Is Composite Decking Slip Resistant

Like most surfaces, composite decking can become slippery, especially when wet. That said, good-quality composite decking boards that are produced to high standards are specifically developed with anti-slip properties built-in (not slip-proof).

Nevertheless, care should always be taken with any wet surface underfoot. Nobody wants to slip on their decking and injure themselves. To prevent this, we will discuss how you can minimise the slipperiness of your decking. Additionally, we will be covering the reasons why decking becomes slippery in the first place in order to help prevent this and how the generation of a board impacts the slip resistance.

 

 

Reasons Why Your Composite Decking Might Be Slippery

 

Knowing the reasons why your decking is continuously getting slippery, may help you to prevent any injuries. If you know why decking becomes slippery, you can take countermeasures to make it safer for you and your family. Here are the top reasons why composite decking becomes slippery over time.

Non-anti-slip composite decking

If your composite decking is quite old, the chances are that it gets more slippery than the newer generations of composite. Older generations of composite decking tend to absorb moisture faster, leading to the development of moulds and moss, which are slippery.

Generations Of Composite Boards

The slip resistance of your composite decking boards is dependent on the generation of the board.

Fall-proof Tips to Keep Your Decking Slip Resistance and Safe

Regular cleaning and maintenance

Fortunately, there are multiple ways you can prevent your decking from becoming slippery. One way to keep your decking slip-resistant is to clean it regularly. Keep your composite decking clean by removing fallen leaves, pollen, dirt, and debris as soon as possible.

You can do this by sweeping your decking with a brush. We recommend that everybody does this as a minimum of once a month to maintain your decking’s appearance and to ensure it is safe.

 

 

Keep your composite decking dry

Although composite decking does not absorb moisture, surface water can still be a breeding ground for mould and algae. Moisture can accelerate mould growth. Therefore, we advise you gently sweep any surface water off your decking immediately.

If you have ice or snow accumulating on your deck, make sure to use non-abrasive removal methods. The use of pergolas and covers is obviously a great way to keep your decking out of the rain and therefore no risk of slipping all year round.

 

 

Ensure proper drainage of the decking

If installed correctly, composite decking should allow for proper drainage of rainfall. Make sure to keep the spaces between the decking boards clean to allow water to flow to the ground easily. This will prevent any water from pooling on your decking.

Water on the surface of your decking will promote the growth of mould, which will result in your decking becoming more slippery and be aesthetically unappealing.

 

 

Consider choosing the right material such as using grooved/textured decking boards

If you have plans to build a new deck or replace your old decking, consider purchasing grooved or textured composite decking boards. Embossed and grooved composite decking boards offer better friction, helping to improve slip resistance.

Choosing your decking material

First on the list is plastic decking, which includes PVC and polyethene. This is the most durable and lightweight decking material. PVC decking is very resistant to weather damage and not prone warping and staining. But what about slipping?

Unfortunately, most plastic decking can be slippery, especially when wet. Most of these materials have a smooth coating, making them prone to accidents. The good thing about plastic is they’re not susceptible to mould and fungi. This means any slips won’t likely be down to this problem with plastic decking. But other than that, plastic decking is generally the most slippery.

Another decking option is wood. It’s the most used material type due to its affordable price and appearance and the top choice for home and business owners. However, when it comes to maintenance, it’s the most difficult to maintain. Why does it matter?

When it comes to slipping, wood is among the most reliable garden decking options, but only if it’s maintained properly. Why? Wood is naturally slip resistant, especially high-quality wood material. However, when algae and mould start to grow, it can make the deck slippery. The worst thing about wood is that among all the types of decking, they are the most susceptible mould, fungi and algae. This means no matter how high quality the wood is, it will become slippery when not given care and attention.

Composite decking is one of the most popular alternatives for decking materials other than wood boards. It’s the best of both worlds, having the durability of plastic and the aesthetics of wood. 

Since composites are part-plastic, they inherit some of the smoothness of plastic. They are slippery but to a lesser degree, making them slightly smoother than wood. However, composites have an advantage over wood. Like PVC and plastic decking, composites are also resistant to moulds and fungi. Any smoothness caused by these factors is not a problem by using composite decking materials. However, you still need to clean and maintain composites.

Conclusion

In conclusion, composite decking will become slippery, especially when it is wet. Make sure to keep your composite decking clean to reduce slipping. Do a thorough deep clean of your decking at least twice a year. Although it is a low-maintenance type of decking, it still requires some maintenance. Ensure the correct installation of your composite decking has been performed to the manufacturer’s guidelines so that there is no water pooling. Also, pay close attention to drainage and keep the decking area dry. Keep your decking safe and slip resistant with these tips from the guide above your decking will be as safe as possible.