Aventure Patio is a Quebec-based company specializing in the construction of wood and composite decks, patios, pergolas, privacy walls, and pool surrounds. Based in Lanaudière and the Laurentians, the company was founded by Marc Scremin and Annie Coté, two people passionate about wood and outdoor construction. Aventure Patio holds an RBQ licence (5858-7486-01) and focuses on construction quality, customer experience, and professionalism for every residential project.
Yes. Aventure Patio holds RBQ licence 5858-7486-01, which is mandatory in Quebec for all residential construction contractors. This licence confirms that the company meets the requirements of the Régie du bâtiment du Québec in terms of qualifications, bonding, and compliance with the Building Code. For homeowners, working with an RBQ-licensed contractor provides legal protection and the assurance that the work is carried out in accordance with current standards.
Aventure Patio primarily serves the Lanaudière, Laurentians, Montreal, and South Shore of Montreal regions. The company builds decks, patios, pergolas, and pool surrounds for residential homeowners in these areas. Aventure Patio is also expanding through a franchise model that aims to cover other regions such as Montreal, Sherbrooke, Quebec City, and Gatineau.
Aventure Patio offers a full range of residential outdoor construction services: pressure-treated wood and composite decks, patios, pergolas, privacy walls, pool surrounds, railing and guardrail installation, and recessed lighting integration. The process includes a free estimate, project design tailored to the client's needs, material selection, and full completion of the work in compliance with Quebec Building Code standards.
To get a free estimate from Aventure Patio, you can fill out the online form at aventurepatio.ca/soumission, call 514-246-6034, or email info@aventurepatio.ca. The estimate is no-obligation and allows us to evaluate your deck, patio, pergola, or pool surround project based on your lot, your needs, and your budget.
Yes. Aventure Patio is developing a franchise network in Quebec to allow construction-passionate entrepreneurs to launch their own business with a proven business model. The founders, Marc and Annie, have extensive franchise management experience, which allows them to provide structured support to new franchisees. Aventure Patio's seasonal model allows you to work during the summer season and enjoy winters off. We already have a franchisee on the South Shore. Other target territories include Montreal, Quebec City, Sherbrooke, and Gatineau.
In Quebec, the four most commonly used materials for deck construction are pressure-treated wood, composite, aluminum, and cedar. Pressure-treated wood is the most affordable and popular, but requires maintenance every three years (staining or sealing). Composite costs more upfront but requires virtually no maintenance and lasts longer. Aluminum is corrosion-resistant, slip-resistant, ultra-durable, and maintenance-free. Cedar offers a sought-after natural look and good resistance to rot. The best choice depends on your budget, the level of maintenance you're willing to do, and the look you're going for.
Pressure-treated wood is natural lumber treated under pressure against mold, fungus, and insects. It requires maintenance every three years and has a lifespan of approximately 15 to 25 years. Composite is a manufactured material made from a blend of wood fibres and polymers. It doesn't crack, doesn't rot, requires no maintenance, and has a lifespan of 25 to 50 years depending on the brand. Both options hold up well against Quebec's freeze-thaw cycles.
Aluminum is an excellent choice for Quebec's climate. It is corrosion-resistant, ultra-durable, and ultra-lightweight, with a lifespan of about 20 years or more. Unlike wood, aluminum doesn't crack, doesn't rot, and doesn't warp with freeze-thaw cycles. It's also easy to clean, maintenance-free, slip-resistant, and stays cool to the touch even in direct sunlight, making it a particularly attractive material for pool surrounds and areas where people walk barefoot.
Cedar is a wood species that is naturally resistant to rot, fungus, and insects thanks to its natural oils. It offers a warm look and an organic aesthetic sought after by homeowners who love the appearance of natural wood. Cedar is also lightweight, easy to work with, and has a pleasant scent. On the other hand, it costs more than pressure-treated wood and requires regular maintenance (staining or protective oil) to preserve its colour and durability, especially in Quebec where winters are harsh.
Aluminum and composite are the two decking materials that require the least maintenance. Aluminum requires no maintenance at all: it doesn't rust, doesn't warp, and is simply cleaned with water. Composite only needs washing with soapy water a few times a year. In comparison, pressure-treated wood and cedar require staining or sealing approximately every three years to stay in good condition. If minimizing maintenance is your priority, aluminum or composite are the best choices, despite a higher upfront cost.
