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Can Millboard materials be used in other applications?
Yes. Millboard composite decking materials are one of the most versatile of all the composite materials available in Australia. They can be used for steps, vertical and horizontal cladding of homes and business areas (inside and outside), ceilings, walkways, balconies, planter boxes, and much more. Unlike timber, Millboard can be used close to or on other surfaces.
If you have a Millboard decking idea you would like to explore, call us on 0413 185 735 for more information, and one of our experienced team will be able to discuss it with you.
Some frequently asked questions
Millboard composite decking is known for its exceptional durability and longevity, making it a popular choice for outdoor decking projects. The lifespan of a millboard deck can vary depending on several factors, including the quality of the material, installation, maintenance, and environmental conditions.
And because of the lost head fixing, there are no visible screws to catch furniture and cause damage to the boards.
A well-maintained millboard deck can last 25 to 30 years or even longer.
The climate and weather conditions in the deck’s location can impact its longevity. Millboard decking has been designed to resist moisture, UV rays, and mould, but minimising prolonged exposure to harsh elements can help prolong its life.
Even though Millboard decking is a relatively low-maintenance composite material, regular cleaning to remove debris and dirt and promptly address any stains or spills can help preserve its appearance and extend its lifespan.
Millboard composite decking features a durable Lastane surface resistant to scratches and stains, ensuring it looks great for years. Deck maintenance is hassle free and time saving with minimal effort needed to keep your deck looking pristine.
Follow these decking maintenance tips to keep your deck looking fresh and pristine.
- Take care when moving objects like chairs and tables across your deck.
- Dirt and dust can build over time. Wash it with soapy water and a broom, then hose it down.
- Spills like wine and soft drinks should be washed off as soon as possible.
- Animal droppings should be washed off as soon as practicable.
- Stubborn marks can be removed with some household bleach mixed with water. Always test in a small unobtrusive area first and then wash off with lots of water.
Millboard composite decking has been designed to be as straightforward to install as possible. The materials are lightweight, making them easy to handle and transport. And despite being a specialty product, no special tools or equipment are required. Say goodbye to hidden fasteners or specialty installation clips that are fiddly and time-consuming!
Stainless steel screws fasten the boards in place without needing pre-drilling, which helps to save time further. Installing millboard decking is simple – it’s often a matter of screwing in, and the Lastane covering will self-close over the screw to leave a smooth, blemish-free surface (this is known as ‘lost head’ fixing).
How long your deck takes to put in place depends on how large and complex your design is. The installation will take longer if you have more intricate details like fascia, inlaid designs, or stairs and levels. Millboard decks typically take five or more days from start to completion.
Millboard offers a comprehensive warranty covering various issues, including material defects, fading, staining, cracking, and delamination. The warranty also covers performance issues, such as slip resistance, and ensures that the material will perform as advertised.
It’s important to note that the warranty is only valid if the decking is installed and maintained according to Millboard’s instructions. This includes using the correct fasteners and installation techniques and properly cleaning and maintaining the decking over time.
This particular product is known for its durability. Millboard decking products are backed by a manufacturer’s warranty that protects against defects for 25 years. With proper care and professional installation, you can extend the lifespan of your deck even further.
Aside from what the manufacturer offers, choose an installer that backs their work with a satisfaction or workmanship warranty. This can help you feel even more confident that your deck will last.
Millboard is a premium, one-of-a-kind composite deck board. There is no other board on the market that so closely resembles the look of natural timber. Its combination of decking colours, textures, low maintenance needs and luxury feel place it at the top of the decking pyramid.
Expect to pay a premium price of between $330 and $360 a square metre for this high-quality, unique decking board. Check out current prices here.
Remember to consider the substructure and installation cost when considering your budget and options.
You first need to decide on the style of decking board that works best for your home style and its environment. Millboard decking products are one of the few boards that provide you with three different board styles that you can perfectly match to your project.
Millboard decking prices will vary depending on a range of factors:
The type of board you choose (enhanced, weathered, charred/emberred)
Some of the colours are more expensive than others
The type of edging chosen (Bullnose or square)
How much fascia the deck needs
All materials exposed to high temperatures like ours will get very hot. Even bare ground and beach sand are so hot that you wouldn’t walk on it barefoot.
Throughout the year, Australia experiences a broad spectrum of temperature changes. During summer, temperatures typically vary from warm to hot, occasionally soaring to 40 degrees Celsius or more on some days.
When you look at heat indexes for the kinds of outdoor materials we use for our outdoor areas in Australia, concrete and most tiles will be the hottest under direct sunlight; after that are composite materials (decking boards) and hardwood decking.
