Best Decking for Hot NJ Summers: Trex vs Wood Compared

Thinking about a deck for summer use in South Jersey?

Surface temperature, sun exposure, and material choice matter more than most homeowners realize — especially if you have kids or pets. We help homeowners in places like Haddonfield, Mullica Hill, and Cherry Hill choose materials and layouts that stay comfortable during peak summer heat.

👉 Get expert guidance before you choose decking materials. No pressure — just straight answers based on real builds and real conditions.

🌡️ Understanding Deck Surface Temperatures

Traditional wood decking materials, such as pressure-treated pine or cedar, can become quite hot in direct sunlight. Studies have shown that these materials can reach surface temperatures of 120–125°F on a 90°F day, making them uncomfortable to walk on barefoot and potentially harmful for pets’ paws.

Composite decking materials have evolved to address this issue. Newer boards are engineered to reflect more sunlight and reduce heat absorption compared to older composite products. For example, Trex’s Transcend® Lineage™ collection incorporates heat-mitigating technology designed to reduce surface temperature buildup. According to Trex, this technology can keep the decking surface up to 37°F cooler than their original boards under similar conditions.

It’s important to note that all decking materials will heat up in direct sun, but advancements in composite decking have made surface comfort far more manageable than in the past.

🐾 Pet-Friendly Decking Options

For pet owners, choosing a decking material that stays cooler underfoot is more than a comfort issue — it’s a safety consideration. Dogs’ paws are sensitive to heat, and prolonged exposure to hot surfaces can lead to irritation or burns.

Composite decking options designed with heat reduction in mind offer several benefits for pet-friendly households:

• Cooler surface temperatures compared to traditional wood

• Durable boards resistant to scratching and wear

• Non-porous surfaces that resist staining and moisture absorption

These features make modern composite decking a practical choice for homeowners who want a deck that’s comfortable for both people and pets while requiring minimal maintenance.

🎨 Color Choices Matter More Than You Think

The color of your decking plays a significant role in how much heat it absorbs. Darker boards retain more heat, while lighter-colored boards reflect more sunlight and stay cooler throughout the day.

Lighter shades commonly found in modern composite collections are often chosen specifically for this reason. For decks with heavy sun exposure, selecting a lighter board color can noticeably improve comfort during peak summer temperatures.

Color selection should always be balanced with the home’s exterior, but comfort should be part of the conversation — not an afterthought.

🔍 How Hot Is Too Hot for a Deck?

Once deck surfaces exceed 120°F, they can quickly become uncomfortable and even unsafe. Barefoot contact at these temperatures can cause pain in seconds, and pets may experience discomfort even faster.

This is why surface temperature should be considered early in the design process. A deck that looks great but can’t be comfortably used during the day often ends up underutilized. For South Jersey homes with long periods of direct sun, choosing the right material and color combination can significantly extend how often the deck gets used.

🧪 Composite vs. Wood: Heat Is a Trade-Off, Not a Dealbreaker

While no decking material is completely heat-proof, modern composite decking is designed to manage heat more effectively than older materials. Pressure-treated wood can absorb and retain heat quickly, especially as boards age and surface checking develops.

Composite boards — particularly lighter-colored options with heat-reflective technology — are engineered to reduce heat absorption while offering long-term durability. For homeowners weighing maintenance, lifespan, and comfort, this balance is often why composite decking becomes the preferred choice.

If you’re comparing materials and layouts, our deck building services in South Jersey page explains common options and design considerations in more detail.

🌤️ Sun Exposure Plays a Major Role

Two decks built with the same materials can perform very differently depending on:

• Direction the deck faces

• Amount of daily sun exposure

• Nearby trees or structures

• Surrounding surfaces like concrete or siding

South-facing decks with little shade will naturally experience higher surface temperatures. In these situations, thoughtful design choices can make a big difference. Features like pergolas, partial covers, or strategic layout planning can help reduce heat buildup and improve overall comfort.

This is where professional deck planning becomes valuable — not just for appearance, but for usability.

🛠️ Planning a Deck That’s Comfortable and Functional

The best deck projects start with realistic expectations. Instead of asking which material is “best,” a more helpful question is:

How do I want to use my deck during the hottest months of the year?

For families with pets, children, or frequent daytime use, surface temperature, durability, and traction should all factor into the decision. When materials and design work together, the result is a deck that feels comfortable — not just one that looks good.

If you’re considering a new deck or replacement, working with an experienced South Jersey deck builder can help you evaluate sun exposure, layout, and material options to create a space that fits your home and lifestyle.

For more information about long-term performance, you may also want to read our post on How Long Do Composite Decks Really Last?

Ready to Start Your Deck Project?

Build a Deck You’ll Be Able to Use All Summer

The best-looking deck doesn’t matter if it’s too hot to walk on. At C-JAM Construction, we design decks with comfort in mind — from material selection and color choices to layout and sun exposure.

If you’re planning a new deck or replacement in South Jersey, we’ll help you choose options that make sense for your home, your family, and your lifestyle.

👉 Explore our deck building services

👉 View recent deck projects

👉 Contact us to schedule a consultation