Designing Your Dream Deck: 2026 Trends in Breckenridge & Summit County

Are you looking to elevate your outdoor living experience in Breckenridge, Colorado? Building an awesome deck is the perfect way to create a stunning outdoor oasis that you can enjoy for years to come. In this article, we will explore the latest deck trends for 2026 in Summit County, with a focus on our small communities such as Frisco & Breckenridge. From new LED lights to outdoor kitchens, hot tubs, and more, we will cover everything you need to know to design the ultimate outdoor living space.

Deck Trends in Summit County: What’s Hot for 2026

LED Lights: Illuminate Your Deck in Style

With advancements in technology, LED lights are becoming increasingly popular for deck lighting. Not only do they provide energy-efficient lighting, but they also come in a variety of colors and styles to suit your unique taste. From string lights to recessed deck lighting, LED lights can create a warm and inviting ambiance for your outdoor space.

Outdoor Kitchens: Take Your BBQ Game to the Next Level

Outdoor kitchens are a must-have feature for any deck in Breckenridge. Imagine cooking up a feast with the stunning backdrop of the Colorado mountains. With a built-in grill, sink, and ample counter space, you can entertain guests and enjoy delicious meals all while soaking in the fresh mountain air.

Hot Tubs and Saunas: Relax and Unwind in Style

After a long day on the slopes, there’s nothing better than unwinding in a hot tub or sauna on your deck. These luxurious amenities not only provide relaxation but also offer health benefits such as stress relief and improved circulation. Create your own private spa retreat right in your backyard.

Railings: Safety Meets Style

Railings are an essential component of any deck, providing safety and style. From sleek metal railings to rustic wooden designs, choose a railing that complements your deck’s aesthetic. With a variety of materials and finishes available, you can customize your railings to reflect your personal style.

Plants and Vegetation: Bring the Outdoors In

Incorporating plants and vegetation into your deck design can enhance the natural beauty of your outdoor space. From potted plants to vertical gardens, adding greenery can create a tranquil and welcoming environment. Choose plants that thrive in Breckenridge’s high-altitude climate for a low-maintenance garden.

Furniture: Comfort Meets Functionality

Investing in quality outdoor furniture is essential for creating a comfortable and functional outdoor living space. Pick durable materials such as teak or aluminum that can withstand Colorado’s changing weather conditions. From lounging chairs to dining sets, choose furniture that suits your lifestyle and design preferences.

Building Your Dream Deck in Breckenridge Co

When it comes to building an awesome deck in Breckenridge, trust the experts to bring your vision to life. From concept to completion, our team of experienced professionals will work with you every step of the way to design a deck that meets your needs and exceeds your expectations. Contact us today to start building the ultimate outdoor living space in Breckenridge Co.

Weather and Temperature Extremes
Building a deck in Breckenridge, CO, or other high-altitude locations (around 9,600 feet) requires extra considerations due to the unique environmental conditions. The high elevation, fluctuating temperatures, snow, and UV exposure create challenges that need to be addressed to ensure the deck is safe, durable, and functional. Here are some key factors to consider when building a deck at high altitude.

Freeze/Thaw Cycles: Breckenridge experiences cold winters with snow and ice, and it can get quite warm in the summer. Materials should be able to handle freeze/thaw cycles, which can cause warping, cracking, or splitting over time. Composite or PVC decking is a good choice for this reason since they are less likely to absorb moisture and are more resistant to temperature fluctuations than wood.

Snow and Ice: Since snow can accumulate and ice can form in the winter months, your decking and railings should be designed to handle this. Consider slip-resistant surfaces for both the deck and stairs to reduce the risk of slipping. Composite decking often provides better traction in icy conditions compared to wood.

UV Exposure: At higher altitudes, the sun’s UV rays are more intense. This increased exposure can cause materials like wood to fade or deteriorate over time. UV-resistant composite decking, like Trex or TimberTech, helps minimize fading and wear from the sun’s rays.
Snow Load and Structural Integrity

Increased Snow Load: The weight of snow and ice buildup can put a lot of stress on deck structures. Make sure the deck’s frame is designed to handle the additional load from snow accumulation. For snow-heavy areas like Breckenridge, it’s essential to have a structural engineer assess the design to ensure it complies with local snow load requirements.

