A well-built composite deck extends your home’s living space while requiring far less upkeep than a traditional wood deck. Colorado’s climate presents unique challenges for outdoor structures: intense sun, snow, and temperature swings can damage materials. Composite decking offers a solution designed to withstand these elements while maintaining its appearance for decades.
At O’Keefe Built, our team of composite decking contractors specializes in designing and constructing functional and visually appealing decks. We work with high-quality brands, including Trex, TimberTech, Deckorators, and Azek, to ensure durability and longevity. Whether you want a simple, low-maintenance deck or a multi-level outdoor space with built-in features, we customize each project to suit the home’s architecture and the homeowner’s lifestyle.
Composite vs. Traditional Wood Decking
| Feature | Composite Decking | Traditional Wood Decking |
|---|---|---|
| Material Composition | Made from a blend of recycled plastics and wood fibers, engineered for strength and longevity. | Utilizes natural timber, susceptible to decay, insect damage, and weathering. |
| Durability and Longevity | Resists moisture, fading, and structural deterioration; many products come with warranties of 25 years or more. | Typically has a lifespan of around 10 years, depending on maintenance and environmental conditions. |
| Maintenance Requirements | Requires minimal upkeep, such as routine cleaning with soap and water; periodic staining or sealing is unnecessary. | Demands regular maintenance, including cleaning, staining, and sealing, to protect against the elements. |
| Environmental Impact | Often made from recycled materials, contributing to waste reduction and lessening the demand for virgin timber. | Involves harvesting trees, which can impact natural ecosystems; chemical treatments may pose environmental concerns. |
| Cost Considerations | Requires a higher initial investment, but reduced maintenance costs and extended lifespan can make it more cost-effective. | Generally has a lower upfront cost but entails ongoing expenses for maintenance supplies and labor. |
Key Benefits of Composite Decking
A composite deck offers more than just a modern aesthetic—it provides long-term durability, safety, and convenience. Traditional wood decks require continuous maintenance to preserve their appearance and structural integrity, whereas composite materials are designed to withstand the elements with minimal effort. Here’s why more homeowners are making the switch:
- Minimal Maintenance: Unlike wood, which requires annual staining, sealing, or painting, composite decking only needs an occasional wash with soap and water. Its non-porous surface resists mold and mildew, reducing the risk of staining and deterioration.
- Weather Resistance: Composite decking is built to withstand extreme temperature fluctuations without expanding, contracting, or cracking. It can withstand Colorado’s dry summers, heavy snowfall, and frequent freeze-thaw cycles.
- Pest and Rot Resistance: Wood decks are vulnerable to termites, carpenter ants, and fungal decay. Composite, such as materials made from wood and plastic, eliminate these concerns and ensure long-term durability.
- Customizable Appearance: Available in various colors, textures, and wood-like finishes, composite decking can mimic the natural beauty of real wood without the upkeep. Some brands even offer heat-resistant and slip-resistant technology for enhanced performance.
- Safe and Comfortable: Composite decking won’t splinter, unlike wood, making it safer for families and pets. Many options also have slip-resistant surfaces, reducing the risk of falls even when wet.
Structural Considerations for a Long-Lasting Deck
A deck’s strength depends on more than just the boards—the foundation ensures longevity. A poorly built frame can lead to sagging, warping, and instability over time. At O’Keefe Built, we go beyond standard construction practices to create a solid, lasting structure.
- Steel or Pressure-Treated LVL Framing: Instead of traditional pressure-treated lumber, we use steel or laminated veneer lumber (LVL) for enhanced structural strength and resistance to moisture-related warping. This reinforcement ensures stability and reduces the risk of long-term damage.
- 12” On-Center Joist Spacing: Many decks are built with 16” joist spacing, but we install joists at 12” intervals to provide superior support for composite boards, preventing excess flex, reducing bounce, and increasing overall stability.
