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Deck Builder in Cochrane

Deck Builder in Cochrane, AB

Cochrane homes are built into the hillsides of the Bow Valley, so a lot of decks here are raised, walkout or second-storey decks with a view to protect. Serenity builds them in composite and PVC, with railings chosen to keep the view open.

Elevated deck with glass railing and stairs

Cochrane, AB

Raised Decks and Walkouts in Cochrane

Cochrane sits in the Bow River valley at the foot of the Big Hill, and many of its neighbourhoods climb the slopes on either side. That terrain is why so many Cochrane decks are elevated: walkout basements, upper decks off the main floor, and long stair runs down to the yard.

Height changes the job. Guards become required, stairs need careful layout, and the railing becomes the most important design choice on the deck. Glass panel railing is popular here because it protects the mountain and valley views.

Permits

Cochrane Deck Permits: What You Need to Know

Building permits in Cochrane are handled by the Town's Safety Codes and Inspection team. Applications are emailed to the Town, and the online portal is used for status, payments and booking inspections. We prepare and submit everything for you.

  • •The Town's guidance says decks 24 inches or higher must meet structural and guard requirements.
  • •A hot tub always needs a building permit in Cochrane. A hot tub on a deck needs loading calculations reviewed by a Safety Codes Officer, or an engineer's report.
  • •Questions about setbacks and development permits go to the Town's planning department.
  • •Because the Town's page does not spell out every trigger, we confirm with the Town for each project before we build.

Source: Town of Cochrane, Decks and Hot Tubs guidance (cochrane.ca). Rules change, so we confirm them for every project.

Local Conditions

What Cochrane's Setting Means for Your Deck

Bow Valley wind

The valley funnels chinook winds toward Cochrane, and strong gusts are common. Railing posts, privacy screens and pergolas all need solid attachment to the framing, and we design for it.

Hail

Environment Canada observed 5 cm hail in Cochrane during the August 2024 storm. Capped composite and PVC boards and aluminum railings take hail far better than stained wood and painted spindles.

Height and guards

Under the Alberta building code, guards are required at 0.6 m above grade, rising from 900 mm to 1070 mm tall once a deck is more than 1.8 m up. That is common on Cochrane walkouts.

Neighbourhoods

Cochrane Neighbourhoods We Build In

From the established areas near downtown to the newer communities on the hills.

  • Sunset Ridge
  • Fireside
  • Heritage Hills
  • Riversong
  • Heartland
  • GlenEagles
  • West Terrace
  • Bow Meadows

Deck Services

Deck Services in Cochrane

Railings and stairs matter more on Cochrane's raised decks, and we install every option.

Google Reviews

Reviews From Serenity Customers

Real Google reviews from homeowners who hired Wes and his crew. Rated 4.8 stars across 63 Google reviews.

T
TEGUSTA A.
Google review

I would highly recommend Wes and his team. They showed up on time each day and their quality of work was amazing. Wes was able to complete the project ahead of schedule. It is great to see a company that values their clients through honesty, transparency and service.

K
Kristi W.
Google review

Wes and his team were terrific to work with! Right from when I first reached out, Wes was professional, kind, and quick to come out and take measurements to provide a quote. Our decks, fence and pergola are gorgeous!

S
Sue M.
Google review

5 Stars for Serenity construction who have done work for me both for business and personal on several occasions now. Wes is super personable and always accountable for the work done. Fair priced and complete within my needed timelines.

D
Daryna O.
Google review

Best deck addition I've ever had done, super friendly and great workmanship!!!

J
Jesse L.
Google review

Gets the job beautifully and in a timely manner. Doesn't waste time and has great communication throughout.

L
Leonid C.
Google review

Hired Serenity construction on 3 different occasions (2 decks and one fence). Wes and his crew are super fast and efficient and will work with you if you are on a tight budget.

Recent Projects

Raised Decks and Railings From Recent Builds

Composite deck with glass railing and front steps
Glass railing and steps
Furnished second-floor deck with glass railing
Second-floor deck, glass railing
Balcony deck with black metal railing
Balcony deck, black metal railing

FAQ

Cochrane Deck Questions

The Town of Cochrane requires decks 24 inches or higher to meet structural and guard requirements, and permits are handled by the Town's Safety Codes team. We confirm what your project needs with the Town and submit the application.
Yes, with the right engineering. A hot tub always needs a building permit in Cochrane, and one on a deck needs loading calculations reviewed by a Safety Codes Officer or an engineer's report. We plan the framing and paperwork for it.
Glass panel railing keeps the view most open. Cable rail is a lower-cost option that still preserves sightlines. Both are popular on Cochrane decks.
Under the Alberta Building Code, a guard is required once a deck is 0.6 m above grade. It must be at least 900 mm tall, or 1070 mm once the deck is more than 1.8 m above grade, with openings that stop a 100 mm sphere.
No. You pay when the deck is finished and you are happy with it.

Service Areas

Other Communities We Build In

Get a Deck Estimate in Cochrane

Free consultation at your Cochrane home, a fixed written price, permits handled, and no deposit.