Decking Help & Advice

You can use our easy-to-use online decking calculator to work it all out. Just enter the dimensions of the area you plan to deck, and the calculator will estimate how many Signature boards, fixings, and accessories you'll need for your project.

Due to the porous nature of Signature composite decking, prolonged contact with plant pots may cause staining. We recommend placing a mat underneath any pots to prevent this. This precaution should also be taken for other garden furniture.

Our composite boards may appear different in wet and dry weather. Changes in moisture levels can make colour differences in the boards more noticeable.

It is not a requirement, but it is highly recommended to use our composite decking locking clips with Signature or ProDeck installations for extra hold and stability. You can explore this step fully within our decking installation guides.

Yes, slight variations in shade can occur with Signature composite boards. They are designed to replicate the natural look of timber, and because the pigments used during manufacturing interact differently with the recycled wood fibres in each board, some tonal variation is expected. This can also be seen in matching trims, as they share the same composite makeup.

To help maintain colour consistency across your project, we strongly recommend ordering all decking boards at the same time. This reduces the likelihood of noticeable shade differences between batches. In larger orders, some variation may still occur due to normal manufacturing tolerances.

If you opt for one of our lighter coloured boards, your Signature decking is more likely to show signs of dirt. To avoid this, you may need to clean your decking on a more regular basis than if you were to choose a darker colour, such as charcoal.

Signature composite decking requires time to acclimatise to outdoor environments. During the stabilisation period of around six months, sections of your decking that are not exposed to weathering, such as areas under furniture, will not weather at the same rate as the rest of your decking. If you expose these areas to the natural elements, they will gradually even out in colour as the previous boards have.

Our Signature composite boards are designed to replicate the natural appearance of timber while eliminating the need for regular maintenance. The pigments used in the manufacturing process may react differently with the timber content in each board, resulting in variations in shade. This is particularly noticeable between the 2.4m and 4m boards. The same applies to our decking trims, as they are made using the same composition.

Watermarks are a common occurrence during the weathering process of composite products. As the tannins in the timber content of the boards come out, watermarks may appear. This is a temporary condition, and the marks will fade naturally as the decking stabilises over time.

Composite boards can vary by up to ±5mm due to the manufacturing process and the natural materials used (such as recycled wood fibres). This small variance is normal and won’t affect the finished result if installed as per our guidelines.

Our Signature composite boards consist of a mix of recycled hardwood fibres and recycled plastic. Due to the natural properties of timber, the boards expand and contract with temperature changes. Leaving appropriate expansion gaps between boards allows for this movement, reducing the risk of warping or splitting caused by restricted space. Adequate board spacing also facilitates cross ventilation, ensuring the longevity and stability of your decking.

While both ProDeck and Signature composite decking boards feature a durable composite core, they are not the same. ProDeck benefits from a polymer-capped outer shell, which offers enhanced protection against staining, fading, and moisture ingress. This makes it an excellent choice for low-maintenance outdoor spaces that demand extra durability and long-lasting colour.

Absolutely! Fascia boards are designed to complement the entire ProRange, including ProDeck and ProClad products. They can also be paired with ProDeck corner trims for a cohesive and professional finish.

We recommend using 9 T-Clips for a 2.4m ProDeck composite decking board and 15 T-clips for a 4m board.

Absolutely. The clip includes an underside extension specifically designed to give better support beneath bullnose decking edges. Please refer to our ProDeck composite decking installation guide for more information.

No. Due to our ProDeck composite decking boards having a hollow core, they can only be installed using these T-clips to avoid damaging the boards.

Boards cannot be cut lengthway. When installing ProDeck bullnose boards, two rows of clips will need to be secured underneath. Please read our installation guide for more details.

Bullnose boards have a solid core and a rounded front edge, engineered for edging applications where added strength and a neat, finished look are required.

Yes. They feature the same durable, polymer-capped woodgrain shell for consistent appearance and performance across your decking project.

Yes, bullnose boards are available in all seven colours offered across both ranges: Onyx, Burnt Oak, Pewter, Platinum, Rosewood, Sandstone and Quartz.

Yes, for a more refined finish, ProDeck bullnose boards can be paired with capped composite fascia boards. This will allow you to easily conceal any exposed areas of the framework or create an attractive steps system.

They’re designed to create a neat, rounded edge – perfect for steps, borders, and finishing details of your decking.

It is not a requirement, but it is highly recommended to use our composite decking locking clips with Signature or ProDeck installations for extra hold and stability. You can explore this step fully within our decking installation guides.

No. ProDeck composite decking boards are manufactured with a hollow, circular honeycomb core rather than a solid one. This design offers excellent structural strength while significantly reducing the overall weight of each board. The result is a decking board that is not only durable and reliable underfoot but also easier to handle, transport, and install, ideal for both DIY users and professional installers alike.

