Timber

What to Look for in a Decking Company

Posted on 15 January 2025 in Blog

Creating the perfect outdoor space starts with the right deck – and the right decking company. A great company helps you choose the best materials, gives expert advice, and builds a deck that lasts.

Gripsure is Europe’s top choice for non-slip decking, trusted by major names like Center Parcs and Kew Gardens. Based in Cornwall, we’ve spent nearly 20 years crafting high-quality decking that’s both safe and stylish, perfect for any outdoor space. In this guide, you’ll learn how to choose the best provider, explore options like timber and bamboo, and discover what makes a deck truly stand out.

Ready to upgrade your deck? Contact us today and let’s make it happen.

 

How Can a Decking Supplier Help You?

A decking company does more than just sell you materials – they help you create the perfect outdoor space. For example, if your garden is often damp, they can suggest materials that resist mould. If you care about the environment, they may recommend sustainable options like bamboo or eco-friendly timber.

Many suppliers, like the team at Gripsure, can also offer installation services or can recommend reliable builders to do the job for you.

A good decking company will also provide warranties, explain how to care for your deck, and be available to answer your questions. Whether you’re building the deck yourself or hiring someone to install it, they’ll make the process easier and stress-free. Gripsure offers a 15-year non-slip performance warranty on select decking products and more, keeping you comfortable in your decking’s longevity.

 

Types of Decking to Consider

The material you pick will affect how your deck looks, how long it lasts, and how much work it needs to maintain.

Timber Decking

Timber decking is a classic choice because of its natural and timeless look. Hardwoods like teak or oak are solid and last a long time, but they can be more expensive. Softer woods like pine are cheaper but may need more care.

Composite Decking

Composite decking is made from a mix of wood fibres and recycled plastic. It’s strong, long-lasting, and doesn’t need much maintenance. Composite decking is also weather-resistant, which is great for the rainy UK climate. While it may cost more upfront, you’ll save money and time on repairs in the future.

Bamboo Decking

Bamboo is a newer, eco-friendly option. It’s a type of grass that grows very quickly, making it a sustainable choice. Bamboo decking is durable, looks modern, and resists water and pests. It’s a great choice if you want something stylish and environmentally friendly.

A good decking company will help you compare these options and decide what’s best for your space, your budget, and your lifestyle. Gripsure are masters of selecting the right decking materials for you. Take a look at our range or get in touch with us to discuss what’s best for your project.

 

Why Choose Timber or Bamboo Decking?

Timber and bamboo are two of the most popular materials for decking, and for good reasons.

Benefits of Timber Decking

Timber has a natural beauty that makes it a favourite for gardens and patios. You can paint or stain it to match your style, giving you many design options. Looking for ideas on choosing the right decking design trends? Check out our architect’s guide here.

 

Hardwoods like oak and mahogany can last for decades if you take care of them. Softwoods like pine are more affordable and treated to resist rotting. A good supplier will make sure the timber they sell comes from sustainable sources, so you don’t harm the environment.

Benefits of Bamboo Decking

Bamboo is a modern option that’s both stylish and sustainable. Even though it’s a type of grass, bamboo is as strong as some hardwoods. It grows quickly, so it’s a great eco-friendly choice. It looks sleek and is perfect for contemporary designs, while resisting moisture and sunlight, which makes it great for the UK’s weather.

When you choose timber or bamboo, you’ll get a decking material that’s both beautiful and long-lasting.

Still not sure which to choose? Check out our article comparing timber and bamboo decking in more detail >

 

How to Find a Trustworthy Decking Company

Finding the right decking company is key to a successful project. Here’s how to navigate that process:

  1. Start by reading online reviews and looking for companies with good reputations. A trustworthy supplier will offer clear pricing and be honest about costs.
  2. Ask if they provide warranties for their products and services. A long warranty usually means they believe in the quality of what they’re selling.
  3. If you can, visit their showroom or ask for samples so you can see and feel the materials before buying.
  4. Also, look for companies that care about the environment. Many UK decking suppliers now focus on eco-friendly practices, such as using recycled materials or sustainable timber.

 

Why Choose Gripsure Decking?

