What Decking Material Does Not Get Hot?
- Aluminum Aluminum can handle sunny weather without becoming weak or warping. ...
- IPE Decking IPE decking is one of the finest quality wood you can find for your deck. ...
- Vinyl Rail A vinyl rail has an aluminum core and a vinyl coating. ...
- Pressure Treated Wood Pressure-treated wood is the most common type of decking material. ...
- Composite Decking ...
Is there a composite deck that doesn't get hot?
While first generation composite decking did get hot in the sun, TimberTech has innovated beyond first-gen products. TimberTech capped polymer decking is engineered to be cooler to the touch, even in direct sunlight.
Do all composite decks get hot?
So, does composite decking get hot in direct sunlight? While early composite decks were very sensitive to temperature and did get notoriously hot, new composite decking materials are much more resistant to heat. High-quality modern composite boards don't become hotter than traditional wooden deck boards.
What gets hotter PVC or composite decking?
PVC is a little hotter than your wood decking but significantly cooler than your composites.
How do I make my deck not so hot?
Here are 5 things you can do to keep your deck cool this summer so you can enjoy your outdoor living space even in the hottest summer weather.Hose Down Your Deck. ... Use Outdoor Rugs. ... Use Cooling Misters. ... Use Umbrellas, Shade Sails, or Awnings. ... Build a Pergola or Patio Cover.
What is the downside of composite decking?
Cons of Composite Decking Durability comes at a cost, as composite decking is more expensive than wood. It could cost 15 to 20 percent more for composite material than pressure-treated pine. Composites aren't natural. No matter how much effort goes into making composites look like wood, they're not.
Do Trex decks get hot?
Does Trex decking get hot on a sunny day? Like many other outdoor surfaces, such as concrete, asphalt, beach sand, wood decking, other brands of composite decking, etc., Trex decking can get hot due to weather and sun exposure.
What are the problems with PVC decking?
But plastic decking has its problems. It might expand and contract in certain climates, loosening joints and making decks unstable. In hot, sunny areas, plastic decks can get very hot on the soles of the feet and actually radiate heat, making them uncomfortable.
How do I keep my composite deck cool?
6 Ways How to Keep Composite Decking Cool Enough to Walk OnPick The Right Composite Decking Material. ... Select Lighter Coloured Composite Decking Over Darker Ones. ... Shade Your Deck. ... Increase Ventilation Underneath The Deck. ... Cover Up With An Outdoor Rug. ... Wash The Deck Down With Cool Water.
Do black decks get too hot?
Darker colored decks will absorb heat from the hot summer sun, so if your deck is on the south side of your house, a dark colored floor can make it very difficult to use the deck during the afternoon and early evening in summer.
Does Trex decking get hot in full sun?
Like any other outdoor surface exposed to sunlight and heat, Trex composite decking can become hot.
Which composite decking is best for full sun?
Looking for the best composite decking for full sun? Look no further than TimberTech® capped polymer and capped composite decking. TimberTech deck boards are far superior to traditional wood in several ways, including in their ability to handle direct sunlight with less heat retention and minimal color fading.
Is composite decking hot to walk on?
Both Wood and Composite Decking Are Hot in the Sun to Walk On. All decking will be hot to the touch. Steps can be taken to reduce the decking temperature, but it will still be hot to the touch. Meaning that regardless if your decking is wood or composite, it will be hot in the sun.
How do I keep my composite deck cool?
6 Ways How to Keep Composite Decking Cool Enough to Walk OnPick The Right Composite Decking Material. ... Select Lighter Coloured Composite Decking Over Darker Ones. ... Shade Your Deck. ... Increase Ventilation Underneath The Deck. ... Cover Up With An Outdoor Rug. ... Wash The Deck Down With Cool Water.
Is composite decking hot to walk on?
Both Wood and Composite Decking Are Hot in the Sun to Walk On. All decking will be hot to the touch. Steps can be taken to reduce the decking temperature, but it will still be hot to the touch. Meaning that regardless if your decking is wood or composite, it will be hot in the sun.
Which composite decking is best for full sun?