Deck Design for Snow Management: Consider the angle of the deck and any roof or covering over the deck to encourage proper drainage and prevent snow and ice from sitting on the surface. A pitched roof or angled deck can help snow and rain shed off the structure more effectively.

Corrosion-Resistant Materials: For deck fasteners, nails, screws, and other hardware, use stainless steel or hot-dipped galvanized steel that will resist rust and corrosion from snow, ice, and the higher humidity levels in winter.

Elevation-Related Material Choices

Expansion and Contraction: High altitudes can cause significant expansion and contraction of materials due to temperature fluctuations. Composite materials typically handle these shifts better than wood, making them a safer choice in Breckenridge’s variable temperatures.

Lightweight Materials: If access to the construction site is difficult, using lighter materials that still offer durability can make the installation process easier. Composite decking and aluminum railings are lighter than traditional wood and easier to work with in remote or high-altitude locations.

Wind Resistance: Breckenridge can experience strong winds, especially in the winter. It’s important to ensure that your deck’s railing system is wind-resistant and sturdy. Railings that are too thin or lightweight might not provide the needed support. Make sure the deck frame is properly anchored and the railings are designed to withstand the local wind conditions.

Easier Access: For elderly individuals or those with mobility challenges, ramps may be more important in high-altitude homes where stairs could be difficult to navigate due to snow or ice. Ensure that the deck is easily accessible with gradual inclines or ADA-compliant ramps. Consider adding non-slip ramps and wide stairways for easy navigation.

Water Drainage: Proper water drainage is crucial in high-altitude environments to avoid standing water and prevent ice formation. Be sure to install adequate drainage systems to allow for proper runoff of rain and melting snow. If water isn’t properly drained, it can lead to issues like wood rot (if using wood decking) or cracking in poorly installed composite decking.

Fire-Resistant Materials: Breckenridge, like many mountain towns, is susceptible to wildfires during certain seasons. Consider using fire-resistant materials, such as composite decking, metal railings, and other non-combustible materials, to help reduce the risk of fire spreading to or from your deck.

Clearance from Flammable Vegetation: Make sure your deck is at least a safe distance from any trees or shrubs that could contribute to spreading fire.

Local Building Codes: Breckenridge, like other high-altitude areas, has specific local building codes due to the challenges posed by snow, ice, and winds. Be sure to check with the town’s building department to ensure your deck meets all required standards for snow load, structural integrity, and materials. Working with a local contractor experienced in high-altitude construction can ensure you’re meeting all necessary code requirements.

Experience the beauty of your mountain surroundings with the perfect railings for your cabin! Contact Us for an estimate on your new railings.

From wood to steel, picking the best railings for your home in Summit County

In Breckenridge, Colorado, where the majestic Rocky Mountains provide a stunning backdrop, many residents and visitors alike enjoy the charm and coziness of mountain cabins. When it comes to designing and decorating a mountain hoime, one important aspect to consider is the choice of railings. Railings not only serve a functional purpose but also add to the aesthetic appeal of the cabin. So, what are the best railings for your Summit County mountain home?

Metal Railings:

Metal railings are a popular choice for mountain cabins due to their durability and strength. They can withstand the harsh weather conditions often seen in mountainous areas, such as heavy snowfall and strong winds. Additionally, metal railings can be customized to fit the style of the cabin, whether it be rustic or modern. Wrought iron railings, in particular, are a classic choice that adds a touch of elegance to any mountain cabin.

Wood Railings:

Wood railings are another excellent option for mountain cabins, offering a warm and natural look that blends seamlessly with the surrounding environment. Cedar, pine, and redwood are popular choices for wood railings due to their resistance to rot and decay. Wood railings can be stained or painted to match the cabin’s exterior or left natural for a more rustic look. They also provide a comfortable and inviting feel for those enjoying the outdoor spaces of the cabin.

Glass Railings:

For those looking to maximize the views from their mountain cabin, glass railings are an ideal choice. Glass railings offer unobstructed views of the breathtaking mountain scenery while providing safety and security. They are also easy to maintain and clean, making them a practical option for busy cabin owners. Additionally, glass railings can give a modern and sleek touch to the cabin’s overall design.

Cable Railings:

Cable railings are a contemporary option that offers a minimalist look and maximizes airflow and light. They are ideal for mountain cabins with modern or industrial design aesthetics. Cable railings are also low maintenance and durable, making them a practical choice for those who want a clean and streamlined look for their home’s exterior.