Gripsure offers high-quality, non-slip decking that keeps you safe in all weather conditions. Perfect for gardens, schools, care homes, and commercial spaces, their products ensure secure and accessible outdoor areas year-round.

Designed with safety in mind, Gripsure decking provides top slip-resistance, ideal for wet and frosty UK weather. Their range includes softwood, hardwood, bamboo, and modified timber, all sustainably sourced to suit different styles and budgets.

To make choosing easier, Gripsure offers free samples so you can see the quality for yourself. Professionals can also access technical guides and installation support for hassle-free projects.

With an industry-leading 15-year non-slip warranty, Gripsure guarantees lasting performance and durability. Their team is always ready to help with installation advice and maintenance tips, ensuring your decking stays in great shape. Whether for home or business, Gripsure delivers reliable, long-lasting decking you can trust.

 

Gripsure: A Decking Company that Puts You First

Choosing the right decking company is an important step in creating the perfect outdoor space. A good company will guide you through the process, from selecting materials to offering advice on installation and maintenance. Take your time to research and ask questions. Look for a company with experience, good reviews, and a commitment to quality and the environment. With the right decking company, you’ll not only get a beautiful deck but also one that lasts for many years.

Gripsure makes safe, non-slip decking that looks great and lasts. For almost 20 years, we’ve helped homes and businesses create outdoor spaces they love. Want a safer, better deck? Contact us today to get started.

Learn why non-slip grip from Gripsure is a sure bet for any weather >

Explore the accessibility enhancements that non-slip decking provides >

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 >

Choosing Natural Decking Materials: Timber Vs Bamboo

Posted on 4 January 2024 in Blog

In the UK, the trend of enhancing outdoor spaces through decking projects is on the rise. The debate between traditional timber and contemporary bamboo is relevant as ever. This analysis will guide you in choosing between hardwood, softwood, and bamboo. We will show you a strong focus on the differences and nuances between these materials.

In 2005, Mike and Ross founded Gripsure to tackle wet weather challenges in Cornwall. They introduced non-slip decking boards, and today, Gripsure is a leading European brand. Unsure of the right provider for your decking? Choose Gripsure today as a safe and durable choice. Contact us now for expert advice on your project.

 

Hardwood Timber vs Bamboo

The Charm and Resilience of Hardwood Timber

Hardwood timber has a long history in garden design. People value it because it is strong and visually appealing. Varieties like oak, teak, and iroko dominate the market, each offering unique qualities.

  • Durability: Hardwoods resist damage and wear due to their dense structure. This makes them ideal for high-traffic areas.
  • Design: Hardwoods have diverse grain patterns and hues that enhance designs. They work well with both traditional and contemporary styles.
  • Maintenance Requirements: Regular maintenance, including sealing and staining, is essential for longevity.
  • Cost Implications: Hardwoods are often more expensive, reflecting their durability and aesthetic value.

Bamboo: The Eco-Friendly Contender

Bamboo’s popularity as a decking material is due to its sustainability. It is also chosen for its modern appeal:

  • Sustainability: Bamboo is a fast-growing grass, making it a sustainable resource. It offers an eco-friendly option instead of slow-growing hardwoods.
  • Strength and Durability: Advancements in bamboo processing have made it as strong as hardwoods. This makes it suitable for decking due to its durability.
  • Maintenance Ease: Bamboo decking requires less intensive upkeep, often just regular cleaning.
  • Cost-Effectiveness: Bamboo’s longevity and low maintenance make it cost-effective over time. Though the initial costs can be high, the benefits outweigh them.

Softwood Timber vs Bamboo

Softwood Timber: The Price-Friendly Option

Softwood timber, like pine and spruce, is affordable for decking in the UK.

  • Affordability: Softwoods are generally cheaper than hardwoods, making them accessible for various budgets.
  • Treatment and Maintenance: To enhance durability, softwoods need treatment against rot and pests.
  • Lifespan and Performance: Treated softwoods have a decent lifespan but don’t last as long as hardwoods and bamboo.
  • Aesthetic Versatility: Softwoods have aesthetic versatility with a range of finishes. They can be painted or stained to suit design preferences.

