Outdoor living spaces are becoming a top priority for homeowners in Colorado, driven by the desire to enhance home enjoyment and increase property value. Whether you’re considering a deck vs pergola in Colorado, it’s important to understand how each option can improve functionality, complement your home’s design, and add value.
Decks provide expanded living space for dining, hosting, and relaxation, while pergolas add a stylish focal point and functional shade to your yard. The choice between the two depends on your lifestyle, budget, and the specific needs of your property. Below, we explain how each upgrade can fit into your home and what you can expect regarding long-term value and use.
The Case for Decks: Usability, Expansion, and Long-Term ROI
Decks are one of the most sought-after additions to homes in Colorado. They provide expanded living space, making them an attractive option for homeowners seeking to create a versatile outdoor area.
- Increased Usable Space: A deck builder in Colorado can create a deck tailored to your outdoor needs, whether a multi-level deck for larger yards or a ground-level deck that opens up more space. Adding a deck expands your outdoor living space, offering extra room for entertaining, relaxation, or even an outdoor kitchen.
In neighborhoods like Fort Collins or Longmont, a well-built deck can create functional outdoor areas that increase property appeal and improve the home’s value.
- Return on Investment (ROI): Nationally, a deck provides an ROI ranging from 44% to 75%, depending on factors like design and materials. For Colorado homeowners, this is a significant return on investment. A wood deck often has a 50.2% ROI, while composite decks, though more expensive, offer a higher dollar value return.
Composite decking materials like Trex and TimberTech provide long-lasting durability and low maintenance, making them a key selling point for buyers in Colorado. TimberTech says composite decks can add a higher dollar value than their wooden counterparts, making them a wise long-term investment.
- Deck Design Considerations: A deck that complements your home’s architecture increases its value by using quality materials and professional construction. You can even integrate features like lighting, built-in seating, and railings to boost appeal further.
For further guidance, check out this informative article on deck construction tips for the best strategies for building a deck that adds maximum value.
According to the 2024 Remodeling Magazine’s Cost vs. Value Report, decks provide significant ROI, ranging from 68% to 83%, depending on location and materials. These numbers reinforce the high value of adding a deck to your home, making it an attractive investment for homeowners looking to increase resale value and livable space.
The Case for Pergolas: Affordable Luxury & Functional Shade
Pergolas are a great option if you’re looking for an affordable way to improve your outdoor living space. While they don’t provide as much usable square footage as a deck, they can still add significant value and aesthetic appeal.
- Cost-Effective Shade Solution: A pergola builder in Colorado can help you design a custom pergola that provides shade and structure without needing a large footprint. Pergolas are ideal for smaller yards in neighborhoods like Castle Pines or Highlands Ranch, where maximizing space is essential.
They offer partial shade and can be customized with climbing plants, canopies, or fabric covers to suit your needs.
- Aesthetic Value: A pergola enhances the look of your backyard, creating an inviting, visually appealing focal point. Even in smaller spaces, a pergola adds a sophisticated touch. Whether you choose a simple wooden pergola or a more elaborate design with decorative elements, it offers a high visual return on investment.
- Pairing with Other Features: A pergola pairs well with outdoor features such as fire pits, built-in seating, and landscaping. Adding a fire pit, built-in seating, or lighting can further increase your backyard space’s overall value and functionality.
What Adds More Value? It Depends on Your Home, Lifestyle, and Budget
When it comes to determining value, both decks and pergolas offer distinct advantages. Here’s a side-by-side comparison of the two:
| Factor | Deck | Pergola |
| Functionality | Expands living space for dining, hosting, and relaxation. | Adds shade and structure, ideal for framing outdoor spaces and enhancing aesthetics. |
| Cost | Higher upfront cost, especially for multi-level decks. | More affordable, especially for smaller yards or defined spaces. |
| Maintenance | Requires regular upkeep for wood decks; composite decks are low-maintenance. | Minimal upkeep, especially with vinyl or aluminum; wood requires occasional staining. |
| Climate Suitability | Well-suited to Colorado’s sun, snow, and fluctuating temperatures with composite decking. | Ideal for sunny areas, though may need additional coverings in winter. |
| ROI | High ROI (68%–83%) in areas like Fort Collins and Longmont, increasing property value and attractiveness. | Lower ROI, adds aesthetic value and curb appeal, but doesn’t provide as much functional space. |
| Customization | Highly customizable: built-in seating, outdoor kitchens, and multi-level options. | Flexible design with climbing plants, canopies, and lighting options. |
| Ideal Locations | Best for larger properties or homes with more available space. | Ideal for smaller backyards, patios, or gardens that need shade and definition. |
| Durability | Long-lasting with composite decking, wood requires more upkeep. | Vinyl and aluminum pergolas are highly durable with minimal maintenance. |
| Energy Efficiency | Doesn’t directly affect energy bills, but provides comfortable outdoor spaces. | Provides shade, helping to lower cooling costs during summer months. |
What Colorado Buyers Are Looking For in 2025
As we move toward 2025, outdoor home improvement in Castle Pines and custom outdoor spaces in Colorado remain high on the list for homebuyers in the state. Here’s what buyers are looking for:
- Outdoor Living is a Priority: In upscale neighborhoods like Greenwood Village or Lone Tree, homebuyers are increasingly looking for functional outdoor spaces that complement the indoor living area. A deck provides ample space for hosting or lounging, while a pergola adds style and comfort to smaller yards.
