Decking is often specified for marinas, moorings, piers and jetties, all of which are typically wet environments where timber can be slippery. Therefore specifying for these areas must take into account the high risk, with antislip performance and safety being key considerations for designers.

What material is best for decking in marine environments? The different materials that can be used for decking for marinas and moorings all have advantages and disadvantages. For example, composites or polyethylene can be lower in cost but react more to changes of temperature and exposure to water than timber, whereas fibreglass decking and resin-bonded panels offer good slip resistance. In addition, metal decks can work well in heavy-duty or commercial applications. Out of all of the options available however, timber decking offers an aesthetic appeal and provides sustainability benefits that can’t be matched.

A popular and durable choice for timber decking is a high-quality, slow grown Northern European Redwood, when correctly pressure-treated for its use. When pressure-treated to Use Class 3 or 4, deck boards perform well as a structural material in river or marine applications.

Greenford’s, who deliver civil engineering and landscaping solutions for waterway projects, have used JB Anti-Slip Plus® deck boards on a number of projects for marinas or inland waterways. Grove Lock Marina in Leighton Buzzard, Bedfordshire was one of the first projects on which the Oxfordshire-based company used JB Antislip Plus® deck boards, as part of its refurbishment. After the product proved its performance in terms of slip resistance and low maintenance, Greenford subsequently installing the same specification at Kings Orchard Marina near Lichfield.

Bob Hutton of Greenford Ltd said:"We mainly use slip-resistant decking for pontoons and jetties." “It weathers nicely, blending into the natural landscape. It’s aesthetically pleasing, and the anti-slip inserts complement the deck both visually and in performance".