Contents
- What is a Deckboard?
- Types of Deckboard Materials
- Traditional Wood
- Pressure-Treated Wood
- PVC (Plastic) Deckboards
- Composite Deckboards
- Key Benefits of Composite Deckboards
- Why Choose Millboard Composite Deckboards?
- Unique Material Composition
- Authentic Wood Look and Feel
- Low Environmental Impact
- Choosing the Right Deckboard for Your Project
- Millboard Decking Collections: Enhanced Grain, Weathered Oak, and More
- How to Install and Maintain Millboard Deckboards
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Order Samples and Contact Information
What is a Deckboard?
Deckboards are the primary components that form the surface of a deck. They provide a functional yet aesthetic platform for outdoor activities and come in a range of materials, designs, and finishes to suit different needs. Whether creating a cosy outdoor nook or a full-scale entertainment area, deckboards are crucial in defining the character and usability of the space. Traditionally, wood has been the go-to material, but advancements in technology have introduced more durable, low-maintenance options like composite and PVC deckboards.
Types of Deckboard Materials
Each deckboard material brings unique qualities, durability, and maintenance requirements. Here’s an overview of the most common materials:
Traditional Wood
Wood deckboards offer a classic, natural look. Popular wood choices include cedar and redwood, which are naturally resistant to rot. However, wood requires regular maintenance like staining and sealing to prevent moisture absorption, rot, and insect damage.
Pressure-Treated Wood
Pressure-treated wood is treated with preservatives to resist rot, decay, and termites. It’s a more affordable option than traditional wood and lasts longer, but it can still warp or split over time. Regular upkeep is necessary to maintain its appearance and functionality.
PVC (Plastic) Deckboards
PVC deckboards are made entirely from plastic, making them resistant to moisture, insects, and rot. They’re ideal for low-maintenance, durable decking but lack the authentic wood look, making them less suitable for those seeking a natural aesthetic.
Composite Deckboards
Composite deckboards are a blend of wood fibres and polymers, offering the look of wood with the durability of plastic. They require less maintenance than wood, won’t splinter, and are resistant to rot and pests. Composite deckboards, especially Millboard, are designed to emulate the texture and appearance of real wood without its drawbacks.
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Key Benefits of Composite Deckboards
Composite deckboards offer several advantages over traditional materials:
- Low Maintenance: Unlike wood, composite decking doesn’t require regular staining or sealing, making it a more convenient choice.
- Durability: Composite boards are resistant to rot, decay, and insects, offering a longer lifespan than natural wood.
- Slip Resistance: Millboard’s unique Lastane® surface provides a high level of slip resistance, even when wet, making it safer for outdoor use.
- Eco-Friendly: Many composite deckboards incorporate recycled materials, contributing to a more sustainable choice for environmentally conscious homeowners.
Why Choose Millboard Composite Deckboards?
Millboard stands out in the world of composite decking due to its unique composition and focus on aesthetics and sustainability.
Unique Material Composition
Millboard deckboards are crafted from a polyurethane resin core reinforced with minerals, eliminating any risk of rot, warping, or insect damage. Unlike traditional composites, Millboard doesn’t contain wood fibres, enhancing its durability and making it lighter. The Lastane® surface layer offers protection against scratches and stains, maintaining its appearance over time.
Authentic Wood Look and Feel
Millboard is renowned for its realistic wood appearance. Hand-moulded from real oak, Millboard boards have a detailed wood grain and natural tones. Every piece is hand-painted, ensuring each board has unique, authentic wood features.
Low Environmental Impact
Millboard is committed to sustainability. The company’s use of biopolymers and renewable materials reduces its environmental footprint, and its production processes aim to minimise waste. Millboard’s long-lasting products are designed to lower the need for replacement, further reducing its ecological impact.
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Choosing the Right Deckboard for Your Project
When selecting deckboards, consider the following:
- Usage: High-traffic areas or commercial settings might benefit from slip-resistant options like Millboard’s Lasta-Grip®.
- Climate: Composite and PVC boards are more suitable for wet climates, as they won’t absorb moisture.
- Aesthetic: For those seeking a natural look, Millboard’s Enhanced Grain and Weathered Oak collections replicate the appearance of real wood.
- Maintenance Level: If you prefer low maintenance, composite and PVC boards are ideal compared to wood.
Millboard Decking Collections: Enhanced Grain, Weathered Oak, and More
Millboard offers several decking collections to suit different tastes:
- Enhanced Grain: This collection mimics the subtle grain of smooth timber and is available in various colours, such as Brushed Basalt and Coppered Oak. The Enhanced Grain collection provides a sleek, refined look ideal for modern outdoor spaces.
- Weathered Oak: For those who prefer a rustic aesthetic, the Weathered Oak collection is moulded from century-old oak boards, offering an authentic, aged appearance.
- Lasta-Grip®: This collection combines the wood look with an added slip-resistant texture, making it suitable for commercial and high-traffic areas where safety is a concern.
Each collection is available in different colours and sizes, allowing you to customise your deck to match your vision perfectly.
How to Install and Maintain Millboard Deckboards
Millboard deckboards are designed for easy installation and minimal upkeep.
