Choosing the right decking material is one of the most important decisions in building a new deck. If you’re looking for a deck that will last for decades with minimal maintenance, capped composite decking is the way to go. Gone are the days of cedar decks. Sure we can still build them, but today’s new materials offer so many advantages, I don’t know why you’d want to. Besides the value they provide from a longevity standpoint, one of the other big advantages is that they make maintenance like staining and sealing a thing of the past. But from a purely aesthetic viewpoint, composite decking opens up a whole new world of color and beauty. From maintenance to deck colors, today’s decks are so much better in so many ways, I wouldn’t build a deck out of anything else. Before we get into deck colors, let’s take a look at all of the advantages composite decking has over real wood decking.
Advantages of Composite Decking Over Wood
Composite decking offers several advantages over traditional wood decking, making it a popular choice for homeowners and builders. Here are some key benefits:
1. Low Maintenance
- No need for staining, sealing, or painting
- Resists fading, scratching, and staining
- Easy to clean with soap and water
2. Durability & Longevity
- Resists rotting, warping, and splintering
- Withstands extreme weather conditions
- Typically lasts 25–50 years, compared to wood’s 10–20 years
3. Pest & Mold Resistance
- Impervious to termites and other wood-boring insects
- Does not promote mold or mildew growth
4. Eco-Friendly
- Made from recycled materials (wood fibers and plastic)
- Reduces deforestation by eliminating the need for new lumber
5. Aesthetic Variety
- Available in a wide range of colors, finishes, and textures
- Mimics the natural look of wood without the upkeep
6. Safety Features
- Slip-resistant surfaces available
- No splinters, making it safer for bare feet and pets
7. Cost-Effectiveness Over Time
- Higher upfront cost but lower maintenance and repair expenses
- Saves money on staining, sealing, and frequent replacements
As an expert deck contractor and pergola builder, I’ve worked with all types of decking materials and manufacturers and the good news is, composite decking just keeps getting better. At Creative Concepts & Design, we have built hundreds of decks in Kansas City and Overland Park and capped composite decking is my absolute favorite decking material. And talk about color selection! There are so many to choose from, you may want to learn a little about color psychology before making a decision.
The Psychology of Colors in Decking
Color plays a significant role in how we perceive and experience our environment. When selecting decking materials, understanding the psychology of colors can help create an inviting and functional outdoor space. Factors like climate, aesthetics, and current design trends all influence the best color choice for your deck.
1. Which Deck Colors Are Right for You?
Different colors evoke different emotions and can impact the atmosphere of your deck. Here’s how various shades influence mood:
Warm Tones (Reds, Browns, and Oranges): Energizing and welcoming, these colors create a cozy atmosphere perfect for entertaining spaces. They pair well with natural wood elements and complement lush greenery.
Cool Tones (Blues, Greens, and Grays): Calming and relaxing, cool hues create a serene outdoor retreat. Lighter shades of blue and green work well in coastal or garden settings, while grays offer a modern, sophisticated feel.
Neutral Tones (Beige, Taupe, Charcoal, and Black): Timeless and versatile, neutrals blend well with various architectural styles and landscaping. Darker neutrals provide a contemporary, upscale look, while lighter shades can make spaces feel open and airy.
2. Climate Considerations
The color of your decking material can influence heat absorption and overall comfort, especially in regions with extreme weather.
- Hot Climates: Light colors such as beige, light gray, or soft tan reflect sunlight and stay cooler underfoot, making them ideal for sun-drenched areas.
- Cold Climates: Darker colors like deep brown, charcoal, or black absorb heat, helping retain warmth and making them a great choice for colder regions.
- High Humidity Areas: Gray and earthy tones can help mask dirt, mildew, and water spots commonly found in humid environments.
3. Aesthetic Appeal & Home Style
The right deck color should complement your home’s exterior and landscaping. Consider:
- Traditional Homes: Warm browns, reds, or deep chestnut tones enhance classic woodsy charm.
- Modern Homes: Grays, blacks, and cool-toned neutrals create a sleek, minimalist look.
- Coastal or Beach Homes: Light grays, whites, or weathered wood tones align with breezy, oceanic aesthetics.
- Rustic or Farmhouse Styles: Muted earth tones, distressed wood looks, or warm browns reinforce a natural, welcoming feel.
4. Design Trends in Deck Colors
Deck color trends shift over time, with recent preferences leaning toward:
- Gray and Charcoal: These cool-toned neutrals are popular for modern aesthetics and low-maintenance appeal.
- Two-Tone Decking: Combining complementary colors, such as a dark border with a lighter main deck, adds visual interest and defines spaces.
- Natural Wood Looks: Composite decking in realistic wood grains and weathered tones continues to trend for those who want a wood-like appearance without the upkeep.
5. Final Considerations for Choosing Deck Colors
When selecting decking hues, keep the following in mind:
- Test Samples: View samples in different lighting conditions to see how they look throughout the day.
- Long-Term Appeal: Consider timeless colors rather than trendy ones that may go out of style.
- Maintenance & Cleaning: Lighter colors hide dust but may show stains; darker colors hide stains but can highlight scratches and footprints.
- Surrounding Elements: Factor in the color of your home, landscape, furniture, and railings to ensure a cohesive design.
Choosing the right decking color is a balance of personal preference, climate suitability, and design harmony. By understanding the psychology of colors and how they interact with their environment, you can create an outdoor space that is both visually appealing and comfortable for years to come.
Caleb’s Favorite Color Combination
My favorite color combination is from one of my favorite composite decking manufacturers – Envisions. Envisions, a Missouri-based company, produces some of the most visually stunning composite decking available. In my opinion, you can’t beat the combination of their Spiced Teak & Rustic Walnut for beauty. Both collections feature deep, natural-looking grain patterns that extend across full-length boards.These decks exude timeless elegance, and I’ve never had a client regret choosing them. After building countless decks with Envisions decking, I can confidently say their quality and durability stand the test of time.
We’ve built so many decks in Overland Park and Kansas City, we can show you what many of these color combinations look like. At your free deck design meeting, we can talk about your options and help you narrow down your manufacturer and color choices.
Schedule Your Free Deck Design Meeting
If you want a new deck in Overland Park or Kansas City area, reach out to Creative Concepts and Design. As deck experts, we can help you build the perfect outdoor space to complement your home with expert craftsmanship and the best materials available. If you’re looking to start your dream deck project, contact us today to schedule a consultation!
At Creative Concepts and Design, decks and pergolas are our favorite things to build and we love to hear your deck ideas – the more creative, the better! Call us at (816) 301-0275 or contact us online. Schedule a deck design meeting and get a free quote. You’ll be amazed at how beautiful composite decking is!