- Luxury Appeal: In areas like Castle Pines, where properties are typically more spacious, custom-built decks and pergolas, offering both luxury and functionality, are in high demand. These additions can significantly increase property value and make the home more appealing to buyers.
Do’s and Don’ts for Building a Deck or Pergola in Colorado
Do’s
- Do Choose Durable Materials: Use composite decking like Trex or TimberTech for low maintenance and long-lasting performance, especially in Colorado’s fluctuating climate.
- Do Plan for Drainage: Ensure your deck has a proper slope to avoid water pooling, and install waterproof membranes to protect your deck from damage.
- Do Match Design with Your Home: Select materials that fit your home’s style. For modern homes, use sleek materials; for traditional homes, consider wooden decks and rustic pergolas.
- Do Secure the Foundation: Ensure deck footings reach stable soil for proper support. For pergolas, anchor posts securely to avoid instability.
- Do Check Local Codes: Obtain necessary permits and follow building codes to ensure your structure is compliant and safe.
Don’ts
- Don’t Overbuild in Small Yards: Avoid large decks in small yards. Pergolas are a better option for small spaces, as they provide shade without taking up too much room.
- Don’t Use Low-Quality Materials: Avoid cheap wood decks that require constant maintenance and deteriorate quickly. Invest in composite for long-term durability.
- Don’t Ignore Shade Needs: Ensure your pergola provides adequate shade in sunny areas like Castle Pines. Decks may also need awnings to be comfortable in the summer.
- Don’t Skip Maintenance on Wood Decks: If you choose wood, plan to seal or stain it every 2-3 years to prevent rot and damage.
- Don’t Start Without a Plan: Always have a clear design and purpose for your deck or pergola. Avoid wasting money on unnecessary features or poor design choices.
How to Choose the Right Outdoor Upgrade for Your Home
When deciding between a deck vs pergola in Colorado, consider the following:
- Do you need more usable space for large gatherings or outdoor meals? Go for a deck.
- Need shade over a small patio or garden area? A pergola could be ideal.
- Want the best of both? Combine a deck and pergola for the ultimate outdoor experience.
Ready to Upgrade Your Outdoor Space?
Take advantage of $500 off when you book your pergola project with O’Keefe Built this spring. We’ll collaborate to find the right fit for your outdoor space, whether you need shade, privacy, or a unique design. If you’re still deciding between a deck or pergola, our team will provide expert guidance to help you make the right choice for your home.
Let’s connect today to get started on your outdoor transformation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which adds more resale value in Colorado—a deck or a pergola?
Decks provide a higher ROI in Colorado because they expand usable space, which buyers highly value. A deck increases the functionality of outdoor areas, making it ideal for dining and entertaining. A deck can boost property value in places like Fort Collins, where homebuyers prioritize usable outdoor space. However, Pergolas offer shade and aesthetic appeal but don’t add as much functional space, which generally results in a lower ROI than decks.
Can I build both a deck and a pergola?
Yes, combining a deck and pergola can maximize your outdoor space. A pergola can be added to a deck to provide shade without obstructing its open feel. This combo works well in larger spaces, allowing you to enjoy shade and extra living space for entertaining or relaxation.
What’s better for small backyards in areas like Boulder or Lafayette?
Pergolas are a better choice for small backyards. They offer shade and structure without taking up too much space. A deck requires more room to be effective and may overwhelm a smaller yard. A pergola provides a stylish solution without reducing usable ground area if you have limited space.
Do outdoor upgrades matter to buyers in Fort Collins and the Denver metro?
Yes, outdoor upgrades are important to buyers, especially in areas like Fort Collins and the Denver metro. Buyers in Colorado seek functional and attractive outdoor spaces. Decks and pergolas increase a home’s marketability and can help with faster sales and higher offers, particularly in neighborhoods with high demand for outdoor living.
What’s included in the $500 pergola offer?
The $500 pergola offer includes a custom design, premium materials, and full-service construction for any pergola project booked in Q2. We’ll work with you to create a pergola that fits your outdoor space and meets your design preferences. The offer covers everything from the initial design consultation to final installation.
