How to keep your deck cool in summer starts with smart planning and the right materials. At Wymore Deck & Fence, we help West Omaha homeowners design outdoor spaces that stay comfortable even in peak heat.
Certain decking products are better at resisting heat buildup, and the right shade features can dramatically lower surface temperatures. If your deck gets too hot to use, a few targeted upgrades can make it enjoyable all season long.
Why Do Decks Get so Hot?
Decks in West Omaha often face full afternoon sun, which leads to extreme surface temperatures. Dark boards and low airflow trap that heat. Decking can feel 30 to 50 degrees hotter than the air on a clear day.
The longer the exposure, the worse it gets. The heat lingers into the evening without cover or ventilation underneath, limiting how you use the space.
Best Decking Materials to Beat the Heat
Choosing the right decking material can make a noticeable difference in how your deck feels underfoot during the hottest parts of the day. These four manufacturers offer high-performance options that combine heat resistance with low-maintenance durability.
- Trex: Made from 95% recycled content, Trex decking resists fading, staining, and scratching while offering dependable heat performance in lighter shades. It’s a go-to for homeowners looking for a sustainable, low-maintenance material that holds up well under summer sun.
- TimberTech/AZEK: Known for its capped polymer and wood-plastic composite boards, TimberTech delivers durable, low-heat decking with a wood-like finish. Their PVC decking—sold under the AZEK line—stays cooler than traditional composite and offers excellent resistance to moisture and heat.
- Fiberon: With a focus on fade resistance and mold protection, Fiberon composite decking offers long-lasting color and comfort underfoot. Their capped composite boards come in a range of colors and textures designed to reduce heat absorption and stay cooler in full sun.
- Deckorators: Using mineral-based composite (MBC) technology, Deckorators decking includes microscopic air pockets that reduce thermal buildup. The result is a board that feels cooler to the touch, expands less in the heat, and offers top-tier strength and stability.
Does Wood Stay Cooler in the Summer?
Wood is a natural option, but it’s not always the coolest under pressure.
- Hardwoods like Ipe are dense and durable, but they hold heat the longest.
- Cedar and redwood release heat faster but can still get hot when stained dark.
- Pressure-treated pine starts cooler but darkens over time and heats unevenly.
Smooth finishes and darker colors increase heat. Pair wood with overhead shade for better comfort.
Deck Shade Strategies That Work in West Omaha
Don’t settle for a scorched deck. Use a combination of structures, greenery, and airflow to keep your outdoor space cool and functional.
Permanent Shade Options
- Covered Roof Structures: A fixed roof is the best way to shield your entire deck. It keeps surfaces cooler and makes room for fans and lighting.
- Pergolas: These create filtered shade and ventilation. You can add vines, shade fabric, or louvered panels for extra control.
- Louvered Roofs: Manual or motorized louvers let you adjust sun and airflow. Some systems respond to the weather automatically.
Other Shade Solutions to Keep Your Deck Cool in Summer
Not every deck needs a permanent roof to stay comfortable. Movable shade and lightweight options give you flexibility to block the sun exactly where and when you need it.
Movable Shade for Flexibility
- Retractable Awnings: Mount these to your home and adjust as needed. Some have wind sensors or built-in lighting.
- Cantilever Umbrellas: These pivot to cover seating or dining areas without blocking movement.
- Shade Sails: Attach these UV-blocking fabrics to posts or walls. Great for creative layouts and partial coverage.
Use Greenery for Natural Cooling
- Tall Planters: Fast-growing plants in large pots can block intense sun where it matters most.
- Climbing Vines: Add a trellis along a railing or wall. Grapevine and Virginia creeper grow quickly and create dense summer shade.
- Potted Trees: Serviceberry or birch in large planters give you seasonal shade that can move as needed.
Don’t Forget Airflow
- Ceiling or Wall Fans: These move warm air away and work best on covered decks or pergolas.
- Misting Lines: Mounted low-pressure misting systems can cool the air several degrees. Avoid on humid days.
Surface Protection You Can Add Anytime
- Outdoor Rugs: UV-stable rugs over high-traffic areas reduce heat transfer to your feet and protect composite decking.
- Temporary Deck Mats: Use modular panels or shade mats for kids’ play areas or grilling zones. Store them when not needed.
Build a Cooler Deck for Summer with Wymore Deck & Fence
Your deck should be a place to relax, not a place to retreat from the heat. Wymore Deck & Fence helps homeowners in West Omaha choose materials and shade solutions that make every summer day more enjoyable. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and plan a cooler, more comfortable outdoor space.
