FAQs

Yes. If you show us a picture of a deck, rail, trellis, bench, planter, pergola, or any other component of a deck, we can certainly build it.

A railing that meets the building code is one that has no openings on the railing greater than 4 inches. In other words, if a 4-inch ball can be pushed through your railing at any point it does not pass code.

Yes, permits are required, even if you’re just replacing the decking and nothing else.

Whoever is doing the work should acquire the permit. If you, the homeowner, are doing the work yourself, then you’ll need to acquire the building permit. However, if you’re hiring someone to do the work, that contractor should acquire the permit – which places the liability on the contractor. If a contractor recommends that a homeowner needs to acquire the permit for work that he will do, that’s a red flag that the contractor is likely not licensed.

Warranties vary from manufacturer to manufacturer, you’ll want to verify the warranty prior to choosing a product. In general, most composite and PVC decking manufacturers offer a 25-year “manufacturer’s warranty”. Manufacturer’s warranties cover factory defects only like splitting and warping. If products are installed incorrectly, the warranty is voided – thus it’s imperative that you or your contractor is familiar with the product being installed. In addition, most manufacturers’ warranties cover the cost of replacement materials and not the labour to remove the damaged decking and install the new.

Typically, the only maintenance needed is cleaning.

You’ll always want to defer to the manufacturers’ cleaning recommendations prior to using anything other than mild detergent and water. Some cleaning products could damage your decking.

No. Again, check with your decking manufacturer to verify the type of floor mats that are compatible with your decking product. For example, some rubber-backed floor mats will react with PVC deck boards causing discoloration. Also, keep in mind that although most decking products don’t fade nearly as much as they used to, fading in most products will still occur. A floor mat will obviously limit fading underneath it.

No! If you stain or paint the underside of your deck, moisture will still enter into the wood from the top, but now the moisture becomes trapped, accelerated rot is the result.

The price of a deck can vary greatly. Things such as size, shape, height off the ground, types of materials used, extras such as benches and planters, will all affect the price.

Most definitely yes! A new deck on a home here in Nova Scotia will add great value to the home. Usually, you can expect to recoup at least 80%-90% of the cost of the deck upon resale of the home.

There are many schools of thought on this subject. We recommend a deck be cleaned every year to remove moss and algae and re-stained as needed. Even the low-maintenance composite products, such as TREX, require regular cleaning to prevent the build-up of dirt which can lead to algae growth. The composite products, however, do not require a protective stain.

Yes. Decks are not commonly built to accommodate the weight of a hot tub. We always recommend a strengthening of the framework below where the tub will go or the addition of tub support.

This is a common problem. We recommend if your project exceeds your current budget that we spread the project over more than one season. As long as the master plan is complete and allows for the addition of more deck levels or areas in the future, it is easy to tailor the construction over a period of time. This also gives you the opportunity to decide if you really want that large of a deck by using what is currently built for a season to get a feel for your use of the deck.

Here are some factors that will help you smooth out the renovation process:

• Clear work areas of furniture, drapes and art. Make sure to cover anything remaining that could be harmed by dust
• Make early product selections
• Be available to your renovator on short notice
• Keep changes from the original plan to a minimum
• Discuss your concerns as they arise
• Accept the unpredictable with grace

For decorating, you don’t need a permit as long as you are not moving or adding anything. If plumbing, electrical components and gas lines require movement then you need a permit. All-Craft will take care of the permit process for you and coordinate the inspections.

We specialize in large-scale renovations that transform how you live in your home—whether it’s a full kitchen remodel, basement development, second-storey addition, or whole-home upgrade. Our team is experienced in complex renovations that require careful planning, permitting, and expert craftsmanship.

It depends on the scope of work. For extensive renovations that impact major living areas, plumbing, or power, temporary relocation may be necessary for comfort and safety. We’ll discuss this with you early in the planning phase and help you prepare accordingly.

We aim to finalize all design decisions before construction starts, but we understand that ideas evolve. Minor changes can usually be accommodated with a change order. However, significant changes may affect the schedule and budget, so we recommend keeping revisions to a minimum once work is underway.

Renovations, especially in older homes, can sometimes reveal hidden issues like outdated wiring or structural concerns. If anything unexpected arises, we’ll notify you right away, explain the options, and work with you to find the best solution with full transparency on cost and timeline.

Hiring a separate designer can create gaps between vision and execution. With All-Craft’s integrated design-build approach, our in-house team works together from day one—ensuring your design is both beautiful and buildable. This streamlines communication, prevents costly missteps, and keeps the project aligned from concept to completion.

Yes, our design services go beyond design plans. We and our endorsed sales reps can help you choose materials, finishes, cabinetry, lighting, and more—curating selections that reflect your style and enhance the functionality of your space. Whether it’s a kitchen, bathroom, or whole-home renovation, we’re here to simplify the process.

Absolutely. We’re happy to collaborate with your existing plans and offer feedback to ensure the design suits your goals, budget, and construction realities. We can also assist with fine-tuning or developing the design further as needed.

The length of the design phase can vary depending on several factors, such as the size and complexity of the renovation, how quickly decisions are made, and the level of customization. As a design-build company, we guide you through every step and keep the process as efficient as possible. Once we understand the full scope of your project and your goals, we can give you a better idea of what to expect.

Yes—no matter the size of the project, good design is essential. A design consultation helps clarify your vision, identify potential challenges, and ensure every square foot is used effectively. It also allows us to give you a more accurate estimate and timeline from the start.

As part of our design process, we create a set of design-plan drawings tailored specifically to your renovation or custom build. These drawings visually outline the proposed layout, features, and key measurements of the project. These details help us define the scope of work, ensure we’re aligned with your vision and accurately estimate costs and timelines if you do choose to move forward with the build.

Once the design is approved, we move on to develop fully detailed construction drawings, which include technical specifications, materials, structural details, and everything needed for permitting and building. But at this initial stage, the design-plan drawings give us, and you, a clear picture of what we’re creating together.

Yes. We can provide 3D renderings to help you visualize the finished space before construction begins. These are especially useful for complex renovations or custom homes and allow for informed design decisions early in the process.

We start by understanding your needs, style, and how you use your space. Our designers then develop a concept that reflects your goals, blends aesthetics with function, and fits your budget. You’ll be part of the process at every stage, from initial sketches to final plans.

Yes, All-Craft oversees the entire construction process, including scheduling and managing all trades. Our project managers coordinate everything to ensure work is done efficiently, to code, and according to your design.

We produce a set of design-plan drawings. These are not fully detailed construction drawings, but they do outline the proposed layout, key features and measurements, which allow us to provide an accurate design plan specific to your project. If you choose to move forward with building, we move on to develop fully detailed construction drawings.

No, you don’t need a complete set of plans to start. All-Craft offers full design-build services, which means we can help develop your plans from scratch based on your vision, lifestyle, and lot conditions. If you already have drawings, we’re happy to review and work from them as well.

Yes. Permitting is a key part of any custom home build, and our team will manage it for you. We coordinate with local authorities to ensure that all plans are approved and that inspections are scheduled on time, so you don’t have to navigate the paperwork.

Absolutely. You’ll work closely with our design team and endorsed sales reps to select finishes, flooring, cabinetry, fixtures, and more. We’ll guide you through the process with curated options that match your style and budget, ensuring a cohesive and personalized final result.

Design-build offers a seamless process from start to finish. With All-Craft, your designer, project manager, and construction team are all under one roof. This ensures better communication, faster decisions, fewer surprises, and a finished home that reflects your goals and expectations.

In certain cases, yes. If you have a long-term vision and need to break construction into stages for budgetary or logistical reasons, we can plan the home accordingly. We’ll create a master plan that supports phased development without compromising the overall design.

Yes, we can guide you through important considerations when selecting a lot, including zoning regulations, access to utilities, site grading, and overall suitability for your desired home design. While we don’t purchase land on your behalf, we partner with you early in the planning process to ensure the location fits your vision.

You’ll be involved every step of the way. We believe that your custom home should reflect your lifestyle, needs, and aesthetic preferences. Our design team works collaboratively with you to create a home that balances beauty, function, and long-term value.

All projects need plans. This helps eliminate confusion for all involved in the renovation project (the clients, project manager and trades people). All-Craft will work with you to construct and provide a full detailed set of plans.

Once the design has been finalized, we can give you a good estimate of when we’ll finish your project. As a guideline, renovations may take several weeks to several months depending on many factors including the level of detail, size and complexity of your project.

No. A building license enables someone to acquire a permit, and a permit ensures that the job will meet the building code requirements.

Yes, we partner with a trusted network of licensed and insured sub-trades who meet our high standards for professionalism, and reliability. All work is carefully managed and overseen by All-Craft’s project managers to ensure seamless coordination and quality throughout the entire build and full home remodel.

Absolutely. We’re proud of the work we’ve done and the long-term relationships we’ve built with our clients. You can find testimonials on our website and social media, and we’re happy to provide references upon request so you can speak directly with past clients about their experience with All-Craft.

Our schedule varies throughout the year, and due to high demand, we recommend booking several months in advance—especially for whole home renovations or custom homes. During your consultation, we’ll discuss timelines and availability to ensure your project aligns with your goals and deadlines.

All-Craft proudly serves Halifax and the surrounding communities throughout Nova Scotia, including Bedford, Dartmouth, Sackville, Fall River, Hammonds Plains, Tantallon, Timberlea, and Herring Cove. If you’re unsure whether your property falls within our service area, just reach out—we’re happy to confirm.

Following your consultation, our team will develop a tailored project proposal outlining scope, design concepts, budget estimates, and timelines. Once the plan is finalized and approved, we move into detailed design and permitting before construction begins. Every phase is guided by clear communication and full transparency.

BBB Accredited Businesses undergo a detailed review process; they must commit to and abide by a set of ethical standards for marketplace conduct. The BBB also has a rating system for businesses based on their history of customer complaints, and more importantly, the company’s response to those complaints. All-Craft is a member of the BBB and carries a rating of A+.

Yes, we are insured and provide proof of insurance upon request. Proof of insurance is also required to maintain a license with the building department.

Yes, you should always have a written agreement between you and your contractor which outlines the scope of work, warrantees, timelines, budgets, liability, etc. There needs to be a clear picture of what the contractor is providing. All-Craft Renovation team will supply you with a detailed and agreed upon contract.

Yes, you will be provided all details of the schedule that will be followed during your renovation project.

For a complimentary in-home consultation please call 902-576-3363 or email [email protected].

A contractor may represent themselves as being registered with the WCB, but unless they can produce a clearance letter confirming this, you may be liable for WCB claims made against the contractor. All-Craft and all of our trades are covered by workers’ compensation.

A backyard suite in HRM is not considered part of your primary residence for the purposes of operating a short-term rental like Airbnb. However, STRs are permitted in commercial zones where tourist accommodation is allowed. In such zones, backyard suites may be eligible for short-term rental use, provided they comply with all applicable zoning and permitting requirements

The length can vary depending on several factors, such as the size and complexity of the project, how quickly decisions are made, and the level of customization. As a design-build company, we guide you through every step and keep the process as efficient as possible. Once we understand the full scope of your project and your goals, we can give you a better idea of what to expect.