Our ProDeck composite decking products are encased in a protective polymer outer shell. This polymer-capped surface increases its resistance to potential damage as well as fading due to UV exposure.

Composite boards can vary by up to ±5mm due to the manufacturing process and the natural materials used (such as recycled wood fibres). This small variance is normal and won’t affect the finished result if installed as per our guidelines.

Nordeck decking boards feature a tough ASA shell encasing a PVC core, making the boards highly resistant to scratches, stains, moisture and mould. Composite decking is resistant against rotting warping and insect damage, however, these types of boards are not recommended for use around water features or pools, due to the risk of water absorption and expansion and contraction. The lack of natural fibres that make Nordeck decking more resistant, make the boards a more expensive decking option.

Unlike timber or composite decking, Nordeck is 100% synthetic, and therefore offers superior resistance to moisture, stains, mould, scratches, warping, and fading. It also requires less maintenance and has a longer lifespan.

Each Nordeck board is 3.6m long and provides 0.7sqm of coverage. It is available in a single woodgrain design and comes in a choice of seven colours to suit various outdoor aesthetics.

Nordeck offers numerous benefits, including:

• Water, scratch and stain resistance
• Mould and fade resistance
• Entirely timber-free construction
• Increased strength for high footfall or heavy loads
• Very low maintenance requirements
• 20-year warranty

Absolutely. Thanks to its non-porous surface and low-absorption properties, Nordeck is ideal for wet environments, such as poolside decking, where timber or composite boards might be prone to damage.

Both options offer lower maintenance and are more resistant compared to traditional timber. However, Nordeck is more durable and completely water-resistant, while composite decking is more eco-friendly and cost-effective. Nordeck is best suited for luxury, long-term installations such as "forever homes."

Millboard^® decking is hand-moulded from real oak timber, giving each board a highly authentic woodgrain appearance. It features a unique, slip-resistant Lastane^® surface and allows for a ‘lost head’ screw finish, resulting in a clean, seamless look. This level of style and performance contributes to its premium price.

Millboard^® decking and cladding boards are made from a unique composite material. The core is formed from natural minerals blended with a polymer resin and reinforced with long fibres for added strength. Each board is finished with a durable, splinter-free Lastane^® surface layer, which is chemically bonded to the core for lasting performance.

At Cladco, our experienced sales team is here to help you choose the right Millboard^® products for your project, no matter the size or complexity. With high stock levels and a dedicated customer support team on hand, you can expect expert advice, quick turnaround times, and a smooth, stress-free ordering experience.

Millboard^® is a premium decking option that offers long-lasting durability, thanks to its wood-free, water-resistant core and tough Lastane® surface layer. Unlike composite boards, such as our Signature and ProDeck ranges, which are made from a wood–plastic blend, Millboard^® contains no natural timber fibres. This means it won’t swell or warp in damp conditions, and it holds its colour better than traditional composite boards. Each option has its own benefits, but Millboard^® is ideal for projects where maximum performance and minimal maintenance are a priority.

Millboard^® decking is designed for long-term performance and durability. Depending on how it’s installed, it comes with a warranty of either 10, 12, or 25 years. For full details on warranty terms and coverage, please refer to the Millboard^® website.

Millboard® decking experiences minimal expansion or contraction compared to traditional timber decking. Its wood-free composition is engineered to reduce thermal movement, meaning the boards remain stable even with changes in temperature and humidity.

Millboard Enhanced Grain decking boards are manufactured using a wood-free composition, which prevents the boards from getting as hot as traditional timber or other decking materials may. These decking boards feature UV stabilisers to resist the effects of sunlight.

Yes – a pressure washer can be used on Millboard® decking, but it should be done with care. We recommend using a unit with a maximum pressure of 2,000 PSI and a 40–60° fan tip. Keep the nozzle at least 300mm away from the surface to avoid damage while cleaning or rinsing.

Yes – Millboard® decking is supplied with a Limited Warranty for added peace of mind. The length of the warranty depends on how the boards are installed and can range from 10 to 25 years. For full details, please refer to the Millboard® warranty document or view our Terms and Conditions.

These decking boards are made from 100% recycled plastic, offering a durable, sustainable alternative to timber with no need for chemical treatments or preservatives.

Yes. These boards are impervious to water and ideal for use in coastal zones, wetlands, marinas, and other high-moisture environments. They won't rot, swell, or degrade like wood.

Recycled Plastic Decking can be cut and drilled with standard tools using an appropriate blade or disc (check with your tool supplier for advice). Boards must not be cut lengthways. Lift in pairs where needed and wear suitable PPE as identified in your installer’s risk assessment.

Please note: Always follow your site-specific risk assessment and safe system of work.

