Cottage living is more than just a summer tradition in Ontario. It’s a way of life that brings families together in nature and provides a peaceful retreat from everyday stressors. Whether you’re dreaming of a classic lakeside cabin or a modern retreat, the foundation of that dream starts with the builder you choose.

With over 255,000 cottages in this province alone, it’s safe to say Ontario cottages come in all shapes and sizes. With different styles and levels of quality, working with a high-quality, experienced builder isn’t just important; it’s essential if you want to turn your dream cottage into a reality.

Challenges Posed by Ontario’s Cottage Country

Ontario’s cottage country is beautiful, but much of it is also characterized by rugged terrain. For starters, dealing with the Canadian Shield and building along shorelines will always present serious challenges for builders.

There are unique zoning requirements whenever you are working on a waterfront property, and builders also have to contend with soil and rock variations, which necessitate specialized foundations that can not only account for the terrain, but also for frost heave.

The remote nature of working in cottage country can also complicate builds. With Southern Ontario’s cottage country seeing an average snowfall of 130 cm each winter, the construction window is relatively short.

Choosing a high-quality builder with experience working in these unique conditions can ensure that your project goes as smoothly as possible. This includes laying proper foundations, anticipating septic system requirements, knowing how to preserve natural features of your lot, and even choosing materials that will ensure your cottage is protected from the elements year-round.

These aren’t issues you want to navigate through trial and error, so choose an experienced and reputable local builder.

Building Cottages That Last

Part of the appeal of heading into cottage country is having the opportunity to embrace nature, but this remote location also poses challenges for any type of construction project.

An Ontario cottage needs to stand up to year-round conditions, even if you don’t plan on using it as a four-season vacation home. With harsh winters, heavy snowfall, humid summers, and plenty of rain, your cottage needs to withstand some extreme conditions. Here are just a few of the ways an experienced builder can ensure that your cottage can withstand the challenges posed by cottage country:

• Insulating the Cottage Correctly: From double-paned windows to including air barriers in the walls and ceilings, these efforts will help reduce energy costs. A quality building envelope also reduces wear and tear on the structure itself.
• Choosing Durable Materials: Cement siding, steel roofing, corrosion-resistant fasteners, and UV-proof finishes may sound like details the average builder would overlook, and that’s because they are. Experienced, quality builders know that specialized building materials are going to help protect a cottage, ensuring it can be passed from one generation to the next.
• Incorporating Drainage into the Build: With the ground freezing and thawing, and summer storms raging, proper drainage and site grading are essential. Experienced builders know how to ensure a cottage property drains properly and where the best spot is to build the cottage.

While an Ontario cottage is always going to require some degree of maintenance, choosing a quality builder can reduce water leaks, wood rot, and costly repairs that can turn your paradise into a costly headache.

Designing Cottages That Fit Your Lifestyle

From rustic cabin-style builds you see in the Kawartha Lakes to the more elaborate and modern builds in Muskoka, Ontario cottages come in all shapes and sizes.

Aside from nailing the aesthetic you are looking for, quality builders can help design a layout that matches your family’s needs. Whether you’re looking for a cozy, private getaway or you want room to host friends and family, you want the build to reflect your preferences and needs.

An experienced builder will know how to ensure the cottage matches how you want to use the property and how to integrate the site’s features into the design of the cottage. Screened porches, sun decks, and bay windows can all help you get the most out of your property.

Let DeCarli Contractors Make Your Cottage Dreams Come True

Since 2003, DeCarli Contractors has been designing and building custom homes and cottages across North Simcoe and Southern Georgian Bay. With hundreds of successful builds and a commitment to quality craftsmanship, we’ve helped families turn basic lots into dream cottages.

Whether you need design and planning assistance, want to give your existing cottage a refresh, or you’re looking for a trusted partner for end-to-end cottage construction, we can help!