Decks by Schmillen LLC

Sometimes the biggest challenge in a deck project isn't the design—it's finding a contractor who will actually follow through. After a frustrating experience with a previous builder, this out-of-state property owner turned to Decks by Schmillen to complete the project correctly. With limited ability to visit the property in person, he needed a team he could trust to deliver quality workmanship and keep him informed every step of the way.

After reviewing the property and HOA requirements, we designed and built a new 256-square-foot composite deck using Deckorators Voyage Costa decking installed in a clean 90-degree pattern. One of the most important parts of the project was recreating the custom deck railing style approved by the HOA, ensuring the finished deck blended seamlessly with the community while giving our client the appearance he wanted.

For out-of-state property owners, communication, reliability, and quality workmanship are critical. Our team kept the project moving from design through completion, providing peace of mind throughout the process.

The result is a beautiful, low-maintenance deck that enhances the property's value and gives the homeowner confidence that the job was finally completed the right way.

If you've been left dealing with an unfinished deck project or need a contractor you can trust to get the job done, we're here to help.

📞 719-440-6966

🌐 DecksBySchmillen.com

At Decks by Schmillen, we believe the difference between a good deck and a great deck is found in the details.

When homeowners look at a finished deck, they usually notice the beautiful decking, stylish railing, and overall design. What they may not notice are the dozens of small decisions that make the space ore functional, durable, and enjoyable for years to come.

One example? Water spigot access.

Many homes have exterior water spigots located beneath an elevated deck. Less experienced builders may simply cover them up, making future access difficult if not almost impossible. We take a different approach.

When designing and building a deck, we look ahead and identify important items that homeowners will still need access to after construction is complete. If a water spigot is located beneath the deck, we'll often incorporate a custom-built hatch directly into the decking. The hatch blends seamlessly into the deck surface while providing convenient access whenever it's needed.

It's a small detail - but it's also the kind of detail that demonstrates thoughtful planning and quality craftsmanship.

Whether it's access panels, lighting placement, divider boards, framing layouts, or finishing touches, our team pays attention to the things most people never see. Because those details matter!

That's the Decks by Schmillen difference: building outdoor living spaces that aren't just beautiful on day one, but practical and functional for years to come.

Sometimes the best craftsmanship is found in the details you don't notice until you need them.

Decks by Schmillen - Where Details Make the Difference
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Earlier this year, we built a custom composite deck for one of our clients that included a unique gate in the railing system to accommodate a doggie ramp for her four-legged family members. 🐾
A few months later, she reached out again—this time looking for protection from the Colorado sun and weather with a new deck cover.

After working through several design options, we determined that a shed-roof style cover would provide the best blend of functionality, aesthetics, and compliance with local WUI requirements. To meet fire-resistance standards, we selected WUI-approved materials for the ceiling and carefully designed the structure to look like it had always been part of the home.

The finished project features a 7'-6" x 16' custom deck cover with a beautifully finished TruWood ceiling stained to match the home's existing trim and colors.

The result? A seamless addition that provides shade, comfort, and year-round enjoyment while enhancing the home's appearance.
Most importantly, our client absolutely loves it!

Thinking about adding a deck cover to your outdoor living space? We'd love to help design a solution that looks original to your home.
Decks by Schmillen 719-440-6966

🎥 1-Minute Build Tip: Deck Color & Heat

Here’s something most homeowners don’t realize until summer hits: darker deck boards can get noticeably hotter in direct sun.

That doesn’t mean “don’t choose dark.” It means choose smart. Heat depends on more than color—shade, sun orientation, and airflow can make a huge difference. A deck in full afternoon sun (south/west exposure) will feel very different than the same color under a cover or with good breeze.

Quick planning checklist:

• How much direct sun does your deck get at 2–5pm?
• Is the space shaded by trees, rooflines, or a cover?
• Is it breezy, or boxed in with little airflow?
• Barefoot traffic (kids/pets) vs shoes most of the time?

If you want help picking a color that looks great and matches how you’ll use your deck, we’re happy to talk it through.

📞 719-440-6966 (El Paso County, Colorado)

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
“I can’t rate this company highly enough.”

There’s nothing better than hearing that a homeowner loves both the finished deck AND the experience working with our crew. We believe a beautiful outdoor living space should be backed by outstanding craftsmanship, professionalism, and communication every step of the way.

If you’re dreaming about a custom deck built the right way, Decks by Schmillen is here to help.