Bamboo: Uniformity and Eco-Friendly Appeal

Bamboo’s uniform structure contrasts with the natural variability of softwoods.

  • Quality Consistency: Bamboo provides a uniform quality, reducing the occurrence of weak spots.
  • Environmental Benefits: Bamboo is still eco-friendly, with minimal pollution and high renewal.
  • Modern Aesthetics: Its sleek, contemporary look is well-suited for modern garden designs.
  • Resilience: Bamboo is more resilient against moisture and temperature changes than softwoods.

In-Depth Considerations for Your Decking Project

Understanding Your Surroundings

When picking materials for your deck, think about the weather in your area. Bamboo does well in various climates. It’s good at handling moisture and temperature changes, so it doesn’t need much upkeep.

However, regular wood might need extra care in tough weather. This includes treatments to stop it from bending or rotting. If you choose a material that suits your local weather, your deck will last longer and look better. It’ll also handle local weather problems better, with less work needed to maintain it.

Costs Now and in the Future

It’s important to balance the initial cost of your decking with its long-term value. Softwood decks might be cheaper to start with, but they can cost more to maintain as time goes on.

Bamboo might cost more at first, but it’s a better value over time. Its strength and low upkeep mean you’ll spend less in the long run. Think about both the costs right now and in the future to make a smart, budget-friendly choice.

Matching Your Style

Your deck should look good with your house and garden. Hardwood is classically beautiful – perfect for traditional styles. Softwood is flexible in looks and can be easily changed with paint or stain. Bamboo has a modern, clean appearance and is great for up-to-date outdoor areas.

Think about how each option fits with the style of your home. You want your outdoor space to be unified and appealing.

Eco-Friendly Choices

Choosing sustainable materials is very important. Bamboo grows fast and can be replaced easily, so it’s kind to the environment. It’s better for the planet than hardwoods, which grow slowly, and softwoods.

Picking bamboo for your decking helps the environment. It fits with green living and lowers your environmental impact.

Setting Up and Looking After Your Deck

Think about how easy it is to install and maintain your deck. Bamboo decking is simple to put in place and doesn’t need much care. This is because it naturally fights off bugs and moisture, so you don’t have to treat it often.

On the other hand, wooden decks need more effort to set up and keep in good condition. Choosing bamboo can save you time and work in both putting it in and looking after it long-term.

Conclusion

Selecting the perfect decking material requires considering aesthetics, functionality, sustainability, and budget. Timber appeals to various preferences and needs, offering traditional charm and reliability. Bamboo stands out for its environmental credentials. It also has a modern appeal and resilience. When considering your needs and preferences, weigh these factors first. This way, you can choose a material that enhances your outdoor space and aligns with your values and lifestyle.

Incorporate Gripsure into your project today and experience the difference for yourself. Our non-slip decking solutions provide top safety and durability. Contact us today to get started!

 

Related articles:

UK timber shortage: can I still get decking for my garden?

Gripsure celebrates double ISO accreditation for quality and environmental sustainability

Alternative decking solution from Gripsure made with innovative Accoya wood

Gripsure performance warranty and strength graded decking

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

Alternative decking solution from Gripsure made with innovative Accoya wood

Posted on 17 September 2018 in Gripsure News

Accoya wood is made from sustainably grown pine that is modified by acetylation. This is a permanent modification from the surface of the timber board right through to the core. The modification improves the timber's durability stability and in-service life. Classified within BS EN 350-2 Class 1 as very durable.

Leading non-slip decking manufacturer, Gripsure – with over 30-years of experience in resin and aggregate coated surfaces – have expanded their product range to include decking made from Accoya® modified timber.

Founded in 2005, Gripsure has invested in their manufacturing facilities, and developed their range of non-slip decking products, to offer a solution for any application. Having gained second tier distributor status, Gripsure now offers a contemporary decking board made from Accoya. Featuring two non-slip aggregate infills, Gripsure non-slip decking made with Accoya is suited for projects where longevity and safety are paramount.

Accoya wood is made from sustainably grown pine that is modified by acetylation. This is a permanent modification from the surface of the timber board right through to the core. The modification improves the timber’s durability stability and in-service life. Classified within BS EN 350-2 Class 1 as very durable.

