Omar Khalid
Composite decking is a popular choice for homeowners due to its durability, low maintenance, and aesthetics. It is made from a blend of wood fibres, recycled plastics, and bonding agents. One common concern is whether composite decking gets hot in the sun, as no one wants to step onto a scorching deck during the summer. The colour of the composite decking plays a significant role in how hot it gets. Darker-coloured composite decking absorbs more heat than lighter options. The plastic component can heat up, but the wood fibres help distribute and dissipate the heat, preventing the surface from becoming excessively hot.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Heat absorption | Recycled plastic deck mats can get hot when exposed to direct sunlight and high temperatures for extended periods of time. |
| Colour | Darker-coloured mats absorb more heat than lighter-coloured mats. |
| Heat dissipation | Recycled plastic mats have good heat dissipation properties and tend to cool down relatively quickly once out of direct sunlight. |
| Comfort | Mats can become uncomfortable to walk on barefoot during hot days. |
| Maintenance | Recycled plastic mats are low-maintenance and require minimal upkeep beyond occasional cleaning. |
| Eco-friendliness | Recycled plastic mats are made from up to 95% recycled materials, including reclaimed wood and plastic waste, and can divert over 5.5 billion pounds of plastic from landfills and waterways. |
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What You'll Learn
Composite decking with recycled plastic can get hot
While composite decking can get warm in the sun, it generally doesn't get as hot as wood. Wood decking can become scorching hot when exposed to direct sunlight, especially if it is a dark colour. Composite decking, on the other hand, has good heat dissipation properties and tends to cool down relatively quickly once it is no longer in direct sunlight. This makes it a more comfortable option for walking on, even in hot weather.
The temperature of composite decking can also be regulated by providing shade with patio umbrellas, pergolas, or shade sails. Additionally, using outdoor rugs or mats can help to create a cooler surface, while also adding style to the deck. Proper ventilation is also important to allow hot air to escape and prevent heat buildup.
It is worth noting that composite decking is made from up to 95% recycled materials, including reclaimed wood and plastic waste. This makes it a sustainable and environmentally-friendly option. However, some people may be concerned about the potential release of toxic compounds from composite decking. Fortunately, many composite decking options are engineered with an integrated protective shell, ensuring that they do not release toxic compounds and are safe for eco-sensitive uses.
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Lighter colours reduce heat absorption
When considering decking, it's important to think about how hot it might get, especially if you plan to use it during the summer months. While composite decking is known for its durability, it is a common concern that it may get too hot. After all, no one wants to step onto a scorching deck during the summer.
It is true that composite decking can get hot, especially when exposed to direct sunlight and high temperatures for extended periods. However, the colour, density and design of the product can significantly impact how much the decking heats up and how long it retains that heat. Lighter colours reduce heat absorption.
The colour of your composite decking plays a crucial role in how hot it gets. Darker-coloured composite decking absorbs more heat than lighter shades. Therefore, choosing a lighter colour can help reduce heat absorption and keep your deck more comfortable under the sun. Lighter colours can significantly contribute to a cooler deck surface during warm weather.
Composite decking has good heat dissipation properties. While the plastic component can heat up, the wood fibres help distribute and dissipate the heat, preventing the surface from becoming excessively hot. This balance between materials ensures a more comfortable walking experience on your deck.
If you're concerned about heat, opting for a lighter shade of decking can make a significant difference in keeping your deck cool. Additionally, consider using patio umbrellas, pergolas, or shade sails to provide extra shade and reduce direct sunlight on your deck, creating a comfortable outdoor living space.
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Composite decking cools down faster than other materials
When it comes to decking, one of the most important considerations, especially for those living in hotter climates, is choosing a material that remains cool during the summer months. While all decking materials will eventually get hot in the sun, composite decking cools down faster than other materials.
Composite decking has become the premier material for most new deck installations, offering an upscale look, a long lifespan, and minimal maintenance. Modern composite decking is less susceptible to temperature issues than its earlier iterations, which were known to get notoriously hot. High-quality composite boards today can even be cooler than traditional wooden boards.
The rate at which a deck heats up and retains heat depends on various factors, including colour, density, and design. Darker colours absorb more heat and get hotter faster, so choosing a lighter-coloured deck can help mitigate this issue. Composite decking, with its advanced materials science, is engineered to be less dense, resulting in lower heat absorption and retention.