Each board typically requires around 24 fixings, with pilot holes drilled 3mm oversized to accommodate thermal movement.

Joists should be spaced between 300mm and 400mm apart. Fixings should be made at every joist on both edges of the board.

While composite boards are made of a mixture of plastics and hardwood fibres, our recycled plastic decking boards are made entirely from post-consumer, recycled plastics.

The lack of wood within the recycled plastic decking, means that they are more resistant to water and UV discolouration, which can affect variations of composite boards if they are subjected to prolonged exposure to these elements. Both our Signature and Prodeck composite decking is perfect for garden projects, our recycled plastic decking is especially suitable for wet and coastal areas.

The plastic used to create these decking boards comes directly from household and production waste, rather than crude oil or other primary raw materials. This approach means that no new plastic products are created and instead, consumer plastics are recycled to create a functional and environmentally-conscious decking board.

The grooved surface finish of these boards make them safer underfoot and minimises the risk of slipping. Independently tested under the British Pendulum Test, the surface of the decking achieved values of 69-86 in dry conditions and 49-68 in wet conditions. This result confirms that the decking boards have low-slip properties in all weather scenarios, and even when the boards are installed on a slope up to 5°.

No. Unlike timber, recycled plastic boards will not rot and require no surface treatments. With routine inspection and cleaning, they will provide long-term performance.

Yes. The surface must be load-bearing and frost-proof. On concrete, ensure there is a 2% slope (around 2cm per metre) for drainage. On grass or soil, excavate and build a compacted gravel bed with a weed-barrier membrane.

Because the boards are made from recycled plastic, slight colour variations and surface differences are natural from the start. These differences are part of the material’s character and don’t affect performance. The colour is consistent throughout the board, so unlike timber, there’s no surface treatment or coating that can wear away.

Recycled plastic decking is highly versatile. It is well suited to domestic gardens and terraces, as well as public spaces such as parks, marinas, and walkways. Its resistance to water and frost also makes it an excellent choice for areas that are regularly exposed to wet conditions.

Yes, the boards can be cut down to the required length using an electric saw with a fine-toothed blade. Cut ends can be chamfered or rounded off if desired for a smoother finish. However, the boards must not be cut lengthways, as this would compromise their strength and stability

Yes, recycled plastic decking can be cleaned with a jet washer. For best results, use a medium pressure setting and keep the nozzle at a sensible distance from the surface to avoid marking the boards. Regular cleaning with a mop, warm water, and mild household detergents is also effective for day-to-day upkeep.

Recycled plastic decking is designed to perform outdoors in all weather conditions. It is water-resistant and frost-resistant, meaning it won’t absorb moisture or be damaged by freezing temperatures. The boards do not split or warp, even after years of use, and are naturally resistant to rot and fungi. This makes them a durable, long-lasting choice compared with traditional timber decking.

Yes, to achieve the best possible match and keep fixings concealed, we recommend using Nordeck colour caps that correspond to the board colour. Use black Nordeck caps with black recycled plastic decking boards, cedar wood Nordeck caps with beige boards, and ash grey Nordeck caps with grey boards. As there is no suitable colour match for brown decking (the chestnut caps are not recommended), we suggest using alternative fixing methods instead.

Yes - bamboo decking is considered a highly sustainable choice. Our boards are made from fast-growing bamboo plants that require minimal maintenance and naturally regenerate after harvesting, as the roots remain intact.

Unlike traditional hardwoods, which can take decades to mature and are often linked to deforestation, bamboo regrows quickly and helps reduce environmental impact without compromising on strength or durability.

Our bamboo decking boards are a robust, durable and solid material that will last a considerable amount of time. The superior strength of our bamboo boards means you will benefit from a 10-year warranty, when the boards are installed with our fixing clips as per the installation guide.

Our bamboo decking features a rich, natural colour with a subtle woodgrain effect running throughout the board. The reversible design offers one smooth side and one grooved side, giving you a choice of finishes. For added slip resistance, we recommend installing with the grooved side facing up.

Cladco bamboo decking boards weigh around 9.58kg.

Bamboo is superior in strength compared to other wooden decking options and due to its quick reproduction and ease of planting, is a highly sustainable material source.

Due to the dense, hardwood nature of bamboo decking boards, we do not recommend screwing through the board. This may affect the resistant properties of the boards and will invalidate the supplier warranty. We advise only using specially-designed fixing clips.

Yes. bamboo decking can be painted or stained to match your design using an outdoor, water-based dye or paint.

Bamboo decking is more resilient against temperature changes than softwood spruce. Due to its dense properties, bamboo decking provides greater scratch resistance and durability.

Bamboo decking comes with a Class B fire rating, which provides very limited contribution to fire.

The carbonisation process used in the manufacturing of bamboo boards removes starches, sugars and proteins, removing fungi and protecting the boards from insects and eggs.

