Properties in coastal areas certainly afford those living there access to beautiful landscapes and views; however, managing such properties can be challenging. The coastal weather, with its salty sea spray, moisture, wind-borne debris, and potential for high rainfall, constantly threatens the longevity and maintenance of external materials, including decking systems.
Given the highly corrosive nature of salty sea spray and the potential damage from wind-borne debris and high rainfall, it’s crucial to consider the structural and aesthetic aspects of your decking system. This will help you make an informed decision and avoid wear and tear, preserving the beauty and longevity of your decking for years to come.
What are the structural and aesthetic considerations for decking in properties near coastal areas?
At MyDek, we value continuous learning and sharing of information essential to preserving decking systems under varied conditions. We aim to help architects and property owners by offering advice on the most suitable decking material so that they make the right choice. Here are some considerations to keep in mind while choosing decking for properties near coastal areas:
- Corrosion: Corrosion can significantly impact steel elements and cause them to weaken. Constant exposure to strong winds, debris, and salt spray can cause decking to deteriorate and look unappealing. It’s crucial to choose a material that’s resistant to corrosion and to review the metal composition, as the close contact of dissimilar metals can result in galvanic corrosion.
At MyDek, we recommend specifying an isolation barrier between the cleat and the steel. We offer Neoprene 110X110 and non-combustible pads for this purpose.
- Longevity: Durable materials that are specifically designed for environments with high moisture and salt exposure should be part of your decking, to ensure a long-lasting system.
- Wind Uplift: Strong winds can increase the danger of the decking being lifted from the substructure. This could result in safety risks to residents and the public, as well as causing damage to terraces and balconies, which could incur repair costs for the owner. This risk must be considered before choosing a decking system.
- Drainage: Debris and rainfall can block drainage systems, so selecting the right drainage products is essential. The correct drainage system will ensure greater functionality and low decking maintenance.
Which is the most suitable decking for properties in coastal areas?
Our aluminium decking undergoes a meticulous pre-treatment process, which ensures that every surface is perfectly prepared for coating. We adhere to the Qualicoat Seaside standard as part of our commitment to excellence. This makes our aluminium decking especially ideal for projects in challenging coastal environments where durability matters most. Aluminium decking is efficient and sustainable, and chosen by those who want superior quality and high performance.
Explore MyDek’s Luxura®️ A1 fire-rated, composite decking for coastal environments
Luxura® is a fire-rated mineral composite decking for applications where ultimate durability is required. Made from a special mix of minerals, calcium silicates, and other specialist materials, Luxura® delivers superb performance across several critical areas, including coastal areas.
Durable: With a lifespan of 60 years, Luxura®️ is incredibly durable. Crafted from a unique high-density, mineral-fibre compound, it is resistant to high heat and features sophisticated waterproofing that makes it perfect for coastal applications. It also has an A1 EN 13501 fire classification.
Slip and Impact Resistance: The chances of slipping on this decking board are extremely low. The impact resistance tests conducted on the range revealed 1.8 m at 18 joules of impact force, which is more than 10x higher than traditional 20 mm thick porcelain paving.
No Risk of Wind Uplift: The Luxura®️ range is mechanically fixed to the subframe using an easy-to-install system, eliminating the risk of wind uplift, which is a recurring problem in coastal environments.
What is the future material of decking systems in coastal areas?
Considering the disadvantages of concrete and wooden decking, innovative and sustainable materials are required for decking systems installed on coastal properties. The decking options offered by MyDek provide diverse benefits that cannot be offered by concrete and wood. It is necessary to weigh the pros and cons of different materials before installing one on a waterfront property, as the wrong choice can lead to unnecessary replacement and maintenance costs.
MyDek’s dedication to quality and sustainability ensures that we use the best materials in our decking boards and that they are safety-compliant. Our compliance with the Qualicoat Seaside standard sets our aluminium decking boards apart from other decking systems, ensuring that clients looking for decking in coastal properties get the best.
The MyDek team is on hand to help you with any project requirements you may have. You can check out our range here or contact our team; we will be delighted to support you.
Read more:
From Powder-Coated Aluminium to Luxura, Here’s What You Need to Know About MyDek’s Decking Range