The Latest Trends in Decking: An Architect’s Guide

Posted on 13 November 2024 in Blog

Decking is more than a practical choice for you – it is a modern design upgrade that transforms your space with style and function. Whether you’re designing a small home garden or a big commercial project, decking can change an ordinary space into something special.

Today’s decking trends are more creative, eco-friendly, and beautiful than ever before. As an architect or designer, staying up to date with these trends helps you build outdoor spaces that look great and meet your clients’ needs, and in this article from Gripsure, we’ll give all the insight you need to get the decking that’s right for you!

Get in touch today to learn how we can help with your decking project!

1. Eco-Friendly Decking: Using Sustainable Materials

Sustainability is now important in every industry, including architecture and decking. More clients want eco-friendly choices, and architects are using materials that are better for the environment.

Bamboo and timber decking are becoming more popular because they last a long time and have a smaller environmental impact. Timber decking, made from sustainably sourced wood, is easy to maintain, durable, and eco-friendly. Meanwhile, bamboo grows much faster than hardwood trees, making it an even more renewable choice for a tough timber-like result.

2. Simple Decking Designs: Clean Lines and Open Spaces

Minimalism is a popular trend in modern decking design. Homeowners and business developers want smooth, simple spaces without clutter. This trend focuses on clean lines and making the most of the space available.

Minimalist decking often hides the fasteners to create a flat, uninterrupted surface. Architects are also using larger deck boards for a seamless, wide look. This style is great for small gardens or city spaces where using every bit of space is important.

3. Lighting and Ambience: Decks That Shine

Lighting in decking can turn a space into a warm and welcoming area. The trend of adding LED lights to decks has become popular because it adds both style and safety. Popular choices include under-deck lights, post lights, and floor lights that are built in. These lights create a gentle glow, perfect for evening events, or can be used to show off the design of the deck.

As an architect, think about how lighting can improve both the look and use of your deck. Modern lighting systems often save energy, and many can be controlled with smartphones or set on timers for automatic adjustments.

4. Railing Choices: Frameless Glass and Modern Rails

Deck railings are no longer just for safety – they are now a key part of the design. A popular trend is frameless glass balustrades, which provide a clear view, perfect for clients with beautiful landscapes or water views. These glass railings are often combined with stainless steel parts for a sleek, modern style. This not only looks great but also gives a feeling of openness, making small decks feel bigger and more connected to the outdoors.

For a more classic look, modern metal or wood railings can be designed with detailed patterns, allowing architects to add a personal touch. Railings, often seen as only practical, actually play a big role in the overall design and can be customised to fit the client’s taste.

5. Multi-Level Decking: Maximising Space and Creating Zones

As outdoor spaces become more like parts of the home, multi-level decking is becoming more popular. This design is especially helpful for properties with sloped gardens or for those wanting different zones for various activities.

A multi-level deck lets architects create separate areas for dining, relaxing, or even adding features like a hot tub. Each level can serve a different purpose, making the space more flexible and useful. These decks also give the garden more depth, turning a simple space into one with multiple functions.

When designing a multi-level deck, it’s important to plan how the levels connect. Steps, ramps, or slides can link the areas, and different materials can be used to highlight each zone.

6. Hot Tub Decks: Luxury at Home

Adding hot tubs to decking is a popular option, especially for homeowners wanting a spa-like experience at home. Designing hot tub decks needs careful planning to ensure the deck can handle the weight and the hot tub is easy to use but not too noticeable. Architects are creating decks with built-in hot tubs, often adding seating or privacy screens around them. The goal is to make the hot tub feel like a natural part of the design, so it fits in smoothly rather than looking like it was added later.

7. Deck Skirting: The Final Touch

The latest trend is using skirting to both hide the space under the deck and make it look more attractive. Materials like lattice, wood panels, or composite boards can give the deck a clean, finished look.

Skirting also has its practical uses. It can allow air to flow under the deck and help keep pests out, or create hidden storage areas – perfect for keeping outdoor items out of sight. For architects, choosing the right skirting can greatly affect how the deck looks, so it’s important to pick materials and designs that fit the style of the outdoor space.

Make Your Deck Stand out with Gripsure’s Innovative Designs

Decking is constantly changing, with new techniques and materials cropping up all the time. By learning about the latest materials, designs, and building methods, architects can create outdoor spaces that go beyond their clients’ expectations and stay on top of the trends.

At Gripsure, we’re here to help you bring your decking ideas to life. Whether you’re looking for eco-friendly materials, modern designs, or just strong, safe, non-slip decking, we have everything you need to create the perfect outdoor space. Our team is ready to work with you on projects big or small. Contact us today to see how we can help with your next decking project!

Find out how to build a deck on a sloped garden >

Learn which type of wood is best for timber decking >

Discover how decking can help you make the most of a small garden >

Timber and Bamboo Decking for High-Traffic Areas

Posted on 18 October 2024 in Blog

High-traffic areas require flooring that can withstand the volume of people, the weathering of time, and elements which could cause dangerous conditions. Non-slip decking from Gripsure ticks all these boxes, and the choice of timber or bamboo means you can select the right material for your needs.

We’ve been supplying large commercial projects with quality decking for years, helping to improve the value and integrity of high-traffic areas. In this article, we’ll discuss the differences between timber and bamboo decking, highlight the advantages of decking in high-traffic areas, and outline the benefits of accessible design for businesses.

If you’re in need of quality, non-slip decking for your next project, contact us today.

Timber vs bamboo decking: what are the differences?