Looking for the best composite decking for full sun? Look no further than TimberTech® capped polymer and capped composite decking. TimberTech deck boards are far superior to traditional wood in several ways, including in their ability to handle direct sunlight with less heat retention and minimal color fading.
Is composite decking too hot for dogs?
While composite decking has its benefits, it's true that certain kinds can heat up in the sun. Generally, if your composite decking is too hot for you to walk across barefoot, it's safe to assume it's too hot for dogs.
What happens if a deck joist isn't level?
Joists that aren’t level can result in high or low spots throughout the deck, resulting in a wavy-looking deck. TimberTech decking will conform to the contour of the joists to which it is attached.
What is capped polymer deck board?
Our capped polymer deck boards are made with 100% synthetic material, which is less dense than traditional lumber or decking made from composite material and wood flakes. Less density means boards absorb and retain less heat.
What is Timbertech Azek decking?
TimberTech AZEK decking, our capped polymer decking line, features advanced materials science in its core and cap that makes it more heat resistant than other composite decking products.
Do lighter colored deck boards absorb heat?
You likely learned in school that lighter colors absorb less heat than darker colors, and that holds true for heat resistant composite decking. Choose one of these lighter colored deck boards for greater heat mitigation.
Is composite decking heat resistant?
Heat resist ant composite decking is ideal for poolside decks and decks in full sun. If you’re the owner of such a deck — or are considering building one — you’ve likely already wondered: Is there composite decking that doesn’t get hot? How do I find the best heat resistant material?
Does material get hot in the sun?
While all material will eventually get hot in the sun, the degree of heat buildup (how hot it gets and how fast) will vary.
Is TimberTech decking hot?
While first generation composite decking did get hot in the sun, TimberTech has innovated beyond first-gen products. TimberTech capped polymer decking is engineered to be cooler to the touch, even in direct sunlight.
What is the best material to build a deck?
Concrete . Concrete is one of the best materials to use to build a deck. It doesn’t get as hot as many of the other surfaces and can sit in the direct sunlight for longer periods of time than other surfaces. There are several great things about concrete . You can pour it into any form you want.
What is the best wood for a deck?
Ipe Decking is considered by some to be the best decking material in the world. It is wood that grows and is harvested in Central and South America. It has a beautiful look and superior quality. If you want your feet to stay comfortable in the summer, then this might be the best bet if you are trying for the wooden look. This deck building wood is super durable and looks great. There are all of the positive aspects and none of the drawbacks of other types of wood with Ipe Decking.
What is composite decking made of?
There are tons of variety of composite decking. Composite is made of plastic and is meant to mimic real wood. The nice thing about this material is that it resists bugs, mold, and rot. It is easy to clean and looks authentic in most cases.
Why is pressure treated wood warping?
Pressure treated wood is a soft wood and when you assemble it generally it is still swollen from being treated with chemicals. With exposure to the sun, the wood will dry and shrink. This can cause warping and cracking. Pressure treated wood also requires a great deal of upkeep.
Does aluminum decking last?
If you go with aluminum, you will have a deck that will last for years and stay cool throughout the Summer months. It also resists fire and bugs and will help keep the area below the deck dry. Aluminum is becoming increasingly popular for these reasons. You may have trouble finding aluminum decking in your area.
Is aluminum good for a deck?
Aluminum is not a conventional choice, but it has a lot going for it. It is durable, it doesn’t rust, it can handle full sun and not become weak or warp. Best of all it stays cool to the touch. No longer do you have to dread walking on a super hot deck any longer. If you go with aluminum, you will have a deck that will last for years and stay cool throughout the Summer months. It also resists fire and bugs and will help keep the area below the deck dry.
Is it bad to walk on a deck while swimming?
Having a deck that is uncomfortable on your feet can be quite inconvenient especially if you have a pool and plan on walking on the deck while using the pool. There is no reason to purchase decking that is going to be scorching hot during the summer. It is so much easier if you stick with a material that will resist heat ...
Can you walk on a deck in the summer?
Don't build a deck you can't walk on during the hot summer months. When shopping for composite or engineered decking material most people are only concerned with how it looks, what it costs, and how long it will last. Not enough people consider heat. When exposed to full sunlight, engineered and composite decking can get very, very hot.
