Are Composite Decks Hot?
Let’s Talk About Deck Surface Temperatures and Smart Design
When considering a new deck, one of the most common questions we hear is: “Will composite decking get hot in the sun?”
The short answer? Yes — but so will almost any outdoor surface exposed to direct sunlight.
Concrete, wood, stone, and even turf can become uncomfortable to walk on during hot summer days. The key isn’t avoiding a material entirely — it’s understanding the conditions and making smart design choices to mitigate heat and ensure safety and comfort for you and your family.
Deck Surface Temperatures and Safety
Whether you choose composite decking, traditional wood, or another material, all deck surfaces can become hot when exposed to midday summer sun — especially in high-altitude climates like Colorado.
So what does this mean for safety?
Most quality composite deck boards, including those from Trex and TimberTech, are engineered to perform well under heat, and their surfaces are not known to reach hazardous temperatures under normal conditions. However, it’s always wise to take precautions:
Encourage kids to wear sandals or shoes
Install shaded areas for midday use
Avoid darker boards if barefoot comfort is a priority
1. Sun Exposure Mapping: Smart Design
Before selecting a product or color, it’s crucial to understand how your deck will interact with the sun.
We use sun exposure mapping to evaluate:
Orientation of your deck (south- or west-facing gets the most heat)
Nearby trees or structures that create shade
Peak afternoon heat hours (typically 2–5 PM)
This helps us recommend the right combination of layout, materials, and shading strategies from the beginning.
2. Composite Deck Products: Color & Composition Matter
Composite decking doesn’t all behave the same in the sun. Several manufacturers have developed heat-mitigating technologies to improve comfort underfoot.
Color Makes a Difference
Lighter-colored boards reflect more sunlight, while darker boards absorb more heat. If you’re designing for sunny areas, a lighter board may stay cooler — and still look great.
Heat-Mitigating Technologies
Trex® Transcend® Lineage™ features advanced technology designed to stay cooler under the sun than previous Trex lines. While not “cool to the touch,” it’s engineered to reflect more heat: Trex® Heat Resistant Decking
TimberTech® Advanced PVC decking is crafted with proprietary materials that dissipate heat more efficiently, and is ranked among the cooler composite surfaces on the market: TimberTech® Heat Resistant Decking Guide
Note: No product promises to stay "cool" — but these technologies help minimize the difference you’ll feel during peak sun.
3. Add Shade Where It Counts
Even with the best decking technology, shade is your biggest ally in beating the heat. Here are a few popular options:
Pergolas – add architectural charm and filtered shade
Retractable Awnings – offer flexibility for sun or shade on demand
Sun Shades / Sails – sleek, tension-mounted fabric for modern spaces
Umbrellas – cost-effective and either fixed in concrete or movable coverage for high-traffic zones
Combining shade with a smart material selection can make a dramatic difference in afternoon comfort.
We Can Help You Plan for Heat and Beauty
At Composite Deck Pros, we understand that building a deck isn’t just about choosing a product — it’s about designing an outdoor experience that fits your lifestyle, comfort, and climate.
We offer:
Sun exposure consultations
Material guidance for heat-conscious composite decks
Integrated shade solutions to keep your space usable all summer long
Let us help you create a beautiful, functional deck with built-in comfort — even on hot afternoons.