Trex decking is a top choice for homeowners who want a low-maintenance, long-lasting outdoor space. But low maintenance doesn’t mean no maintenance. Like anything exposed to the elements year-round, Trex decking still needs occasional cleaning to look its best and last as long as it should. Whether you’re dealing with dirt, mould, or stains, here’s…

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How to Resurface a Deck with Trex

decking with trex

Over time, even the best-built wood decks start to show signs of wear—splintering, fading, or structural damage. If your deck’s foundation is still solid but the surface has seen better days, resurfacing with Trex composite decking can be the perfect solution. This eco-friendly material offers long-lasting beauty with minimal maintenance and can give your outdoor…

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When Is the Best Time to Install a Deck?

new deck installed on outdoor living space

A well-built deck enhances outdoor living, providing a functional and stylish space for entertaining, relaxing, and increasing property value. However, timing plays a crucial role in ensuring a smooth deck installation process and achieving long-lasting results. Choosing the right season for deck installation depends on factors such as weather conditions, contractor availability, and material stability.…

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Top Tips for Waterproofing Your Deck

waterproof deck

A deck is a valuable extension of your home, providing a space for relaxation, entertaining, and outdoor enjoyment. However, constant exposure to the elements—including rain, snow, and temperature fluctuations—can lead to moisture damage, warping, mould growth, and structural decay. Without proper waterproofing, even the most well-built deck can suffer from rotting wood, loose boards, and…

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How Much Does It Cost to Resurface a Deck?

deck stain backyard remodel refinish wood

A well-maintained deck enhances outdoor spaces, providing a comfortable and inviting area for relaxation and entertainment. However, over time, exposure to the elements can cause wear and tear, making resurfacing a necessary investment. Instead of a full replacement, deck resurfacing can bring back its pristine appearance and functionality at a fraction of the cost.  But…

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