ByAre you looking for the best outdoor decking for full sun? Composite decking is definitely the best choice for you. Composite decking is far superior to traditional wood in many ways, including the ability to withstand direct sunlight while being more durable and less prone to fading. Composite decking is far superior to traditional wood in a number of ways, including the ability to withstand direct sunlight, as well as being more durable and less prone to color fading.
But what is the best composite decking for full sun? Why is composite decking better for full sun? In this article we’ll answer that question in detail.
Why traditional wood is not suitable for full sun?
Traditional timber is not suitable for full sun environments, and the reasons for this are as follows:
Getting hot and staying hot
Traditional timber is more likely to absorb heat and retain it for longer, which can cause a deck to become very hot. Using a very hot deck on a hot summer day is not a good thing.
Cracks and splits
Prolonged exposure to direct sunlight causes the moisture in the wood to evaporate faster. This can lead to cracks and splits in the wood, making it more susceptible to serious damage.
Color Fading
Wood is not very resistant to fading, so prolonged exposure to sunlight and UV rays can cause wood decking to fade.
Best decking for full sun: Composite decking
Composite decking is designed to withstand harsh environments, including full sun. This decking is a mixture of wood fibers and plastic that does not absorb heat. As a result, the deck surface stays cool even in the hottest weather.
Composite decks resist fading
Fade resistance is important when you’re looking for the best finishing material for your outdoor deck project. With some traditional wood decks, exposure to direct sunlight usually causes the boards to fade. Over time, the wood deck will no longer have its original appearance. And it can also become severely cracked and damaged, requiring restaining or even replacement.
Composite deck boards, on the other hand, can effectively withstand sunlight. Composite material is known for its resistance to fading, durability, and low maintenance. So you can expect composite decks to hold their color longer. It protects the unique aesthetics of your outdoor living space and helps maintain the value of your home.
How Composite decking stays cool
Composite material reduces heat absorption, which means cooler barefoot surfaces for you and your pet’s paws. You won’t get burned using the deck on hot summer days either.
Composite deck boards are made with a synthetic material that is resistant to moisture. This means it won’t crack due to shrinkage and expansion like traditional decks. If you live in an environment where you are exposed to direct sunlight for a long period of time, then composite deck must be a good choice.
UV rays have a significant effect on the color of a deck. It affects the chemical composition of the deck material and causes the color to fade. And composite decking is designed with advanced material science, which can effectively prevent UV rays from penetrating the deck. Therefore it prevents color fading in direct sunlight.
Why Fade Resistance is Important
When looking for the best composite decking for full sun, fade resistance is one of the most important factors to consider. Excellent fade resistance will help your deck stay looking new for a long time. It also protects the appearance of your home’s exterior for longer. If your deck can maintain a long-lasting look, it can increase the resale value of your home.
Light colored composite decking is better for full sun
The darker the decking color, the hotter it feels. For hotter climates, consider choosing a lighter color. On average, darker colors absorb more heat than lighter colors. This means that a dark-colored deck may not stay cool when exposed to direct sunlight.
Dark-colored decks (like many traditional woods) can get hot very quickly. And they may also retain that heat longer than lighter colored decks. So using light-colored composite decking can help you enjoy more sunny days.
Does wood get hotter than composite decking?
Composite material is an excellent building material. This is because it is more durable than wood and looks great without having to be stained, painted or sanded. Many homeowners complain that composite decking gets too hot, especially in direct sunlight. But in general composite decks are still cooler than wood.
Does composite deck board get hot in the sun?
In full summer sun, almost any surface can become too hot. One study found that in direct sunlight, composite decks can be 34° to 76° F hotter than the ambient air. On an 80° day, this could mean a deck surface temperature of over 150°.