Installation Tips
- Preparation: Lay out the boards before installation to ensure an ideal mix of grain patterns. Millboard should be stored flat and handled carefully to avoid damage.
- Subframe Choice: Millboard can be installed on Plas-Pro® (recycled plastic), DuoSpan® (aluminium), or treated timber subframes. Each option provides a stable base for long-lasting installations.
- Fastening: Millboard’s Durafix® fixings sit below the surface, creating a clean, seamless finish without pre-drilling.
Maintenance Tips
While Millboard is low-maintenance, occasional cleaning will keep it looking its best. Here are some general tips:
- Regular Cleaning: Brush away dirt with soapy water and a soft brush. For tough stains, a specialised cleaner can be used.
- Avoid Pressure Washing: High-pressure washing may expose screw holes. If necessary, keep the washer head at least 300mm from the surface and use a fan tip.
Frequently Asked Questions
How does Millboard compare to traditional wood decking?
Unlike wood, Millboard is resistant to rot, warping, and insect damage. It doesn’t require staining or sealing, making it much easier to maintain. It also offers a highly realistic wood look without the upkeep associated with traditional timber.
Can Millboard decking be used in coastal or high-humidity areas?
Yes, Millboard decking is well-suited to coastal and humid environments. Its non-porous surface and unique polyurethane core prevent water absorption, reducing the risk of swelling, rot, or algae growth, which are common with timber in these areas.
Does Millboard decking get slippery when wet?
Millboard features a slip-resistant Lastane® surface that remains grippy even when wet, making it a safe choice for poolsides, docks, and high-traffic outdoor areas. The Lasta-Grip® range offers an even higher slip resistance for areas requiring added safety.
Can Millboard decking be used in direct sunlight?
Yes, Millboard decking is designed with integrated UV stabilisers that minimise fading over time, even when exposed to direct sunlight. This feature helps maintain its vibrant colours and natural look for years.
What tools are required to install Millboard decking?
Standard carpentry tools such as a mitre saw, power drill, and spirit level are sufficient for installation. Millboard also offers Durafix® screws that don’t require pre-drilling, making the installation process straightforward.
Is Millboard eco-friendly?
Millboard is committed to sustainability, incorporating renewable materials and biopolymers into its products. Additionally, the company has set goals for reducing environmental impact and waste as part of its sustainability roadmap.
Can I install Millboard decking over an existing deck?
Yes, Millboard can be installed over an existing subframe if it’s structurally sound. For best results, it’s recommended to use Millboard-compatible subframes, such as Plas-Pro® or DuoSpan®, to ensure stability and durability.
Do Millboard deckboards need gaps between them?
Yes, Millboard recommends a 4mm gap between the sides of the boards to allow for expansion, with a 10mm gap between the boards and any adjacent structures to prevent any interference.
What subframe options are available for Millboard decking?
Millboard decking can be installed on Plas-Pro® (recycled plastic), DuoSpan® (aluminium), or treated timber subframes. Each option has its own benefits in terms of durability and environmental impact.
Are there different Millboard collections for various aesthetics?
Yes, Millboard offers multiple collections, including Enhanced Grain for a sleek, refined timber look, Weathered Oak for a rustic, aged appearance, and Lasta-Grip® for high-slip-resistance areas. Each collection is available in a range of colours and sizes.
Is there any special maintenance required for Millboard decking in winter?
Millboard is designed for all seasons and requires minimal maintenance. In winter, simply clear off any snow or ice using a plastic shovel to avoid scratching the surface. Millboard’s non-porous surface resists water absorption, which minimises ice build-up.
Can I paint or stain my Millboard decking?
No, Millboard decking comes with a durable Lastane® surface and a fade-resistant finish that doesn’t require painting or staining. The colour and finish are built to withstand the elements without additional treatments.
How does Millboard handle heavy furniture and foot traffic?
Millboard’s robust construction and durable Lastane® surface make it highly resistant to scratches and impacts from furniture and foot traffic, keeping your deck looking pristine for years. However, avoid dragging sharp objects directly across the boards.
Are Millboard deckboards fire-resistant?
Millboard decking offers a higher level of fire resistance than wood and some other composites. For projects with specific fire-rating requirements, refer to Millboard’s fire-rating documentation or consult with a Millboard representative.
Can I use a pressure washer on Millboard decking?
Yes, but with caution. When pressure washing, keep the nozzle 300mm away from the surface and use a 40- to 60-degree fan tip at a PSI no greater than 2,000. Avoid concentrated contact to prevent damage to the Lastane® layer.
Is Millboard decking covered by a warranty?
Yes, Millboard offers a warranty covering material defects. However, improper installation or failure to follow recommended guidelines may void the warranty, so be sure to review Millboard’s installation instructions carefully.
Can I order custom colours for Millboard decking?
Millboard is available in a variety of standard colours inspired by natural timber tones. Custom colours are not typically available, but the diverse range should offer a suitable match for most design preferences.
Where can I view Millboard decking in person?
Millboard has showrooms and certified distributors worldwide. You can use the “Find an Installer” feature on Millboard’s website or contact customer service to find a showroom near you.
