Note: This blog was originally published on 13 July 2022. Some information, product features, pricing, or recommendations may have changed since publication. Please refer to our latest resources or contact us for the most current information.
At the recent Resibuild Summit in Dublin’s Guinness Storehouse on 25 May, Richard McMullan of MyDek took to the stage to discuss the importance of fire safety in building and material design. He showcased MyDek’s latest Luxura range made with composite material. He also answered common questions on the unique properties of the mineral composite. Let’s take a look at some of the key points he highlighted during his presentation:
The Importance of Fire Safety and the History of MyDek
Formed in 2019, MyDek specialises in A-rated, non-combustible decking and has provided these benefits to over 42,000 customers. Since the tragedy at Grenfell Tower five years ago, fire safety in cladding, balcony materials and interior design has been at the forefront of the company. To that effect, it is key that the combustibility of materials is considered in every design.
During his presentation, Richard also spoke about the importance of A1 and A2-rated non-combustible material. Manufacturing these highly fire-safe material composites, such as the kind used in MyDek’s new Luxura range, means that further conditions such as rating of smoke production and flaming droplet no longer need to be considered as ‘there’s no smoke without fire’.
The Luxura Range by MyDek
McMullan showcased MyDek’s newest product, Luxura, which is made from composite material. Useful for a variety of landscaping options such as balconies, boardwalks and garden decks, Luxura was demonstrated as being a composite material made from a combination of natural minerals and recycled ore run-off. The range is low-maintenance, highly durable and dimensionally stable, as well as resistant to warping with a lifespan average of 60 years.
He also explained that Luxura can be installed with little-to-no specialist training using MyDek’s SupportRail or BoxRail systems. This is what makes Luxura an attractive option for consumers. Furthermore, he explained that Luxura is cost-effective due to its being a recycled material. Moreover, it is resistant to high heat, staying skin-comfortable in sunny weather, and it has sophisticated waterproofing, making it highly durable and low-maintenance.
The product has been subjected to extensive testing and was awarded an A1 EN13501 fire classification. It was also tested for slip resistance and was found to have a beyond-one-in-a-million chance of risk from slipping. The results from the impact resistance tests conducted on Luxura revealed 1.8 m at 18 joules of impact force.
Other Interesting Details about the Luxura Range
McMullan finally answered some of the most frequently asked questions about the durability of the Luxura range.
He detailed the product’s lean 35 kg per square metre weight and lifespan of 60 years, then further described how the product features no external coating, hence mild damage from scratching does not cause the product to visibly deteriorate. Luxura is also resistant to salt and sea spray due to its natural mineral make-up; hence, it does not need treatment on the cut ends of the material.
Luxura is heat-resistant and dimensionally stable, meaning that no warping or expansion and contraction in different weather conditions. The material needs minimal maintenance other than an occasional wash, common with all types of decking.
Finally, he highlighted a unique property of Luxura. He showcased that the product can easily be laser-engraved for customisation. One use of this property has been on a town’s boardwalk, where a timeline of local history has been engraved for local visitors to read over as they visit.
The product comes in two colours – ‘Aged Oak’ and ‘Hickory’ – and is available here.