Who we are
Cole Schaefer — Owner, Mile High Decks
I was born in Thornton, Colorado. My parents liked to fix and renovate houses, so I was handed a hammer at a very young age. We moved back to Iowa, where I developed a strong Midwest work ethic. Helping my dad on house projects led to summers in high school working construction for my uncle and cousins’ construction company, plus jobs building fences, working at a pizza shop, and store.
I met my high school sweetheart now wife, Jennifer, and she wanted to move west we returned to Colorado in 2013. There I worked alongside established deck builders to learn the trade hands-on. In 2014 I started Mile High Decks and continued working as a subcontractor while learning all the ins and outs.
In 2016 I launched Schaefer Construction to broaden our services to include decks, roofs, pergolas and general construction. Around that time I met Janis, who is now my lead carpenter and a close friend. I was intentional about growing slowly and mastering my craft before expanding. Janis shared that commitment to precision, so I hired him as my right-hand man. Over the next few years we trained and worked with a timber-frame company, picking up advanced techniques that have shaped the quality and detail we bring to every project.
Today, Mile High Decks is built on practical experience, careful craftsmanship, and a commitment to doing the job right.
Fun fact: my brother Janis and I, with a few others, built the Kokomo Hut at Copper Mountain Resort. After that project, Janis and I split off and focused on decks, porch roofs, and pergolas—perfecting every angle to build the longest-lasting decks as efficiently as possible.
We worked as subcontractors for larger general contractors, learning from their mistakes and making sure we could handle anything that came our way. As our workload grew, we needed more reliable help. My longtime high school friend Robert wanted to head west to Colorado to follow his dream. Robert and I had worked construction together previously, and he’d spent many years in construction and high-end landscaping. It was a perfect fit.
The three of us have worked hard together and completed hundreds of projects over the past several years. I’ve also been fortunate to connect with my sales rep Cassie, who keeps us current on the latest materials and invites me on manufacturer plant trips so I can stay involved in the full process from start to finish.
We’re excited to announce that in 2026 we’re returning to the name Mile High Decks.
Specializing in deck design and construction has always been our focus, and after years of dedication we’ve earned the Mile High Decks name. With that same dedication, we’ve expanded our team: my wife has joined to manage the administrative side, allowing us to operate more efficiently and deliver an even better customer experience.
What sets Mile High Decks apart
Specialized focus: Decks are our specialty — we dedicate more time and attention to each project than many competitors.
Experienced, connected team: We’re active in the decking community and keep up with industry best practices and innovations.
Right tools, right results: We invest in the best tools and techniques to ensure quality, longevity, and safety.
Trusted structural partner: We work with a Colorado structural engineer, Jack, whom we’ve collaborated with for years. His expertise speeds permitting and ensures your deck is designed correctly the first time.
Smooth process, clear communication: From initial consultation through final inspection, our goal is a seamless experience. We aim to bring your vision to life while staying within your budget.
We’re committed to growing Mile High Decks into one of — if not the — top decking contractors in the area. If you’re ready to plan your deck, we’d love to discuss your ideas and show you how our team can make them real.
Castle Rock, Colorado