Sustainability

Timber and bamboo are both sustainable options, but bamboo does end up taking the edge in this regard. Growing up to a metre a day, renewing itself from the same shoot, and providing a net-negative carbon sink throughout its lifespan. Bamboo is by far one of the most sustainable solutions to include in your project.

That’s not to say timber is unsustainable, however. At Gripsure, we always endeavour to supply eco-friendly timber decking, meaning you can get the look you’re after without harming the environment.

Industry standards

Depending on your building, there will be different industry regulations such as fire safety standards to uphold. Timber can be impregnated with various treatments to help it match your needs, while bamboo can be rated at Fire Class B without the need for such chemicals, making both great choices for a variety of commercial settings.

Aesthetic value

Both timber and bamboo are beautiful materials that can go great with any build. However, if you’re looking for variety, timber can offer more choices due to the range of options available. Depending on what you’re after, both options can either be left to weather and mature, or given protection to preserve their initial colouring, though this is more impactful for cladding.

Durability and lifespan

Hard-wearing timber and durable bamboo are both great options for decking. They have an incredibly long lifespan, with many solutions remaining intact (while still providing the required levels of grip) for 30 years or more!

At Gripsure, we offer a 15-year warrantee on our timber decking and a 25-year warrantee on our bamboo decking, so you can be assured it’ll go the mile. Plus, our solutions require minimal maintenance, meaning you won’t have to invest loads of additional resources just to keep it running.

Learn more about the differences between timber and bamboo decking >

The advantages of decking for high-traffic areas

Non-slip decking is the perfect fit for a high-traffic area. It provides safety, meaning people are less at risk of injury or slipping even in icy or wet conditions. It’s low maintenance and durable, meaning the benefits will last for a long time. And, it’s a beautiful feature to include in your project, increasing the visual impact of your space.

For high-traffic areas in particular, all of these benefits are incredibly important as so many people will be accessing the space – meaning you need to provide a quality solution to match.

Where is decking most advantageous?

Decking is a great choice for any high-traffic outdoor space. We have a wide variety of case studies which showcase where you can utilise the benefits of our decking, but some key examples for commercial buildings include:

Restaurant decks
Bridges
Walkways
Garden areas
Public spaces

Find out more about designing commercial areas with timber and bamboo >

What are the benefits of accessible design for businesses?

The 2010 Building Regulations Part M require businesses to make ‘reasonable provisions’ so that people can access their buildings and use the facilities. While the specific steps to do this aren’t detailed, it means that having an accessible design is a requirement by law.

This isn’t the only reason to include accessible design, however. Having a more accessible building also comes with a number of other benefits for your business, such as:

Promoting inclusivity. This is a great stance to take alongside other ESG efforts, showing you’re a conscientious business that cares about your customers and the wider public.
Access a wider customer base. With more people able to access your space, you can offer your services to more people, generating additional revenue.
Increase the functionality of your space. By making it easier to access and get around your area, you will be able to enhance the journey your customers take.
Provide a better customer experience. A more accessible space means happier customers, leading to greater returns for you as well!

Key features of an accessible design

There is no ‘one-size-fits-all’ for accessible design. Different people have different requirements, so you need a space that is tailored to match! Depending on the conditions and location of your building, here are some different features to include:

Ramps and wide walkways
Clear access points
Gentle gradients
Grip for wet weather, icy conditions, wheelchair access
Durability so it can withstand traffic without degrading or becoming unfit for use

Luckily, non-slip decking from Gripsure can support all of these features while also providing a bespoke, attractive visual component to your commercial project!

Find out how you can ensure accessibility with our non-slip decking >

Non-slip grip for your high-traffic area from Gripsure decking

By using our timber of bamboo decking, you can create a sleek, bespoke area that can support high volumes of traffic for years to come. This increases the accessibility of your space, provides additional safety, and creates a beautiful visual accent that will enhance the appearance of your build.

At Gripsure, we aim to give architects and designers the best in timber and bamboo decking to match the specific needs of their projects. Get in touch today to find out more about how we can help you take your project to the next level.

Learn how decking and cladding can modernise an architectural build >

Discover how external cladding can enhance your commercial project >

Designing Accessible Commercial Areas with Timber and Bamboo

Posted on 18 May 2024 in Blog

Accessibility is a vital consideration for all commercial spaces. Unfortunately, while design and material innovations have evolved greatly over recent decades, many people still face accessibility challenges in built environments.

With over 17% of the UK population classified as disabled or living with a long-term health problem (Office of National Statistics 2021) – consistent and effective accessibility is an essential requirement within our commercial spaces. Among the range of materials commonly used for accessible design, timber and bamboo offer a range of unique and effective options.

In this blog from Gripsure, we explore key factors to consider when creating accessible commercial areas with timber and bamboo, exploring what is meant by accessible design, noting how decking can be used to achieve it, and highlighting the advantages of incorporating accessible design for businesses.

Secure timber and bamboo decking and cladding to support your commercial area – contact us today.

What is Accessible Design?

Accessible design and architecture seek to create buildings, commercial and residential, that can be easily and independently accessed by those with disabilities. Accessible design intends to remove the barriers experienced by those with disabilities to accessing particular spaces and services.

The principles of accessible design go beyond creating commercial areas that simply meet legal requirements, instead creating spaces that are inclusive, inspiring, and respectful. By eliminating physical barriers, those with additional access needs are able to navigate, interact, and engage fully with built spaces.

Accessible design for commercial spaces will take into consideration factors such as:

Universal Design

Universal design is centred around creating spaces and environments that are usable by all people – regardless of age, size, ability, or other access-inhibiting factors.

