In Australia, enjoying the great outdoors is a big part of life, but with the beauty of our outdoor spaces comes the need for caution, especially in bushfire-prone areas. Choosing the right decking material is crucial not just for the look and feel of your space, but also for your safety.
Composite decking and fire safety go hand in hand, offering a smart solution that combines the natural look of timber with advanced fire-resistant properties. Unlike traditional wood decking, which can act as a fire hazard, fireproof composite decking is designed to reduce the risk of flames spreading in case of a bushfire.
In this article, we’ll explore why composite decking is the ideal choice for homeowners and businesses looking to protect their properties. We’ll cover the basics of fire resistance, how different decking materials compare, and best practices for installing fire-resistant decking in high-risk areas.
Decoding Fire Ratings: What You Need to Know Before Choosing Your Decking
When it comes to protecting your home or business, not all decking materials are created equal. That’s why understanding fire resistance ratings is so important, especially in bushfire-prone areas. Here’s what you need to know about fire ratings and how they affect your choice of decking:
What is a Fire Rating?
A fire rating measures how well a building material can resist the spread of flames and heat. In Australia, the Bushfire Attack Level (BAL) rating system is used to assess the risk of bushfire exposure.
For decking, the BAL rating you need will depend on the specific risk level of your property, with BAL-29 being a common requirement for areas with moderate to high fire risk. Choosing the right rating is crucial for ensuring your deck can withstand the intense conditions of a bushfire attack.
Comparing Decking Materials: Finding the Safest Fit for Your Space
Choosing the right decking material is more than just picking a look you love—it’s about selecting something that can handle the conditions and keep your space safe. Let’s see how different options stack up when it comes to fire resistance and suitability for outdoor environments.
Traditional Wood Decking: Timeless but Risky
There’s no denying the natural beauty of traditional wood decking, but when it comes to fire safety, it has its drawbacks. Untreated wood can act as a fuel source, quickly catching fire and spreading flames. While treated timber can offer some level of protection, it still requires constant upkeep and can’t match the fire-resistant properties of more modern alternatives.
Aluminium Decking: Fireproof but Lacking Charm
Aluminium decking is completely non-combustible, making it one of the safest choices for bushfire-prone areas. However, it’s not without its downsides. While it’s highly effective in preventing fire spread, aluminium can get extremely hot underfoot and doesn’t have the same aesthetic appeal as natural or composite materials. For some, the trade-off between safety and style might not be worth it.
Composite Decking: The Best of Both Worlds
Composite decking combines the best of nature and innovation.
Made from a mix of wood fibres and recycled materials, it offers the look of natural timber with enhanced durability and fire-resistant properties. High-quality options, like WoodEvo’s ADVANCED Range, are designed to meet strict fire safety standards, making them an excellent choice for both homes and businesses in high-risk areas.
What makes composite decking stand out is its balance of beauty and performance. It’s not only more fire-resistant than untreated wood, but it also stays cooler underfoot compared to aluminium, making it more comfortable for everyday use. Whether you’re looking to create a cozy backyard retreat or a stylish commercial space, composite decking provides a safer, smarter solution.
In the next section, we’ll take a closer look at how WoodEvo’s composite decking goes above and beyond when it comes to fire resistance, ensuring your outdoor space is both beautiful and secure.
Why WoodEvo Composite Decking is a Smart Choice for Fire Safety
At WoodEvo, we offer two distinct ranges of composite decking to suit different needs:
HOME Range:
- Perfect for family homes in areas with a lower bushfire risk.
- Is BAL29 fire resistance rated, making it a safer option than many other decking products.
- Durable, low-maintenance, and slip-resistant.
HOME Range:
- Perfect for family homes in areas with a lower bushfire risk.
- Is BAL29 fire resistance rated, making it a safer option than many other decking products.
- Durable, low-maintenance, and slip-resistant.
ADVANCED Range:
- Designed specifically for high-risk, bushfire-prone areas.
- Excellent fire resistance with advanced materials that meet strict safety standards.
- Ideal for both residential and commercial use, offering a 30 year warranty.
Fire Safety Benefits of WoodEvo Composite Decking:
- Fire-Resistant Properties: Our ADVANCED Range is engineered to withstand high temperatures and minimise the risk of fire spread, making it the safer choice for bushfire-prone areas.
- Reduced Fire Hazards: Unlike traditional wood decking, our composite decking doesn’t act as a fuel source, reducing the chances of ignition and flame spread.
- Durability in Extreme Conditions: Both ranges are built to handle Australia’s tough climate, from scorching heat to heavy rain, without compromising safety.
- Slip Resistance: High slip ratings provide safe footing even in wet or extreme conditions, making it suitable for a variety of outdoor environments.
- Low Maintenance: With minimal upkeep required, you can enjoy a beautiful and safe deck without the need for constant treatments to maintain fire resistance.
Stay Safe and Stylish with the Right Decking Choice
Choosing the right decking for your outdoor space isn’t just about looks—it’s about safety, especially in areas prone to bushfires.
With WoodEvo’s composite decking, you have options that not only enhance your home or business but also provide the fire-resistant properties needed to protect what matters most.
You’ll be investing in a decking solution that’s built to withstand the Australian climate while minimising fire risks. It’s about making the smart choice for your outdoor space—one that keeps you and your loved ones safe.
Whether you’re looking to upgrade your backyard or secure a commercial space, WoodEvo composite decking provides a smart, safe, and stylish solution. Ready to find the best decking for your project? Reach out today and see how easy it can be to protect and enhance your outdoor environment with WoodEvo.
