7 Ways to Keep Your Composite Deck Cool in the Summer

While a composite deck is a beautiful decking material for the limited upkeep required to keep it looking brand new for years to come, this type of deck can become hot during the summer months. Composite decks can get hot under direct sunlight, but there are several ways to keep them from getting too hot. Here are a few tips on how to keep your composite deck cool.

Do Composite Decks Get Too Hot?

Composite decks have the potential to become hot in direct sunlight like any other decking material, but the degree to which temperature they climb can depend on many factors. When building a composite deck, consider what exposure your deck area will be located in. For instance, a deck that receives only a portion of morning sunlight compared to a large amount of the sun during the heat of the day will vary significantly in temperature.

Throughout the years the technology for composite decking has improved. Although composite decking was known to become incredibly hot at one point, today the high-quality composite decking materials offered by many distributors are similar to their wood counterparts.

7 Simple Tips for A Cooler Composite Deck

Tan composite deck with black decorative railing.

Although the pros outweigh the cons regarding composite decking, some people still need to be more apprehensive about keeping them cool in the summer. Follow our simple tips to enjoy your composite deck while summer heats up.

Tip #1: Pick the Right Type of Composite Decking Material

Deckorators deck from Rocky Mountain Outdoor Living

Rocky Mountain Outdoor Living uses Deckorators composite decking, mineral-based composite (MBC). MBC decking does not get as warm as other composite decking on the market and comes in various colors.

Tip #2: Select a Lighter Color

Since darker colors tend to absorb more heat than lighter colors, opt for composite decking materials in lighter shades, such as light grey, ivory, or tan, as they reflect more sunlight and stay cooler to the touch.

Tip #3: Install Roof Additions or Pergolas

Composite deck with pergola and retractable shade.

Create a shady oasis over your composite deck by installing a shade structure including roof additions, pergolas, umbrellas, or shade sails. These shade structures protect from direct sunlight, reducing heat absorption and keeping the deck surface cooler.

Tip #4: Use Rugs

Covered porch with outdoor kitchen and rug.

Rugs add a nice decorative touch to your outdoor space and can act as a barrier between your feet and the hot deck surface, making it more comfortable to walk on. Place your outdoor rugs or mats in high-traffic areas or areas that receive direct sunlight. Ensure the rugs do not include a backing that will damage your decking.

Tip #5: Spray the Deck with Water

For a quick and temporary solution to hot decking boards, spraying the composite deck with water before use can help instantly cool down the surface temperature. On hot days, this will need to be repeated.

Tip #6: Use Shading Plants

Consider planting trees, shrubs, or climbing vines near the deck to provide natural shade. These green elements can help block sunlight and create a cooler environment around the deck.

Pro Tip: Pair shading plants with a pergola or other patio cover for an added privacy element.

Tip #7: Install Misters

Various misting options are also available to help bring down the surface temperature of your composite deck. If you have a shade structure already installed, misting systems can be attached to the structure. Otherwise, other misting options are available in the form of fans.

The Bottom Line

Just because the temperature heats up in the summer doesn’t mean your deck must be uncomfortable. Remember to follow our steps to keep the temperature of your composite deck pleasant so it can be enjoyed whenever it suits you.