- Hidden Fastening Systems: Rather than exposed screws or nails that can loosen over time, we use hidden fasteners to secure the boards, creating a smooth, seamless deck surface while reducing the risk of tripping hazards.
A strong frame is the foundation of a deck that will last decades, even in Colorado’s challenging climate.
Custom Features to Enhance Your Deck
A deck should be more than just a platform—a relaxation, dining, and entertaining place. Adding the right features can maximize comfort and usability.
- Deck Railings: Railings improve safety and define the deck’s style. Homeowners can choose aluminum, composite, cable, or glass railing options for a customized look.
- Integrated Lighting: Outdoor lighting extends the functionality of your deck after sunset. Options include post cap lights, recessed step lights, and under-rail LED strips to enhance safety and ambiance.
- Shade Structures: Colorado’s intense sun can make a deck uncomfortable in the summer. Adding a pergola, retractable awning, or covered structure provides shade and shelter, making the space usable year-round.
- Built-In Seating & Planters: Instead of freestanding furniture, built-in benches, and integrated planters maximize space while adding convenience and character. These features create a seamless look while enhancing functionality.
- Fire Features & Outdoor Kitchens: An outdoor kitchen with a built-in grill, mini-fridge, and prep station turns your deck into a full-service entertainment area. A gas fire pit or fireplace adds warmth and ambiance, extending the space’s usability into cooler months.
Composite Decking Brands We Work With
| Brand | Key Features | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Trex | Made from 95% recycled materials, deep wood-grain patterns, capped for extra protection. | Homeowners wanting a trusted, well-known composite option. |
| TimberTech | Offers high-end finishes, realistic wood textures, and a wide selection of colors. | Those looking for premium aesthetics and durability. |
| Deckorators | Mineral-based composite (MBC) with excellent strength-to-weight ratio, minimal expansion/contraction. | Homeowners in extreme climates needing extra stability. |
| Azek | 100% PVC, mold- and moisture-resistant, best for ground-level decks or damp environments. | Coastal or humid areas where water resistance is key. |
Designing a Deck for Colorado’s Climate
Colorado’s unique climate presents challenges that should be addressed during deck planning and construction. Careful material selection and design adjustments can ensure long-term performance, from intense sunlight at high altitudes to heavy snowfall.
- Sun Exposure: Dark-colored decks absorb more heat, which can make them uncomfortably hot in summer. Choosing a lighter-colored composite decking or brands with heat-resistant technology can keep the surface cooler.
- Snow Load: A properly designed deck should include framing strong enough to withstand significant snow accumulation. Additionally, effective drainage systems help prevent moisture buildup, which can lead to expansion and damage.
- Wind Conditions: Strong winds can affect deck stability. Wind-resistant railings, anchored pergolas, and weighted furniture help maintain safety and comfort.
- Altitude Considerations: Higher elevations mean stronger UV exposure, which can cause fading and premature wear on certain materials. Opting for fade-resistant composite decking ensures a longer-lasting color and finish.
Work With an Experienced Composite Decking Contractor
At O’Keefe Built, we focus on structural integrity, precision craftsmanship, and long-term durability. Whether replacing an old deck or starting from scratch, we’ll help you select the best materials and design a deck that fits your needs.
Ready to explore your options? Contact O’Keefe Built today to schedule a consultation.
FAQs About Composite Decking
Composite decking is low-maintenance and does not need staining, sealing, or sanding like wood. Its appearance can be maintained by simply cleaning it with soap and water a few times a year.
Most composite decking has textured surfaces designed to prevent slips. Brands like Trex and TimberTech offer boards with enhanced grip to reduce the risk of slipping, even in wet conditions.
No, composite decking is designed with a protective cap that resists fading and does not require painting or staining. It retains its original color for years with minimal maintenance.
Yes, most composite decking is made from recycled materials, such as reclaimed wood fibers and plastic. Brands like Trex and Deckorators prioritize sustainability by reducing waste and using eco-friendly manufacturing processes.