Physical Accessibility

Physical accessibility pinpoints any access limitations brought about by physical mobility challenges. Design informed by physical accessibility will prioritise features such as ramps, lifts, widened doorways, and accessible toilet facilities.

Sensory Considerations

In addition to physical considerations, accessible design will also take sensory factors into account. This might include the incorporation of visual cues as well as tactile indicators for those with sight impairment. Commercial areas may also consider incorporating auditory signals to maximise scope of support.

Wayfinding and Orientation

Another key factor within accessible design is wayfinding and orientation. These refer to design considerations that make it as simple to move throughout a commercial space as possible. Features might include:

Further signage
Clear colour
Texture contrast
Intuitive layouts

Prioritisation of features such as these assists individuals with a range of impairments in navigating through the designed space.

How can Decking be Used for Accessible Design?

Timber and bamboo decking can be used in a range of accessible designs throughout numerous contexts. These include:

Boardwalks
Walkways
Bridges

When designing an accessible timber or bamboo walkway, there are a number of factors to consider, such as the width of walkways, the installation of handrails, drainage and edge boards.

When creating walkways, developers must consider whether a walkway will be one way, or two. They must also consider the likely quantity of traffic that may be directed to the walkway from connecting ones when considering width.

Where handrails are installed, a minimum width of 2000mm is recommended between the handrails and the edging boards. To maximise drainage without compromising accessibility, there should also be gaps no greater than 12mm between each non-slip decking board.

The range of non-slip and bamboo decking available from Gripsure offer an ideal material for accessible walkways and bridges.

Maintaining Your Decking

In addition to being designed and installed with accessibility in mind, it is also essential that developers arrange regular maintenance to ensure all walkways remain usable. An accessible walkway that is unfit for use provides no benefit to individuals with additional access requirements, instead excluding them a given commercial environment.

As well as being great for walkways and bridges, decking can also be used for ramps and gradients. In order to be defined as such, a ramp must feature a gradient steeper than 1:20 (5%), but no more than 1:12 (8%).

A safe and effective ramp will feature a gradual change in gradient, with no sudden or inconsistent variation. As with walkways and bridges, ensuring the decking chosen is non-slip, such as those available from Gripsure, maximises safety and accessibility.

It is also important for designers to ensure no ramp exceeds 10m in length and to note that any ramp over 500mm off the ground will require a level platform. Similarly, consistent checks and maintenance of ramps are essential to maximise accessibility.

What are the Benefits of Employing Accessible Design for Businesses?

Fulfil Legal Requirements and Reduce Complaints

In the UK, the Equality Act 2010 requires shops and businesses to make ‘reasonable adjustments’ to maximise accessibility for disabled people. Not only is compliance with this essential to ensure your business avoids fines – it also reduces the likelihood of receiving accessibility-related complaints.

Benefits for Everyone

In addition to maximising accessibility for those with disabilities, accessible ramps and walkways also offer benefits for service users who may have a mobility reducing injury or even those with pushchairs. By maximising accessibility, a business curbs accessibility limitations to all prospective customers – maximising customer numbers and profits.

Public Reputation

In a world where inclusivity is more important than ever, the benefits of accessible commercial spaces extend beyond fulfilment of legal obligations. By offering customers a clear indication that their customer experience is of high priority, businesses convey an affirmative public message about their inclusivity, sensitivity, and commitment to accommodating all customers. This choice not only attracts more customers, but has a positive impact on a business’s overall reputation.

Enhance Accessibility with Decking from Gripsure

Here at Gripsure, we have almost 2 decades of industry experience helping our customers create beautiful and safe spaces for use across a range of industries. Our selection of non-slip decking includes softwood, hardwood, modified timber and bamboo decking – ideal for use in accessible design for commercial spaces.

We’re committed to continuously improving how we operate and are always seeking to achieve the highest environmental, ethical and safety standards. If you’re looking for guidance on timber and bamboo decking and cladding materials for your next building project, get in touch today– we’re always on hand to help!

Learn the benefits of timber vs bamboo decking >

Discover what makes decking slippery and how to avoid it >

Find out why you should consider bamboo decking for your next design >

How to ensure Accessibility with Non-slip Decking

Posted on 5 March 2024 in Blog

Accessibility is an important consideration for any architectural project or build and can determine how useful decking is by making the design more inclusive. Accessibility is particularly important for public and commercial uses of decking such as walkways or ramps because they are used frequently by a wide variety of people.

Improving accessibility is important for the elderly, physically or visually disabled people and anyone with mobility issues. In this blog post we’ll discuss why accessibility and inclusivity is important for these groups of people and how you can ensure that your next outdoor project or architectural design can be enjoyed by, and benefit everyone.

What is Accessibility for Decking and Outdoor Structures?

According to the Office for National Statistics; in 2021, 17.7% of the total population in the UK were considered disabled or had a long-term health problem that limited their day-to-day activities. Although this percentage has decreased since the 2011 census, there are around 9.8 million physically disabled people in the UK.

This calls for a more effective approach to increasing accessibility in outdoor spaces such as paths, bridges, walkways and decks. According to a government report on building for equality; the British Standards Institution is developing new standards to help provide more comprehensive guidance on “increasing accessibility in the external environment and buildings”.

The same report identifies that the latest version of BS8300 (Design of buildings and their approaches to meet the needs of disabled people) would be the most up-to-date guidance and does not cover all considerations for accessibility; especially for outdoor structures.

