PVC deck – TruNorth Decking

How to Choose Decking That Stays Comfortable in the Summer Heat

Michael Bozzelli — Wed, 17 Jun 2026 15:04:16 +0000

When summer temperatures rise, your deck becomes one of the most important spaces around the home. It is where family dinners happen, kids run in and out from the pool, pets relax in the sun, and homeowners enjoy long evenings outside. But when the deck surface gets too hot, that outdoor space can quickly become harder to enjoy.

That is why heat performance should be part of the decision when choosing new decking. Homeowners often compare colour, style, durability, warranty, and maintenance, but summer comfort matters too. Whether your deck is in full sun, beside a pool, at the cottage, or part of a backyard entertaining space, choosing the right decking material can make a noticeable difference.

All Decking Gets Warm in Direct Sun

It is important to be realistic. Any outdoor surface exposed to direct sunlight can get warm. Wood, composite, PVC, stone, concrete, and pavers can all absorb heat during hot summer weather. No decking brand or material can completely prevent that.

However, some decking options are designed to reduce heat retention and feel more comfortable underfoot than others. The material, surface technology, colour, and amount of sun exposure all play a role in how hot a deck feels.

That is where TruNorth and Clubhouse decking stand out. Both product lines use advanced heat blocking technology designed to help reduce heat buildup on the surface of the boards, making outdoor spaces more comfortable during the warmer months.

What Heat Blocking Technology Means

Heat blocking technology helps reduce the amount of heat retained by the deck surface. Instead of only focusing on appearance, TruNorth and Clubhouse decking are engineered to support comfort, durability, and long-term performance.

For homeowners searching for heat resistant decking, cooler composite decking, PVC decking for hot weather, or decking that is better for bare feet and pets, this is an important feature to consider.

It does not mean the boards will stay cold in full summer sun. It means the boards are designed to manage heat better than many traditional decking options, helping homeowners enjoy their outdoor space more comfortably.

TruNorth Composite Decking for Summer Comfort

TruNorth composite decking is a strong option for homeowners who want a low-maintenance composite deck with better summer comfort in mind.

TruNorth decking is made with a proprietary rice hull composite and contains no wood fillers. Because of this, the boards are designed to resist water penetration, which helps prevent mold, rot, and swelling. TruNorth boards are also capped for added protection, helping resist staining, fading, slips, slivers, and heat retention.

For homeowners who like the look of composite decking but want a product built for hot, sunny backyards, TruNorth is a smart choice. Its heat blocking technology helps reduce surface heat, while its capped protection supports long-term durability through changing North American weather conditions.

TruNorth composite decking also offers strong design flexibility. The boards are available in a variety of solid and variegated colours, giving homeowners options for both modern and natural-looking outdoor spaces.

Clubhouse PVC Decking for Premium Heat Performance

Clubhouse PVC decking is the premium option for homeowners who want top-level performance, especially in hot, wet, or high-use outdoor spaces.

Clubhouse decking is made with 100% PVC and contains no wood or wood fillers. That means it will not rot, mold, crack, or warp like traditional wood decking can. It is also designed to be low-maintenance, long-lasting, splinter-free, and highly resistant to moisture.

When it comes to heat performance, Clubhouse has a major advantage. Clubhouse PVC decking is built with military grade heat blocking technology, and Clubhouse Ultra is designed with top-of-the-line heat dissipation. This makes it a strong option for pool decks, docks, patios, cottage decks, and full-sun backyard spaces where comfort matters.

Clubhouse also offers strong slip resistance and durability, which makes it a practical choice for areas where kids, pets, and wet feet are common during the summer.

Why Deck Colour Matters in Hot Weather

Even with heat blocking technology, colour still matters.

Lighter deck colours generally feel cooler in direct sunlight because they absorb less heat than darker colours. Darker colours can create a rich, bold look, but they will usually feel warmer on hot summer days, no matter the brand or material.

For homeowners building a deck in full sun, lighter tones are usually the better choice for comfort. Colours like Polar White, Sandstone, Cool Grey, Clay, Stone Gray, Sand, and other lighter or mid-tone options can help create a brighter, more comfortable outdoor space.

Darker colours can still be a beautiful choice, especially when paired with shaded areas, pergolas, umbrellas, covered seating, or evening-focused entertaining spaces. The key is choosing a colour that matches both the look of the home and how the deck will be used.

