Composite Decking Technical Details

Here we briefly summarise for you the main technical details for straightforward assembly using our composite decking boards. For more detailed instructions on how to build a composite deck download our full decking installation guide.

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Installation Guide

Accessories

Edging and Fascias

Brochure

Warranty

Our decking boards are manufactured in the UK. They are resistant to splitting, rotting and twisting and we back that up with a 25 year warranty that gives you some well-earned peace of mind.

Non-Slip Properties

Our state-of-the-art decking boards lead the industry with their high-scoring anti-slip ratings in accordance with BS79.76 slip resistance tests.

Virtually Maintenance Free

Our composite decking’s all-weather non-porous, wood-free material resists both algae growth and stains. Just like internal flooring, you don’t need to use any kind of solvent, chemicals, abrasive cleaners, wax, oil or other household cleaners on it. You will never need to pressure-wash your deck because dirt does not become ingrained. To remove any dirt or grime, simply wash down your decking with a soapy cloth or broom, then rinse off.

Protection from Ice

A light application of granulated white salt can be used to help keep your boards ice-free. Avoid rock salt as it can be very abrasive. When winter is over, remove the salt by washing down, with soap and water using a soft broom.

No fading or Discolouration

Our UV-stable coatings and pigments will not fade or discolour and so will ensure the long-lasting beauty of your deck.

We advise you to buy at the same time all the materials you will need to build your deck as different batches may vary slightly. Failing that, we recommend that you intersperse boards from different batches. Bear in mind also that colours may change tone very slightly over time and this is entirely normal for decking.

Choosing your Colours

The darker colours of Balcony Systems composite decking can “feel warmer” than lighter colours so consider using lighter colours for un-shaded areas exposed to prolonged sunlight.

Do not install boards if colours are unacceptable or if for any reason you believe them to be defective.

See Decking Board Textures and Finishes or our brochure for the range of colours and textures available.

Requesting a sample

If you would like a sample of Balcony System decking, please contact us.

Edging the Composite Decking Area

Our edging and fascia boards are designed to complement the look of your deck. They come in the same choice of styles and colours as the flooring. We supply these rigid as standard but flexible boards and edges are also available, which can be curved to follow a maximum convex diameter of 3 metres.

We recommend that the purpose-made ‘step edges’ are fitted at steps, and bull-nosed or flat fascia boards at edges of the decking so as to protect the ends and sides from excessive wear. They also enhance the finished deck area and can act as a positive edge to changes in levels.

The edge boards are available as a Bullnose version or as a ribbed design. Both are available as rigid or flexible.

However, the boards, fascias and edges must be warmed to at least room temperature before attempting gentle bending. Fix the boards while working the curve with the recommended screws at approx 300mm maximum intervals. Our boards don’t usually need to be pre-drilled when screwing into place (see below) but, to ensure a firm fixing in the case of bending, always pre-drill the holes.

Spacing Between Joists

All Balcony Systems boards are reinforced for additional strength. Ensure the joists of the decking structure are spaced with their centres 400mm apart for normal residential and light commercial use. On heavy commercial bridges, balconies, moorings, doorways and steps, space them 300mm apart.

If you have to trim or cut a board along its length, then reduce the joist spacing accordingly. Bear in mind that a minimum of 3 joists are required for any cut boards.

For laying decking boards at a 45° angle across the joists, we recommend a maximum of 300mm spacing - and 240mm on commercial applications. Please refer to our decking installation guide for more technical details.

Use the Right Accessories

We supply a full range of accessories for the correct assembly of your composite decking structure. Please find these on our decking accessories page

More Details

You can find more details of our flooring boards, edge boards, fascia boards and step edges in our decking board textures and finishes page or our catalogue.

We provide full backup in the form of friendly advisors ready to give you more information, technical details or advice should you need it. Please feel free to contact us.