Accessible outdoor spaces and accessible decking structures take into account that some people have mobility issues and consider the needs of wheelchair users so that everyone can make use of the decking structure with peace of mind that it’s safe and useful for its intended purpose.

The UK-based charity Paths for All has published extensive guidance on outdoor accessibility for boardwalks, ramps and decks which is extremely useful for architects, builders and designers looking to improve the accessibility of a project.

We have summarised parts of this guidance to help give you an idea of what is required to make boardwalks, ramps, decks and other outdoor structures more accessible

Boardwalks, Walkways and Bridges

In addition to the specific design recommendations that we’ve outlined below, Paths for All emphasise the importance of proper maintenance of boardwalks, walkways and bridges to reduce the likelihood of accessibility issues. Regular checks and proper maintenance work are therefore necessary, especially for bridges.

Design Guidance:

The width of boardwalks, walkways and bridges should consider the width and condition of connecting paths, the amount of traffic on the decking boards and whether or not it will be one-way system.
A minimum width of 2000mm between handrails or edging boards
For areas with lower traffic, a width of 1200mm and space for ‘passing’ every 100m (depending on visibility).
The threshold between the boardwalk, walkway or bridge should avoid a level change of 5mm high
Decking ramps should be used as opposed to decking steps
To allow drainage, there should be a gap that is not greater than 12mm between each non-slip decking board
Edge boards should be at least 75mm high or the railing should be at least 75mm above the decking boards.
Handrails and rest points should be used where possible
Chicken wire should not be used to improve the grip of decking boards as it increases the chances of tyre punctures or injuries to pets. Instead, non-slip decking or anti-slip decking inserts should be used.

Ramps, Gradients and Raised Decks

As mentioned above, ramps are recommended over decking steps and provide far greater accessibility, although accessible steps are also possible.

Design Guidance:

A gradient steeper than 1:20 (5%) is classified as a ramp
A ramp should not have a gradient more than 1:12 (8%)
There should not be significant changes in gradient, and it should be as gradual as possible
An anti-slip surface is essential for safety, especially in wet conditions
Ramps should not be longer than 10m and need a level platform if they are more than 500mm off the ground.

For additional guidance on ramps and specific guidance on raised timber decks, please refer to the code of practise for raised timber decks from the Timber Decking and Cladding Association. This information is based on a variety of standards and regulations, so it is comprehensive and covers everything from joist spacing and beam size to safety parapets and balustrade systems.

How Non-slip decking can be used to improve Accessibility

Effective non-slip decking solutions are essential for making an outdoor structure like a bridge, boardwalk or ramp more accessible. There are other ways to increase the slip resistance of surfaces like anti-slip timber coatings, and of course the dreaded chicken wire technique. However, as we mentioned earlier, these approaches are not reliable, long-term solutions that can ensure accessibility without regular maintenance.

By using purpose-built, non-slip decking or anti-slip decking inserts, you can ensure that the slip resistance of each surface is sufficient enough to support even high-traffic outdoor spaces. This doesn’t mean the non-slip decking boards won’t need to be maintained at all.

It is important to make sure that the decking boards remain structurally sound, the surface is clean and regular checks for trip hazards are carried out to guarantee that the structure is accessible.

Why you should use Grispure Non-slip Decking to ensure Accessibility

With a unique 15-year guarantee that our boards won’t fall under a PTV (slip resistance rating) of 55, you can trust our non-slip decking boards to serve as an effective solution for your outdoor project and ensure that it is accessible by everyone.

Our wide range of softwood non-slip decking, bamboo non-slip decking, hardwood non-slip decking and modified timber decking ensures that you will be able to find the best choice of decking boards for your project.

Get in touch today to find out how we can help you find the right decking boards that will enhance the accessibility of your raised deck, boardwalk, walkway or ramp.

How to make your existing decking non-slip

Posted on 31 January 2024 in Blog

The Importance of Non-slip Decking

If you have existing decking in place and that isn’t purpose-built non-slip decking and you are considering making it safer then there are a few solutions available that can prevent you from forking out for new decking boards.

Although non-slip decking is the most reliable way to avoid slippery decking, other methods can sometimes be almost as effective. In this blog post we’ll explore some of these methods and discuss why you don’t need to resort to covering your beautiful decking in chicken wire.

What makes decking slippery?

Traditional decking that does not have anti-slip or non-slip inserts is a lot more vulnerable to the various factors that make decking slippery and unsafe. Although there may be other causes such as spilt oils and similar substances, the main reason for your decking being slippery are:

Rainfall – Standing water after it rains is probably the most common reason why your decking may be slippery. This is less of a problem in the summer months but due to the amount of rainfall we get here in the UK, it tends to be a concern almost year-around.
Debris Build-up – As your decking is constantly exposed to the elements, different types of debris can make the surface of your decking slippery. In addition to pesky leaves, algae, moss and mildew build-up can significantly reduce the safety of your decking boards.
Cold Weather – It should be no surprise that frost, snow and ice are a major slip hazard for your decking boards, but they can make even the safest decking slippery so it’s important to be weary of decking boards in really cold temperatures.

For more information, please read our guide on what makes decking slippery and how to avoid it.

Tips for making your decking non-slip

In order to make it easier for you to find the right solution to your slippery deck, we’ve outlined some useful tips and tricks that can make your existing decking safer.

Retrofit Non-slip Decking Inserts

Retrofit inserts like our SafeStrip 25 non-slip inserts are most effective way to make your existing decking non-slip and a lot safer. As an aggregate insert that can be retrofitted into your current decking boards, these inserts are a simple yet reliable method to make any deck less slippery.