Before making a final decision, homeowners should view samples outside in natural light. A colour can look different in a showroom, on a screen, and in full afternoon sun. Placing samples in the actual deck area is one of the best ways to compare both appearance and comfort.

Other Ways to Keep Your Deck More Comfortable

The deck board itself is important, but overall design also plays a role in summer comfort. Adding shade, creating airflow, using outdoor rugs carefully, and planning seating areas away from the strongest afternoon sun can all help make the space more enjoyable.

Poolside decks, cottage decks, and south-facing backyards should be planned with heat and moisture in mind. Choosing a lighter colour, using heat blocking decking technology, and adding shade where possible can help create a more comfortable space for everyday use.

Build a Deck That Feels Better All Summer

A summer-ready deck should be durable, low-maintenance, and comfortable enough to enjoy when the weather is at its hottest.

TruNorth composite decking is a great choice for homeowners who want a cooler composite option with wood-free durability, capped protection, and long-term performance.

Clubhouse PVC decking is the premium choice for homeowners looking for advanced heat performance, moisture resistance, and a barefoot-friendly surface for pools, docks, patios, and sunny backyard spaces.

While every deck can get hot in direct sun, choosing decking with heat blocking technology, selecting the right colour, and planning your space carefully can help create an outdoor living area that feels better all summer long.

How to Design a Low-Maintenance Outdoor Living Space Before Summer

Michael Bozzelli — Tue, 12 May 2026 14:00:23 +0000

As summer gets closer, many homeowners start thinking about how to make better use of their backyard. Whether the goal is more space for family dinners, a comfortable place to relax, a poolside hangout, or a deck that is ready for weekend entertaining, the best outdoor living spaces are planned before the busy summer season begins.

A great backyard does not just come from furniture, décor, or landscaping. It starts with the right deck design and the right decking material. For homeowners who want a beautiful space without constant upkeep, low-maintenance decking is one of the most important choices in the planning process.

Traditional wood decking can look great when it is new, but it often requires regular sanding, staining, sealing, and repairs. Over time, exposure to sun, rain, humidity, snow, and everyday use can lead to fading, cracking, splintering, rot, mold, and weathering. That is why many homeowners are choosing composite decking and PVC decking for outdoor living spaces that are easier to maintain and built for long-term performance.

Start With Low-Maintenance Decking

The deck surface is the foundation of your outdoor living space. Before choosing patio furniture, lighting, railings, planters, or privacy features, it is important to choose decking that can handle how the space will actually be used.

TruNorth Composite Decking is designed for homeowners who want the look of wood with less maintenance. It is made with 95% recycled materials, is mold and rot resistant, fade and stain resistant, all-sides capped for maximum protection, and built with heat blocking technology. TruNorth Decking is also available in a reversible board with a modern brushed finish or a classic wood-grain pattern, giving homeowners more flexibility when designing their deck.

Clubhouse PVC Decking is another strong choice for homeowners looking for high-performance decking. It is designed for long-term durability, low moisture absorption, strong slip resistance, extreme impact resistance, and heat mitigation. Clubhouse Ultra also features advanced colour engineering, Korelite structural technology, and a precision-blended single-extrusion capstock system for long-term performance.

When comparing wood decking, composite decking, and PVC decking, the biggest difference is long-term upkeep. TruNorth Composite and Clubhouse PVC decking are engineered to deliver lasting beauty and strength without the ongoing repairs, staining, or replacement costs often associated with traditional wood decks.

Design Your Deck Around How You Use Your Backyard

The best deck designs start with lifestyle. Before building or replacing a deck, think about how the space will be used most often. A family that hosts summer barbecues may need a larger dining area and a clear grilling zone. A homeowner with a pool may want a slip-resistant surface that feels comfortable underfoot. Someone who enjoys quiet evenings outside may want built-in privacy, soft lighting, and space for lounge furniture.

Creating separate outdoor zones can make a backyard feel more organized and practical. A dining zone, cooking zone, lounge area, and walkway can all work together when the layout is planned properly. This helps homeowners get more use out of the space while keeping the design clean and functional.

Low-maintenance composite and PVC decking make these layouts easier to enjoy because the deck does not need constant upkeep to stay looking its best. Instead of planning your summer around sanding or staining, you can focus on using the space.

Choose Deck Colours That Fit Your Home

Colour is one of the most important parts of any deck design. The right deck colour can make your backyard feel warm, modern, natural, or bright and open. When choosing composite decking colours or PVC decking colours, consider the exterior of your home, railing colour, stonework, landscaping, furniture, and how much sunlight the deck receives.

