Hello, deck lovers and dog owners! If you’re considering a new deck or upgrading an old one, you’re probably looking for something that’s not only durable but also safe for your furry friends. Today, we’ll dive into the best pet friendly composite decking options that keep your dog’s paws cool and stand up to the wear and tear of their playful antics.
Why Composite Decking?
Composite decking is a popular choice for many homeowners due to its low maintenance and long-lasting durability. But not all composite materials are created equal, especially when it comes to heat retention and scratch resistance – crucial factors for those with pets.
Keeping Those Paws Cool With Pet Friendly Composite Decking
One of the main concerns with composite decking is that it can get pretty hot under the sun, which isn’t great for your dog’s paws. Luckily, there are top-tier options designed to stay cooler and provide a more comfortable surface for your pet.
Trex Lineage
Trex Lineage is a fantastic option. It’s known for its innovative design that reflects the sun’s rays, keeping the surface temperature cooler than many other composites. This makes it a great choice for your pup’s delicate paws. Plus, it’s made to resist scratches, so you won’t have to worry about your dog’s claws leaving marks.
Trex Lineage Colors:
Island Mist
Biscayne
Rainier
Carmel
Jasper
TimberTech’s PVC Line
TimberTech’s PVC line is another excellent choice. TimberTech offers capped polymer boards that are designed to be cooler underfoot, which is perfect for those hot summer days. Their boards are also highly resistant to scratching and staining, ensuring your deck looks great even after your dog has had their fun.
TimberTech PVC Colors:
Coastline
Mahogany
Weathered Teak
English Walnut
Dark Hickory
Cypress
TimberTech Legacy Line
TimberTech’s Legacy line offers a beautiful, wood-like appearance with exceptional durability and scratch resistance.
TimberTech Legacy Colors:
Tigerwood
Mocha
Pecan
Whitewash Cedar
Ashwood
Espresso
Other Brands to Consider
I’ve done some research to find additional brands that match up with Trex and TimberTech in terms of heat retention and durability:
Fiberon Symmetry
Fiberon Symmetry offers a line of composite decking that’s engineered to stay cooler under the sun and is incredibly resilient to scratches and dents. It’s an excellent choice if you’re looking for a combination of aesthetic appeal and pet-friendly features.
Fiberon Symmetry Colors: Placeholder for Fiberon Symmetry colors and images
MoistureShield Vision
MoistureShield Vision provides composite decking that incorporates CoolDeck technology, which reduces heat absorption by up to 35% compared to conventional composites. It’s also designed to be highly durable, making it another great option for pet owners.
MoistureShield Vision Colors: Placeholder for MoistureShield Vision colors and images
AZEK Vintage Collection
AZEK, a part of the TimberTech family, has a Vintage Collection that’s crafted from capped polymer. It’s known for its realistic wood look and superior heat dissipation properties. It’s a premium choice, offering both beauty and functionality with excellent scratch resistance.
AZEK Vintage Collection Colors: Placeholder for AZEK Vintage Collection colors and images
Comparison Chart
To help you make the best choice, here’s a comparison chart showing the heat retention, available colors, and price per linear foot (LF) for each brand:
Brand | Heat Retention | Colors Available | Price per LF |
Trex Lineage | Low | See above | $8-$10 |
TimberTech PVC | Low | See above | $9-$12 |
TimberTech Legacy | Low | See above | $10-$15 |
Fiberon Symmetry | Low | See above | $7-$9 |
MoistureShield Vision | Very Low | See above | $7-$10 |
AZEK Vintage Collection | Very Low | See above | $10-$15 |
Final Thoughts
When choosing composite decking with your pets in mind, focusing on heat retention and durability is key. Trex Lineage and TimberTech’s PVC and Legacy lines are top contenders, but don’t overlook Fiberon Symmetry, MoistureShield Vision, and AZEK Vintage Collection. Each offers unique benefits that help keep your deck cool and looking pristine, even with active pets.
Happy decking, and here’s to many happy afternoons on your pet-friendly deck!
Jacobe Palmiter @JCS Construction Services
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