For a residential pool surround in Quebec, the most recommended materials are aluminum and composite. Aluminum is slip-resistant, stays cool to the touch even in direct sunlight, and resists water and pool chemicals. Composite holds up well against moisture and doesn't rot, but some models can get hot in the sun. Pressure-treated wood is a more affordable option but requires more maintenance and can become slippery when wet if not treated with a non-slip product. The choice of material should also take into account safety standards for fences and guardrails around pools.
Most modern composite boards have a textured surface that provides good traction, even when wet. Major brands like Trex, TimberTech, and Fiberon design their products with slip-resistant profiles specifically for outdoor areas exposed to water. However, like any outdoor surface, composite can become more slippery if algae, moss, or ice builds up. Regular cleaning reduces this risk. If the deck is near a pool, it's recommended to choose a composite with a certified slip-resistant texture.
A well-maintained pressure-treated wood deck lasts an average of 15 to 25 years. Maintenance approximately every three years (staining or sealing) is essential to maximize its lifespan. A composite deck generally lasts 25 to 50 years, depending on the product quality and brand. Many manufacturers offer warranties of up to 30 years. Composite doesn't require staining, sealing, or sanding, which reduces long-term maintenance costs. Even though composite costs more upfront, its longer lifespan and lack of maintenance often make it a worthwhile investment over 20 years or more.
The cost of building a deck in Quebec varies depending on the material, size, complexity, and region. Prices also fluctuate significantly from year to year. Helical piles, stairs, railings, and options like lighting or a privacy wall can increase the cost. To get current pricing, feel free to contact us and request an estimate for your project.
In most Quebec municipalities, a building permit is required to build a deck. The requirement usually depends on the height of the structure above ground level. For example, in Montreal, a deck with a floor more than 60 cm (24 in.) above the ground requires a permit. Rules vary from city to city: some municipalities require detailed plans, a site plan, and a post-construction inspection. Building without a permit can result in fines or an order to demolish the structure. Before starting, contact your municipality's urban planning department to find out the requirements. An RBQ-licensed contractor can also guide you through the process.
The best time to have a deck built in Quebec is from May to October, when weather conditions allow for comfortable work and the ground is no longer frozen. To enjoy your deck from the beginning of summer, the ideal time to request an estimate is in March or April. The May to July period is the busiest for most deck builders. Contractors often fill up their order books quickly, so the earlier you book, the better your chances of getting the dates that work for you.
Helical piles are galvanized steel shafts with a helix at their tip, screwed into the ground to serve as a deck foundation. They replace traditional concrete forms (sonotubes) and offer several advantages: fast installation (often in a single day), no major excavation required, resistance to freezing and thawing, and high load-bearing capacity. In Quebec, helical piles are particularly popular because they're installed below the frost line (approximately 1.2 to 1.5 metres deep depending on the region), which prevents the structure from shifting with freeze-thaw cycles. For a standard 12 x 16 foot deck, 6 to 9 piles are typically used.
In Quebec, a guardrail is mandatory when a deck floor is more than 60 cm (24 in.) above the ground. Below this height, no guardrail is required by the Building Code. When the deck is 60 cm to 1.80 m (6 ft.) above the ground, the guardrail must be at least 90 cm (36 in.) high. Above 1.80 m, the minimum guardrail height increases to 107 cm (42 in.). Balusters must be spaced no more than 10 cm (4 in.) apart to prevent a child from passing through. Some municipalities may have stricter requirements, so always check with your city before starting work.
In Quebec, the terms "deck" and "patio" are often used interchangeably, but there is a technical difference. A deck generally refers to a raised structure made of wood, composite, or aluminum, attached to the house or freestanding, mounted on foundations (helical piles or sonotubes). A patio refers more to a ground-level surface, often made of interlocking pavers, concrete slabs, or natural stone. Both serve as outdoor living spaces, but the raised deck is the most common choice in Quebec for backyards, mainly because it adapts better to sloped terrain and allows for direct access from the home's patio door.
Yes. According to several real estate market studies, a well-built deck can increase the value of a residential property by 5% to 15%, depending on the quality of construction, materials used, and region. In Quebec, where the outdoor season is particularly valued by homeowners, a deck is a strong asset when reselling. Composite and aluminum decks, which require little maintenance and age better, tend to offer a better return on investment than pressure-treated wood. A well-designed deck with lighting, a privacy wall, and a pergola creates a true additional living space that appeals to potential buyers.