With a 5 year performance warranty, you can depend on our inserts to make your deck safer year round and even extend the service life of your decking boards.

Unlike tape and similar, less effective methods, our inserts are designed to screwed in with screw holes every 300mm along the length of the insert.

Find out more about choosing the right non-slip decking inserts with our helpful guide on choosing the right aggregate for your non-slip decking

Regular Cleaning and Maintenance

If you’re not looking for a permanent solution to making your decking non-slip such as non-slip decking boards or retrofit decking inserts, then regular cleaning and maintenance is the next best option.

Making sure your decking is regularly swept and kept clear of leaves can make a huge difference, especially in Autumn. It’s equally as important to mindful of algae and moss build-up which a thorough clean can help to address.

Pressure washers can be helpful for a deep, long overdue clean but you need to careful that you don’t damage the decking boards in the process. We recommend pressure washing your deck at least once per year to prevent algae and moss build-up.

Please read our tips on cleaning and maintaining decking and our guide on how to clean your deck for information on how you can avoid slippery decking through proper care of your decking boards.

Consider upgrading to Non-slip Decking

Now that we’ve outlined some of the more affordable ways to make your decking non-slip, it’s important to emphasise that the only complete non-slip decking solution is decking boards that have been designed and purpose-built to provide you with reliable safety.

If your decking is reaching the end of its service life and is due for an upgrade soon then the best thing to do is invest in a safe solution that will last. Our non-slip decking comes with a unique 15 year warranty that our decking boards come with PTV (Pendulum Test Value) slip rating of at least 85 and won’t fall under a PTV of 55 which means that you can rely on Gripsure products to create a safe, long-term solution for your outdoor space.

Browse our extensive range of non-slip decking to find out more about the variety of available decking options that can help you make slippery decking a thing of the past.

Non-slip Decking Solutions from Gripsure

With almost 20 years of supplying reliable non-slip decking solutions, you can trust our decking boards to provide you with the safest solution for any application. Our retrofit inserts are a reliable way for you to make your existing decking non-slip, but the best long-term solution will always purpose-built non-slip decking boards.

Get in touch if you are considering upgrading your decking to non-slip or you are interested in our retrofit nonslip inserts.

Slippery Decking Day 2023: when are decks most dangerous?

Posted on 17 January 2023 in Decking Tips

We have named Sunday 29th January ‘Slippery Decking Day 2023’. That’s because this is when all the contributing factors are aligned, putting us at the greatest risk of an accident as decking in the UK reaches ‘peak slipperiness’.

Traditional timber and composite decking boards become dangerously slippery when wet or icy and as the result of the build-up of algae and leaves. We have pinpointed the last Sunday in January as the day when ordinary decking is potentially at its most treacherous.

January is the wettest month of the year, with ice more likely as average temperatures drop towards the end of the month. Mean monthly evaporation is at its lowest, causing decking to stay wet for longer. Algae is also most likely to be prevalent during the winter and after a wet spell, while fallen leaves are decomposing and becoming slippery.

Short daylight hours add to the risk and, with people more likely to venture into their gardens at the weekend, this increases the likelihood of accidents.

Gripsure Managing Director Mike Nicholson said: “Despite its many benefits, traditional decking has one major disadvantage: it becomes dangerously slippery when it’s wet. And that’s a big problem, particularly here in the UK where it can make a garden a no-go area for much of the year.

“It’s fair to say that at Gripsure we’re obsessed with the slipperiness of decking. We understand the combination of factors that can make decking dangerous because it’s what we’ve been tackling for more than a decade. We’re not only committed to increasing safety, we also want people to make the most of their outdoor spaces throughout the seasons.

“Our team of decking experts has assessed all the risk factors and the combination of wet, cold weather, damp conditions and rotting leaves and algae creates a perfect storm. We believe Sunday 29th January is the day in 2022 when decking will reach peak slipperiness, putting people at risk of accidents.

“While we created Slippery Decking Day as a light-hearted event, it does have a serious message and we want to highlight the dangers. We hope Slippery Decking Day will make people think about changes they can make to safely enjoy their gardens all year round.”

The slip ratings of surfaces, including decking, are measured using the Pendulum Test Value (PTV), with a rating of more than 36 being regarded as ‘low slip’. Crafted from sustainable timber and aggregate inserts, all Gripsure decking achieves a minimum value of PTV 85, which is classed as ‘very low slip’, and exceeds the British Standard for slip resistance.

Gripsure has experienced a surge in demand from homeowners during the pandemic. We are also proud to have provided our non-slip decking to high profile customers, including Kew Gardens, the Eden Project, Center Parcs and the University of Cambridge.

#SlipperyDeckingDay2023

Bamboo decking: the sustainable non-slip choice for your garden

Posted on 14 July 2022 in Industry News

If you’re looking to make garden improvements that aren’t at the expense of the world’s forests, bamboo decking is the answer.

Bamboo decking is a great, sustainable choice for your garden. It’s got just as many qualities as both softwood and hardwood decking. More people are looking to make sustainable choices as they consider their impact on the planet. You don’t need to settle for composite decking and suffer in slippery silence. If you’re looking to make improvements that aren’t at the expense of the world’s forests, bamboo decking is the answer.

But what exactly is it about bamboo that makes it so good for garden decking?

Just how sustainable is it?

Technically, bamboo is not a tree. It’s a type of grass. There are over 1600 different types of it on the planet. These can often be found in tropical, sub-tropical and mild climates. Depending on the variety, bamboo is native to Asia, Africa, South America, and parts of Australia. Just like hardwood and softwood, there are different ways you can categorise bamboo with each having its own traits.

