Why You Should Consider Non-slip Decking

Spring is the time of year when many people start thinking about improving their gardens. Decking is often one of the most popular garden improvement choices because it makes a space for relaxing, dining or entertaining. However, with the amount of rain we get here in the UK, it's important to think about safety as well as appearance. Traditional timber decking can become slippery in wet conditions, which is why more homeowners are choosing non-slip decking.

Why Decking Becomes Slippery

Timber decking looks great in a garden, but like any outdoor surface, it can become slippery in certain conditions, and the main cause is rain. When timber boards get wet, moisture reduces the grip between the decking and your shoes. Because we experience wet weather all throughout the year, this can quickly turn a deck into a potential slip hazard. Other things can make the problem worse as moss, algae, dirt and fallen leaves can all build up on decking boards. When these combine with moisture, the surface becomes even more slippery and even decking with grooves can still become slippery when wet. The type of timber or the board profile doesn't entirely remove the risk.

What Is Non-Slip Decking?

Non-slip decking is made to improve grip and make the surface safer to walk on in all weather conditions. Most anti-slip decking boards include special inserts that run along the length of the board. These inserts are made from a mixture of resin and aggregate, which creates a textured strip that provides extra grip underfoot. The strips sit slightly above the timber surface and stay in place for the life of the board. This means the deck still looks like natural timber but has much better slip resistance.

The Benefits of Non-Slip Decking

The biggest advantage of non-slip decking is safety. Slipping on a wet deck can lead to injuries, especially if the deck has steps or raised areas. Installing non-slip boards can help reduce the risk of accidents and give you more confidence using your outdoor space. It's especially useful if:

• Children regularly play in the garden

• You entertain guests outside

• The decking is used as a walkway or entrance

• Elderly family members use the space

It also means you can enjoy your garden more often. Instead of avoiding your deck after it's been raining, you can still use the space throughout the seasons.

A Popular Choice for Homes and Public Spaces

Anti-slip decking isn't just used in residential gardens. It's also used in commercial and public areas where safety is important. You'll often see it used in places like holiday parks, restaurants and pub gardens, schools and play areas, marinas and waterfront walkways and visitor attractions. These types of locations need surfaces that stay safe even when the weather changes, which is why anti-slip decking is becoming more common.

Non-Slip Decking Available at Mill Timber Direct

At Mill Timber Direct, we have high-quality non-slip decking options available that combine safety with the natural look of timber. One example is our Premier 125 non-slip decking, which is made from high-quality Northern European redwood pine. The boards are pressure treated for durability and include anti-slip inserts that help provide grip in wet conditions. Some key features include:

• Average PTV slip rating of around 80, which means an extremely low risk of slipping

• 15-20 year expected service life

• 15-year non-slip performance warranty

• Low maintenance compared with standard decking

• Made from PEFC certified timber sourced from responsibly managed forests

• Manufactured in the UK

These boards are suitable for a wide range of projects, including residential gardens, walkways, steps and outdoor seating areas. Remember to also order screws, timber frames and decking accessories to make the installation process easier.

Easy to Maintain

Another reason people choose non-slip decking is that it's easy to look after. Like all decking, it should be kept clean to prevent moss or debris building up. Usually, a sweep up with a stiff brush and the occasional pressure wash is enough to keep the surface looking good.

A Great Way to Enjoy Your Garden

Decking has been popular in the UK since the 1990s, when garden makeover shows helped turn outdoor spaces into extensions of the home. Today, many people use their gardens for entertaining, relaxing or spending time with family. To get the most out of your deck, it needs to be safe to use in different weather conditions, so if you're planning a new deck this year, non-slip boards could be one of the best ways to make your garden attractive and practical.