“You’ve got a few options if you’re considering manufactured decking but want to minimize heat absorption.”
Manufactured decking brands like TimberTech have redefined the reliability and versatility of modern decking. From impressive durability to low-maintenance care, manufactured materials offer a wide range of benefits. But to get the most out of innovative products like TimberTech decking, it’s important to move beyond surface-level features and understand the nuances of each material—and the best practices for working with them.
In our TimberTech series, we're joined by Pat Maher, product application manager and head of AZEK University (TimberTech is an outdoor living brand of the AZEK Company). TimberTech is an industry leader in manufactured decking and a longtime Dunn Lumber partner. Pat brings a lifetime of experience in building materials, with 20 years focused specifically on manufactured decking. We’re excited to share his unique and seasoned perspective.
At a glance
Worried about hot manufactured decking surfaces in the summer? In today's episode, Pat discusses how color choice makes a difference, how PVC and capped composite absorb heat differently, and how you can make sure which is the right choice for you.
Watch the video above, or read a summary of our conversation below.
Smart decking choices for warm climates
If you live in a warm climate, you know that bare feet and blazing boards don’t mix. The fact is, any decking material will heat up in the sun—especially if you get direct sunlight and don’t have shade structures in place—but not all decking is created equal. You’ve got a few options if you’re considering manufactured decking but want to minimize heat absorption.
Choose a light color for your deck
Lighter colors reflect more heat radiation than they absorb, while darker-colored surfaces absorb more heat. Colors like light gray and tan will stay cooler than dark brown, dark gray, and black.
Consider PVC decking
Another difference-maker to consider is the type of manufactured decking: Capped composite generally absorbs more heat and retains it longer, while PVC absorbs less—and cools off more quickly.
If you’re comparing the same light color in capped composite and PVC, the difference in temperature may just be a few degrees on a hot day. However, if you’re comparing a dark color of PVC to a dark color of capped composite, the capped composite may get significantly warmer.
TimberTech Advanced PVC Decking is specifically engineered to reflect more light and retain less heat. Compared to wood or other composite decking, several colors stay up to 30° cooler than competitive products. (Check out TimberTech’s guide to heat-resistant composite decking.)
Test TimberTech products for yourself
Everyone has a different tolerance, and what may be too hot for a family with pets or young children might be perfectly fine for someone else. Grab samples of the decking products or different colors you’re comparing, place them in the sun for at least two hours, and then see for yourself how they feel.