(BPT) - If you own a home by the water, you understand that a dock is much more than a place to park a boat. It's a sundeck, a diving platform, a fishing perch and a year-round spot for stargazing and enjoying sunsets. Choosing the right materials to use when building a dock can make all the difference in its appearance, comfort and longevity. Here are five things to consider:

Submersible: Docks are constantly exposed to water and fluctuating weather conditions. Choosing a material that resists rotting and warping is crucial. Performance-Engineered™ Trex^® composite decking is marine-grade and 100% submerged, making it an ideal choice for salt and freshwater environments.

Heat mitigation: On sunny days, a dock's surface can become hot underfoot - no matter what material is used. For optimal comfort, look for decking made with SunComfortable™ heat-mitigating technology. Engineered into the shell of Trex deck boards, this advanced formulation absorbs less heat than composites without heat-mitigating properties, keeping the surface cooler* in peak heat seasons.

Color: Whether you want your dock to stand out or blend in seamlessly with the natural surroundings, there's a decking shade for every preference and setting. Compared to wood and PVC, composite decking offers a greater range of color options for incredible design flexibility.

Railing: Adding railing to a dock enhances stability and style. Layer on convenience by installing a multi-functional drink railing. This clever design uses a deck board attached to the top rail to create a flat surface for holding snacks and beverages while you're taking in the sunset or welcoming the crew back from a day on the water.

Easy maintenance: To maximize leisure time, opt for durable products that withstand the harsh elements with minimal upkeep. Metal and composite railings are well-suited for use near water. Hassle-free composite decking won't splinter or rot and never needs to be sanded, stained or refinished. With these durable products, you can spend more time on the water and less time dockside.

For more tips on how to build a decked-out dock, visit www.Trex.com.

*Trex SunComfortable™ products with heat-mitigating technology are designed to be cooler than most other composite decking products of a similar color. Although engineered to be more comfortable, they can still get hot to the touch when direct sunlight and high temperatures converge for extended periods of time. On such days, care should be taken.