Welcome to my blog.
I'm Craig. I spent twenty years installing vinyl decks for homeowners. I also worked the other side of the business and sold vinyl decking for different brands as a certified dealer. I'm retired now and mostly write down what I learned over the years so it's useful to somebody.
Does Vinyl Decking Get Hot? Surface Temperatures, Colour Effects, and Cool-Touch Options
Dark vinyl decking in direct sun can hit 60-70 °C surface temperature. Light colours stay 10-20 °C cooler. The colour, orientation, and cool-touch options that matter.
Every brand I've scored
Valordek
The thickest residential vinyl deck membrane in the category, paired with the only published material price I've seen. A clear pick where the dealer network reaches.
Tufdek
The only brand in the category that requires its installers to back the install with a workmanship warranty — that alone earns Tufdek a top-three spot.
Duradek
The brand that defined the category fifty years ago still earns its top-tier score. Real warranty advantages and the largest dealer network — held back mainly by pricing opacity.
Dec-Tec
The thickest membrane and widest rolls in the category, paired with the longest warranty length on paper. The fine print is where it loses ground — but the headline specs are real.
Weatherdek
A respected Pacific Northwest brand with coastal-climate chemistry and a rare 5-year appearance warranty. Solid mid-pack option in BC and across Canada.
DekSmart
Strong specs that get less attention than they deserve. 68 mil Ultra and dual backing options put DekSmart on par with category leaders for material — held back mainly by quieter brand presence.