Bamboo is also renowned for its incredible rate of growth. The Moso species of bamboo, for example, can grow up to one metre every day. Native to Asia, it can reach a maximum growth height of up to 20 metres.
Compared to most trees, bamboo can also release 35% more oxygen and absorb five times more CO2. This can help to offset the carbon output of the world to reduce the effects of climate change.

Moso bamboo has an underground system of roots that can connect a whole host of other bamboo plants. When one strand of bamboo is cut down, it will quickly grow back on its own. This reduces the demand on the farmers as its fast replenishing not fast depleting.

Bamboo is also naturally pest-resistant thanks to its tough outer layer which means there is no need to use harmful chemical pesticides.

Moso bamboo decking

Whilst bamboo doesn’t look as robust as a typical hardwood tree, it actually has a strength level higher than steel. This durable, strong material sees uses within the construction industry and is often used to make floors, furniture and even helmets.

Aside from that, it can be eaten, turned into clothing, used for your garden decking and more. Whilst hardwoods typically take 50 years to mature, Moso bamboo matures in just four to five.

Look at it like this. Bamboo decking has an expected service life of between 30 and 50 years. During this lifetime, the same bamboo used to make your decking has already regrown itself five-plus times.

Whilst the cost of bamboo decking is higher than both softwood and hardwood decking, it’s more durable, it lasts longer and it’s kinder to the planet. It has all of the elements and aesthetics of hardwood. One just comes from a tree and the other from grass.

If you’re looking for a long-term, sustainable decking solution for your garden, then bamboo is worth the investment.

MOSO® Bamboo with Gripsure

MOSO^® are a global brand supplier of both interior and exterior bamboo products. Their decking takes the bamboo and puts it through a process of Thermo-Density^®. This increases the density and hardness significantly. By this point, the bamboo has all the same qualities as hardwood decking. This makes it an ideal solution to finding the most sustainable decking.

With the addition of Gripsure’s non-slip inserts it also becomes safe non-slip decking allowing you to enjoy your garden all year round.

MOSO^® are also focused on sustainability and so all their bamboo products are CO2 negative throughout their lifespan. This makes them a great sustainable decking alternative to tropical hardwoods and composite products.

This decking has a long life span and requires little upkeep. It will start with a dark brown look that can be maintained with oil or you can let it turn to a rich silver grey. The surface can be smooth or grooved with no visible fastening points making for a streamlined look. MOSO^® Bamboo non slip decking is also extremely stable so won’t shrink, swell, warp or split.

If you’re conscious of leading a zero-waste lifestyle, bamboo in the wild can naturally be broken down and left to decompose. So, once your decking reaches the end of its lifespan, it is easily recycled. It can be turned into chipboard or burnt to generate energy. This contributes towards the production of green electricity—all thanks to your well-loved garden decking.

At Gripsure we are all for responsible forestry, so our bamboo products are FSC^® certified. Whilst bamboo’s fast-growing nature doesn’t cause forest depletion, we certify our bamboo decking nonetheless.

Browse our bamboo

As exclusive distributors of MOSO^® Bamboo decking, Gripsure is confident in its benefits towards sustainability. This highly stable decking is durable, safe, and fire-resistant. MOSO^® also has a 25-year warranty on its outdoor decking. So, you can relax in your garden knowing you made a sustainable decision to enjoy for years to come. Browse our bamboo decking range or get in touch with us today.

View MOSO® Bamboo X-treme® with Gripsure

Non-slip decking: what is the best timber to use?

Posted on 16 June 2022 in Decking Tips

We’ve compiled a comprehensive timber analysis to help guide your decision when choosing anti-slip decking.

Non-slip decking is a great way to make use of your garden all year round. Not only can it be customised and personalised, but it also allows you to create alluring and safe outdoor spaces. Many people choose garden decking to create functional areas for families whilst some just prefer it to a traditional garden.

Softwood and hardwood have their own individual qualities so it’s important to consider what the space will be used for when it comes to choosing the best timber for decking. We’ve compiled a comprehensive analysis between the two, to help guide your decision.

Softwood and hardwood

Hardwood timber comes from trees which are slower to mature. Oak and Beech are just two examples of hardwood trees you might find in the UK. They’re made up of a more complex structure, will lose their leaves in autumn and regrow them in the warmer months. They’re more often found in temperate countries where they will only shed occasionally.

Softwood trees are much faster growing and in great supply. They’re coniferous and retain their needles all year round. Some examples are Pine, Redwood, and Cedar.

Price difference

Price will most likely be one of the biggest deciding factors when it comes to choosing the timber for your non-slip decking. Due to its fast-growing nature, softwood is widely available meaning it has a lower price than hardwood. Hardwood’s complex structure makes it more difficult to process. When combined with how long it can take a hardwood tree to grow, you can justify the higher price.

Other pricing factors may also influence your decision. For example, softwood decking will need treating or staining. It will also depend on where you are building your garden decking and on what type of surface. Will you need to prepare your ground? There are extra costs to consider but, ultimately, adding non-slip decking to your home can add value to a property.

Durability and ease of maintenance

In terms of their durability, softwoods are generally less dense which makes them more susceptible to moisture and rot. However, if the wood is treated and sealed before the decking installation, you can improve its resistance to bad weather. Bear in mind that softwood decking will need annual maintenance to ensure it keeps its look and durability. Most softwood timber decking boards will have a 15-to-20-year lifespan.