Does cooler decking absorb heat?
CoolDeck reflects much of the heat instead of absorbing it like most other composite decking. In addition to comfort, cooler decking doesn’t expand as much, which makes it less susceptible to deflection that can lead to dips, bows and an all around wavy deck.
What are the factors that determine the best decking material?
Ultimately, finding one that suits your space comes down to a compromise of four key factors: budget, climate, ease of maintenance, and overall aesthetic. Start your construction process by considering these five most popular picks for the best decking material—we’ve got the pros and cons for each.
What is composite decking made of?
Composite decking, from brands such as Trex and TimberTech, is made from a blend of recycled plastic (polyethylene, polypropylene, or PVC) mixed with wood fibers (like wood chips or sawdust). Not only does the durable synthetic material resist warping, it also holds strong against rot and insect infestations. Composite decking is available in a wide variety of colors and styles, including looks that mimic natural wood, none of which require sealing, sanding, or staining unless you absolutely want to change the color later on. On the flip side, dark-colored composite decking can get extremely hot in direct sunlight; mold and mildew can grow in shady, cool, or damp areas; and the surface can be quite slick when wet. (It’s best to allow adequate time to air-dry between lightly scrubbing down the surface and inviting guests out on the deck in order to avoid any slips.)
What is pressure treated wood?
Often made from a southern pine infused with a chemical to make it resistant to rot, moisture, and insects, this widely available decking material is generally the least expensive option—certainly among wood decking materials —and therefore the most widely used. Homeowners enjoy pressure-treated wood for its durability and visual similarity to natural wood. It’s an ideal option for do-it-yourself construction because, unlike natural wood, it’s easy to cut and fasten with nails or screws.
What is aluminum decking?
Often used near swimming pools and lakes, aluminum decking is a long-lasting and low-maintenance material. Most options feature a baked-on, powder-coated, or anodized finish that stands up to harsh weather conditions. Aluminum is extremely resistant to mold, mildew, and staining, and it also won’t rust, rot, crack, or peel over time. What’s more, most aluminum decking comes with a non-skid textured surface that prevents slips and falls. Surprisingly, most varieties of aluminum decking manage to stay cool even on the hottest days. However, this combination of benefits makes it one of the most expensive options, second only to some varieties of natural wood. The price—as well as the distinct industrial appearance—isn’t for every homeowner.
Why do you need to reapply pressure treated wood?
The biggest downside to pressure-treated wood? The infused chemicals release toxic gas into the air if burned, so it’s important to always reapply a good sealer when you stain every few years in order to minimize the exposure to chemicals when using the deck. Otherwise, in regards to maintenance, homeowners will need to pressure wash annually.
How much does exotic hardwood cost?
Some exotic hardwoods cost more than $20 per square foot! And without proper maintenance, it tends to fade or crack, so keep your investment in tip-top shape by pressure washing and re-sealing every couple of years. Photo: istockphoto.com.
Does a sandpaper surface get hot?
The surface gets extremely hot in direct sunlight and susceptible to mold and mildew in shade. And, while available in a wide variety of colors and styles, darker colors tend to fade over time and lighter colors sometimes develop a chalky coating.
Aluminum
Aluminum can handle sunny weather without becoming weak or warping. It dissipates heat quickly; hence, you can walk on your deck barefoot even on sunny days. Aluminum comes in shiny colors that reflect off sun rays, making them absorb less heat.
IPE Decking
IPE decking is one of the finest quality wood you can find for your deck. The wood for ipe decking is harvested in Central and South America. In addition to looking good and its durability, an ipe deck will maintain a cool, comfortable temperature even on hot days compared to other wood decks.
Vinyl Rail
A vinyl rail has an aluminum core and a vinyl coating. It does not retain heat to a level that will cause discomfort to your feet and has the same heat properties as an aluminum deck. It is fire resistant and repels bugs better than most decking materials.
Pressure Treated Wood
Pressure-treated wood is the most common type of decking material. Many people have decks made from pressure-treated wood because it is cheap and readily available. Pressure-treated wood retains heat during a sunny day, but it does not get so hot that it causes you discomfort.