The construction timeline for a deck depends on the project size, complexity, and weather. For a standard residential deck (12 x 12 feet to 12 x 16 feet), work typically takes 3 to 7 business days once the job site is started. Helical pile installation is usually completed in one day. More complex projects (large area, multiple levels, integrated pergola, pool surround) can take 1 to 3 weeks. The total timeline, including the estimate, obtaining the municipal permit, and planning, generally ranges from 4 to 8 weeks.
A pergola is an open structure made of beams and crosspieces that create partial shade without a closed roof. It is often attached to the house or a deck and can accommodate climbing plants, curtains, or a retractable shade cloth. A gazebo (or garden pavilion) is a freestanding structure with a fully enclosed roof, usually octagonal or rectangular in shape, that provides complete protection from rain and sun. A gazebo typically costs more due to its roofing and more complex structure. The pergola is often preferred for its lighter look and natural integration with an existing deck.
In most Quebec municipalities, yes. A pergola is considered an accessory structure and generally requires a permit, especially if it is anchored to the ground with foundations or attached to the house. Requirements vary from city to city: some municipalities require a site plan showing the distance from property lines. Rules regarding maximum height, lot coverage percentage, and setbacks also apply. Before building, check with your municipality's urban planning department. An RBQ-licensed contractor, such as Aventure Patio, typically knows local regulations and can guide you through the process.
The most popular materials for an outdoor privacy wall in Quebec are cedar, composite, and pressure-treated wood. Cedar offers a natural and warm look, resists rot well, and can be stained in several colours. Composite requires less maintenance and lasts longer, but costs more. Pressure-treated wood is the most affordable option. Privacy walls are often mounted on aluminum posts for better durability and stability. The choice depends on your budget, the desired look, and how well it coordinates with your deck materials.
Yes, in most cases, a privacy wall can be added to an existing deck. However, you need to make sure the deck structure can handle the additional weight and wind load. A qualified contractor will assess the existing framing and foundations to determine if reinforcements are needed. The privacy wall posts must be securely anchored, ideally to the deck structure or directly to the piles. Depending on the wall's height and location, a municipal permit may be required. Also check your municipality's regulations regarding the maximum allowed height for fences and privacy walls.
In Quebec, the Regulation respecting the safety of residential swimming pools applies to all outdoor pools capable of holding 60 cm or more of water. All in-ground, semi-in-ground, or above-ground pools with direct ground access must be surrounded by a compliant fence at least 1.2 metres (4 feet) high. The fence must prevent climbing, must not allow a 10 cm object to pass between the bars, and must have a gate with automatic closing and locking mechanisms. The minimum distance between the fence and the pool edge is generally at least 1 metre. Owners of pools installed before 2010, who previously had a grandfather clause, now have until September 30, 2027 to bring their installations up to the new standards.
The minimum required height for a residential pool fence in Quebec is 1.2 metres (4 feet). This fence must be designed so that it cannot be easily climbed by a child, meaning it must not have horizontal elements that would make climbing easier. Openings between the bars must not allow a 10 cm diameter sphere to pass through. Gates providing access to the pool area must close and lock automatically. The latch must be installed on the pool side or, if on the outside, at least 1.5 metres above the ground. Municipalities may impose stricter rules.
For a residential pool surround in Quebec, the most popular options are aluminum, composite, and pressure-treated wood. At Aventure Patio, we favour pressure-treated wood; it is more affordable and only requires maintenance every three years to withstand constant water exposure. Regardless of the material, the pool surround must comply with the safety standards of Quebec's Regulation respecting the safety of residential swimming pools.
Yes. The Quebec government has removed the grandfather clause that exempted pools installed before November 1, 2010 from the new safety standards. All owners of these pools now have until September 30, 2027 to bring their installations up to standard. After this date, fines of $500 to $1,000 per day of non-compliance may be imposed. The standards require a fence at least 1.2 metres high with a gate that closes and locks automatically. It is recommended to begin the compliance process as early as possible, as demand among contractors could increase as the deadline approaches.
According to Quebec's Regulation respecting the safety of residential swimming pools, the safety fence must be located at least 1 metre from the pool edge. This distance may vary according to municipal regulations, with some cities requiring 1.2 to 1.5 metres. Pool equipment (filter, heater) must also be installed more than 1 metre from the pool wall or the fence, unless placed under a structure that prevents access. Always check with your municipality for the exact distances required in your area.
Yes, a deck can serve as an access platform for an above-ground pool, but specific safety standards apply. The portion of the deck providing access to the pool must be secured by a compliant fence at least 1.2 metres high, with a gate that closes and locks automatically. The purpose is to prevent a child from accessing the pool unsupervised. If the above-ground pool has rigid walls at least 1.2 metres high and access is only through a removable ladder or one equipped with a safety barrier, the perimeter fence is not required. But as soon as a deck or platform provides direct access, the fence becomes mandatory. An experienced contractor can design a deck that meets all of these standards.
