When the summer sun is blazing, your backyard deck can quickly turn from an inviting retreat to a surface too hot to walk on. Traditional decking materials often absorb and retain heat, making them uncomfortable and even dangerous for bare feet. But why does this happen, and what are the best options to keep your deck cool in the summer? Let’s explore the science behind hot decking, the impact of heat on materials, and the cooler alternatives that provide comfort without breaking the bank.
Why Do Decking Boards Get So Hot?
The heat absorption of decking materials depends largely on their composition and color. Darker colors and denser materials tend to absorb and retain more heat, while lighter-colored and more porous materials reflect sunlight and remain cooler.
Key Factors That Make Decking Hot:
- Material Composition: Wood and composite decking can become extremely hot under direct sunlight, especially darker finishes.
- Surface Color: Darker decks absorb more solar energy than lighter ones, leading to higher surface temperatures.
- Density: High-density materials like hardwood or composite boards trap more heat than porous options like PVC or aluminum.
How Heat Can Impact Your Deck
Excessive heat doesn’t just make your deck uncomfortable to walk on—it can also affect the integrity and longevity of the decking boards:
- Material Warping: Prolonged exposure to high heat can cause traditional wood decking to warp, twist, or expand.
- Fading: UV rays can bleach the color of both wood and composite decking over time.
- Cracking: Repeated heating and cooling cycles can weaken certain materials, leading to surface cracks.
If you live in a region with scorching summers, these issues may necessitate frequent maintenance or premature replacement of your deck.
The Coolest Decking Materials for Summer
Fortunately, not all decking materials are heat sponges. Some are specifically designed to remain cooler underfoot, making them ideal for sunny climates.
1. PVC (Vinyl) Decking
PVC decking is made entirely of plastic, which reflects more heat than it absorbs. It’s also lightweight and resistant to warping or cracking, making it a durable option.
- Key Features: Cooler surface temperatures, moisture resistance, and low maintenance.
- Installation: Requires proper substructure and specific fasteners, but installation is similar to composite decking.
2. Aluminum Decking
Aluminum decking is a game-changer for heat resistance. It stays significantly cooler than wood or composite, even in direct sunlight.
- Key Features: Excellent heat dissipation, durability, and eco-friendliness.
- Installation: Aluminum decking requires precise installation techniques, often involving interlocking panels.
3. Light-Colored Composite Decking
While darker composite boards can get hot, light-colored options are better at reflecting sunlight and staying cooler. Some manufacturers even produce specialized “heat-resistant” composite decking.
- Key Features: Resists fading, stays cooler than traditional composite, and mimics the look of real wood.
- Installation: Similar to standard composite decking but may require hidden fasteners or manufacturer-specific hardware.
4. Treated Wood with Reflective Coatings
Certain types of treated wood decking can also remain cooler when paired with reflective coatings or light stains. While it’s not as effective as PVC or aluminum, it’s a budget-friendly option.
Does Cooler Decking Cost More?
Cooler decking materials like PVC and aluminum tend to be more expensive upfront compared to traditional wood or composite. However, their long-term benefits, including lower maintenance costs and increased durability, often outweigh the initial expense.
Here’s a quick cost comparison:
- Traditional Wood Decking: $3–$7 per square foot (material only).
- Composite Decking: $4–$12 per square foot.
- PVC Decking: $5–$13 per square foot.
- Aluminum Decking: $10–$15 per square foot.
While the cost is higher for PVC and aluminum, their longevity and reduced upkeep make them a worthwhile investment for hot climates.
Special Installation Requirements
Cooler decking materials like PVC and aluminum may require specialized installation compared to traditional wood. For example:
- PVC Decking: Needs a sturdy, well-ventilated substructure to prevent buckling or warping.
- Aluminum Decking: Often installed as interlocking panels with hidden fasteners for a seamless look.
- Composite Decking: Light-colored or heat-resistant composite boards may require specific spacing to allow for expansion and contraction.
Hiring a professional installer experienced in these materials ensures your deck is built to last and performs well under summer heat.
Final Thoughts
If your deck becomes unbearably hot every summer, switching to a heat-resistant decking material can transform your outdoor space into a more comfortable retreat. PVC, aluminum, and light-colored composites are excellent options to reduce heat absorption while enhancing durability and aesthetics.
Although these materials may cost more upfront and require specialized installation, they are a smart long-term investment that will keep your feet cool and your deck in great shape for years to come.
Whether you’re planning a new deck or upgrading an existing one, make sure to choose a material that can stand up to the summer heat without compromising comfort or style.