Summer heat can turn your beautiful deck into an uncomfortable, scorching surface that’s tough to enjoy. At Kelly O’Tools, the premier deck builders in Central Indiana, we know that a deck should be a relaxing retreat, not a hot zone. With over 20 years of experience building decks “so strong, you can land a helicopter on them,” we’ve learned what it takes to keep decks cool and comfortable even in the hottest months.
If your deck heats up too much under the summer sun, you’re not alone. But with the right materials, shade features, and airflow strategies, your deck can stay pleasant and inviting all season long.
Why Do Decks Get So Hot in Central Indiana?
Central Indiana summers bring strong afternoon sun and warm temperatures. Deck surfaces absorb this solar radiation throughout the day, especially if they’re dark-colored or made of dense materials. Without proper ventilation or shade, decks can become 30 to 50 degrees hotter than the surrounding air, making bare feet and hot grills uncomfortable and limiting how you use the space.
Choosing Decking Materials That Stay Cooler
Selecting the right decking material can significantly reduce heat buildup and keep your deck comfortable underfoot.
- Trex Decking: Made from 95% recycled content, Trex offers durable, low-maintenance boards that resist fading and heat buildup. Their lighter color options reflect sunlight better, reducing surface temperatures.
- TimberTech/AZEK Decking: Known for capped polymer and PVC boards, TimberTech decks stay cooler than traditional composites and handle moisture and heat exceptionally well. Their lighter shades are especially effective at heat resistance.
- Deckorators Mineral-Based Composite (MBC): Featuring microscopic air pockets, MBC boards from Deckorators reduce thermal buildup, making them feel cooler to the touch and offering excellent stability in Indiana’s summer heat.
Effective Shade Solutions for Deck Comfort
Blocking direct sunlight is one of the best ways to reduce deck heat. Kelly O’Tools recommends several shade strategies to fit different styles and budgets.
Permanent Shade Options
- Covered Roofs: A fixed roof shields your entire deck from the sun, keeping it cooler and enabling features like fans and lighting for all-day comfort.
- Pergolas: Open-beam structures that provide filtered shade and ventilation. Add climbing vines or shade fabric for extra sun protection.
- Louvered Roofs: Adjustable louver systems allow you to control how much sun and airflow your deck gets, perfect for entertaining or shifting summer conditions.
Flexible Shade Ideas
- Retractable Awnings: Easily extend or retract these awnings depending on the sun’s position. Many models include lighting and wind sensors.
- Cantilever Umbrellas: These pivot and tilt to shade specific areas without blocking walkways, great for dining or lounging spots.
- Shade Sails: UV-resistant fabric panels that attach to posts or walls for customizable, airy shade coverage.
Green Cooling: Use Nature to Your Advantage
Plants provide natural cooling by shading surfaces and releasing moisture into the air.
- Tall Planters and Shrubs: Strategically placed greenery can block harsh sun and create pockets of cool shade.
- Climbing Vines: On trellises or pergolas, vines like Virginia creeper or grapevine grow quickly and create dense, natural shade.
- Potted Trees: Small trees like serviceberry or birch in movable planters can shade key deck areas and be repositioned seasonally.
Boost Airflow for Heat Relief
Sometimes heat buildup comes from stagnant air, not just direct sun.
- Ceiling or Wall Fans: Circulating air moves warm layers away, improving comfort under covered decks or pergolas.
- Misting Systems: Low-pressure mist lines can cool air several degrees through evaporation, ideal for dry Indiana summers.
Surface Protection: Keep Your Feet Cool
Even cool decking materials can get hot in direct sun. Add these to protect your feet and enhance comfort:
- Outdoor Rugs: UV-resistant rugs cover hot spots and add style.
- Temporary Deck Mats: Modular panels or roll-out mats create cool zones for kids, pets, or grilling areas.
Build a Cooler Deck with Kelly O’Tools in Central Indiana
Don’t let summer heat keep you off your deck. With expert guidance on materials, shade, airflow, and natural cooling, Kelly O’Tools helps Central Indiana homeowners design decks that stay comfortable and enjoyable all season.
Contact Kelly O’Tools today to schedule your free estimate and get started on the deck of your dreams, built strong and designed to keep cool!