Whilst hardwood decking boards require less maintenance than that of their softwood counterparts, it’s still advisable to do so. Softwood or hardwood decking boards are still timber. This natural material is likely to weather and age naturally, so staining, oiling, and cleaning your deck as needed will help to keep it looking fresh.

Hardwood decking is known for its longevity. Woods like Yellow Balau and Cumaru are renowned for their water resistance and their stability and can last for up to 50 years. For the most part, it can be left alone and will uphold its robustness. The average life span for a piece of hardwood decking is from 30 to 50 years.

Look and feel

Look will no doubt be a priority when choosing the best non-slip decking. A garden is an extension of a person’s home. So, the look and feel of it needs to reflect that. As well as coming in a variety of different shapes, sizes and heights, the wood you choose will have the most noticeable difference.

Hardwood decking is more comparable to having an indoor floor outside. It’s typically smoother due to its more complex structure. The shades tend to be dark with a much warmer tone. These can be anything from a brown tone to a darker, golden brown. Hardwood decking is also unlikely to need staining unless you’re after a different look for your garden.

Softwoods are typically a much lighter shade of timber decking. When treated it has a pale green tinge to the wood. Just like a tan, after a few weeks outdoors, it will turn more golden. If you choose to use a stain, then you can make the wood much darker, even closer to a hardwood shade. With softwood, you have more options to customise it.

When you should use each

It’s good to think about what you will be using your garden for when considering the best timber for decking. Will it be exposed to the elements? Will it be a high-traffic area? For example, if you have a swimming pool or a hot tub, hardwood generally has a better moisture resistance.

How heavily will your deck be used? For the average household, softwood decking is perfectly suitable and durable for an average amount of use. If your deck will need to withstand heavy foot traffic and will see lots of use, then consider hardwood.

Another more sustainable alternative is bamboo decking. Bamboo is in plentiful supply so it’s great for the planet. It’s also durable, low maintenance and can last for 30 to 50 years. If you’re trying to make more environmentally conscious choices, then definitely consider bamboo decking as it also absorbs carbon over its lifetime.

Should you choose hardwood or softwood, it can still be done sustainably if you buy from Gripsure. All of our timber is certified under the industry flagship standards of FSC and PEFC and we plant one tree for every order placed with the help of Plant One Cornwall.

Round-up

As the price of softwood decking is lower, if you’re on a budget and are more interested in having a great-looking deck for the near future go for softwood
If you’re willing to spend a bit more money on your decking and want it to withstand the test of time, hardwood is a great long-term investment
Consider bamboo decking for a more sustainable choice or buy soft and hard woods directly from Gripsure where the timber is FSC and PEFC certified
Both softwood and hardwood require maintenance – it’s inescapable if you want to preserve your decking
We can guarantee a minimum of a 15-year lifespan for softwood and 30 for hardwood and bamboo as well as our 15-year non-slip guarantee

So what is the best timber for decking?

There is no definitive answer to what the best timber for decking is as it all comes down to an individual’s needs, budgets and wants. Both softwood and hardwood have their own unique qualities that make them great for garden decking—it’s all just a matter of preference.

We hope this information has guided your decision. However, if you’re still looking for answers as to which non-slip decking will be the best for your home, have a read through our FAQ or get in touch.

Gripsure boosts performance warranty on non-slip decking to 15 years

Posted on 22 April 2022 in Gripsure News

We're excited to announce we now offer our customers a 15-year performance warranty on our non-slip decking.

First manufactured in 2005, we are one of the most popular decking suppliers in Europe. Handcrafted by our team in Cornwall, we have years of expertise in designing decking boards that can guarantee non-slip performance. We are so confident in this pledge that we have recently boosted our warranty from 10 to 15 years. If you’ve been considering installing garden decking, here are some of the reasons to consider non-slip over anything else.

A thorn in the side

After putting the graft into your garden to extend your home and create a relaxing outdoor space in the summer, it is a shame that many become inhospitable once winter arrives. With rain falling on average 156 days a year in the UK, it’s easy for lawns to become waterlogged or muddy.

For many, the logical solution is to install a decking area that creates space to be enjoyed all year round. However, the grass isn’t always greener on the other side. You don’t have to tiptoe your way across a sludgy lawn anymore, but you do have to contend with slippery garden decking.

January puts deck users at the greatest risk of accident reaching ‘peak slippiness’ due to a combination of contributing factors. It’s because of this that we renamed 29 January 2022 ‘Slippery Decking Day 2022’.

The benefits of non-slip decking

Many are sold the mistruth that their non-slip decking will last. However, after the initial slip resistance wears off, where does your investment stand for the future? With any decking that promises anti-slip properties there is only one question you should be asking: “how long will my decking really remain non-slip?”

With the knowledge that Gripsure’s performance warranty guarantees non-slip qualities for 15 years, you can focus on the benefits of having anti-slip decking rather than the slippery grievances.

Putting the performance warranty to the test

With the ethos that gardens should be enjoyed all year round and not just within the summer months, we have our products rigorously tested to ensure their safety. Gripsure non-slip decking is tested using the pendulum test according to the UK Slip Resistance Group’s (UKSRG) guidelines. A score of 65 out of 100 is required for a non-slip surface to achieve a slip potential of ‘extremely low risk of slipping’. As well as this, the Health and Safety Executive gives three categories of risk for Pendulum Test Values (PTV) to measure up against.

