Western Red Cedar Deck Installation in Edmonton, Alberta
Looking to build a western red cedar deck in Edmonton, Alberta? Western Red Cedar is a popular choice for Edmonton homeowners. As one of Canada's major cities, Edmonton has dozens of experienced deck contractors.
Western Red Cedar Performance in Edmonton's Climate
Edmonton experiences a prairie climate with harsh winters and hot summers. Western Red Cedar can work in this climate with proper installation. Frequent freeze-thaw cycles make material choice critical.
Edmonton Climate Overview
- Climate Zone: prairie
- Winter Harshness: 5/5
- Summer Heat: 4/5
- Precipitation: low
- Freeze-Thaw Cycles: extreme
Western Red Cedar Deck Costs in Edmonton
In Edmonton, western red cedar decks cost approximately $32-$65 CAD/sq ft installed. Total project costs typically range $9,500–$28,000 depending on deck size and features.
Permits & Regulations in Edmonton
Edmonton requires building permits for most decks. Permit costs range $200–$600 with processing times of 2-4 weeks. Decks under 0.6m (2 feet) high may not require permits - verify with local building department. Building inspections are mandatory.
- Permit Cost: $200–$600
- Processing Time: 2-4 weeks
- Height Exemption: 0.6m (2 feet)
How to Install a Western Red Cedar Deck in Edmonton
Complete step-by-step guide for installing western red cedar decking in Edmonton, Alberta. Includes climate-specific tips for Edmonton's prairie weather conditions.
Step 1: Check Permits and Plan Your Deck
In Edmonton, verify permit requirements with local building department. Major cities typically require permits for decks over 2 feet high. Measure your space, plan deck layout, and determine western red cedar quantity needed. Account for frost depth requirements in Edmonton (typically 1.2m minimum).
Step 2: Install Footings and Foundation
Dig footings to required depth for Edmonton (1.2m or deeper to prevent frost heave). Use frost-protected footings with drainage. Ensure footings are level and properly spaced for western red cedar installation requirements.
Step 3: Build Deck Frame and Joists
Install ledger board (if attaching to house), beams, and joists according to Western Red Cedar manufacturer specifications. Standard 16-inch joist spacing for wood decking.
Step 4: Install and Seal Western Red Cedar Boards
Install western red cedar boards with proper spacing (3-5mm) for expansion. Apply UV-protective stain to prevent sun damage and cracking. Let cedar weather naturally or apply transparent stain to preserve color.
Step 5: Install Railings and Finishing Touches
If deck is elevated, install railings meeting Edmonton building code (typically 36-42 inches high). Wood railings should match deck material and finish. Add stairs if needed, ensuring proper rise and run dimensions. Complete final inspections as required by Edmonton regulations.
Step 6: Protect Your Deck for Edmonton Weather
For Edmonton's harsh winters: seal all gaps before winter, ensure proper drainage to prevent ice buildup, and remove snow carefully to avoid surface damage. Apply winter-grade sealer in fall.
Western Red Cedar Deck Reviews from Edmonton Homeowners
Western Red Cedar is working well for our Edmonton home. Low maintenance is a big plus.
Western Red Cedar deck installed 2 years ago. Showing some wear but acceptable. Would definitely recommend.
Love our western red cedar deck! Edmonton contractor did excellent job. Looks absolutely beautiful. The natural cedar smell is amazing! Friends and family always comment on how nice it looks. Best home improvement we've done.
Frequently Asked Questions: Western Red Cedar Decks in Edmonton
How much does a western red cedar deck cost in Edmonton?
In Edmonton, western red cedar decks typically cost $32-$65 CAD/sq ft installed, with total project costs ranging $9,500–$28,000 depending on size and complexity. Edmonton has competitive labor rates.
Is western red cedar good for Edmonton's climate?
Western Red Cedar can work in Edmonton, though it may not be the ideal choice. This climate requires materials with extreme cold resistance needed, materials must handle frequent freeze-thaw cycles, UV protection important.. With proper installation and maintenance, western red cedar can still perform adequately in Edmonton's prairie climate.
Do I need a permit for a western red cedar deck in Edmonton?
Yes, Edmonton requires building permits for most decks. Permit costs range $200–$600 with processing times of 2-4 weeks. Decks under 0.6m (2 feet) high may not require permits. Building inspections are required.
How long does western red cedar last in Edmonton?
Western Red Cedar has a typical lifespan of 20–25 years. In Edmonton's climate with extreme freeze-thaw cycles and low precipitation, western red cedar performs well with regular maintenance. Harsh winters may accelerate wear, making quality installation critical.
What maintenance does western red cedar need in Edmonton?
Western Red Cedar requires medium maintenance. In Edmonton, dry conditions reduce rot concerns but UV protection is important. Harsh winters demand fall preparation: seal gaps, remove debris, and ensure proper drainage before freeze-up. Periodic cleaning and inspection needed.
How does western red cedar handle Edmonton winters?
Edmonton experiences harsh winters with temperatures often below -30°C. Western Red Cedar performs reasonably well in cold climates with proper installation. Frequent freeze-thaw cycles require materials that expand and contract without damage. Natural wood requires extra winter protection through sealing and proper drainage.
When is the best time to install a western red cedar deck in Edmonton?
Best installation months in Edmonton are June through August due to short building season.
Are there contractors in Edmonton who install western red cedar decks?
Yes! Edmonton has numerous qualified deck contractors experienced with western red cedar installation. Look for contractors certified to install Real Cedar (Western Red Cedar Association) products for warranty protection. Get multiple quotes to compare pricing, timelines, and contractor expertise. Ask for references and photos of western red cedar projects completed in Edmonton.
Will western red cedar warp or crack in Edmonton?
Western Red Cedar can warp or crack if not properly maintained, especially in Edmonton's climate with extreme freeze-thaw cycles. Dry climate reduces rot but increases cracking risk. Annual sealing, proper ventilation underneath, and quality installation minimize these issues. Consider composite alternatives if low-maintenance is a priority.
Is western red cedar environmentally friendly in Edmonton?
Western Red Cedar scores 9/10 for environmental friendliness. Western Red Cedar is grown sustainably in British Columbia, making it a local Canadian product with minimal shipping emissions. Edmonton residents prioritize eco-friendly building materials, and western red cedar aligns with sustainable building practices.
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