Services
Steel deck framing
The frame decides how long a deck lasts. We build many of our decks on Fortress Evolution steel framing, which stays straight and won't rot, so the structure lasts as long as the boards on top.
The problem with a wood frame
Composite and PVC deck boards carry warranties of 25 years or more. A pressure-treated wood frame often can't keep up. Water sits on the joists, the wood dries, crowns and twists, and over time the frame rots from the top down. In Utah, freeze-thaw cycles speed that up.
Why steel is better
- Dead flat. Steel joists are made straight and stay straight, for a flatter deck and cleaner board lines.
- Won't rot. Water and insects can't break down steel.
- Longer spans. Fewer posts and footings, more open space under a second-story deck.
- Doesn't burn. Worth thinking about near fire pits, outdoor kitchens and wildland areas.
- Matches your boards. A steel frame under TimberTech or Trex gives you a deck where every part is built for the long haul.
Where we recommend it most
- Second-story decks, where long spans and a clean underside matter.
- Hot tub decks, which need a stiff, strong frame.
- Covered decks and decks with a dry patio or finished ceiling below.
- Hillside lots around Traverse Mountain, Alpine and the benches, where posts get tall.
Steel, OC Lumber or wood?
Steel isn't the only rot-proof option. We are also on the Owens Corning OC Lumber Pro Build Team, a wood-free, rust-free framing material. And when a project uses wood, we protect every joist with flashing tape. On a phone estimate we'll tell you which fits your deck and budget.
Good framing also needs good footings. We often set steel frames on ground screws, which go in fast and give a measured, solid base. For the full story, read why we build on Fortress Evolution.
Want a deck that's built to outlast the boards? Request a free estimate.
What homeowners say
“Levi is very professional in his work. Very detailed in his quality of work. Communication is very fast.”
“Levi was fantastic to work with. He was patient and responsive as we figured out how we wanted to rebuild our deck.”
“Levi was amazing. Very patient in dealing with our uncertainty and variations in our other work being done in our yard.”
Common questions
Why build a deck on steel instead of wood?
Steel framing won’t rot, warp, twist or attract termites, and it stays straight, so the deck surface stays flat. It also lets the frame last as long as premium composite or PVC decking.
What steel framing do you use?
We build with Fortress Evolution steel framing, a system of coated light-gauge steel joists, beams, ledgers and brackets. TC Decks is a certified Fortress Pro Installer.
Does steel framing rust?
Fortress Evolution is protected with a coating made for outdoor use. Like any building material it needs to be installed correctly, which is why we follow the manufacturer’s details.
Can steel framing go on any deck?
Most decks, yes. It shines on second-story decks, hot tub decks, hillside lots and decks with a covered or finished patio below. We will tell you on the phone whether steel, OC Lumber or protected wood makes the most sense for your project.
Other services
Composite Decks
TimberTech PVC and composite, installed to manufacturer spec so the warranty holds.
Learn more →TimberTech Decks
Built by a TimberTech Platinum Pro, with manufacturer labor and material coverage.
Learn more →Deck Tear-Out & Rebuild
Full tear-out of a worn deck and a new one built from the footings up.
Learn more →