When considering decking options, architects often seek a balance between aesthetics, durability, and sustainability. Millboard decking delivers on all fronts, providing the appearance of natural wood combined with the durability and environmental benefits of a unique wood-free material. With a non-porous surface and high slip resistance, Millboard is an ideal solution for outdoor decking that looks stunning and performs exceptionally over time. This guide delves into Millboard’s construction, installation requirements, environmental advantages, maintenance ease, and practical recommendations to assist architects in making an informed choice.
Natural-Looking, Innovative Material
Millboard’s visual appeal is achieved through meticulous craftsmanship. Unlike standard composite decking, which often looks synthetic, Millboard captures the natural grain and texture of real timber. This realistic wood-effect is achieved without the use of wood fibres, meaning that Millboard retains its appearance without the drawbacks of organic decay. With options such as the Enhanced Grain and Weathered Oak collections, architects can select from a wide range of finishes and colours to suit any aesthetic preference. See the complete Millboard range here.
Key Material Properties and Components
Millboard decking comprises Resin Mineral Composite (RMC), which combines polyurethane resin with mineral stone flour and glass fibres for remarkable strength. The surface is coated with Lastane®, a UV-stable elastomer layer that enhances durability and slip resistance while protecting against scratches and stains. This innovative composition makes Millboard resilient in high-traffic areas and well-suited to both residential and commercial applications.
- UV Stability: The Lastane surface layer prevents discolouration, maintaining Millboard’s vibrant colours even under prolonged sun exposure.
- Anti-Slip Surface: The textured Lastane layer provides slip resistance, crucial for outdoor spaces where safety is a priority. Learn more about slip resistance standards from the HSE.
- Inorganic Composition: Free from wood fibres, Millboard is resistant to algae and fungal growth, a common issue in traditional wood decking that requires significant maintenance.
Subframe and Structural Support Options
The subframe beneath any decking is critical for longevity and stability. Millboard offers two main subframe solutions designed to complement its decking products: Plas-Pro® and DuoSpan®.
- Plas-Pro® Subframe System: Plas-Pro is made from 100% recycled plastic and is entirely impervious to water. It is particularly suitable for wet or damp environments such as poolside installations, roof terraces, and coastal areas. This robust subframe will not rot, warp, or split, providing a reliable and low-maintenance support system.
- DuoSpan® Subframe System: DuoSpan combines aluminium strength with recycled plastic’s flexibility, allowing for design versatility in curved and multi-level applications. DuoSpan is suitable for complex installations where innovative decking layouts are desired, making it ideal for architects aiming to create distinctive outdoor spaces.
For further guidance on choosing the right subframe, visit the Millboard Subframe Guide.
Installation Tips for Optimal Performance
Proper installation is essential to ensure Millboard’s durability and aesthetics. Here are some important considerations:
- Joist Spacing: For residential applications, joists should be spaced at 400mm centres, while commercial projects require 300mm centres to handle higher foot traffic and load requirements. Installing boards at a 45° angle necessitates tighter joist spacing (300mm for residential, 240mm for commercial) to prevent warping and ensure stability.
- Fixings: Millboard recommends using Durafix® screws to secure the decking. Durafix screws create a hidden 'Lost Head' effect, ensuring a clean look without visible fixings. These screws prevent splitting, even in edge fixings, and maintain the deck’s seamless appearance.
- Gapping: Leave a 4mm gap between boards, with a 1mm gap at butt joints to accommodate minimal expansion and contraction. Around the perimeter and adjacent structures, a 10mm gap is recommended to facilitate proper drainage and airflow, preventing moisture build-up and prolonging the deck's life.
Environmental Benefits of Millboard
Millboard decking addresses environmental concerns head-on by minimising resource use, emissions, and waste associated with timber decking.
- Long-Lasting Composition: Unlike wood, which requires regular maintenance and replacement, Millboard’s RMC composition ensures a lifespan of 35-40 years. Its resistance to environmental wear means significantly less resource consumption over time, reducing the environmental impact associated with frequent decking replacement.
- Carbon-Neutral Manufacturing: Millboard’s manufacturing process is energy-efficient, consuming 2-6 Mj/Kg compared to the 6-29 Mj/Kg energy expenditure typical in thermoplastic production. This low energy use contributes to reduced emissions and makes Millboard an eco-conscious choice for sustainable building.
- Reduced Environmental Impact of Maintenance: Millboard’s non-porous surface resists dirt, moss, and algae growth, eliminating the need for chemical treatments, staining, and varnishing. Routine cleaning with soapy water is generally sufficient, which is both environmentally friendly and cost-effective.
For further details on Millboard’s environmental initiatives, refer to the Sustainability Roadmap.
Maintenance and Care
Millboard is designed for minimal maintenance, which is a key selling point for architects and clients alike. Here are a few maintenance tips to keep Millboard decking looking its best:
- Cleaning: Millboard requires only occasional cleaning with warm, soapy water to remove dirt and debris. Avoid using power washers on high settings, as low power is sufficient to refresh the surface.
