Every project starts with the right material. Here's a quick, no-nonsense overview of the woods and composites we use most: what each one is, where it shines, and what to expect over time.
A light, affordable softwood and one of the most common framing and fencing woods in Alberta. Spruce is easy to work with, takes paint and stain well, and keeps costs down on larger builds.
On its own it isn't rot-resistant, so it's best used where it stays dry or gets sealed and maintained, ideal for budget-friendly fences and painted structures.
A versatile, widely available softwood with a clean grain and a warm, natural look. Pine is strong for its weight and accepts stains and finishes beautifully, making it a popular choice for fences, trim and decorative work.
Untreated pine should be finished and maintained to hold up outdoors. Most exterior pine you'll see is pressure-treated for added durability.
Softwood (usually spruce or pine) that's had preservatives forced deep into the fibres under pressure. This makes it highly resistant to rot, moisture and insects: the everyday workhorse for decks and fences.
It's strong, cost-effective and built to last 15–25+ years outdoors. A yearly clean and a stain or seal every couple of years keeps it looking its best.
A premium softwood prized for its rich colour, straight grain and natural oils that resist rot, decay and insects, with no chemical treatment needed. Cedar is dimensionally stable, so it resists warping and cupping.
It carries a higher price tag but rewards you with a beautiful, long-lasting finish. Left unsealed it weathers to a soft silver-grey; sealed, it keeps its warm tone.
An engineered board made from recycled wood fibres blended with plastic polymers. Composite looks like wood but skips the upkeep: no staining, sanding or splinters, and it resists fading, stains and moisture.
It's the lowest-maintenance option we offer, good for 30–50 years, and a greener choice that puts recycled materials to work. Higher upfront cost, lower lifetime effort.
Dense tropical hardwoods like ipe and mahogany offer exceptional strength, deep rich tones and natural resistance to rot and insects. They're the top tier for decking where looks and longevity matter most.
Heavy and harder to work with, hardwoods sit at the premium end of the scale, but a well-cared-for hardwood deck can last decades and only gets more beautiful with age.
Tell us about your space and budget, and we'll recommend the best fit and put together a clear, honest quote.
Get a quote → Call 403-998-7755