TREX Deck in Castle Rock with Glass Paneling to Block Wind Not Spectacular Views

Interview with Shawn Vernon, Owner | Home Renonvations Colorado

This TREX deck project just south of Castle Rock was designed for a homeowner who wanted more than a basic outdoor space—he wanted something that could be used year-round and still look incredible. With custom steel framing, glass panel wind protection, a full outdoor kitchen, and a covered roof structure built to match the home, every detail was thought through. The combination of durable TREX decking and strategic design makes this a functional, comfortable space even in Colorado’s unpredictable weather.

Tell me about the overall project and where this house was located.

So, this house was just south of Castle Rock. When I met the homeowner, he wanted something spectacular and he wanted a lot of features. We spent probably a month in the design phase to get it exactly the way he wanted it. We incorporated a lot of different elements—from functionality to accessories to a wind barrier—because he’s on the side of a mountain and gets a lot of wind.

For the kitchen area, we designed the deck layout first and then the roof structure. It was important to match the roof lines of the house, but he also wanted that nostalgic look, which is why we used the big timbers. The large glass panels were for wind protection, especially around the kitchen area. We also incorporated a fire pit, a full outdoor kitchen, iron railing, and steel framing, which is our signature. It’s stable, flat, easy to work with, and lasts a long time. The flooring was TREX, and we used glass panels on two sides of the deck.

Did you build the full deck structure, including the pylons and staircase?

Yes, we did. Because of the load of the deck and the roof structure, we had to go very deep underneath grade to support the weight. We designed the columns to match the home’s trim color, and the homeowner wanted them larger, so we were able to create some great spans with this project. It turned out fantastic.

Describe the ceiling fans, lighting, and heating elements added to this custom TREX Deck

This was designed to be the ultimate outdoor space, so he wanted to use it year-round. We installed radiant heaters mounted in the roof structure that push heat down into the seating and dining areas. Even if it’s 40 degrees out, you can still be comfortable.

For lighting, we do two types. We install 110 lighting wired into the home and built into the roof structure, and then we add low-voltage lighting throughout the deck for accent. At night, it creates a great ambiance—whether you’re sitting around the fire pit or grilling.

Is the lighting under the deck just for aesthetics?

We created a ceiling system underneath the deck that drains water. Since deck boards have to be gapped, water falls through onto a pan system that we developed, which keeps the area below dry. That allows the homeowner to use the space underneath as another living area. So you’re basically getting two outdoor living spaces.

The glass paneling is really a wow factor

The glass panels were mainly for wind protection. When you’re up on a property like this, even a slight breeze can affect things like the fire pit. The panels help block the wind, make it more comfortable to sit out there, and keep the fire pit functioning and looking the way it should. So yeah, they look fabulous even though they're incredibly functional for enjoying your deck. Those details are game-changers for a deck that gets used and one that doesn't.

Is there also a pergola over the fire pit?

We added a decorative pergola to provide shade. It gives you the option to sit outside of the fully covered area but still have relief from the sun. It’s functional, but again also adds a really nice aesthetic element.

The roof structure has a different wood look compared to the rest of the deck build. What was behind that custom design choice?

The homeowner wanted a natural wood look for the roof, so we used rough-sawn cedar and stained it to his preference. It creates a nice contrast with the home while still tying into the cedar trim you see on the house. For the ceiling, we used cedar tongue and groove, which gives you those clean lines when you look up. It’s a simple detail, but it makes a big difference in the overall appearance.

What was the timeline for a custom TREX deck project like this?

This project took about a month and a half. There was a lot involved, especially with the fire pit and the large grill—we had to bring in additional natural gas lines, which added some time. But for a project of this size and caliber, that’s a pretty solid timeline.

Projects like this don’t happen by accident—they come from thoughtful design, the right materials, and a team that knows how to build for Colorado conditions. If you’re thinking about upgrading your outdoor space, we’ll walk your property with you, talk through ideas, and give you a clear plan. Reach out to Shawn from Home Renovations Colorado today to schedule your free in-person estimate and see what’s possible for your home.