- UV Resistance: The Lastane layer is UV-stable, protecting the decking’s colour from fading, even in high-sunlight areas.
- Resistant to Saltwater: Ideal for coastal applications, Millboard decking does not degrade in saltwater environments, making it a suitable choice for seafront installations, pools, and marinas.
For additional cleaning advice and product care, view the Millboard Installation and Care Guide.
Design Versatility: Curved Decking and Flexible Edging
Millboard’s flexibility extends beyond aesthetics; it allows architects to incorporate curves, rounded edges, and unique layouts into decking designs. Millboard’s flexible edging profiles can be shaped to follow curved deck designs, adding elegance and functional resilience. For architects designing outdoor areas with dynamic shapes, these features provide a perfect way to blend aesthetics with practical functionality.
Load-Bearing and Structural Applications
Although Millboard decking is not suited for load-bearing structures independently, it can be installed over a strong structural subframe made from timber or Plas-Pro. This ensures that while Millboard decking remains an aesthetic surface layer, it is supported by a structurally sound frame.
Cost Comparison with Traditional Timber
While Millboard’s initial cost may be higher than softwood decking, it is comparable to high-quality hardwood. When considering the lifecycle costs, Millboard proves to be more cost-effective due to its minimal maintenance requirements, extended lifespan, and superior resilience to environmental wear. Softwood decking requires regular staining, sealing, and eventual replacement, whereas Millboard’s low-maintenance properties mean a significant reduction in upkeep and repair costs.
Choosing the Right Decking Solution for Your Project
Millboard provides a range of products to suit different project needs, including the Enhanced Grain collection for a classic wood appearance, the Weathered Oak range for an aged timber aesthetic, and the high-slip-resistance Lasta-Grip® boards for areas with a focus on safety.
For architects looking to create sustainable, attractive, and long-lasting outdoor spaces, Millboard offers a solution that combines practicality and elegance. From its eco-friendly production to its durable materials and innovative subframe systems, Millboard decking sets a new standard in architectural decking solutions.
By following this comprehensive guide, architects can explore the full potential of Millboard decking in their projects. With practical installation insights, maintenance guidance, and sustainability benefits, Millboard proves to be an excellent choice for contemporary outdoor spaces that require both form and function. Discover more about Millboard’s collections and find an installer in your area to bring your design to life.
FAQs for Millboard Decking
What makes Millboard different from traditional wood and composite decking?
Millboard decking combines the natural appearance of timber with the durability of a unique Resin Mineral Composite (RMC). Unlike traditional wood or composites, it contains no wood fibres or plastics, which prevents issues like warping, splitting, and algae growth, offering long-lasting beauty and minimal maintenance.
Can Millboard decking be used in high-moisture environments, such as near pools or coastal areas?
Yes, Millboard decking is highly suited to damp and saline environments. Its non-porous composition makes it resistant to moisture damage, rot, and saltwater, making it ideal for coastal properties, poolsides, and other high-humidity locations.
How does Millboard decking compare to wood in terms of maintenance?
Unlike wood, which requires regular staining, sealing, or treatment, Millboard is virtually maintenance-free. Its non-porous surface resists dirt and algae, requiring only occasional cleaning with soapy water, saving time and long-term maintenance costs.
What are the recommended subframe options for Millboard decking installations?
Millboard recommends either the Plas-Pro® recycled plastic subframe or the DuoSpan® aluminium and recycled plastic subframe for optimal support. Plas-Pro is ideal for high-moisture areas, while DuoSpan offers greater flexibility for unique or curved designs.
How does Millboard’s durability compare to traditional timber decking?
Millboard decking has a lifespan of 35-40 years, which is more than double the 10-15 years typical for softwood decking. Its RMC core and UV-stable Lastane surface ensure long-term performance and resilience against weathering and wear.
Can Millboard decking be installed on a flat roof?
Yes, Millboard decking can be installed on flat roofs. It is best supported by the DuoLift® pedestal system, which raises the decking above any standing water and prevents load concentration on the membrane, prolonging the roof’s life.
What are the environmental benefits of using Millboard?
Millboard decking is crafted from recycled biopolymers, emits low carbon during production, and has a longer lifespan than timber, reducing the need for replacements. Its durable surface eliminates the need for harmful paints and sealers, making it an eco-conscious choice.
How slip-resistant is Millboard decking?
Millboard is designed with a textured Lastane surface layer, providing excellent slip resistance. For high-traffic or safety-focused areas, the Lasta-Grip® range offers even greater slip resistance, making it suitable for both residential and commercial applications.
Can Millboard be used for structural or load-bearing applications?
Millboard decking itself is not suitable for structural applications; however, it can be mounted on a load-bearing subframe, such as Plas-Pro or DuoSpan, which provides the necessary structural support for safe, stable installations.
Is Millboard affected by fading or UV exposure over time?
Millboard’s Lastane surface is UV-stabilised, offering high resistance to fading even with prolonged sun exposure. This ensures that the decking retains its vibrant colour and aesthetic appeal for many years without frequent maintenance.