All Gripsure’s decking achieves the extremely low risk of slipping category, and you can see how our PTV scores faired against the scores of an average dry and wet PTV here. Our performance warranty lets you, our customers, know that we are confident in how our decking will perform so that you can feel confident in choosing us.

For the ultimate peace of mind

For safety without compromise, choose Gripsure. Find out more information about our warranty and how to register.

View warranty information

What is non-slip decking and is it the best option for my garden?

Posted on 23 June 2021 in Decking Tips

There are many types of non-slip decking, providing a wealth of options for creating a safe and beautiful outdoor space.

Garden decking soared in popularity in the 90s, when many Brits were inspired by hit TV show Ground Force. We fell in love with decking as our relationships with our gardens changed. No longer just seen as somewhere for keen gardeners to grow plants, they became an extension of our homes and we embraced the concept of outdoor living. There are no signs of our desire for decking abating. Instantly creating a space for relaxing or socialising, a garden deck has become an increasingly popular addition to a home.

Unfortunately, despite its many benefits, traditional decking has one major disadvantage: it becomes dangerously slippery when it’s wet. And that’s a major problem, particularly here in the UK where decking can make a garden a no-go area for much of the year. This is the challenge that Gripsure founders Mike Nicholson and Ross Crouch were grappling with when they first came up with the idea of non-slip decking back in 2004.

What are the benefits of non-slip decking?

If you are considering decking for your garden, you will have a lot to think about, from your budget to the look you want to achieve. Safety may not be the first thing on your mind. However, anyone who has experienced wet, slippery decking will know how important it is.

You may be dreaming of hot, sunny days enjoying your deck with family and friends. However, the reality is that there will also be wet days and icy days when you need to step outside. Installing non-slip decking means knowing that you, your family and visitors can safely walk into the garden, whatever the weather.

We think you deserve more than that though. Non-slip decking is not just about meeting a safety need, it’s about making more of our gardens. As we all spend more time outdoors, should we really limit the hours we spend in our gardens to those rare, perfect summer days? What about enjoying a magical winter night around the fire pit with friends? Getting the kids to let off steam by tearing around in the rain? Or simply taking a few moments to reflect on the changing seasons?

Non-slip decking opens up a world of possibilities. Perhaps you want to invest in an outdoor building for all-year-round entertaining or simply adapt your planting scheme to achieve annual interest. Anti-slip decking takes you a step closer to making the most of your outdoor space throughout the seasons.

How does non-slip decking work?

Gripsure decking is made from high-quality sustainable timber. When we manufacture our boards, we add anti-slip features. These are strips of aggregate set in resin, which never get slippery, even in wet or icy weather. This process provides each deck board with grip without spoiling the natural beauty of our timber boards.

Our residential range includes many different types of anti-slip decking, but each one is based on our tried and tested combination of high-quality timber and aggregate strips.

Other forms of non-slip decking include inserts made from rubber crumb, high-grip strips, which can be attached to existing decking and even anti-slip decking paint. However, high-quality non-slip timber decking achieves the best slip resistance in wet or icy weather and when algae has built up.

What are non-slip ratings?

The non-slip rating of a surface is measured using the Stanley Pendulum test. This is an industry standard test, which was designed to tackle the biggest cause of accident and injury in the UK: slips, trips and falls. The test is not only used for decking but for floors and a range of outdoor surfaces.

It calculates the Pendulum Test Value (PTV) of a product, which is based on friction. A slider, attached to a weight that mimics the sole of a shoe, is swung downwards to make contact with the surface. The height that the weighted ‘shoe’ reaches after touching the surface from three different directions gives the PTV measurement. Crucially, the test is carried out several times in wet and dry conditions.

The higher the PTV range, the less slippery the surface. For example, a PTV range of 65 or over is classed as a very low slip potential, while 0 to 24 is high.

What anti-slip rating should I look for in decking?

To ensure your decking has an acceptable non-slip rating, it should score a minimum of 36. All decking surfaces will achieve a low slip potential in dry conditions but the test score also reflects the board’s performance in wet weather.

Every product in Gripsure’s non-slip decking range has a PTV of at least 83. This is significantly higher than the minimum standard for very low risk, which is 65 and over. For example, our popular Home decking has an 83 PTV rating and our striking Contemporary decking achieves a score of 85. Our Classic decking board, which has been used at visitor attractions including Bristol Zoo, achieves a PTV slip rating of 100 – the best possible score.

Importantly, we measure the performance of our decking over time. That has shown that our decking retains its low risk rating over a number of years. In fact, we are so confident in the safety of our decking that every board comes with a 15 year non-slip performance warranty.

Installing and maintaining non-slip timber decking

One of the reasons why decking is so popular is that it is easy to install, compared with laying a patio, and is lower maintenance than a lawn. Installing non-slip decking is very similar to building any other deck. The main difference is that, if you need to cut any boards, you will need a diamond disk blade to saw through the tough timber and aggregate.

The build-up of moss and algae is one of the main causes of slippery decking. If you choose anti-slip decking, this will be much less of an issue. However, to get the best out of your anti-slip decking, it’s important to keep it clean. Fortunately, this just involves giving it a regular sweep with a stiff broom and an annual pressure wash to remove more stubborn growth. This will not only help your decking stay as safe as possible, it will also keep it looking beautiful.

So, if you are among the growing number of people considering decking for your garden, non-slip could be the best option for you. It will give you peace of mind that you, your family and friends can safely step outside, whatever the weather. But more than that, it will help you make the most of your garden, allowing you to spend more quality time outdoors.

Get in touch

If you have any questions or would like more information, get in touch with one of our friendly team.