To maximize the lifespan of a pressure-treated wood deck in Quebec, maintenance every three years is recommended. In the spring, clean the surface with a low-pressure power washer or with soapy water and a brush to remove dirt, mold, and winter residue. Then apply a stain or sealant that protects against UV rays, moisture, and mold. The first stain application should be done approximately 6 to 12 months after construction, to allow the wood time to dry completely. Regularly check the screws and fasteners, especially after freeze-thaw periods. Promptly replace cracked or damaged boards to prevent water from seeping into the structure.
Not necessarily every year, but regular maintenance is recommended to preserve the appearance and durability of a cedar deck. Without treatment, cedar will naturally turn grey over time due to UV and weather exposure. If you want to preserve its original colour, a semi-transparent stain or protective oil should be applied every 1 to 3 years, depending on sun and weather exposure. If you like the silver-grey look, a simple clear sealant every 2 to 3 years is enough to protect the wood from moisture without changing its colour. Cedar is naturally resistant to rot, but moisture protection remains important in Quebec.
Cleaning a composite deck is simple and doesn't require specialized products. For basic maintenance, wash the surface with warm soapy water and a soft-bristle brush. Rinse with clean water. For stubborn stains (grease, food, mold), use a composite cleaner approved by the manufacturer or a water and vinegar mixture. Avoid using a high-pressure power washer, as it could damage the composite surface. Cleaning 2 to 3 times a year is generally enough to keep the deck clean and in good condition. Composite requires no staining, sealing, or sanding.
Generally, a well-built deck made with materials suited to Quebec's climate doesn't need to be covered for winter. Composite, aluminum, and pressure-treated wood decks are designed to withstand freeze-thaw cycles. However, it's recommended to remove or cover patio furniture, clear snow with a plastic shovel rather than a metal one to avoid scratching the surface, and avoid using de-icing salt (especially on composite and wood), which can damage the materials. If your deck has direct access to a pool, make sure the access points are secured in accordance with the Regulation respecting the safety of residential swimming pools, even during winter.
Several signs indicate it's time to replace a deck rather than repair it: rotted, spongy, or crumbling boards, a sagging or unstable structure, screws and fasteners that no longer hold in the wood, deep mold that won't come off with cleaning, wobbly guardrails, or damaged foundations. As a general rule, a pressure-treated wood deck begins to show signs of aging after 15 to 20 years, while a composite deck can last 25 years or more. If repairs cost more than 50% of the price of a new deck, replacement is usually more cost-effective. Before deciding, have the condition of your deck assessed by an RBQ-licensed contractor.
In Quebec, the Building Code requires a guardrail whenever a deck floor is more than 60 cm (24 in.) above the ground. If the deck is less than 1.80 m above the ground, the guardrail must be at least 90 cm (36 in.) high. If the deck exceeds 1.80 m in height, the guardrail must be at least 107 cm (42 in.) high. The spacing between balusters must not allow a 10 cm (4 in.) diameter object to pass through. The guardrail must withstand a lateral load as determined by the code. Permitted materials include aluminum, wood, PVC, certified tempered glass, and steel cable. An RBQ-licensed contractor ensures that the installation complies with both municipal and provincial standards.
The most popular materials for outdoor deck staircase railings in Quebec are aluminum, pressure-treated wood, and tempered glass. Aluminum is the most common choice: it's durable, lightweight, available in several colours (black is very popular), and requires no maintenance. Pressure-treated wood or cedar pairs well with a deck made of the same material and offers a warmer look, but requires regular maintenance. Tempered glass gives a modern, open look but costs more. In Quebec, a handrail is mandatory for any outdoor staircase with more than three risers. The minimum handrail height on a staircase is 86.5 cm (34 in.) measured from the stair nosing.
Yes. Installing recessed lights in a composite deck is entirely possible and is actually an increasingly popular option. Low-voltage recessed LED lights are the most commonly used for decks. They can be integrated into the deck boards, stair risers, guardrail posts, or under handrails to create safe ambient lighting. LEDs use little energy and hold up well in Quebec's cold weather. Ideally, lighting should be planned from the design stage so that wiring can be integrated into the structure. A certified electrician should handle the electrical connection to ensure compliance with Quebec's Electrical Code.
