Veteran’s Day Spotlight: Building Durable Decks for Service Families

Every November, we pause to honor the courage and sacrifice of the men and women who have served our country. In addition to parades and ceremonies, many communities in Denver look for meaningful ways to support service families year-round. Centennial Custom Decks believes one of the best ways to honor their dedication is by creating durable, family-friendly outdoor spaces where they can gather, recharge, and make memories.

Decks are more than just an extension of a home—they’re places where birthdays are celebrated, kids play, and families unwind together. For service families, who often endure relocations, deployments, and time apart, a deck designed for both resilience and comfort can provide much-needed stability and joy.

Why Family-Friendly Decks Matter for Service Families

Veteran and active-duty families face unique challenges that affect their daily lives and home environments. Outdoor living spaces can serve as havens of relaxation, connection, and healing. A well-designed deck meets these needs by offering:

• Durability: Materials that withstand Denver’s freeze-thaw cycles, snow, and summer heat.
  
  
• Low maintenance: Less time on upkeep means more time for family.
  
  
• Safety: Railings, slip-resistant boards, and child-friendly features create a secure environment.
  
  
• Flexibility: Open layouts for gatherings, quiet corners for reflection, and multipurpose areas for kids’ play or outdoor dining.
  
  

Studies show that outdoor time reduces stress, lowers blood pressure, and improves mental well-being—benefits especially important for families managing the demands of military life.

Choosing the Right Materials for Lasting Decks

Denver’s climate makes material selection critical for long-term performance. Centennial Custom Decks often recommends composite decking, such as Trex, for service families because of its combination of resilience, eco-friendliness, and safety.

Composite Decking

• Durability: Resistant to rot, insects, and warping.
  
  
• Slip resistance: Textured surfaces provide safer footing for kids and pets, especially in icy months.
  
  
• Eco-friendly: Many composite products use recycled wood fibers and plastics, reducing environmental impact.
  
  
• Low maintenance: Requires no sanding, staining, or sealing.
  
  

Trex Decking Benefits

Trex is one of the leading composite decking brands trusted by homeowners nationwide. Its products are known for:

• Long warranties (often 25 years or more).
  
  
• Sustainable practices, with over 90% recycled content.
  
  
• Color options that blend with both modern and traditional homes.
  
  

By choosing composite materials, service families gain not only longevity but also peace of mind that their deck is built to support family life with minimal upkeep.

Designing for Family Safety and Comfort

Family-centered deck design goes beyond materials. Centennial Custom Decks incorporates thoughtful features that make outdoor living both safe and enjoyable.

Safety Features

• Sturdy railings: Child-safe heights and durable materials to prevent accidents.
  
  
• Slip-resistant stairs: Essential during Denver’s snowy and icy months.
  
  
• Even surfaces: Prevent tripping hazards, especially important for small children or older family members.
  
  

Comfort and Usability

• Shaded areas: Pergolas or canopies offer relief from summer sun.
  
  
• Flexible layouts: Open areas for games, plus dedicated zones for dining or relaxing.
  
  
• Lighting: Low-voltage or solar options provide ambiance and visibility for evening gatherings.
  
  

These features transform decks into true outdoor living rooms where families can safely enjoy time together year-round.

Eco-Friendly Deck Solutions for Service Families

Many veterans and their families value sustainability, and composite decking aligns perfectly with eco-conscious living. Trex, for instance, has diverted over 400 million pounds of plastic film from landfills annually by repurposing it into decking materials.

Eco-friendly decks support both environmental stewardship and long-term family use. By investing in sustainable products, service families contribute to a greener future while enjoying decks that last for decades with little environmental impact.

Honoring Service Through Community Spaces

Veteran’s Day is a reminder that service extends beyond the individual—it impacts entire families. Centennial Custom Decks is proud to support service families in Denver by offering durable, eco-friendly, and family-oriented deck solutions. Whether it’s creating a backyard retreat for a veteran’s quiet reflection or building a safe play space for children, decks can become central to family life.

By focusing on low-maintenance, safe, and sustainable solutions, service families can enjoy more time together outdoors—without the burden of constant repairs or upkeep.

FAQs About Family-Friendly Decks

Why is composite decking better for service families than wood?

Composite decking requires less maintenance, lasts longer, and provides safer traction than wood. For busy families, it eliminates the need for regular sealing and reduces repair costs.

Is Trex decking safe for kids and pets?

Yes. Trex is designed with slip resistance, splinter-free surfaces, and non-toxic materials, making it ideal for families with children and animals.

How long does a composite deck last in Denver?

Composite decks can last 25–30 years or more, compared to 10–15 years for traditional wood in Denver’s climate.

Are composite decks eco-friendly?

Absolutely. Brands like Trex use recycled wood fibers and plastics, reducing landfill waste and conserving natural resources.

Can a family-friendly deck be stylish too?

Yes. Composite decking comes in a wide range of colors and finishes, allowing homeowners to create a look that matches their personal style while maintaining functionality.

Do composite decks get slippery in winter?

Composite boards with textured surfaces offer better traction than smooth wood. For added safety, traction strips or non-slip treatments can be applied to stairs.

Building Spaces That Last for Families Who Serve

As we honor veterans this November, Centennial Custom Decks encourages Denver homeowners to think about how outdoor living spaces can enrich family life. A deck built with durable, eco-friendly materials like Trex not only honors the service of veterans but also provides their families with a safe, welcoming, and lasting retreat.

Investing in a family-friendly deck is more than a home improvement—it’s a tribute to those who dedicate their lives to serving our nation. By choosing durability, safety, and sustainability, we ensure that the families who give so much to our communities can enjoy the comfort and connection they deserve.