There is little difference between how hot hardwood decking and a composite like Millboard decking will get. On a scorching day, the best advice is to wear a pair of thongs to protect your feet, mainly if those feet belong to your little toddlers.
But there are some things you can do to keep a lid on the heat.
If you have shady trees in your yard, locate the deck so that it gets some benefit from the sun during the hottest part of the year.
Choose a lighter colour board rather than a darker one, as the darker ones heat up more quickly, get hotter than the lighter-coloured ones, and retain the heat longer.
Build an awning over the deck to protect it from direct sunlight. This is also a bonus during rainy periods, as it lets you enjoy your deck space in all weather.
Another option is to run a hose or sprinkler over the deck area before you use it to reduce the temperature.
Millboard composite decking is a high-quality wood-alternative decking material known for its durability, low maintenance, and natural wood-like appearance. It is a popular choice because of its long-lasting performance, resistance to fading, and eco-friendly composition.
As to whether it’s the best decking material available, the best deck material for one person may not be the best for another – it depends on individual preferences, project requirements and budget.
Ultimately, the ideal deck material will be the one that aligns with your preferences, budget and provides the performance and aesthetics you desire.
However, Millboard decking is undoubtedly a beautiful product.
Millboard’s durable Lastane coating offers exceptional scratch resistance and natural anti-abrasion properties. This is a remarkable benefit of the Millboard decking material, making it almost impervious to scratches. It’s an ideal substitute for conventional timber, particularly in high-traffic residential and commercial areas.
Even though the board has a tough top layer, exercise caution when moving furniture and other items around your deck. Treat it respectfully, and it will provide you with many years of blemish-free treatment.
Yes – you read that right. Choose Millboard decking if you want a virtually maintenance-free alternative to traditional decking. Millboard is zero maintenance, apart from the odd scrubbing and hosing down.
Because millboard composite decking boards contain no timber or plastic, they are not porous (they don’t absorb water or moisture, making them more stable than traditional decking or other composites).
Spilled drinks, dropped food and muddy footprints or paw prints won’t penetrate the surface and can be just washed off.
The Millboard company has conducted extensive trials to find the best, long-lasting method of fixing the boards to the substructure.
Durafix® stainless steel screws have been designed specifically for the millboard range of materials.
There’s no need to pre-drill or countersink Millboard and the unique Lastane® material self-heals, so the screws are virtually invisible, leaving a smooth and seamless finish on the top of the boards. This is known as ‘lost head’fixing. Ensuring your Millboard deck builder is experienced in installing this unique deck board is a good idea.
Yes. Millboard decking has a rating of BAL19 for Australian Standards. That said, you’ll want to take all safety precautions (just as with any other deck) and remove embers if they touch the surface. Also, follow all local regulations for outdoor kitchens or patio heaters.
What are the disadvantages of Millboard Decking?
While Millboard composite decking offers many advantages, homeowners should consider some potential disadvantages before choosing this decking material.
Millboard decking is generally more expensive upfront than traditional wood or other conventional composite decking options. The initial investment can be a significant factor for budget-conscious homeowners.
Millboard composite decking boards, like many composite materials, can retain more heat than natural wood. In hot weather, the deck’s surface may become warm to the touch, making it uncomfortable for barefoot walking.
Although these boards are resistant to stains, some substances like oil, grease, or certain chemicals may cause discolouration if not cleaned promptly.
Depending on the production batch and manufacturing process, slight colour variations between different decking boards may exist. While manufacturers strive to minimise these variations, they can still be noticeable on larger decks or in specific lighting conditions.
While millboard composite decking is made from recycled materials to give clients sustainable decking options, it still contains non-recycled components, such as polymers and resins. Some environmentally-conscious consumers may prefer completely natural or biodegradable decking materials.
It’s essential to weigh these potential disadvantages against the advantages and consider your needs and priorities when choosing the suitable decking material for your project. Millboard decking can be an excellent option for those seeking a virtually maintenance free and durable alternative to traditional wood, but there may be better fits for some.
Why Choose Urban Arch Building to install your Millboard Deck?
Urban Arch provides only the best decking materials and services for your project. We genuinely care about our customers and enjoy collaborating on custom projects that meet our client’s goals and budgets. All our work is backed with an 8-year warranty so that you can be assured of our work’s quality.
Every Millboard decking project starts with a site inspection. We’ll help you find the best deck design and millboard style for your outdoor living space and create a design that shines. Request your quote online today or call us on 0413 185 735 to get started with Sydney’s decking professionals.