Combination Railings:

For a unique and customized look, consider combining different types of railings. Mixing materials such as wood and metal or glass and cable can create a visually appealing and dynamic design for your mountain house in Summit County. Combining railings can also help you achieve a balance between safety, functionality, and style.

In conclusion, when choosing the best railings for a mountain cabin in Breckenridge, Colorado, it is essential to consider the home’s design aesthetic, environmental factors, and personal preferences. Whether you opt for metal, wood, glass, cable, or a combination of railings, make sure to select a high-quality material that can withstand the elements and enhance the beauty of your mountain retreat.

Experience the beauty of your mountain surroundings with the perfect railings for your cabin! Contact Us for an estimate on your new railings.

Privacy Fences for Safety and Escape

Creative Fence Designs for Safety and Comfort

Is it Time for More Privacy?

Depending on the design and intended use, privacy fences can be effective at preventing break-ins and adding comfortable space for relaxing and entertaining. A privacy fence can create a living space on your deck, condo or yard creating additional space for privacy, no matter if it’s for or to block out nosey, noisy neighbors who seem to live “too close.”

Privacy fences help create a secure, private outdoor living space. Your children and pets will be safe while you enjoy the views in your own space. And no matter where you live, we build privacy fences in a wide choice of materials, styles, and subsequently cost.

Check out Trexfencing.com for inspirational applications of Composite fences (Photo Couretsy of Trex.Com)

Types of Materials for Privacy Fences

Wood Privacy Fences

Wood fencing is the standard for solid privacy fences. Wood privacy fences can be less expensive, offer the option to stain or paint easily in an endless number of colors, and extremely customizable.

Privacy fences made of wood look natural and blend well with the local architecture. Cedar and Redwood are more weather resistant than pine or fir, and last considerably longer. Other types of wood, such as Ipe, create awesome fences with lots of natural tones.

Composite Privacy Fences

Composite Fencing can be a great solution for any fencing need. These fences are great because they match and compliment any of the decks we build. They are long lasting and won’t rot, splinter, or warp, like outdoor materials such as wood.

Vinyl Privacy Fences

Vinyl fencing comes in limited panel options. They look great and don’t need paint or stain. Vinyl fencing is more expensive initially than wood, but easy to care. Low maintenance and attractive vinyl privacy fences are gaining in popularity.

Benefits of Installing a Privacy Fence

• Long Lasting, Low Maintenance – Privacy fences will require minimum maintenance to stay in great shape.
• Reduces Noise – Solid privacy fences don’t have any spacing in their design, so they are great at blocking out nearby noise.
• Add Property Value – Privacy fences add value to your home by creating a more enjoyable living space to enjoy.
• Increased Home Protection – Privacy fences can provide protection for your young children and pets, while helping to keep intruders out.
• Get Creative – Privacy fences are a great option for adding some new color, shapes and sizes to your yard

Custom Privacy Fence Builders

Ready for a privacy fence to add more comfort and value to your home? Call or email Rocky Mountain Decks today for your free quote and see what we can do for you.

The Advantages to Aluminum Deck Railings

Safe Decks and Open Views

When building a deck or updating your current deck, it’s vital to choose the right railings to ensure the safety of friends and family. In addition, you will l also want to make sure that you choose a railing that is not only functional, but is beautiful and will add to your deck, and last to be so for years to come. There are many options for deck railings on the market. We are looking at aluminum deck railings and what you should consider when selecting your new railing systems for your home to ensure that you making the best choice.

Aluminum Railings Designs for your Deck

Aluminum railings offers a modern design that can add style to any deck or porch. One of the advantages to aluminum is allows homeowners with a less restricted view of their property; or the beautiful vistas here in the Rocky Mountains.

Aluminum railings and railing panels are supported by aluminum posts (or existing posts) that are both structural and a finished product ready for installation. With a variety of sizes, shapes, patterns and colors, aluminum railing system can provide an elegant complement to your home.

Photo: Courtesy of Trex® 

Aluminum Railing vs other Railings Materials

Aluminum Railings vs. Wood Railings

Wood certainly has a place on many decks. In the Rocky Mountains, it’s important to know is that wood will rot, rust and breakdown. In contrast, powder coated aluminum does not require maintenance, and with a warranty of up to 25 years, it’s a worry-free railing system that does not require sanding, staining, washing, etc. every year.

