How to Make The Most of The Composite Deck in Summer?

Summer is just around the corner, and the heat makes it difficult to enjoy otherwise pleasant outdoor times. However, with proper planning and remodeling, composite decks can be perfectly suited for summer outdoor activities. We know that every homeowner wants to make the most of the composite deck in summer. This article will take you to explore the endless possibilities of composite decks in the summer.

Keeping the Composite Deck Cool

Keeping your composite deck cool is the first thing to do in the summer. Generally speaking, you can take the following methods:

Use Light-colored Composite Decking

Light-colored composite decks reflect heat and keep the surface cool. They therefore offer better aesthetics and comfort. In addition, light-colored composite decks are also less prone to fading and have lower maintenance costs. Of course, if you already have a dark-colored composite deck installed, there are other ways you can reduce the heat. For example, laying light-colored rattan or non-slip carpet, or using fans and misting systems to cool down.

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Build a Composite Pergola

If you want your deck to have a stable shade structure, building a pergola is a good choice. COOWIN can provide composite pergola materials that match the style of your composite deck. The pergola is also suitable as a visual focal point for the deck. It provides shade and adds a vacation feel. In addition, a sophisticated pergola gives you more space for outdoor activities.

Installation of Sunshades

For small decks or situations where you need to flexibly adjust the shade position, a high-quality sunshade is the most convenient choice. A high-quality parasol can effectively block UV rays and keep you cooler in the shade. In addition, you can adjust the shade position according to the angle of the sun.

If the deck is large, you can pair it with multiple umbrellas to create a continuous shaded area. Such an area is ideal for gatherings or afternoon tea. It is important to note that the base of the parasols should be firm to avoid tipping over on windy days.

Planting Shade Plants

If you have enough space around your deck, planting a shade tree or two is the longest-lasting way to cool down. Not only do trees block direct sunlight, but their transpiration also lowers the surrounding temperature, creating a natural feeling of coolness. You can choose maple trees, ginkgoes, and other trees with beautiful shapes and dense foliage.

Even if the trees are not yet mature, you can start by transitioning with large potted plants, such as a few lush palms or olive trees, for shade and style. If deck space is limited, you can also choose climbers, vines, and other plants that are good climbers. Install trellises along the edge of the deck or along the railings to guide the growth of the vines. A natural shade corridor can be created in just one summer.

Clean the Deck

Composite decking has the advantage of being easy to clean and maintenance-free. A simple rinse every six months will prevent dirt and dust from building up on your composite deck. You can rinse directly with a hose. For more stubborn dirt or stains, you can use soapy water or detergent to clean them. In addition, the bottom of the composite deck should also be cleaned to prevent moisture from accumulating and harboring mold.

Divide Different Functional Areas

You can set up the deck with different functional divisions according to the needs of outdoor activities. For example:

Dining Area

Place sun-resistant outdoor tables and chairs under umbrellas or gazebos. You can also lay down a picnic blanket and enjoy your meal on the composite deck. Of course, you can also use a portable grill and have a family barbecue party. But be careful to keep children away from the grill to avoid burns.

Leisure Area

Set up lounge chairs under the umbrella to enjoy moderate sunshine. You can also hang a hammock between two trees or columns for an afternoon nap. If you have a pool, extend the poolside area onto the deck. Lounge chairs, umbrellas, and a few potted palms are all it takes to turn your deck into a tropical paradise.

Additionally, build a movie theater on the composite deck or create a chess area. All of these can provide you with the perfect summer experience.

Children’s Activity Area

You can build a parent-child playground for your kids on the composite deck. For example, place some children’s seats on the deck. Or place a swing or rocking chair on the edge of the composite deck. In the hot summer, you can also use the inflatable pool to let the children cool off.

Greenery Area

Many homeowners will utilize flower boxes or vertical planting shelves to create a natural barrier. You can also place some flowers or potted plants on your composite deck. They not only enhance the beauty of the deck but also create a shady corner.

You can choose flowering plants such as jasmine and nine lilies. They will give off a fresh scent at night and enhance the ambiance. Plants with natural insect repellent properties, such as lemongrass, are also good choices. They can repel mosquitoes and enhance your outdoor living experience.

Create a Lighted Ambiance for Extended Nighttime Use

Setting up a lighting system on your deck and railings will allow you to enjoy your outdoor life at night. You can wrap string lights around umbrellas or railing edges to create a cozy and romantic atmosphere. Some composite decking suppliers can embed solar-powered ground lights around the edge of the deck. They light up automatically at night, which is safe and saves electricity.

Many railing manufacturers can also provide lighting for steps, handrails, top rails, and more. These lighting fixtures not only give the deck a smoother appearance but also improve the safety of the deck.

Safety Check

Of course, safety is always the most important. Composite decks are used frequently in summer. You can comprehensively improve the safety of the deck in the following aspects.

Anti-slip

Summer weather is humid and rainy. Walking on a smooth composite deck can be dangerous. Choosing a composite deck with anti-slip properties can improve the safety of outdoor activities. Therefore, choose a non-slip composite deck with a grooved texture or 3D wood grain surface. It is also important to protect yourself from the rainy season. For example, good drainage checks and waterproof junction boxes are required for all wiring.

Check The Deck Structure

Before you start your summer outdoor activities, you need to check that the structure of your composite deck is in good condition. Highlights of the inspection include:

• Loose screws
• Guardrail stability
• Any corrosion or deformation of the deck

If there are any additional amenities, such as sunshades, make sure they do not exceed the deck’s load-bearing capacity

Deck Guardrail

According to the building code, if the deck is more than 30 inches above the ground, a railing must be installed. Railing not only keeps people safe, but it also makes the outdoor space look better. Generally, the height of the railing is set at 35-45 inches. The railing posts are spaced no more than 10 cm apart to prevent children from getting stuck or falling.

In addition, designing handrails on the railings that are comfortable to touch can enhance the experience of using them. You can also install bumper strips at the corners to prevent children from bumping into them when they are moving around.

Conclusion

Composite decking can also be fully utilized in summer. It can be turned into a wonderful place for outdoor activities through proper shade design, planting, and function optimization. You can try these ways to make your deck a favorite place for the whole family to spend time in the summer as well. If you want to make the most of your composite deck in summer, please contact us. COOWIN can provide you with high-quality composite decks and design solutions.

FAQ

Does Composite Decking Get Hot in the Hot Sun?

Dark colored composite decks do tend to get hot under direct sunlight. Therefore, it is recommended that you choose a light-colored composite deck or take other ways to cool down your feet in the summer.

What Should I be Aware of When Placing an Inflatable Pool on a Composite Deck?

Generally speaking, it is perfectly fine to place a small inflatable pool with a diameter of <2m on a composite deck. However, the following points should be noted when using it:

• The load-bearing limit of the composite deck’s load-bearing cannot be exceeded.
• Make sure the deck support structure is solid before filling with water.
• Drain the water in time after use to avoid long-term water accumulation.

How to Prevent The Sunshade on The Composite Deck From Being Blown Down by Wind?

First of all, you should choose a good-quality sunshade. Some sunshades will come with a heavy-duty base that can effectively withstand high winds. Alternatively, you can also install a more stable floor-mounted fixed base. Of course, the most important thing is to put away the parasol in time during windy weather.