Lighter colours can help create a clean, airy look, especially around pools and modern homes. Deeper browns, greys, and wood-inspired tones can add contrast and a more traditional appearance. Homeowners can also use borders, picture framing, fascia, and accent boards to create a more custom outdoor living space.

TruNorth offers a wide range of solid and variegated colours, while Clubhouse Ultra offers Hardwood and Earthtone colour collections. These options give homeowners the ability to design a deck that feels connected to the home instead of looking like an afterthought.

Plan for Summer Comfort

A low-maintenance outdoor living space should also be comfortable. During the summer, decks are exposed to direct sun, moisture, bare feet, pets, patio furniture, food spills, and heavy foot traffic. Choosing the right decking material can make the space more enjoyable throughout the season.

Clubhouse PVC Decking is designed with heat mitigation and stays up to 20% cooler, helping create a more comfortable surface for barefoot lounging, poolside areas, and pet-friendly outdoor living. It also offers low moisture absorption, strong slip resistance, and extreme impact resistance, making it a practical choice for high-use outdoor spaces.

TruNorth Composite Decking also includes heat blocking technology and is built to resist mold, rot, fading, and staining. For homeowners who want a durable deck that handles everyday backyard use, composite decking is a strong low-maintenance option.

Comfort can also come from smart design choices. Shade structures, pergolas, umbrellas, privacy screens, outdoor rugs, and well-placed seating can help make the deck more usable throughout the day. The goal is to build a backyard that feels easy to enjoy, not one that only works in perfect weather.

Make Maintenance Easier From the Beginning

Low-maintenance decking does not mean zero care, but it does mean less work compared to traditional wood. A good deck design should make cleaning and everyday upkeep simple.

Leave enough space around furniture and planters for airflow. Avoid placing items where moisture can get trapped for long periods of time. Keep high-traffic areas easy to sweep and rinse. Choose materials that resist staining, fading, moisture damage, mold, and rot. These small planning choices can help your deck look better for longer.

For busy homeowners, this is one of the biggest benefits of composite decking and PVC decking. A low-maintenance deck is made for real life, including kids, pets, barbecues, pool days, patio furniture, and changing weather.

Build an Outdoor Living Space That Lasts

Designing a low-maintenance outdoor living space before summer is about more than creating a nice backyard for one season. It is about building a space that adds comfort, function, and long-term value to your home.

By choosing the right decking material, planning your layout around your lifestyle, selecting colours that match your home, and designing for summer comfort, you can create an outdoor space that is easier to maintain and better to enjoy.

Whether you are planning a brand-new deck or upgrading an older wood deck, TruNorth Composite Decking and Clubhouse PVC Decking offer durable, low-maintenance options for homeowners who want to spend more time outside and less time working on their deck.

How to Get Your Composite or PVC Deck Ready for Spring

Michael Bozzelli — Wed, 18 Mar 2026 20:00:16 +0000

As winter starts to fade and the spring equinox gets closer, most homeowners are ready to get back outside. Before patio season officially begins, it is worth taking a little time to get your deck back in shape after months of snow, ice, and freezing temperatures.

Composite decking and PVC decking are built to handle tough Canadian weather, but like any outdoor surface, they still benefit from a proper spring refresh. The good news is that getting your deck ready does not take much effort if you follow the right approach.

Start with a quick look around

The first thing to do is simply walk your deck and take it in. Winter can leave behind more than just dirt. Look for debris between boards, areas where water may be sitting, or anything that could be blocking airflow underneath.

Drainage and ventilation matter more than most people think. Making sure water is directed away from the deck and that there is space for air to move underneath helps prevent long term moisture issues and keeps your deck performing the way it should.

If you have planters, furniture, or anything sitting directly on the boards, it is a good idea to lift or reposition them. Trapped moisture is one of the easiest ways for surface stains to develop over time.

Winter always leaves something behind

Even on a low maintenance deck, winter tends to leave behind a layer of debris. Leaves, dirt, and even leftover ice melt can collect between boards and along the surface.

Clearing this off is simple but important. A broom or leaf blower works well to clean the surface and open up the gaps between boards. Keeping those gaps clear allows water to drain properly and helps prevent buildup that can lead to staining or mildew.

If any salt or ice melt residue is still sitting on the deck, make sure it gets rinsed off. It is a small step that can make a big difference in keeping your boards looking clean.

