Composite decking is durable and beautiful, and like any decking material, it comes with a range of features and variations that allow you, to an extent, to customise the deck you end up with. The region you live in and its climate, however, play a big role in which type of composite features you get. Materials that would work well in Hobart might not work as well in Perth or Brisbane, for example. Manufacturers have created decking with features that help extend the life of the material even in some rather harsh environments.

Look for Cooling Technology

If the deck you're building is located in a region with very hot summers, especially if they're sunny ones, find composite decking material with cooling technology. The hot sun and high temperatures can cause many materials, including some composite materials, to heat up substantially. This is normal heat transfer, but it makes the deck uncomfortable to be on, even in shoes. The heat radiates up off the deck, just like it would off pavement. Manufacturers now make composite decking that has cooling technology built-in. The material is made to reduce heat absorption, which also reduces the amount of heat radiated back up at you. It's an essential feature if you're adding a deck in a spot with no shade, too.

Consider Surface Texture to Enhance Nonslip Features

Composite decking is already rather grippy when wet, but you'll still want to consider the surface texture when choosing the material. No one wants to slip on the deck when it's raining, so choosing something with a slightly rougher surface — not rough enough to scrape skin if you fall, but varied enough to increase the deck's ability to grip shoe soles — is best if the deck will be right by plants that need to be watered (in case the water sprays onto the deck) or will be in rainy areas.

Keep UV Fading in Mind When Choosing a Colour

Composite decking is tough, but it's subject to the effects of UV rays, just like everything else that sits in direct sunlight. That means that over the years, the colour of the deck materials will fade. Dark materials may turn light, brown materials may turn grey, and so on. If the deck is mainly in direct light with no shade, think about how the deck might look a few years from now. A lighter colour that will show less fading might be better for decks in the sun, while darker colours could work well in partially shady areas.

Composite decking can withstand a lot, and you want to help it last as long as possible in environments that would normally shorten the life span of building materials. Whether you're building a deck where you live or arranging for one to be built in another state, there's a material made just for you. Reach out to a professional to discuss composite decking more. 

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