Which type of patio surface heats up least in the sun?
Which patio surface heats up least in the sun depends more on sun exposure and surface colour than on the material itself. A shaded patio remains coolest; trees, awnings or a shade sail keep direct sunlight off the surface, while air movement supports surface cooling.
In direct sun, light-coloured surfaces heat up less than dark ones. Light surfaces reflect a greater proportion of solar radiation, whereas dark surfaces absorb more radiation and convert it into heat. This applies to wood, WPC, stone, ceramic and rubber granules.
Alongside surface temperature, the material affects how hot a patio surface feels underfoot. Dense stone, ceramic or concrete surfaces transfer stored heat to the sole of the foot quickly. Patio tiles made from PU-bound rubber granules have a porous grain structure and low density, transferring less heat to the skin during brief contact and cooling down quickly once direct sunlight has ended.