Cleaning your deck does not need to be complicated

One of the biggest advantages of composite decking and PVC decking is how easy they are to clean. You do not need harsh chemicals or complicated tools.

In most cases, warm water, a mild dish soap, and a soft bristle brush are all you need. Give the boards a good scrub and rinse everything down with a hose. Doing this a couple times a year is usually enough to keep your deck looking fresh.

For tougher spots like grease from the grill or built up grime, a non abrasive household cleaner can help break things down. Just make sure to test it in a small area first and avoid anything too aggressive that could damage the surface.

What about pressure washing?

This is one of the most common questions every spring. Yes, you can pressure wash composite decking and PVC decking, but it needs to be done carefully.

If you decide to use one, keep the pressure under 1100 PSI, stay at least 10 inches away from the surface, and use a fan tip nozzle. It is also important to wash in the direction of the grain to avoid marking the boards.

For many homeowners and even contractors, sticking with soap and water is still the safest and easiest option.

Small habits make a big difference

Once your deck is clean, a few simple habits can help keep it that way throughout the season.

Cleaning up spills right away helps prevent stains from setting in. Avoid spraying things like sunscreen or insect repellent directly onto the boards and be mindful of what sits on the surface for long periods of time.

If you have PVC decking, it is especially important to avoid placing rubber or vinyl items directly on the boards, as they can cause discolouration. Using proper mats for grills or furniture also helps protect the surface and maintain the look of your deck.

Dealing with moisture and mildew

As spring weather settles in, you may notice some areas where dirt, pollen, and moisture collect. This can sometimes lead to mildew forming on the surface.

Both composite and PVC decking are designed to resist moisture and prevent deeper damage, but surface buildup can still happen if the deck is not cleaned regularly. Keeping the deck dry, clearing debris, and maintaining airflow are the best ways to prevent this from becoming an issue.

PVC decking has an added advantage here since it contains no organic material, making it naturally resistant to mold. Composite decking is also engineered to resist moisture and decay, which is why both are strong long term choices for outdoor spaces.

If winter is not fully gone yet

In many areas, early spring still brings a bit of snow or ice. If you need to remove it, stick to a plastic shovel and avoid metal tools that can scratch the surface.

Shoveling parallel to the boards helps prevent damage, and if ice melt is needed, use calcium chloride or magnesium chloride based products. Just be sure to rinse off any residue once things melt to keep the surface clean.

Getting ready for deck season

Getting your deck ready for spring does not need to be a big project. A quick inspection, a proper clean, and a few preventative steps go a long way in keeping your composite or PVC decking in great shape.

For homeowners, it means less time worrying about maintenance and more time enjoying the space. For contractors, it is a great opportunity to guide clients through simple care practices that help protect their investment long term.

If you want a full breakdown of approved cleaning methods and maintenance tips, you can reference the complete guide here: Care + Maintenance Guide

Order your TruNorth Samples or Find a Retailer and see how our composite and PVC decking keeps your outdoor space beautiful season after season.

Why PVC Decking Is the Best Decking Choice in 2026

Michael Bozzelli — Tue, 17 Feb 2026 19:58:06 +0000

Choosing the right decking material is one of the most important decisions in any outdoor project. While traditional wood decking has been used for decades, modern PVC decking has quickly become the superior option for homeowners and professionals alike. With unmatched durability, minimal maintenance, advanced safety features, and long-term value, PVC decking represents the future of outdoor living. Products like Clubhouse® Ultra PVC Decking demonstrate just how far decking technology has evolved, delivering performance and beauty that wood simply cannot match.

What Is PVC Decking?

PVC decking, or polyvinyl chloride decking, is a high-performance alternative to wood made entirely from engineered plastic materials. Unlike wood or composite decking, PVC contains no wood fibers or fillers. This means it will not absorb moisture, rot, or break down over time.

Clubhouse® Ultra PVC Decking takes this even further with its proprietary Korelite formulation. This advanced technology creates a dense, impervious structure that delivers exceptional strength, durability, and impact resistance. Because the cap and core are made from like materials and chemically bonded during extrusion, the boards achieve superior structural integrity and long-term performance.

Despite being engineered, PVC decking maintains the natural beauty of wood. Clubhouse Ultra boards feature proprietary wood grain embossing technology and advanced colour infusion, creating deep, rich tones that mimic real hardwood. Available in a range of earth tones and hardwood-inspired colours, PVC decking provides the look homeowners want without the drawbacks of wood.

