What Color Should my New Deck Be?

There are so many decisions to make when you are designing your new deck, like what type of railings to use, where to put the steps, and whether to use wood or synthetic materials. If you end up choosing wood decking that needs to be stained or synthetic decking, the color of the deck floor can be one of the most important decisions in the whole process. It can impact how much time you spend enjoying the deck, how much time you spend cleaning it, and have a big impact on how much return you get on your investment.

While some colors may make for a better looking deck than others, there are a few things to consider before spending your hard-earned money on a deck that should last for decades.

Things to Consider When Choosing a Deck Color

First, when deciding which color your deck should be, it’s important to think about the typical weather and climate where you live. Depending on the environment, certain colors can be a better choice than others. For example, getting buried under a layer of pollen is an annual springtime ritual for us here in PA, so many local customers will choose a lighter colored deck because the pollen is not as visible.

Additionally, if your area experiences hot summers, it may be wise to opt for a lighter deck color instead of a darker one. Darker colored decks will absorb heat from the hot summer sun, so if your deck is on the south side of your house, a dark colored floor can make it very difficult to use the deck during the afternoon and early evening in summer. However, a covered deck is a way to create some shade and prevent your deck’s surface from overheating during the summer.

Muddy footprints and stains from kids and pets are another thing to think about when choosing a color for your deck. Mud, dirt, and stains are easier to see on lighter colored decks. So, if you have pets, young children, or both, a darker colored deck may be a better option.

Finding a Compromise
If you’re having trouble deciding between a dark or a light color for your deck, there are still options. One choice is to use a neutral, medium color for most of the deck floor, and then chose your favorite dark color to use as a border. This will provide a great contrast and set your deck apart from the ordinary. You can also use a black or dark brown railing to contrast the lighter deck floor and add some more dark accents.

Hopefully this will help you make an informed decision about the color of your new deck floor. For more advice about deck boards, check out our Deck Materials page.