With its 50-year above ground and 25-year in ground/freshwater guarantee, Accoya wood is a natural fit for the Gripsure brand committed to delivering quality products that stand the test of time. The Accoya process ensures consumers get the very best results from their decking.

Gripsure decking made with Accoya wood comes with a 15-year non-slip guarantee, so when it comes to eliminating the risk of accidents, you can rely on Gripsure to outperform other products – guaranteed.

Order a free sample

Nothing beats seeing and feeling Gripsure decking for real, and Gripsure Accoya is certainly no exception. Order a free sample today and get inspired for your next landscaping project.

request sample

Do I need structurally graded timber for deck boards?

Posted on 18 June 2018 in Timber

From time to time, we get asked to provide our deck boards structurally graded to C16 or C24. This is something we can offer our clients on request, but is this really necessary for timber deck boards? In this blog piece, we explore how softwood boards are appearance graded at source and discuss how the structural grading rules cannot be applied to deck boards due to the application of the timber.

Appearance grading

The majority of softwood deck boards in the UK is manufactured from European Redwood trees grown in the forests of Scandinavia, Russia and the Baltic States. This is because the cold climate and short growing season in these countries is ideal for producing a high-quality, strong and close grain timber. With timber being a natural product there are variances between each board due to a number of different parameters which include live knots, dead knots, checks, wane, cross grain, compression, fungal attack, discolouration, and dimensional deviances. These different parameters will affect the quality and suitability of the timber.

Qualified and experienced graders working at the mills will grade the timber by checking and measuring the different parameters against the defined rules within the Swedish appearance grading standard for softwood – SS EN 1611-1. The timber is then sorted into groups (or grades) of broadly the same quality of timber which allows the end user and companies such as Gripsure to choose a grade suitable for the application in which the timber will be used. Grades I to IV (the higher grades) are sold together and tend to be used for internal joinery products where knot content and size of knots need to be minimised. The most common grade for deck boards is the Scandinavian V grade but the VI grade is sometimes offered as an economy option by some merchants and manufacturers.

Structural grading

The appearance grades which are commonplace within the decking industry are different to the structural strength grades and classes. Structurally graded timber is required for certain applications to ensure the timber is strong enough for the load being placed on it. Products which require structural grading include roofing rafters, floor joists, wall plates and stud work for partitions walls where it is crucial that the timber being used is suitable for its application.

The load bearing capabilities of a piece of timber is dependent on its dimensions, species and spans being used in the construction. Timber is graded against structural grading rules that limits strength reducing factors such as knot size, position of knots, rate of growth, sloping grain, fissures and fungal attack. The timber is passed through a machine or more commonly examined by trained graders who visually assess the timber against the structural grading rules which specify acceptable limits (EN 14081-1 which is supported by BS 4978 (softwoods) and BS 5756 (hardwoods)). This process produces two strength grades – GS (General Structural) or SS (Special Structural). These strength grades can then be used to sort timber into strength classes (most commonly C16 or C24) which contain timber from different species and strength grades as per BS EN 338.

Each piece of structurally graded timber is stamped which displays information about the method of grading, strength grade, strength class, the graders license number, certification body, company reference, species, standard reference and condition of timber (moisture content at time of grading). Structurally graded timber must be clearly marked to show that it complies with the correct standards and strength requirements as set out in the building codes and regulations.

Can structural grading rules be applied to timber used for deck boards?

The TDCA (Timber Decking & Cladding Association) who are an independent technical and advisory body state that there are no established structural grading rules for timber deck boards. Structurally graded timber against EN 14081-1 is designed for rectangular timbers used on edge. The structural grading rules cannot be applied to timbers which are used flatwise. Therefore, the strength classes of structurally graded timber (C16 and C24) are irrelevant when the timber is being used for timber decking as the rules cannot be applied to that application.

A simple analogy is that in the same way an internal floor joist is structurally graded (most commonly to C16) and the internal floor board used upon it is not structurally graded, an external decking joist is structurally graded (most commonly to C16) and the external deck board used upon it is not structurally graded. Both the internal floor joist and the external decking joist are used on their edge so the strength class can be applied to that application (as per EN 1408-1). The boards themselves are used flatwise so the structural grading rules cannot be applied.