Aluminum vs Steel Railings

Steel railings need to be repainted every few years, whereas powder-coated aluminum systems do not require painting, as they can maintain a superior finish. Steel is much heavier than aluminum and your deck needs to be reinforced for the additional weight. Aluminum can provide much more flexibility during installation. Many steel railings must be custom made as the material offers less direct fitting without welding. However, custom steel railings may be the perfect fit your application.

Aluminum vs Vinyl Railings

Where aluminum is extremely weather resistant, vinyl systems can be very susceptible to extreme weather conditions. And we get extreme weather. Some of the issues with extreme temperatures is the issue of shrinking and expanding which can damage and cause deterioration in your vinyl railings. Vinyl railings can also fade and even crack with long term exposure to UV radiation. Our local UV is extremely high – It makes for great days on the slopes, but is hard on decks. Aluminum railing system maintains its shape and dimension throughout extreme cold or heat. UV rays have a limited impact on powder-coated aluminum, which will maintain its beauty and strength.

Aluminum Railing Costs

When considering the initial costs, aluminum railings are more expensive than treated wood railings. However, wood railings will require you to stain and seal, or paint- yearly. Although aluminum is more out of the box, over a few years the savings will add up, all without splinters!

Strength/Warranty

The aluminum railings that we install come with outstanding warranties. Many including Trex railing systems come with 25-year warranties. That’s 25 years of no maintenance.

So Why Pick Aluminum Railings?

Aluminum railing systems are extremely durable, resistant to rot, rust, and deterioration found with wood decks. Regardless of weather, maintains its shape in the cold and heat, is resistant to UV, which allows it to keep its color. Aluminum is nearly maintenance free with a basic occasional cleaning as necessary. Cleaning, just a rinse down with a hose or a wipe down with a soft cloth to remove any dust or dirt – that’s it!

Is a new aluminum rail system for you? If you need beauty along with strength, UV protection, low maintenance, a durable railing system, then adding a new aluminum railing may just be the best choice for you! Contact us for additional advice on things that you should take into consideration when choosing railings for your new deck.

After the Snow Goes, Check Your Deck!

Keep a Safe Decks with a Few Quick Checks

After winter starts to loosen its grip, and the snow starts to melt, and you start planning summer activities, it’s a great time to start thinking about your deck and any repairs.

It’s hard to beat the summers in the Rocky Mountains. Comfortable days and cool nights make your deck one of the best places to spend your days after hiking or biking.  Well-built composite decks should last 25 plus years without any thought other than basic annual cleaning.  Wood decks do require more maintenance and not as long-lived as a composite deck, can last for many years with proper upkeep.

So, if your home here is in Summit County, and is used by family and friends, or as a rental, you will need to think about the post-winter deck safety checks.

Get your deck ready for a season of fun, sunshine, and lots of outdoor living.

Here is a checklist for an evaluation of your deck.

• Check the flashing at the locations where your deck meets the house, along with the perimeter of your deck. Check that the deck is still tight and secure, without any signs of rot or damage.
• Make certain that the ledger board for the deck has all of the necessary lag screws to properly fasten the ledger to the home. These screws can become loose, rusted, or corroded, over the years.
• Look for the deterioration of deck connectors and deck fasteners. The winter elements, connectors can weaken much faster here. Solid brackets and fasteners should not appear deteriorated (rust, corrosion, etc.).
• Check around your deck posts. With the amount of snow we receive and the required time four melting and ground water absorption, these areas are subject to rot and deterioration. Be sure to check for signs of water infiltration that can lead to damage and rotting.
• Assess the area around the deck. The combination of snow and melt allows gravity is always at work, which can cause buildings and decks to shift, expand, shrink and settle through the years.
• Composites are many times moreover resistant to breaking down, with an increasing number of decking products coming into the 25-30-year warranty. For wood decks, be sure to check the condition of the wood on every area of the deck. Look for places where snow and ice tend to collect, along with areas below snow dams and gutter down spouts, where water tends to collect and/or freeze regularly.
• Carefully check the railings for damage and rot, as well as for loose bolts and screws and any sagging.
• For tight seals around entryways, doorways, etc. check the caulking and replace caulking as needed.
• For wood decks, after each winter some cracks will appear leading to warped and splintering wood. The extreme cold, UV, shoveling, etc. all lead to painful splinters and indicates a weakling deck structure.
• Check for full stability and structural integrity in areas such as stairs, posts, joists, deck boards, ledger boards and all framing.
• Double-check the joist hangers. Be sure that there are nails in each nail hole and there is no rot at joist ends.

