Deck Inspiration

Small
Deck Ideas

Proof that size doesn't matter.

Typical Cost

$8,000 – $20,000

Build Time

3–7 days

Difficulty

Easy

Best Season

April – October

Not every Canadian home has a sprawling backyard — and that's perfectly fine. Small decks (under 200 square feet) are some of the most impactful home improvements you can make. In cities like Toronto, Montreal, and Vancouver where lot sizes are tight, a well-designed small deck transforms an unused corner into a functional outdoor room. The secret is smart design: every square foot needs to earn its place. Multi-functional furniture, vertical gardens, and clever lighting can make a 100 sq ft deck feel twice its size.

Design Tips

Go Multi-Level

Even a single step between areas creates the illusion of more space. A lower platform for lounging and a raised area for dining works beautifully in tight spaces.

Use Built-Ins

Built-in benches with hidden storage, fold-down tables, and integrated planters save floor space. Every piece of furniture should serve double duty.

Think Vertical

Vertical gardens, hanging planters, and string lights draw the eye up and make the space feel larger. A living wall can also add privacy.

Choose Light Colours

Lighter decking tones (natural, sand, driftwood) reflect more light and make small spaces feel open and airy. Dark colours can make a small deck feel cramped.

Extend Indoor Style

Use the same flooring tone as your interior for visual continuity through sliding or French doors. This tricks the eye into seeing one larger space.

Recommended Materials

Composite

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Low maintenance is key on small decks where every flaw is visible. Composite stays uniform and clean with minimal effort.

Pressure-Treated

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The budget-friendly choice that lets you invest more in design features like built-ins and lighting.

PVC

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Moisture-proof and stain-proof — ideal for small decks where spills and snow melt are concentrated in a small area.

Gallery

Key Considerations

Many municipalities don't require permits for decks under a certain size (often 108 sq ft / 10 sq m) — check your local bylaws
Small decks often attach to the house — ensure the ledger board is properly flashed and lagged to prevent water damage
Consider a floating deck (not attached to the house) to avoid ledger board requirements and simplify permitting
Account for furniture before building — measure your chairs and table to ensure they actually fit with walking room
Privacy is often the #1 concern on small urban decks — budget for screening, lattice, or tall planters

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does a small deck cost in Canada?

A basic 100–150 sq ft pressure-treated deck costs $8,000–$12,000 installed. Composite bumps that to $12,000–$18,000. Premium builds with built-ins and lighting can hit $20,000.

Do I need a permit for a small deck?

It depends on your municipality. Many Canadian cities exempt decks under 10 sq m (108 sq ft) that are less than 24" above grade. Always check — building without a required permit can cause issues when selling.

What's the minimum useful deck size?

A 10×10 (100 sq ft) deck fits a small bistro table and two chairs comfortably. For a dining set of four, aim for 12×12 (144 sq ft) minimum. Anything under 8×8 feels cramped for most uses.

Can a small deck add value to my home?

Absolutely. A well-built deck typically returns 65–75% of its cost at resale. In urban markets like Toronto and Vancouver, outdoor space is at a premium — even a small deck can add significant appeal.