Decks, Pergolas & Outdoor Structures

Built as Part of the Landscape, Not Added After

At Horvath Landscapes, decks, pergolas, and outdoor structures are designed as part of a complete outdoor environment. Rather than treating structures as decorative add-ons, we plan them in relation to grading, circulation, pools, stonework, planting, and lighting.

This approach helps ensure structures feel natural within the landscape and perform well over time.

Built as Part of the Landscape, Not Added After

At Horvath Landscapes, decks, pergolas, and outdoor structures are designed as part of a complete outdoor environment. Rather than treating structures as decorative add-ons, we plan them in relation to grading, circulation, pools, stonework, planting, and lighting.

This approach helps ensure structures feel natural within the landscape and perform well over time.

How We Use Decks and Structures

Most of our deck and structure work is completed as part of a larger landscape design–build project. In some cases, standalone structures—such as pergolas, screens, or deck additions—can be undertaken when the scope is clear and properly planned.

We build:

Ground-level and multi-level decks
Pool decks and hot tub access decks
Pergolas (wood or aluminum)
Roofed structures and shade elements
Privacy screens and integrated partitions
Equipment enclosures and small accessory structures

We do not routinely build fully finished buildings with interior drywall or full interior fit-outs, although related work can be discussed as part of a larger project.

Horvath Landscaping backyard with large paver patio, poolside hardscape, raised deck with railing, and covered lounge area.

Materials and Structural Systems

Material selection is driven by long-term performance, maintenance expectations, and how the structure integrates with surrounding elements.

Our preferred decking materials are composite and vinyl systems, which offer greater dimensional stability and lower maintenance than traditional wood decking. Wood is typically used for structural framing, but we generally avoid exposed wood decking surfaces due to long-term maintenance concerns.

For foundations, we regularly use:

Helical piles, particularly for standalone decks or areas with limited access
Concrete footings, when appropriate and when coordinated with other concrete work on site

Both systems are installed below frost depth and built with long-term stability in mind. Proper footing depth and preparation is non-negotiable—decks and structures are built so they do not move.

Pergolas, Screens, and Covered Elements

We build a wide range of pergolas and covered structures, including:

Wood pergolas
Aluminum pergolas
Motorized louvre systems
Integrated screens and privacy panels

Electrical, lighting, heating, and motorized components are coordinated as part of the project, even when completed by licensed trade partners.

Horvath Landscaping custom wood pergola with privacy screen and patio walkway in a residential backyard.

Integration with the Rest of the Yard

Decks and structures are designed to support circulation and openness rather than block access to the rest of the property. Where possible, we avoid unnecessary railings or layouts that make a backyard feel closed off.

Stair placement, railing selection, and deck height are all planned so people naturally move between the deck and the surrounding landscape.

Site Conditions We Commonly Handle

Our projects regularly involve:

Sloped properties
Limited or small-access conditions
Tight urban lots
Long access runs
Wet or variable site conditions

We use appropriate machinery and planning to handle these challenges efficiently.

Longevity, Serviceability, and Climate Considerations

Structures are built for Canadian conditions. Footings and piles are installed deep enough to avoid frost movement, and structural systems are designed so that if adjustments are ever required, they can be handled without major disruption.

Longevity, serviceability, and minimal movement are core priorities on every structure we build.

Project Fit

We are best suited for:

Decks and structures that are part of a planned landscape project
Pool and backyard environments
Projects where permits, planning, and sequencing are respected

We are not a good fit for quick bolt-on decks, rushed timelines, or lowest-price-only requests. Deck projects require permits and proper coordination, and that process takes time.

Where We Build

Decks, pergolas, and outdoor structures are built throughout our core service areas. Select projects elsewhere in the GTA are considered when scope and planning align: