09/03/2026
A New Deck Builder Recommendation — and an Offer to Help
Over the past several months, many of you have reached out to ask where you might turn for a reliable, high-quality deck builder now that I have retired.Until now, I haven’t felt comfortable giving you a name. I have always taken recommendations very seriously — for myself, and especially when recommending a tradesperson to a neighbour.
I’m pleased to finally share some good news.
For several months, I have been getting to know an established young contractor who specializes in decks. I first became aware of his work through local suppliers, then took the time to visit his website, request additional jobsite photos, have numerous conversations with him, and, most recently, meet with him here in our community.
His name is Emmett, owner of Dubs Construction from Ottawa. Emmett has been involved in residential renovations for many years and has operated his own business for the past five years, with a particular focus on decks. His small crew also lives in and around Kemptville. I believe he is someone worth considering, and I’m comfortable sharing his name with you.
I’m Still Happy to Help at the Beginning!
While I have no intention of becoming heavily involved in deck consulting again, there is one part of the process I truly miss: meeting with neighbours at the beginning of their project, listening to what they envision for their outdoor living space, and helping them work through those important early decisions.
So, if you are considering building a deck, I am happy to offer my experience during this initial consulting and design phase. For a fee of $500, I will meet with you, discuss your needs and ideas, help develop a beautiful and practical design, ensure that the initial concept is zoning-compliant, and help you work through some of those important details before you approach a builder for a quotation.
And there is a little something special about the fee: I would ask that your $500 cheque be made payable directly to either the Salvation Army Food Bank or the Kemptville Youth Centre.
Once we have worked through the initial planning and design, you can then approach the deck builder of your choice for a quotation — including Emmett, if you wish. My hope is simply that this gives you a little more confidence and comfort as you begin what can be a significant investment in your home and your outdoor living space.
I have been incredibly fortunate to have earned your trust over the past decade. Building decks in this community has given me far more than a business — it has allowed me to meet so many wonderful neighbours and become part of the growth of our community.
Forever grateful for your trust,
Murray MacLeod
MacLeod Carpentry (Retired)
