The Secrets Behind Heat-resistant Composite Decking (And Why It’s Worth the Upgrade)

There’s nothing worse than stepping onto a scorching hot deck on a sunny summer day. Suddenly, what was supposed to be your peaceful outdoor retreat becomes a space you can’t even enjoy carefree. 

Instead of strolling barefoot to grab your morning coffee or stretch out on a lounge chair, you might find yourself checking the surface temperature or seeking another shady area to stay comfortable. And if you have kids or pets, the worry doubles.

Should a deck really cause this much stress? The good news: it doesn’t have to. Thanks to modern innovations, there’s now heat-resistant composite decking options designed to stay cooler underfoot compared to many traditional materials.

How to Find Effective Heat-resistant Composite Decking

If you’re thinking about building or upgrading your deck, choosing the right decking material is one of the most important decisions you’ll make—especially if your outdoor space gets plenty of sun. Not all composite decking is created equal when it comes to surface heat. 

Some boards are specially engineered to stay cooler for a more comfortable deck experience. When evaluating composite decking options, make sure you ask about heat resistance. A little research now could mean years of happy, barefoot enjoyment versus years of frustration. 

Here are key questions to ask any manufacturer or supplier:

• Do your composite decking boards come with heat-mitigating technology? Not all boards do—ask upfront to avoid surprises.
• How does this technology work? You’ll want to know if it’s a surface coating, a material change, or something else entirely.
• By how many degrees do these boards reduce heat compared to traditional composite boards? Numbers matter—make sure the benefits are measurable, not just marketing talk.
• How will my specific climate and sun exposure affect my deck’s temperature? What works for a shaded deck will perform differently on a sun-soaked deck.
• Does heat-mitigating technology work on all colors, even dark ones? Darker boards naturally hold more heat, so it’s good to know what to expect.
• Are there recommended installation methods or shade solutions to maximize the benefit? Sometimes, placement and design choices can make a big difference.

The Composite Decking Designed for More Heat Resistance

As you explore your options, one brand stands out: Trex. Trex is widely recognized as the market leader in composite decking innovation, and their SunComfortable™ technology is changing how people enjoy their outdoor spaces.

Trex SunComfortable™ boards are specifically engineered to reflect solar energy and reduce heat absorption.* In fact, this breakthrough technology has been shown to reduce heat buildup by up to 35 degrees Fahrenheit compared to original Trex boards, based on lab testing simulating full summer sun exposure at midday over an extended period.**

And that’s just the start of what Trex offers. With low-maintenance durability, you can forget about the hassle of sanding, staining, or sealing—keeping your deck looking great is as simple as an occasional rinse with soap and water. You also never have to worry about cracking, warping, or splintering, making it a safer option for bare feet, children, and pets.

*Trex Disclaimer for Heat Mitigation Technology: Trex SunComfortable™ decking stays cooler than our original boards, but like all decking, it will get hot in direct sun, especially darker colors. Care should be taken to avoid extended contact between exposed skin and the deck surface, especially with young children and those with special needs.

**Trex Disclaimer for Heat Mitigation Technology: Based on laboratory testing simulating direct full summer sun exposure over an extended period. Colors used are Lava Rock (without SunComfortable™) and Salt Flat (with SunComfortable™). Actual temperature reduction may vary depending on environmental conditions, color and usage. Trex decking with SunComfortable™ technology will still get hot when high temperatures and sun converge. Care should be taken on such days to avoid extended contact between exposed skin and the deck surface.

Does Trex Decking Get Hot Still?

Here’s the truth: all outdoor walking surfaces can get hot when exposed to full sun and high temperatures. Even as one of the more heat-resistant composite decking options, advanced Trex SunComfortable™ boards will still feel warm on the hottest days.*

The difference is in how much heat builds up. This heat-mitigating technology makes the decking significantly cooler than Trex’s original boards, but just like any surface—from concrete patios to asphalt driveways—it will absorb some heat. If your deck gets full, unobstructed sun exposure all day, especially in hot climates, you’ll feel that warmth.

Knowing this can help you plan accordingly. Whether that means adding a pergola, using outdoor rugs, or simply understanding when the surface might feel warmer, you’ll be better prepared—and still enjoy the benefits of a deck designed to minimize heat buildup.

*Trex Disclaimer for Heat Mitigation Technology: Trex SunComfortable™ decking stays cooler than our original boards, but like all decking, it will get hot in direct sun, especially darker colors. Care should be taken to avoid extended contact between exposed skin and the deck surface, especially with young children and those with special needs.

Trex Cool Decking Colors: How to Choose

The level of sunlight and heat exposure on your deck matters when it comes to color selection. While Trex SunComfortable™ technology applies to all colors (even darker ones), lighter shades naturally retain less heat.

Here’s what Trex generally recommends based on your climate and sun exposure:

Trex Cool Decking Colors From Coolest to Hottest

While all Trex SunComfortable™ boards are engineered to stay cooler, some colors naturally run cooler than others. Here’s the general ranking from coolest to hottest:

Coolest: Lighter Woods

1. Salt Flat
2. Malted Barley
3. Carmel
4. Honey Grove

Mid-range: Lighter Grays

1. Rainier
2. Biscayne
3. Millstone
4. Tide Pool

Hotter: Red Woods, Darker Woods, Darker Grays

1. Hatteras
2. Whiskey Barrel
3. Jasper
4. Island Mist Lineage

Malted Barley, Millstone, and Whiskey Barrel are the first mid-tier options in the market with SunComfortable™ Technology, making them both cost-effective and accessible for more homeowners.

Why Invest in Trex SunComfortable™ Technology

Still debating whether investing in SunComfortable™ decking is worth it? Ask yourself:

• Do you enjoy lounging barefoot on your deck?
• Do you have children who like to play outside?
• Do you have pets whose paws may be sensitive to heat?
• Is your deck exposed to lots of direct sunlight?
• Do you live in a region with hot or moderate summer temperatures?

If you answered “yes” to any of these questions, investing in a more heat-resistant composite decking is likely worthwhile for your comfort, safety, and enjoyment. It’s the difference between tiptoeing across your deck and fully relaxing on it, shoes off and stress-free.

Your Trusted Source for Heat-resistant Composite Decking

At Northern Building Supply, we’re proud to carry Trex SunComfortable™ decking because we believe every homeowner deserves an outdoor space they love, even during the warmest days.

We’ll guide you through choosing the right color based on your climate, sun exposure, and design goals so your deck isn’t just beautiful—it’s functional and comfortable, too.

Ready to create an outdoor space you’ll never want to leave? Reach out to us today to explore heat-resistant composite decking options, and let’s get started on building your cooler deck.