The carbonisation procedure and glue process significantly reduce any chance of bamboo boards from rotting, however, we recommend re-oiling every 6-12 months.

Yes, we provide bamboo decking fixing clips and starter clips, both specifically designed for bamboo boards. These ensure secure and precise installation and necessary screws.

Cladco bamboo decking boards provide a slip resistant surface, when installed with the grooved side up. In dry conditions only.

Bamboo decking is waterproof and benefits from rot and mildew resistance.

Our bamboo decking boards are made from lengths of bamboo plants, which are fast growing and need little maintenance to thrive. This is unlike other hardwood decking materials which are not easily regrown and lead to deforestation.

Aluminium decking is ideal for projects where specific building regulations apply, such as commercial spaces or high-rise installations that require enhanced fire safety and durability. Cladco’s aluminium decking boards carry an A2 fire rating and an S1 non-combustible classification, making them suitable for use in buildings over 18 metres in height.

Yes. Provided the underlying substructure is level and stable using our aluminium joists and suitable pedestal brackets, these decking boards can be installed upon a flat roof, and make a great solution to a long-lasting outdoor space with striking rooftop views.

When boards are laid perpendicular to their main walking path, due to the finely-grooved surface of the boards, aluminium decking can benefit from additional slip-resistant properties.

Cladco aluminium decking boards feature a positive drainage system that provides excellent water runoff when used on a terrace or balcony project. This is due to the slight sloping angle at which the decking should be installed upon. Please follow our easy installation guide to ensure your aluminium supporting system is correctly fitted to benefit from this.

Yes, Cladco recycled plastic joists are designed to be compatible with all our decking ranges, including Signature composite, ProDeck, Nordeck, Millboard®, bamboo, and timber. They provide a strong, long-lasting, and low-maintenance subframe option that will not rot, warp, or splinter. This makes them an ideal choice for creating a stable and durable base, regardless of which type of Cladco decking you choose.

Yes, they can be easily cut to size using conventional saws or woodworking tools, making them versatile for various decking projects.

They can be installed on various surfaces, including grass, concrete, and uneven terrain.

To use a weed mat effectively beneath your decking, follow these steps:

1. Prepare the ground

   Remove any existing plants, weeds, roots, stones, or debris. Level the soil so the mat can sit flat.

2. Lay the weed mat

   Roll out the weed control fabric across the prepared area. Cut it to size if needed. Ensure you overlap any joins so there are no gaps where weeds could grow through. You can secure the mat with ground pins to keep it in place.

3. Cover the weed mat

   Once laid, cover the membrane with your chosen material—such as gravel, chippings, bark, or stones. This protects the fabric from UV exposure and helps extend its lifespan.

4. Build your decking on top

   With the weed mat installed and covered, you can begin constructing the decking subframe. The mat will help keep the base area tidy and reduce long‑term maintenance.

We recommend using pilot holes for any screws. Some self-drilling screws may work without pilot holes, but effectiveness can vary depending on the brand.

Carpenter’s Mate and Timco screws work best in our experience. For installations involving long chains of profiles (e.g. joists in boardwalks), we recommend using coach bolts. Holes should be drilled 3mm oversized in these cases to allow for thermal expansion and contraction.

Recycled plastic joists have an expansion rate of ±1.5% (absolute maximum). As guidance:

• Allow a 20mm expansion gap on 2m boards when installed in cold temperatures.
• Reduce the gap by around 3mm for every 10°C increase in temperature (based on a 2m board).
• Always allow a minimum 5mm expansion gap in hot weather.

Please refer to our Fencing and Decking Installation Guide for full details on post and joist spacing, as it differs depending on structural joist type and application.

This depends on application. Further details can be found in our Ultra Quality Specification document. Please contact us for this.

There are no specific recommendations regarding noggins for recycled plastic joist installations.

No – our recycled plastic joists are manufactured entirely from recycled plastics, not virgin plastic.

Load-bearing capacity depends entirely on the substructure design, spanning distance and products used. For detailed performance figures, please refer to our Ultra material data sheet.

• Where possible, keep joists covered before installation.
• Pay close attention to storage temperatures: if profiles are kept in a hot environment for 24 hours, expansion gaps should be adjusted accordingly.
• Once installed, joists can be left exposed.

Mould or mildew can develop on any exterior surface due to airborne spores. If it appears on your decking or cladding, clean the affected area with warm soapy water or a suitable outdoor cleaner.

Good installation practices also help reduce the likelihood of future build‑up. Ensuring proper airflow and ventilation behind cladding, and maintaining the correct spacing between decking boards, allows moisture to escape and keeps surfaces drier.

Regular inspections and occasional cleaning will help maintain the appearance and longevity of both decking and cladding.