Decks by Schmillen LLC

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.

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

Out with bulky and dated… in with clean, modern, and built to last.
These homeowners came to us with an older wood deck that felt smaller than it actually was—thanks to large stucco columns that closed in the space and limited the overall aesthetic. They wanted something with more curb appeal, better flow, and a modern feel that matched their lifestyle.

Even though their property is not located in a WUI zone, they made a forward-thinking choice—upgrading to a galvanized steel deck frame for long-term strength, stability, and peace of mind.
When it came to decking, they carefully weighed hardwood vs. composite before selecting Deckorators Voyage Sedona. The result? A rich, low-maintenance surface that looks incredible year-round.

To eliminate the heavy, obstructed look of the old columns and wood railing, we installed a Fortress Fe26 powder-coated steel railing system, instantly opening up the space and delivering that sleek, modern profile they were after.

We also added:
• 9 flat pyramid lighted post caps
• 6 integrated 3” LED stair lights

The lighting not only enhances safety—it creates an incredible nighttime ambiance.

The finished 292 sq. ft. deck feels larger, cleaner, and far more inviting. Now, instead of avoiding the space, these homeowners are looking forward to a full summer of relaxing and entertaining outdoors.

📞 719-440-6966

What happens when a contractor disappears mid-project – and never even pulled a permit?
These homeowners hired a contractor to build a patio and elevated deck—but things quickly went sideways. Poor workmanship, no permit pulled, and then the contractor disappeared completely.
When they called Decks by Schmillen, they weren’t just looking for a builder—they needed a solution.
After a full evaluation, we uncovered a major issue: the original work was never permitted. That meant everything had to be removed before we could rebuild it the right way. It’s not what anyone wants to hear—but it’s how you protect the homeowner long-term.
From there, we created a space they could finally feel proud of.
✔ 5’ x 19’ elevated balcony with Deckorators Voyage Tundra decking
✔ Dark Slate single-board picture frame for a clean, custom finish
✔ Trex RainEscape system for a dry, usable space below
✔ Tongue-and-groove ceiling in WoodTone Irish Stout with dual ceiling fans
✔ 10’ x 32’ stamped concrete patio with steps to the yard
✔ Black Fortress Fe26 steel railing for a sleek, durable finish
Now? A fully permitted, structurally sound, and beautifully finished outdoor living space.
Even better—they left us a ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ review.
If your project didn’t go as planned the first time, we can help make it right.
📞 719-400-6966

Not every project starts the way it should—but what matters is how it finishes.

These homeowners were left with an incomplete deck after their previous contractor walked away mid-project. What they were left with wasn’t just unfinished… it was substandard and needed to be completely rethought.

That’s when the owners called Decks by Schmillen.

We assessed the situation, removed the compromised work, and started fresh—with the structure, craftsmanship, and attention to detail the project deserved from the beginning. Our crew showed up every day, focused, professional, and committed to doing things the right way.

From rebuilding the foundation to delivering a finished patio and balcony that passed all required inspections, every step was handled with care, transparency, and precision.

The end result? Beautiful, code-compliant outdoor living spaces built to last—and homeowners who can finally relax and enjoy them with confidence.

You’ll want to see what we started with… before and after coming next.

📞 719-440-6966

Let’s build it right.

“Spring is the time for plans and projects.” Leo Tolstoy

And the best projects? The ones you’ll enjoy all summer long.
If your backyard has been on your mind all winter, now’s the time to turn that idea into something real—a space for morning coffee, family dinners, and nights under the stars.

We design and build custom decks that don’t just look good—they feel right the moment you step outside.

Let’s make this the year your backyard becomes your favorite place to be.

📞 Call us today to start planning: 719-440-6966