Composite Decking
Composite decking is the most common alternative to wood decking in many homes. Composite decking is made of plastic, and the goal is to mimic the properties of wood. There is minimal difference between wood decking and composite decking when it comes to the retention of heat.
What is Keystone deck?
We’re a luxury deck builder specializing in creating dream-come-true spaces with composite as our base.
Can I paint a composite deck?
Can I paint my composite deck? — NO! Painting a composite deck would cause serious damage. Although the composite boards have the look of wood, they aren’t! Since composite decks don’t lose their color over time, you won’t need to worry about painting them to keep them looking fresh — they remain beautiful on their own.
Is composite decking the same as wood?
Composite decking has essentially replaced both wood and vinyl as the premier material for most new deck installations. It has the upscale look homeowners crave, has a legendary lifespan, and never needs stained or painted as wooden decks do.
Do composite deck boards get hot?
While early composite decks were very sensitive to temperature and did get notoriously hot, any new composite decking will be much more resistant to heat. High-quality modern composite boards don’t become hotter than traditional wooden de ck boards. In addition, the lighter the color of the composite deck boards that you choose, the cooler they will stay in direct sunlight.
Can composite decks be heated?
While modern composite decks aren’t susceptible to temperature issues, there are still a few things you can do to keep your outdoor living space cool on even the hottest summer days.
Is composite decking maintenance free?
While composite doesn’t require any super-involved or time-consuming maintenance, you’ll still want to keep it clean, so the occasional sweep or wash down may be necessary to keep your deck looking great. Learn more about wood vs. composite decks.
What about Kool Deck?
It works, it sure does. But we’re not that into coatings. Even when they last long they will need to be replaced in 5 years. While travertine pavers, for instance, will be in your house for longer than your kids.
What is the best material to build an oven?
Brick pavers and other options made of clay, for instance, are great for building ovens. Their dark tones will absorb lots of heat, and they will efficiently retain that heat for a long time. As a result, on a hot 100 degrees day, their own temperature will be over 150 degrees. For comparison, an egg will start to fry at 158 degrees, ...
How hot does concrete get?
Concrete pavers won’t get nearly as hot as brick pavers and dark stones. When the outside temperature is 90 degrees, they will be as hot as 120 degrees.
Do pavers get hot?
Actually, all things get hot in the sun, don’t be so hard on your deck material. Try standing on the sun from noon till the sunset, you will get hot too. All pavers get hot. But some of them get unbearably hot, and some will remain comfortable. This has to do with how those pavers reflect and absorb sunlight, and thus heat.
Do Composite Deck Boards Absorb Heat?
It's one of the first questions we often hear when someone is planning their deck: don't composite deck boards get hot?
What Causes Deck Boards To Get Hot?
Whether you've got pressure-treated wood boards or composite decking, there are three big things that cause your deck boards to absorb and retain heat: the color of your decking, the amount of direct sunlight on your deck, and the ambient temperature in your space.
How To Plan A Barefoot-Friendly Deck
If you're renovating or building a deck that you want to make as barefoot-friendly as possible, we've got a couple of key ways you can plan your deck to keep deck boards as cool as possible:
What is CoolDeck technology?
We created our CoolDeck® Technology to help reduce heat absorption by up to 35% so you can stay much cooler under the hot summer sun. Available in our Vision® and Meridian TM capped wood composite lines, we’re the only company to offer this heat resistant innovation that can help you create more comfortable environments, all season long.
Can composite decking be used in full sun?
While some deck builders say wood is the best material for full sun, the growing number of composite decking fans now have an option for lower temperature composite decking even in full sun. Contact us for more information about how composite decking with CoolDeck Technology can transform your outdoor space.
Is composite decking heat resistant?
Our Heat Resistant Solution. Composite decking is an excellent building material because it lasts longer than wood and looks great without staining, painting or sanding. Many homeowners complain that composite decking gets too hot, especially in direct sun.
Does Composite Decking Get Hot in the Sun?
Virtually any surface will get too hot on a summer day in full sun. But how hot can composite decking get in the sun?
