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Everything Matt & Ryan need to quote, design, and build custom decks in Calgary.
Someone wants a new deck. Move fast and get to their property. Here's the order.
Look up the address on Google Maps satellite view. Check the backyard size, existing deck or patio, grade/slope, and access to the property. This takes 5 minutes and tells you what you're working with before you call.
Size of the deck, what level (ground, raised, multi-level), features they're interested in (pergola, built-in seating, lighting, stairs). The more you know before the call, the better.
Speed matters. The faster you call, the more likely they say yes. Call within 2 hours. If they don't pick up, leave a voicemail and send a text. Follow up the next morning if no reply.
The goal of the call is to get a date on the calendar to see their yard in person. Don't try to quote over the phone — you need to see the grade, the access, and the full setup.
Keep it conversational. You're figuring out what they want, not giving a sales pitch.
"Hey [Name], it's Matt from Ridgeline Renovations. You reached out about building a deck. Just wanted to chat about what you're thinking."
Let them talk. Are they replacing an old deck? Building from scratch? Entertaining space? Quiet morning coffee spot? This shapes the whole design.
"What got you thinking about a new deck? What are you picturing?"
Wood vs. composite is the biggest decision. Some people have a strong preference, others have no idea. Educate them briefly.
"Have you thought about whether you'd prefer natural wood or composite decking? Both have pros and cons — I can walk you through it when we meet."
How big are they thinking? Any features they want — pergola, built-in seating, lighting, multi-level, stairs? This affects pricing significantly.
"Roughly how big are you thinking? And any features like a pergola, built-in benches, or lighting?"
Don't dodge the money question. Give them a ballpark range so they're not surprised later.
"Most custom decks land between $8K and $50K depending on the size, materials, and features. I'll have a much better idea once I see your yard."
Get a date and time. Confirm the address. Send a text right after confirming so they have your number.
"I'd love to come take a look at your yard and talk through the options. When works for you this week?"
Bring a tape measure and your phone for photos. This visit determines your quote.
Know these rules before you quote. Getting it wrong costs time and money.
Use this when walking clients through their options. Price is per square foot, installed.
| Material | Price (installed) | Lifespan | Maintenance |
|---|---|---|---|
| Pressure-Treated Lumber | $25 – $35/sq ft | 15–25 years | Needs annual staining |
| Cedar | $35 – $50/sq ft | 20–30 years | Naturally rot-resistant, ages to silver grey |
| Composite (Trex/TimberTech) | $45 – $70/sq ft | 25–50 year warranty | Low maintenance — just wash |
| PVC / Capped Composite | $55 – $80/sq ft | 30–50+ years | Premium look, zero maintenance |
Use these ranges for quoting. Always confirm with actual measurements and material selection.
| Package | Size | Price Range |
|---|---|---|
| Small Deck (PT lumber) | 100 – 200 sq ft | $8,000 – $15,000 |
| Medium Deck (composite) | 200 – 400 sq ft | $15,000 – $30,000 |
| Large / Multi-Level | 400+ sq ft | $25,000 – $50,000+ |
| Feature | Price Range |
|---|---|
| Pergola | $3,000 – $8,000 |
| Glass Railing | $150 – $300 / linear ft |
| Lighting Package | $1,000 – $3,000 |
| Built-In Benches | $2,000 – $5,000 |
Every deck project follows these steps. Use this as your checklist.
Call the lead, discuss their vision, size, materials, and budget. Book the site visit.
After the site visit, put together a design with dimensions, layout, material selection, and features.
Finalize decking material, railing style, color choices, and any add-on features with the client.
If the deck is 24"+ above grade, submit the permit application to the City. Wait for approval before starting.
If there's an existing deck or patio to remove, demo it and haul away debris. Prep the site.
Mark the layout, dig footings below frost line (4 feet in Calgary), pour concrete piers or install helical piles.
Install posts, beams, joists, and ledger board (if attached to house). This is the structural skeleton.
Install the deck boards. Pattern, direction, and spacing per material specs.
Install railing posts, top/bottom rails, and pickets or glass panels. Must meet code if 24"+ above grade.
Build and install stairs with proper rise/run. Add handrails per code requirements.
Install add-ons: lighting, built-in benches, pergola, planters, or any custom features.
If a permit was pulled, schedule the final inspection with the City. Ensure everything meets code.
Walk the finished deck with the client. Review care instructions, warranty info, and any maintenance tips. Collect final payment.
Plan your year around the weather. Here's how to maximize revenue and stay busy year-round.
Homeowners start thinking about summer in late winter. This is when they're searching, getting quotes, and planning. Hit them early with marketing and you'll book the season.
Calgary's build window. Ground is thawed, weather is workable. Schedule projects back-to-back to maximize this window. Aim to have your summer fully booked by April.
Use the off-season for design work, material ordering, and interior projects (basements, kitchens). Stay productive and keep cash flowing.
Offer a slight discount for clients who book in January or February for a spring/summer build. Locks in your schedule early and gives you certainty on materials ordering.
Grab-and-go posts for your main channels. Click to copy.
Post on your GBP weekly. "Thinking about a new deck this summer?" with a link to the page. Free, high-impact.
Post in Calgary renovation groups and your business page. Include any deck photos you have.
Send a quick email to everyone you've worked with. Past clients are your best referral source.