Deck Heating & Cooling Ideas
Maintaining a comfortable temperature on your deck area is essential for enjoying it not only in the comfortable months of the year but also during those shoulder seasons. Let’s explore some ideas that can help with the heat or lack of heat on your deck.
Decks are a great addition to any home, providing an outdoor space for relaxation and entertainment. However, extreme temperatures can make it difficult to enjoy your deck during certain times of the year. Fortunately, there are several heating and cooling options available to make your deck comfortable year-round.
Deck Too Cold?
Though there is little that can be done to increase the temperature of your deck surface, there are options when it comes to increasing the temperature of the air surrounding your deck, making this space a comfortable one, long after the leaves have turned.
Radiant heating is a popular option for deck heating. It works by using infrared radiation to heat objects in its path rather than heating the air. There are two types of radiant heating: electric and gas. Electric radiant heating is easy to install and maintain, while gas radiant heating is more efficient and cost-effective in the long run. However, the installation process for radiant heating can be more complicated than other heating options, and it may not be suitable for larger deck areas.
Propane heaters are popular and cost-conscious. They come in many different styles, shapes, and sizes and can be attached to a tank or directly hooked up to your natural gas or propane line for a more convenient and permanent heating solution. Some propane heater options include fire tables, floor model heaters, and tabletop heaters.
Roof structures can provide some protection from the elements which can serve to retain heat on your deck. If it’s raining outside, but you aren’t getting wet, you’ll likely be warmer.
Deck Too Hot?
In addition to heating, cooling your deck area is also essential, especially during the hot summer months.
Everything that bakes in the sun will heat up. Although nothing can be done to prevent this, many things can be done to lessen the temperature extremes on your deck and in your outdoor space.
Though roof structures can protect us from precipitation, they also provide shade. This shade can dramatically reduce the temperature on your deck. Pavilions and Gazebos are solid roof structures. Adding a fan will further cool your deck space. A pergola doesn’t provide shade but can certainly take some of the heat out of the air by filtering sunlight.
A permanent roof can be a big-ticket item for any budget but there are loads of other structures that provide shade and relief from the heat with smaller price tags. Consider an umbrella for shade. An awning can reduce the heat on your deck and reduces the heat that makes it into your home as well. A sail is another option that is easy to set up and affordable.
Finally, you may want to consider installing a misting system. Misting systems use a fine mist of water to cool the air around your deck. They are an excellent way to keep your deck cool and comfortable, and they are relatively inexpensive.
Of course, what your deck is made of can affect the amount of heat it retains and how quickly it will heat up. Typically, a vinyl deck will reflect more sunlight, making this material somewhat cooler than composite. Also, if heat is an issue for your outdoor space, choosing a lighter deck board colour will help with this.
A great deck is an investment in your home, and the time you spend on it should be plentiful. With these heating and cooling ticks, you will be able to enjoy your deck space as much as you enjoy your home.
