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in si de ha lto n. co m O ak vi lle B ea ve r | T hu rs da y, A ug us t 11 ,2 02 2 | 22 Lisa BLunt Sales Representative 58 Normandy Place Oakville ON L6K 1S1 • $1,149,000 Meticulously renovated townhome mere steps to the charming shops and cafes of Kerr St, Downtown Oakville, Tannery Park and the marina. Extensive renovations completed in 2022. Modern kitchen with stylish finishes and large breakfast bar peninsula, new flooring, European boutique hotel inspired en suite and modern black framed windows. 3 bed, 3 bath. Finished lower level with garage access and backyard walkout. Oversized custom back deck off of main living area. Energy efficient zone specific ductless AC/heating units on all three levels. All new electrical and 200 amp breaker panel. Electric vehicle charger in the built in garage. Quick access to the QEW and the Oakville GO station. 905-529-3300 Judy Marsales Real Estate LtD blunt@judymarsales.com 1602 Seventh St, St CatharineS. $3,425,000 Welcome to your own slice of tranquil paradise full of fruit trees & evergreens. This Georgian style 2 storey home offers over 5000 sq ft of family living. On 4.26 acres of private park-like setting. Including pool, deck, patio, gazebo, tennis court w/basketball net,3 golf practice holes. Custom built home 4 large bedrooms, newly high quality designed renovated 2022 bathrooms. Main floor office w/separate private entrance for clients. Massive family room offers 16 ft high ceilings w/gas fireplace. Finished basement 2020 w/ separate entrance. Call with any questions. 1219 - 100 Burloak road • $650,000 Welcome to beautiful Hearthstone by the Lake, where retirement-condo living meets a wellness-supported environment. Suite 1219 is exceptionally spacious - 1355sq.ft., with sunny, east-facing windows overlooking the lush courtyard.There is a full Kitchen, a sizable Primary Bedroom with an Ensuite (3-piece with shower), plus another Bathroom (4-piece with tub), a large Living Room with walk-out to the Balcony, a large Dining Room, a Family Room, plus a Den that can be used for an office or 2nd Bed. Condo owners enjoy the benefits of an elegant Dining Room, Games and daily Activities, Indoor Pool, Gym,Transport Van, Concierge! The Wellness Centre offers a la carte services. Combined monthly fee of $2,608 (plus Hydro,Taxes, Cable) is much less than many retirement homes, plus you own the condo. It's a win/win! Kim MacKay, B.A. REALTOR Direct: (905) 599-9745 Email: kimmackaysellshomes@gmail.com Re/Max Escarpment Realty Inc., Brokerage Real Estate Advertorial Whether you want to create a picturesque setting for al fresco dining, establish the perfect outdoor entertainment destina- tion, or simply want a place to enjoy relax- ing weekends, building a ground-level deck is an ideal way to maximize any outdoor space. Also called a "floating" or "platform" deck, a ground-level deck is a relatively easy and affordable DIY project. Due to its low profile, this type of structure doesn't typi- cally require safety railings or stairs, so the costs are comparatively lower than building an elevated deck ifor materials and labour. If you've got the skills, time and ambition, the experts at Decks.com offer these tips for how to build a ground-level deck that will transform your backyard into an oasis: Planning and placement A successful deck build starts with proper planning. While a ground-level deck typically does not require a permit, it is a good idea to check with your local builder's office to confirm the building codes in your area be- fore you get started. Next, consider how you plan to use your deck to determine the best location for it. Will you be hosting friends and family? If so, you may want to position your deck near the house. Are you envisioning a quiet outdoor oasis? Then, a secluded area of your yard might be best. Foundation and ventilation Once you know where you plan to build, assess the terrain to ensure proper water run-off and ventilation. Sustained damp- ness on a deck can lead to mold, rot and de- cay. If you live in a location where the ground does not freeze, you could have the option to build the foundation with concrete deck blocks. Most areas where the ground freez- es, you may need to use traditional concrete footings to build your deck foundation. It's also recommended to install gravel under the structure to provide better drainage. Next, put stakes in the ground and string the perimeter to ensure the deck outline is level and square. Installing the beams At this stage, you should be able to see your deck starting to take shape. Lay the deck beams on top of the footings, making sure they are high enough off the ground to allow for ventilation. Measure diagonally and tap the beams to line them up. Con- sider using temporary supports to hold your beams in place. Add additional gravel to level out the ground, if needed. Attaching anchors and joists Once the framing beams are level, attach angle brackets at the corners of the deck for additional support where the joists and beams meet. Use joist hangers to fasten the inner joists to the beam faces at regular intervals, using the spacing recommended by the decking manufacturer, as well as lo- cal building code regulations. This provides stability and gives you a good idea of how the decking will lay. Laying the decking Align the first length of decking with the outside edge. Once you've ensured that it's even, install the remaining deck boards perpendicular to the joist. Make sure the boards are well-secured and gapped accord- ing to the decking manufacturer's guidelines for proper ventilation. This is also important for preserving the warranty that may come with your decking material. Finishing and enjoying Once your decking is installed, use a cir- cular saw to trim any overhang for clean, fin- ished edges. After you've admired your hard work, make the space your own by adding plants, furniture and decorations to bring your outdoor oasis to life. For more deck building ideas and informa- tion, or to find a professional deck builder near you, visit Decks.com. (BPT) With basic DIY skills you can create a floating deck. Tips for how to construct your own ground-level deck