Superior Durability That Outlasts Wood

Durability is one of the biggest reasons PVC decking is the best choice available today. Traditional wood decks are vulnerable to moisture, insects, mold, mildew, cracking, and splintering. Over time, these issues weaken the structure and require costly repairs or full replacement.

PVC decking eliminates these concerns entirely. Because Clubhouse Ultra PVC contains no wood, it cannot rot, warp, or break down due to water exposure. Its dense Korelite structure provides extreme impact resistance and structural stability, allowing it to withstand harsh weather conditions year after year.

Additionally, PVC decking maintains its integrity even when shaped or bent. Clubhouse Ultra can be heated and bent to create curved deck designs without compromising strength or appearance, and it is even warranted after bending. This level of flexibility and performance is simply not possible with wood decking.

With advanced engineering and proven performance, PVC decks often last decades longer than wood decks, making them a smarter long-term investment.

Virtually No Maintenance Required

One of the biggest frustrations with wood decking is the constant maintenance. Wood decks require regular sanding, staining, sealing, and repairs to protect them from weather damage and preserve their appearance.

PVC decking eliminates this maintenance completely. Clubhouse Ultra PVC decking does not need staining, sealing, or painting. Instead, it only requires occasional cleaning with soap and water to keep it looking new.

Because PVC resists moisture, mold, insects, and UV damage, homeowners can enjoy their deck without worrying about annual upkeep costs or time-consuming maintenance routines. This makes PVC decking ideal for anyone looking for a long-lasting, hassle-free outdoor space.

Long-Lasting Beauty and Colour Retention

Unlike wood decking, which fades and deteriorates over time, PVC decking maintains its appearance for decades. Clubhouse Ultra PVC decking uses advanced colour technology that has been field tested for more than 30 years to withstand UV exposure, rain, humidity, and changing weather conditions.

The colour is infused throughout each board using proprietary graining technology, ensuring deep, consistent tones that do not require repainting or refinishing. This allows homeowners to enjoy the natural look of wood without the fading, cracking, or surface wear associated with traditional materials.

The result is a deck that looks beautiful year after year with minimal effort.

Cooler, Safer, and More Comfortable

PVC decking also delivers superior safety and comfort compared to wood. Traditional wood decks can splinter, crack, and become dangerously hot in direct sunlight.

Clubhouse Ultra PVC decking is engineered to stay up to 30% cooler than competing decking brands, making it comfortable to walk on barefoot even during hot summer days. It also eliminates splinters, cracks, and exposed fasteners, creating a safer surface for families, children, and pets.

In addition, Clubhouse Ultra PVC decking features a Class A Flame Spread Index, one of the highest fire safety ratings available. This provides added peace of mind and protection, especially in areas where fire safety is a priority.

Designed for Strength, Flexibility, and Creativity

Modern outdoor spaces demand more than basic rectangular decks. PVC decking allows for more creative and custom designs thanks to its unique flexibility and strength.

Clubhouse Ultra PVC decking can be heated and bent to create curved edges, rounded stairs, and custom shapes without damaging the board or its wood grain appearance. This allows homeowners and contractors to design truly unique outdoor spaces that would not be possible with wood.

Available in 5/4″ x 6″ boards in 12′, 16′, and 20′ lengths, as well as matching fascia boards, PVC decking offers complete design versatility and a seamless finished look.

Better Long-Term Value Than Wood

While wood decking may have a lower upfront cost, it comes with ongoing maintenance expenses, repairs, and shorter lifespan. Over time, these costs add up significantly.

PVC decking provides far greater long-term value. With minimal maintenance, longer lifespan, and superior durability, homeowners save money on repairs, maintenance, and replacement.

Clubhouse Ultra PVC decking also includes a limited transferable lifetime performance warranty, providing additional confidence and long-term protection.

When considering the total lifetime cost, PVC decking is the smarter financial investment.

The Future of Decking Is PVC

PVC decking has redefined what homeowners can expect from their outdoor spaces. It offers unmatched durability, minimal maintenance, long-lasting beauty, advanced safety, and superior long-term value.

Clubhouse® Ultra PVC Decking represents the highest level of decking performance available today. With exclusive Korelite technology, advanced colour retention, cooler surfaces, and exceptional strength, it outperforms wood in every category.

For homeowners and professionals looking to build a deck that will last for decades while maintaining its beauty and performance, PVC decking is the clear choice in 2026 and beyond.

Order your TruNorth Samples or Find a Retailer and see how our PVC decking keeps your outdoor space beautiful season after season.