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Steel-Frame Decks: Why Colorado Springs Homeowners Are Making the Switch

For decades, almost every deck in Colorado was built on pressure-treated lumber. It was cheap and “good enough.” But good enough doesn’t hold up in our climate — between hail, high-altitude UV, freeze-thaw cycles, and wildfire risk.

That’s why more Colorado Springs homeowners are switching to steel-frame decks. They cost a bit more upfront, last decades longer, and are often the smarter long-term investment.

Here’s what to know — from Bigfoot Decks & Landscapes, Colorado Springs’ family-owned deck builder for four generations.
 

Three Systems We Install

  • Simcoe G90 Galvanized Steel — our primary steel framing system
  • Fortress Evolution — powder-coated steel, compatible with most decking brands
  • TimberTech Aluminum Substructure — powder-coated aluminum, zero rust risk, lifetime warranty\
We pick the right system based on your decking choice, budget, and how long you plan to stay in your home.


What G90 Galvanized Steel Means

Not all galvanized steel is equal. The grade refers to how much zinc coating protects the steel from corrosion. G90 — what we use — means 0.90 ounces of zinc per square foot (per ASTM A653).
Some contractors save a few dollars by using G60. We don’t. G90 is the standard most engineers specify for exterior structural framing.


TimberTech Aluminum: The Premium Alternative

For homeowners who want zero rust risk ever, TimberTech aluminum framing is the ultimate option. Pairs natively with TimberTech AZEK PVC decking. Lighter than steel (great for elevated or rooftop decks), backed by a lifetime structural warranty, and aluminum simply doesn’t oxidize the way steel can.

It runs 10–20% more than G90 steel, but for AZEK builds or “build it once, never again” projects, it’s the right call.

Why Steel Makes Sense in Colorado

  • Freeze-thaw cycles — 100+ per year here. Steel doesn’t absorb moisture, expand, or split.
  • UV at altitude — at 6,000+ feet, wood degrades fast. Steel is unaffected.
  • Wildfire / WUI compliance — non-combustible. Read our guide to Colorado Springs WUI regulations and best fire-resistant decking materials.
  • Hail and storm performance — steel framing doesn’t dent or warp from impact-related vibration
  • Rocky and clay soil settling — distributes load more evenly than wood

Wood vs. Steel: The Quick Comparison

For homeowners staying in their home more than 10 years, steel typically pays for itself before resale. Flexible financing is available if the upfront cost is a hurdle.


Decking Pairings We Build

  • Simcoe G90 + Trex Transcend, Lineage, or Fiberon Concordia — our most common combo
  • Fortress Evolution + TimberTech AZEK or Fiberon Concordia — premium boards on a corrosion-resistant frame
  • TimberTech Aluminum + TimberTech AZEK PVC — the longest-lasting setup on the market

Why Bigfoot

Four generations of Colorado outdoor living experience. BBB accredited. Best of the Springs winner. We design and build decks, patios, pavilions, pergolas, and landscapes as one cohesive outdoor system.

 For most homeowners staying 10+ years, yes. Our freeze-thaw cycles, UV exposure, and wildfire risk all shorten wood-frame lifespan. Steel typically pays back its premium within 10–15 years

 G90 steel is the best cost-to-performance choice for most projects. TimberTech aluminum is the right call for elevated decks, AZEK builds, or homeowners who want the absolute longest-lasting option.

You can’t retrofit existing framing, but if your boards are aging anyway, that’s the right moment to upgrade the substructure. See our guide on when to replace your deck.

Properly installed G90 galvanized or powder-coated systems carry 25–50 year corrosion warranties. We’ve never seen one fail from rust in Colorado’s dry climate.

Ready to Start?

Schedule a free Discovery Call or call 719-370-3325 to talk through whether steel or aluminum framing is right for your project. Proudly serving Colorado Springs, Monument, Larkspur, Castle Rock, Castle Pines, and Parker.