New Year Deck Projects 2026: Permits, Budgets and Early Booking Tips

Ring in the New Year with a plan to transform your backyard. January is the ideal time to design and schedule a new deck so you’re entertaining outside by spring. Orion Outdoor Living is a trusted deck builder in London, Ontario serving Westmount, Komoka, Mt Brydges, and St. Thomas. From composite and PVC to classic wood decks, we navigate permits, budgets, and timelines in Middlesex County so your 2026 project starts strong and finishes on time.

Do You Need a Permit for a Deck in London, Ontario?

People Also Ask: Do I need a permit for a deck? In most Ontario municipalities, a permit is typically required if the deck is attached to the home, is 0.6 m (24 in) or more above grade, or exceeds about 10 m² of surface area. Railings, covered sections, privacy screens, and stairs may also trigger specific requirements. Frost footings must extend below the local frost line (often near 1.2 m/4 ft), and guard heights and stair geometry must meet the Ontario Building Code. Orion’s team prepares permit drawings, coordinates submissions, and books inspections, helping you avoid costly revisions and delays with the City of London and nearby jurisdictions.

What Will a 2026 Deck Cost? Budget Factors to Consider

Every backyard is unique, but these variables shape your investment and help prioritize features that fit your goals and property:

• Materials: pressure-treated wood (budget-friendly), cedar (warmer look), composite (low maintenance), PVC (premium performance).
• Structure and footings: concrete piers vs. helical piles; multi-level designs; covered sections.
• Railings and privacy: aluminum, composite, or glass railings; privacy screens as windbreaks and design accents.
• Upgrades: integrated deck lighting, pergolas, outdoor kitchens, or poolside platforms.
• Site conditions: access, grading, existing patios, and snow management for winter builds.

Typical installed ranges in Southwestern Ontario reflect material and complexity. Orion provides transparent quotes with options and value-engineered alternatives so you can compare composite vs. PVC, railing types, and add-ons without surprises.

Timeline: How Long Does a Deck Project Take?

Winter is prime planning season. A well-run deck project follows a predictable path:

• Design and estimate: 3–10 business days depending on scope and revisions.
• Permits: often 1–3 weeks for straightforward decks; covered structures may require additional review.
• Footings and framing: 2–5 days, with helical piles offering immediate load-bearing and minimal excavation in cold weather.
• Decking, railings, and finishes: 3–10 days based on size, materials, and accessories.

Weather buffers protect quality in January and February. With early design and permitting, your deck can be ready for the first warm weekends in the Thames Valley.

Early Booking Tips to Beat the Spring Rush

Lock in your preferred start date and product choices by acting now:

• Book a January consultation to secure design time before February–March demand spikes.
• Preselect materials (composite or PVC colours, railing profiles) to avoid spring stock shortages.
• Decide on add-ons—privacy screens, pergolas, covered sections, and deck lighting—so they’re engineered into the plan, not added last minute.
• Consider helical piles for faster winter installation and less disruption to soft landscaping.
• Bundle projects (deck + railings + lighting) to streamline inspections and reduce overall timeline.

Why Consider Composite or PVC in 2026?

Composite and PVC decks offer excellent durability for London’s freeze–thaw cycles, resist staining, and reduce seasonal maintenance. With brands like TimberTech, Deckorators, Fiberon Weekender, and Fortress, you gain consistent colour choices, traction options for winter safety, and warranties that protect your investment. If you prefer wood, Orion can recommend stain schedules and detail through-cuts and fasteners to extend lifespan.

Local Insight for Covered and Multi-Use Spaces

More homeowners are combining decks with pergolas, covered areas, and integrated lighting for four-season flexibility. In our region, windbreaks and low-voltage LEDs improve winter safety and comfort, while proper snow-load considerations keep covered structures code-compliant. Planning these elements in January ensures smooth permitting and coordinated installation.

Start the Year with a Deck Designed for You

Ready to make 2026 the year your backyard matches your lifestyle? Schedule a New Year design consultation with Orion Outdoor Living. We handle permits, budgets, and timelines—and build composite, PVC, and wood decks tailored to London, Westmount, Komoka, Mt Brydges, and St. Thomas. Get ahead of the spring rush and secure your preferred start date today.