Deck Types
A Deck Built for How You Actually Use Your Backyard
A deck is one of those projects where the details matter more than they might seem to at first — the material you choose affects how much upkeep you’re signing up for, the layout affects how the space actually gets used, and Colorado’s sun and snow load affect both. As a local deck builder in Fort Collins, CO, HWG Exteriors designs and builds decks suited to your home, your budget, and how you plan to spend time on them.
Deck Types We Build
Composite Decking
Composite decking, including brands like Trex and TimberTech, is engineered to resist fading, warping, and splintering in a way natural wood can't quite match. It costs more upfront than wood but requires far less maintenance over the life of the deck — no annual staining or sealing — which matters in a climate with as much UV exposure as Fort Collins gets.
Wood Decking
Traditional wood decking offers a warmer, more natural look and a lower upfront cost than composite materials. It does require more regular maintenance, including periodic staining or sealing, to hold up against Colorado's intense sun and dry winters, but many homeowners prefer the look and feel enough to make that tradeoff.
Multi-Level Decks
For sloped yards or homes where a single flat deck doesn't make the most of the space, a multi-level design can create distinct zones for dining, lounging, and grilling while working with your property's natural grade instead of against it.
Pool Decks
Pool decking has different requirements than a standard backyard deck — slip resistance, heat management underfoot, and material compatibility with pool chemicals all factor into material selection. We design pool decks that account for all three.
Rooftop Decks
Rooftop decks require structural evaluation before anything else, since not every roof is built to support the added weight and traffic. Once that's confirmed, we build out a rooftop space designed to take advantage of the view while meeting the structural and code requirements specific to elevated decks.
Comparing Your Deck Material Options
Composite (Trex, TimberTech)
- Upfront cost: Higher
- Maintenance: Low — occasional cleaning
- Typical lifespan: 25–30+ years
Pressure-Treated Wood
- Upfront cost: Lower
- Maintenance: Moderate — annual staining/sealing
- Typical lifespan: 10–15 years
Cedar/Redwood
- Upfront cost: Moderate
- Maintenance: Moderate to high — regular sealing
- Typical lifespan: 15–20 years
Actual costs vary based on square footage, layout complexity, and site conditions — we’ll walk through specifics during your estimate.
Permits & HOA Requirements
Most deck projects in Fort Collins require a building permit, and if you’re in a neighborhood with an HOA, there may be additional design guidelines to follow before work begins. We handle the permitting process as part of your project and can help you prepare anything needed for HOA approval so it doesn’t hold up your timeline.
Pergolas & Shade Structures
If you’re planning a deck and want shade or a defined outdoor living space to go with it, our pergolas and shade structures pair naturally with a new deck build and can often be bundled into the same project.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which decking material is best for Colorado weather?
Composite decking generally holds up best against Fort Collins’ intense sun and dry winters with the least maintenance, though many homeowners still prefer the natural look of wood and are willing to take on the extra upkeep.
Do I need a permit to build a deck in Fort Collins?
In most cases, yes. We handle the permitting process as part of your project so you don’t have to navigate city requirements on your own.
How long does it take to build a deck?
Timelines vary based on size and complexity, but most standard residential decks take one to two weeks to complete once materials are on site.
Can you build a deck on a sloped yard?
Yes. A multi-level design is often the best solution for sloped lots, letting us work with the natural grade instead of requiring extensive site regrading.
Do rooftop decks require special engineering?
Yes. Rooftop decks need a structural evaluation to confirm the roof can support the added weight and traffic before any design work begins.
Get a Free Deck Building Estimate
Whether you’re picturing a simple platform deck or a multi-level outdoor living space, HWG Exteriors can help you design and build it.
Call (970) 893-9006 or request a free deck estimate online.