Additionally, composite decking is immune to rot and mould, common issues with wooden decks. As a result, composite decks do not require annual re-sealing or re-staining, making them a more durable and low-maintenance option. While composite decking may still get hot, it cools down faster than other materials, making it a suitable choice for those seeking a cool outdoor space in hotter climates.
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Composite decking is more eco-friendly than wood
While composite decking does get hot in the sun, it is more eco-friendly than wood in several ways. Firstly, composite decking is made from recycled materials, such as recycled plastic and reclaimed wood, which helps reduce waste and preserve natural resources. For example, composite decking manufacturers like Trex use recycled materials in their products, with much of its plastic coming from plastic shopping bags. They also use mill waste and old pallets instead of virgin wood. This reduces the need to cut down trees and helps preserve natural forests.
Another advantage of composite decking is its longevity and low maintenance. Composite decking lasts longer than wood, reducing the need for frequent replacement and the associated material and energy inputs. It also requires less maintenance, as it doesn't need to be stained, sealed, or treated with harsh chemicals, further reducing the environmental impact of its upkeep.
However, it's important to consider the full life cycle of composite decking. While it starts off as eco-friendly, it cannot be recycled or composted like wood. The combination of industrial (plastic) and biological (wood) materials creates a product that is neither recyclable nor compostable. This means that when composite decking reaches the end of its life, it will likely end up in landfills or the ocean, where it can persist for centuries without degrading.
Additionally, the manufacturing process of composite decking may not always be environmentally friendly. The wood flour used in composite decking lacks the natural ability of wood to efficiently absorb and shed water, which can lead to moisture buildup and potential cracking or separation. Moreover, the use of petroleum products, such as polypropylene and polyethylene, as by-products of the oil industry, further contributes to the environmental impact of composite decking.
In conclusion, while composite decking offers initial eco-friendly benefits, such as recycled content and reduced maintenance, its long-term environmental impact due to non-recyclability and the use of petroleum products is less favourable. However, with careful planning and responsible sourcing, the environmental footprint of composite decking can be minimised, making it a more sustainable alternative to wood decking.
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Outdoor rugs can make composite decking cooler
Composite decking is a popular choice for homeowners due to its durability, low maintenance, and aesthetics. However, one common concern is whether composite decking, which is made from a blend of wood fibres, recycled plastics, and bonding agents, gets hot in the sun. After all, no one wants to step onto a scorching deck during the summer months.
While it's true that any material exposed to direct sunlight will experience an increase in temperature, composite decking has good heat dissipation properties. The plastic component can heat up, but the wood fibres help distribute and dissipate the heat, preventing the surface from becoming excessively hot. This balance between materials ensures a more comfortable experience when walking on your deck. Additionally, composite decking with heat-mitigating technology can be a good option to mitigate the heat.
To further enhance the comfort and style of your composite deck, consider laying down outdoor rugs or mats. Outdoor rugs create a cooler surface for walking and lounging, especially if you choose rugs made from traditionally woven polypropylene or recycled plastic mats with a soft backing. These rugs won't scuff or scratch your decking and won't absorb moisture, avoiding mould and mildew buildup. They also add aesthetic value to your deck, pulling the space together into a cohesive and inviting design.
When choosing an outdoor rug for your composite deck, be mindful of the materials. Avoid rugs backed with latex or rubber or fixed with metal grommets and accents, as these may scuff your decking or cause discolouration. It's also recommended to wait at least three months after installing your composite decking to allow for natural discolouration to occur evenly across the planks.
By choosing the right outdoor rug and taking into account the colour of your composite decking (lighter colours absorb less heat), you can enjoy a cooler and more comfortable deck space during the warm summer months.
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Frequently asked questions
Yes, recycled plastic deck mats can get hot. However, they are designed to cool down relatively quickly once they are no longer exposed to direct sunlight.
The colour of the mat is a significant factor. Darker colours absorb more heat, while lighter colours reflect it, keeping the surface cooler.
Using shade sails or umbrellas can help reduce direct sunlight exposure and keep the deck cooler. Additionally, choosing lighter-coloured mats can help reduce heat absorption.
Yes, recycled plastic deck mats are a popular choice for outdoor spaces due to their durability, low maintenance, and aesthetics. They are made from recycled materials, which makes them an environmentally friendly option as well.