It is understandable that we receive a handful of enquiries for structurally graded deck boards, as C16 and C24 graded timber is prevalent for many timber products. With the lack of easy to digest and clear information it is easy to believe that you need your deck boards structurally graded too.

What should I look out for?

If you are looking to use a treated softwood deck board, here at Gripsure we would recommend choosing a product which is:

    1. Scandinavian V grade European Redwood which has been appearance graded against SS EN 1611-1
    2. FSC or PEFC accredited timber to ensure that the timber is responsibly sourced and the forests are well managed and sustainable
    3. DeckMark Plus accredited manufacturer – Manufacturers who are annually audited and approved by the TDCA (Timber Decking & Cladding Association)
    4. Boards which are treated to the right treatment classification for the specific environment the boards will be used in to ensure longevity
    5. Boards which contain non-slip inserts with an initial PTV rating of 65 or above (extremely low slip potential) to mitigate the risk of personal injury in wet and slippery conditions

In addition to the deck boards we would recommend that the timber used for the sub-structure is structurally graded as this will give the deck it’s strength. The TDCA have calculated recommended joist centres in two span tables based on a domestic and commercial application which takes into consideration the size, profile and species of timber as well as the point and live loads placed onto the deck structure (as per BS EN 1991-1-1). We recommend following their recommended joist centre spans to ensure the deck isn’t springy under foot which can be caused if the joist centres are too far apart.

It is also important that the correct fixings and an experienced and competent installer is used to ensure the deck will pass the test of time. If any cuts are made to treated softwood boards, ensele must be used to seal the treatment to avoid premature failure.

Get in touch

We hope this blog piece clears up some of the grey areas around why the structural grading rules cannot be applied to deck boards. It is more important to focus on other factors such as treatment classification, appearance grade and slip potential when choosing a softwood deck board. If you would like to discuss any aspect of the blog further, feel free to get in touch with our friendly team.

contact us

Which type of wood is best for timber decking?

Posted on 4 August 2017 in Decking Tips

The most common material used for decking is a pressure-treated softwood as it is readily available and cost-effective. Builders’ merchants will generally stock at least one softwood decking board with some now stocking an anti-slip version as well. While softwood is the most common option there are alternatives on the market, which may be better for your project.

Hardwood

The main advantage that hardwood holds over softwood is its longevity. While most softwood timber decking boards have up to a 15-year in service life expectancy, hardwoods such as Yellow Balau can be expected to last for up to 50 years, and in some cases longer. They are far more durable and hard-wearing than softwood products, so consequently come at a larger cost.

Hardwood timber is generally considered higher quality than softwood. It’s more colourful and natural timber appearance makes it very popular for decking. The cost of hardwood varies significantly depending on the species, profile size and timber certification you are looking for, but as a very rough rule of thumb, you will be looking at around three or four times the price of softwood.

Requiring minimal maintenance and well suited to a wide variety of projects, hardwood decking is an investment to seriously consider for your decking.

ThermoWood

ThermoWood is available in a variety of timbers, including ThermoPine (softwood), ThermoIroko and ThermoAsh (hardwoods). The process of creating ThermoWood involves heating the timber in a low oxygen environment to alter its chemical structure and increase its durability. This is particularly effective for softwoods and can be a more environmentally friendly way to increase the life expectancy than using a chemical treatment.

The thermal process also increases the stability of a decking board. Invisible fixing systems can be used on the ends and sides of the board as the board will expand and contract less than normal. The biggest downside of using a heat treatment is its effect on the strength of the board. Some estimates suggest thermal treating reduces the overall strength of the board by 30%. The price of ThermoWoods varies depending on the species and sizes, but the costs are often comparable or slightly higher than hardwoods.

