If you’re a specifier looking for decking that looks like timber but that needs to achieve a Class A fire rating, either for a high-rise building’s balcony or terrace, then you might be struggling for choice.

Building regulations in the UK mandate that only non-combustible materials are to be used on residential buildings above 18m. As this includes balconies and other specified attachments, external flooring must therefore achieve a fire rating for Class A1 or A2.

A1 materials are completely non-combustible whereas A2 materials have limited combustibility. Both types are considered non-combustible and are permitted on external applications on buildings of any height.

Although you might not be able to specify timber or composite decking, there is now another option available to you other than aluminium decking.

Wood-Look Class A Decking

We all know that timber decking by its very nature is combustible and therefore could never achieve an A-rating. Some treated timber decking can be B-rated, but there are question marks as to the longevity of the fire resistance due to natural weathering.

This means that if you want to achieve a timber look with maximum fire safety, you need to look at manufactured products.

Wood Effect Aluminium Decking

First, you can consider aluminium decking which is printed with a timber-effect pattern. This means you can achieve a woodgrain look with the addition of it being a sustainable and durable external flooring solution.

There are drawbacks to this decking choice however, for example the slip resistance may not be good enough for horizontal applications. Due to this, wood-look aluminium decking may work better as cladding as it is lightweight and uniform.

Timber Effect Porcelain Tiles

Secondly, timber-effect 20mm porcelain tiles can be a really good option. Porcelain offers many benefits including being well suited to external flooring due to its non-porous and stain-resistant capabilities.

However, you are unlikely to find porcelain tiles in classic deckboard dimensions, so you might achieve a timber pattern but it won’t really look or feel like classic decking.

Mineral Composites

The final option for wood-look decking are mineral composites. This provides an authentic look and feel of wood whilst still meeting building regulations by being non-combustible.

Zerodeck

The latest in this technology is our new range ZERODECK.

Solving the issues of limited timber decking alternatives, ZERODECK gives you and your clients the desired finish in all settings while also ensuring the highest levels of fire safety.

Tested to BS EN 13501-1:2020, ZERODECK can be installed like aluminium or composite decking using a clip system or can be surface mounted like traditional timber and is compatible for use with both rail-based and pedestal systems for comprehensive A-rated fire safety.

There is no decking board quite like it on the market. Smooth and safe underfoot, it provides the feel of stone to give that added classy touch to an external terrace or balcony. However, this incredible characteristic is complemented through the look and slip resistance of hardwood that it delivers.

As part of our complete and comprehensive product offerings of Class A-rated sub-frame systems, ZERODECK is fully compatible with our AR-SYSTEM and adjustable pedestals.

Low maintenance and with full colour saturation allowing exposed end cuts, the ZERODECK delivers all the benefits of wood decking without any of the fire-risks – combining the natural beauty of timber with the high performance and fire-safety of porcelain.

Conclusion: Choose Alfresco for your Class A Decking

Whether you want a Class A 100% aluminium decking or aluminium paving system, you are covered with Alfresco Floors.

The team at Alfresco Floors have unrivalled experience in exterior flooring. They focus their efforts exclusively on the products and solutions that they know offer the best combination of not only fire safety but price, prestige, and practicality.

To find out more about Alfresco Floors products, call them on 020 8977 0904