Does Composite Decking Get Hot In The Sun?

Choosing the right material for your deck involves considering if it gets too hot in the sun. Composite decking is known for its durability and low maintenance, but does it get too warm? Let's break down this topic and explore what affects deck temperature, how composite compares to wood, and tips to keep your deck cool.

Does Composite Decking Get Hot?

Yes, composite decking can get warm under direct sunlight. Like any surface, it will absorb heat, making it feel hot. However, newer composite materials handle heat better than older ones or certain types of wood decking.

Factors Influencing Deck Temperature

Several factors determine how hot your deck can get:

• Color of Decking: Dark colors absorb more heat than light colors. Picking lighter shades like grey or tan can help keep your deck cooler. Darker colors like black or dark brown will soak up more heat, similar to wearing dark clothes on a sunny day.
• Sunlight Exposure: The amount of direct sunlight your deck gets will greatly affect its temperature. Decks in full sun will get hotter than those in partial shade. The deck’s position and exposure to the sun play a big role. Decks with some shade or those that get intermittent sunlight will stay cooler.
• Ambient Temperature: The surrounding air temperature also impacts how hot your deck feels. On hot days, any decking material will be warmer. Composite decking heats evenly and retains heat longer compared to wood.

Composite vs. Wood Decking

Composite decking isn’t necessarily hotter than wood. Modern composites are often designed to stay cooler than wood. Additionally, composite decking doesn’t crack or splinter from heat, unlike wood. Wood expands and contracts with temperature changes, which can lead to structural problems over time.

Tips to Keep Your Deck Cool

Here are some simple ways to keep your composite deck cool during summer:

• Pick Light Colors: Choose lighter shades of composite decking. Light colors reflect more sunlight, reducing heat absorption. Colors like grey, tan, or light wood tones help keep the deck surface cooler. These shades also match well with many outdoor themes, providing both style and comfort.
• Add Shade: Use structures like pergolas, sail shades, or umbrellas to provide shade. This can lower the deck temperature significantly. Retractable awnings offer flexible shading options. A pergola with plants can create a cooler area and add a natural touch to your deck.
• Ensure Good Ventilation: Make sure there is enough airflow beneath the deck. This helps disperse heat and keeps the deck cooler. Avoid blocking ventilation with skirting or other obstructions. Design the deck with gaps between the boards and ensure air can move freely around the deck’s perimeter.
• Use Cooling Accessories: Install outdoor fans or misting systems to cool your composite deck. Outdoor fans create a breeze that helps disperse heat, while misting systems provide a cooling mist that lowers the surrounding temperature.
• Place Outdoor Rugs: Use outdoor rugs on your deck. They stay cooler than the deck surface and provide a comfortable area to walk on. Be careful with rubber-backed rugs, as they can trap heat and damage the deck surface.
• Choose Heat-Resistant Deck Accessories: Select heat-resistant accessories and furniture for your deck. Materials like metal, certain woods, or outdoor fabrics designed for heat resistance do not absorb as much heat, making them more comfortable on hot days. Light-colored patio umbrellas and cushions can also help reduce the deck's surface temperature while adding style and comfort.

Pet-Friendly Surface

Composite decking is safe for pets. It’s less slippery than wood and can be cooler if you follow the tips above. Always check the temperature before letting pets on the deck during hot days. Providing shaded areas and cool spots, like outdoor rugs, makes the deck more comfortable for pets.

Conclusion

Composite decking can get hot in the sun, just like all decking materials. By choosing lighter colors, adding shade, using outdoor fans, outdoor rugs, and ensuring proper ventilation, you can keep your composite deck cooler and more comfortable. Modern composite decking is durable and low-maintenance, offering many benefits for outdoor spaces.