📞 719-440-6966

One of our long-time clients recently contacted us about replacing their older redwood deck with something more modern and low-maintenance. The original 13’ x 13’ redwood deck was built in 2003, and in 2011 we added a custom cedar pergola that we’ve continued to maintain over the years.

After years of regular upkeep, the homeowner decided it was time for an upgrade that would provide lasting beauty without the ongoing maintenance requirements of natural wood.
Because the home is located in both a WUI (Wildland-Urban Interface) and Hillside Overlay zone, it was important to select materials approved for fire-prone areas while still delivering the clean, modern look the homeowner wanted.

After reviewing several options, he chose Voyage Costa composite decking paired with a Fe26 powder-coated steel railing system.

The finished result is a beautiful new 13’ x 14’ outdoor living space that is larger, more modern, and designed for minimal maintenance for years to come.

Decks by Schmillen 719-440-6966

✨ A Front Entry Transformation Built to Last ✨
We recently completed this stunning front entryway for homeowners doing a full exterior renovation on their home—and the results turned out incredible.

To create a structure with exceptional strength, longevity, and reduced wildfire risk, the project was built using steel deck framing and . For the decking surface, our clients selected beautiful Voyage Mesa decking accented with double end boards and divider boards in complementary Deckorators Voyage Khaya for a custom high-end finish.

The sleek matte black Fortress Fe26 powder-coated steel railing adds a clean, modern look while maintaining durability and low maintenance. The 6’-wide closed deck stairs feature Mesa stair treads paired with Khaya risers, creating a bold contrast that draws attention to the entryway.

To finish the project, we installed Pikes Peak step lights from on every other stair riser, adding both safety and evening ambiance.

The final result is a gorgeous, welcoming front entry that combines modern style, premium materials, and long-term performance—an outdoor space our clients can enjoy for decades to come.

📞 Ready to upgrade your outdoor living space?

Decks by Schmillen
719-440-6966

This Memorial Day, the crew at Decks by Schmillen pauses to honor and remember the brave men and women who gave their lives in service to our country.
Their sacrifice is the reason we enjoy the freedoms, families, homes, and moments that matter most today. We are deeply grateful to those who made the ultimate sacrifice and to the families who continue to carry that legacy forward.
As we gather with friends and family this weekend, we remember that Memorial Day is more than the start of summer — it is a time to reflect, honor, and give thanks.
From all of us at Decks by Schmillen, thank you to our fallen heroes. We will never forget.
Wishing everyone a safe and meaningful Memorial Day weekend.

🎥 1-Minute Build Tip: Steel Framing for Straighter, Cleaner Deck Lines
Want a deck that still looks crisp years from now—not just the day it’s built? One of the biggest “behind-the-scenes” decisions that affects how your deck looks and feels over time is the framing.

Steel framing stays straighter. Wood framing can perform well, but it can also change as it dries and ages. As lumber moves, it can introduce subtle crowns, twists, or waves—especially across longer spans. And when the frame isn’t perfectly straight, your decking can start to show it. That’s when you see boards that don’t line up as cleanly, gaps that look inconsistent, or a surface that has a slight “wave” to it.

If you’re investing in a high-end outdoor living space, steel framing is one of those upgrades you don’t always see—but you definitely notice in the finished result and long-term performance.

Before you choose your framing, read this. It can save you from a deck that shifts, waves, or needs repairs sooner than it should: https://decksbyschmillen.com/ultimate-guide-to-steel-deck-framing/

Building or replacing a deck in El Paso County, Colorado? Let’s talk about whether steel framing is the right fit for your project.
📞 Call/text 719-440-6966

Nothing makes our crew feel more appreciated than hearing how much homeowners love their new outdoor living space!

We recently completed this stunning composite deck for our clients in Northeast Colorado Springs featuring:

✔ Steel deck framing for long-term durability and strength
✔Deckorators Voyage Sedona composite decking with a single board picture frame in Khaya
✔ Closed deck stairs for a clean, finished look
✔ 3” LED strip lights from HighPoint Deck Lighting installed on every stair riser for safety and nighttime ambiance

The finished result is modern, low-maintenance, and built to last.

But the best part? Our clients surprised the crew with gift bags filled with gourmet chocolate as a thank-you for their hard work and craftsmanship. That kind of appreciation means the world to our team and reminds us why we love what we do.

At Decks by Schmillen, we believe great projects are built with great communication, attention to detail, and crews that truly care about the final result.

If you’re ready to transform your backyard into a space you’ll love for years to come, let’s talk!

📞 719-440-6966