Beat the Heat and Stay Cool on Your Composite Deck
Is your deck too hot to handle in the summer? Ever wonder if there’s a way to enjoy your outdoor space without scorching your feet?
In this post, you’ll learn about composite decking heat resistance and how it helps keep your deck cool.
By the end, you’ll be closer to starting your Belvidere deck installation and get a deck that beats the heat, ensuring many enjoyable, sun-soaked afternoons outside.
Is Composite Decking Heat-Resistant?
Composite decking is now more heat-resistant than it used to be. Modern composite decking materials are engineered with advanced materials science to be significantly more heat-resistant than traditional wood decking.
Early composite decks often got uncomfortably hot in the sun. This was mainly due to the dense composition of recycled plastic and wood flakes, which tended to absorb and retain heat more than traditional wood.
However, recent innovations (i.e., composite decking heat resistance) have transformed composite decking into a much cooler option for your outdoor space.
Advanced PVC decking, such as TimberTech Advanced PVC decking, utilizes a proprietary polymer material with absolutely no wood. This makes the decking less dense, which means the boards absorb and retain less heat.
As a result, TimberTech Advanced PVC decking can stay up to 30° cooler than other composite decking products.
Composite decking heat resistance ensures that your composite deck remains comfortable even in direct sunlight.
Additionally, the lighter colors available in modern composite decking, such as Slate Gray and Weathered Teak, further enhance heat resistance. Lighter shades absorb less heat compared to darker colors, helping to keep your deck’s surface cooler.
Modern composite decking provides a comfortable solution that outperforms traditional wood in heat resistance.
Check out the pros and cons of composite decking and other deck materials.
Heat-Resistant Composite Decking Solutions
TimberTech Advanced PVC Decking
TimberTech Advanced PVC decking is a game-changer in the world of heat-resistant composite decking.
This product is specifically designed to address the heat issues associated with earlier decking materials. TimberTech’s advanced PVC decking features proprietary polymer material, which includes absolutely no wood. This composition makes the decking less dense, reducing heat absorption and retention.
Key features of TimberTech Advanced PVC decking include:
- Stays up to 30° cooler than other composite deck boards.
- Splinter-free surface, making it safe for bare feet and pets.
- Better slip resistance compared to competitive composite products.
- Available in a range of colors, from light hues like Whitewash Cedar® and Slate Gray to darker shades like Dark Hickory and English Walnut®.
Trex Transcend® Lineage™ Composite Decking
Trex Transcend® Lineage™ composite decking is another excellent option for homeowners looking to keep their decks cooler. This decking utilizes heat-mitigating technology in its shell, which reflects the sun’s rays and helps the deck stay cooler.
Benefits of Trex Transcend® Lineage™ include:
- Reflects sun, reducing heat absorption.
- The high-traffic formulation ensures durability and long-lasting performance.
- Resists stains, scratches, and mold, making it a low-maintenance option for busy households.
Want to know the differences between TimberTech vs. Trex?
MoistureShield CoolDeck Technology
MoistureShield’s CoolDeck Technology is designed to keep your deck cooler by reducing heat absorption by up to 35% compared to standard capped composites. This technology is available in MoistureShield’s Vision® and Meridian™ lines, offering a comfortable outdoor living space even on the hottest days.
Benefits of MoistureShield CoolDeck Technology include:
- Splinter-free and slip-resistant surface.
- Suitable for pool decks and docks, as it can be installed on or underwater without structural failures.
- Available in both light and dark colors, such as light gray and deep browns, to suit various aesthetic preferences.
Contact us to discuss your composite deck today.
What are the Best Heat-Resistant Composite Decking Colors?
Light Colors for Heat Mitigation
One of the simplest ways to keep your deck cooler is by choosing the right color. Light-colored deck boards reflect more sunlight and absorb less heat, making them ideal for hot climates.
Here are some recommended light colors for composite decking:
- Whitewash Cedar®: This bright, clean look pairs well with various home exteriors and helps keep your deck’s surface cool.
- Slate Gray: A chic, solid, light gray hue with a unique grain pattern, Slate Gray is perfect for a modern, sophisticated outdoor space.
- Weathered Teak®: With its warm, sunny hue, Weathered Teak brightens up your deck and reduces heat absorption.
Dark Colors With Heat Resistance
If you prefer darker shades but are concerned about heat, you’re in luck. Some heat-resistant composite decking products are engineered to be more heat-resistant, even in darker colors.
Here are a few options:
- Dark Hickory: This bold, dark color adds a striking design element to your deck while staying cooler than traditional dark composite boards.
- English Walnut®: A rich, inviting hue that gives your deck a sophisticated feel, perfect for creating a cozy, elegant atmosphere.
- Mahogany: Offering a real wood-inspired hue, Mahogany adds a touch of elegance to your outdoor living space while maintaining heat resistance.
What Makes a Deck Hot?
When you think about lounging on your deck in Belvidere, IL, the last thing you want is to think about burning your feet. But what exactly makes a deck get hot?
Several factors influence the temperature of your deck boards:
Decking Color: Just like wearing a dark shirt on a sunny day, darker colors absorb more heat. This principle applies to your deck as well. Deck boards in darker shades will get hotter compared to those in lighter colors. If you want to keep your deck cooler, opting for a lighter shade is a smart choice.
Direct Sunlight: The amount of direct sunlight your deck receives plays a significant role in how hot it gets. More direct sunlight means higher temperatures. If your deck is in an area with constant sun exposure, consider adding deck shade structures like pergolas or awnings to help mitigate the heat.
Air Temperature: The ambient temperature around your deck also affects its heat retention. On a hot summer day, your deck will absorb and retain more heat. Conversely, on cooler days, even with direct sun, your deck will cool down faster.
Composite vs. Wood Decking When it Comes to Heat-Resistance
Composite decking not only offers better heat resistance but also boasts other benefits. Unlike traditional wooden deck boards, composite deck boards are splinter-free, require less maintenance, and are more durable. They resist fading, scratching, and staining, providing a long-lasting, beautiful outdoor space.
Discover more about composite vs. wood decking.
FAQs About Decks and Heat Resistance
Do composite decks get hot?
Composite decks can get hot, especially in direct sunlight. However, advancements in heat-resistant technology have made modern composite decking cooler and more comfortable underfoot.
Are composite decks hotter than wood?
Composite decks are not generally hotter than wood decks. Modern composite decking includes heat-dissipation properties, allowing it to absorb less heat and cool down faster than traditional wood.
Want to know how much a composite deck can cost?
Beat the Heat and Get a Cool Deck With Hard Decks
At Hard Decks, we specialize in installing heat-resistant composite decking, ensuring your deck stays cool and enjoyable in Belvidere, IL. Our team of experts will help you choose the perfect materials and design for a stylish, comfortable outdoor space.
Don’t let the heat stop you from enjoying your deck. Fill out our contact form today, or give us a call to start your deck installation project with Hard Decks!