If you have any of these problems that compromise the safety and integrity of your home deck, let Rocky Mountain Decks give your deck a thorough evaluation. We will identify any problem areas and the needed fixes to get your deck back into tip-top shape. Contact us for a free estimate.

Get More from Your Deck: Maximize the Space Under Your Deck

Add Beauty, Space, Comfort And Storage

Whether you are planning for a new deck, or want to add some more functionality, you likely have lots of usable space. The space under your deck may provide an opportunity for and area you can entertain, relax, or maybe create some storage for outdoor furniture and elements such as your BBQ grill.

One of the easiest ways to get more space out of your deck is to maximize the space below your deck.
If you already have an above-ground deck, or looking to build a new deck, you can easily increase your living space by finishing the area below the deck.

You can easily turn you deck into two usable spaces to enjoy. Your upper deck area for looking at the ski runs in Breckenridge or Keystone, enjoying the sun with family and friends. If it rains, is windy or too hot, you can enjoy the covered area under the deck for.

Yes, even with rain and snow. You don’t have to lose space when the area under your deck can be waterproofed. We can install a waterproofing layer in the framing area that diverts the water away from the house into a gutter. There are a few impressive systems out there, and Trex Rain Escapes is one of our favorites.

These waterproofing systems allow us to:

• Custom fits to any deck shape
• Designs can have lights, fans, speakers, etc.
• Lots of options for ceilings finishes
• Maximize your outdoor living space

Great Ideas for Functionality Under the Deck

Now you know you can have a great under-the-deck area can be both beautiful and functional. Here are a few ideas:

Under-deck patios

Installing a patio under your deck is a great solution that can add even more usable outdoor space to entertain friends and family and squeezing in some time for relaxing. Having a ceiling that has waterproofing allows your time to spent away from the weather, giving you more usable time outdoors.

Entertainment areas

Don’t lose the time outdoors to weather. Have kids, you can have a play area for toys and games. Kids are not the only one, you can put a dog play area as well. Have a dry area for the to play fetch, hang out or use the bathroom. Want an adult option – how about an under-deck putting green, garden, or relaxation area.

Under-deck storage

One thing most home never have enough of is storage. We can create awesome under-deck storage areas that offers excellent usable space from ski and snowboards to shovels and hot tub storage areas.

Spice Up the Appearance of the Deck

You may not want to fill in the space with a patio, just in hiding the area under your new deck! We have many options to make that area beautiful and part of the final design. Some of these include:

Adding Deck Skirting

Deck skirting is a perfect solution for a deck that is lower. We often will install matching trim and fascia to the side of the deck to enclose sides of your deck. This can provide some privacy and complete the look of your deck.

Lattice and Accent Lighting

Some decks are too high for skirting, and a traditional lattice might be the solution. We can add lighting for extra visibility and a unique look to help your deck ”pop.”

Install Landscaping

If you are not interested in the skirting option, another great solution can be found in designing a beautiful landscape around that area. Annuals, perennials, shrubs and more can help add color and a natural feel for what is traditionally an unsightly area below the deck.

Photo: Trex.Com

Spice Up the Appearance of the Deck

You may not want to fill in the space with a patio, just in hiding the area under your new deck! We have many options to make that area beautiful and part of the final design. Some of these include:

Adding Deck Skirting

Deck skirting is a perfect solution for a deck that is lower. We often will install matching trim and fascia to the side of the deck to enclose sides of your deck. This can provide some privacy and complete the look of your deck.

Lattice and Accent Lighting

Some decks are too high for skirting, and a traditional lattice might be the solution. We can add lighting for extra visibility and a unique look to help your deck ”pop.”

Install Landscaping

If you are not interested in the skirting option, another great solution can be found in designing a beautiful landscape around that area. Annuals, perennials, shrubs and more can help add color and a natural feel for what is traditionally an unsightly area below the deck.