Accoya®

Accoya® is produced from fast-growing and sustainably sourced timber which undergoes a chemical process to modify the timber completely. The resulting timber is incredibly stable and comes with a life expectancy of 50 years when installed above contact with the ground and an amazing 25 years when installed in freshwater or in direct contact with the ground. In addition, the timber is virtually rot proof so can be used in virtually any environment. Currently, Accoya is available in a limited selection of lengths and comes in at a high market price, however for the investment you get a phenomenally stable and long lasting timber.

Medite® Tricoya®

Medite Tricoya is produced using wood fibres that have undergone the same chemical treatment as Accoya. This creates a panel product which is extremely stable and durable with a 60-year expected life cycle. As with Accoya, Medite can be in water contact with very few negative effects. The biggest downside of using the wood fibre is that the panels are susceptible to abrasion when walked on. Anti-slip coatings are recommended to give you an incredibly safe and hard-wearing product fit for a wide range of environments. Panels can be machined to smaller lengths or supplied as full panels to suit the area you are working with. This makes Medite truly is a flexible option when considering decking. As with Accoya, the cost of Medite will be towards the top end of the spectrum.

As you can hopefully see there are plenty of options to consider when deciding which timber to choose for your decking. You will need to consider the budget, site considerations such as wet or shaded areas and the appearance of the timber you are looking for.

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

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Gripsure performance warranty and strength graded decking

Posted on 16 February 2017 in Gripsure News

Gripsure introduces a revolutionary performance warranty for their non-slip decking range.

What is a performance warranty?

Gripsure have introduced a revolutionary performance warranty for their non-slip decking range. You can now be assured your decking will retain its non-slip performance for 15 years, guaranteeing you complete peace of mind. No other company offers this level of performance warranty.

Some decking products will give you an initial slip resistance i.e. what they achieve on day one, before they are even laid. But at Gripsure we think this is irrelevant. Having invested in our product, we think you should have peace of mind for the future. What you really need to know is “how long will my decking remain non slip and to what extent?”

The aim of this warranty is to ensure that our customers have a clear understanding of how well the decking will perform, and what that means in practice.

Find out more about our performance warranty

More information

How is anti-slip measured?

There is a British Standard (BS7976) that uses a pendulum test to measure the slip resistance of a pedestrian surface (pendulum test value – PTV).

The UK Slip Resistance Group have then taken these figures and issued a guideline as how these results are practically interpreted i.e. how safe is a decking board when it achieves a certain PTV rating. A value greater than 65 is defined as an “extremely low” potential for a slip.

PTV rangePotential for slip
0-24High
25-34Moderate
35-64Low
65+Extremely low

What is strength grading?

Timber is a natural product and as such is inherently variable, not only in terms of appearance but also strength. Grading is used to give a basic indication of the strength of individual pieces of timber and allows for the selection of the appropriate strength grade for expected loads.

How is timber graded?

Timber can be graded mechanically or visually depending on what the material is used for, in the case of decking it is done visually. Graders look for structural issues within the timber, for example size and location of knots, twists, splits, twists and shakes. From this the decking boards will be labelled as Ungraded, C16 or C24, depending on the quality of the board.

Why should I choose graded decking?

Graded deck boards have several advantages when planning a project. Firstly higher grades are capable of handling higher uniformly distributed and point loads with minimum deflection or movement of the boards. Secondly, wider joist centres can be used for graded timbers which can aid in the design of the deck and also reduce the cost of the subframe. Alternatively, a thinner board could be used on the original centres, again reducing the cost of the project.

Graded deck boards have several advantages when planning a project. Firstly higher grades are capable of handling higher uniformly distributed and point loads with minimum deflection or movement of the boards. Secondly, wider joist centres can be used for graded timbers which can aid in the design of the deck and also reduce the cost of the subframe. Alternatively, a thinner board could be used on the original centres, again reducing the cost of the project.

Some good examples of projects benefitting from graded boards:

  • Raised Walkways and Bridges: Graded boards allow for wider joist centres to be used which reduces installation time and subframe costs.
  • Balconies: Thinner boards and wider joists reduce the weight of the decking when securing the balcony to the building, as well as giving you flexibility in matching up with threshold heights.
  • Commercial Spaces: Wider spans can be used without fear of the boards deflecting and causing trip hazards, keeping costs lower whilst ensuring health and safety requirements are met.

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