Landscape & Urban Design Issue 50 2021 | Page 49

Millboard has built an enviable reputation on the back of its decking , which looks exactly like wood but significantly out-performs it . However , the company also recognises that the reason why many decks fail to last is as much down to what goes on ‘ beneath decks ’ as on the surface itself . There is little advantage in having a longlasting decking material on top of a substandard subframe !
This is why Millboard also offers a durable subframe system that will last at least as long as the surface it supports .
DECKING
DuoSpan aluminium components include beams , brackets and joists . Recycled plastic inserts are pressed into each joist , and it is into these that the screws securing the decking are driven . But the plastic components also take the system to a whole new level by opening up the opportunity to easily create curved features .
DuoSpan The first element of the system is called DuoSpan , made up of aluminium and recycled plastic components .
Aluminium is well-known to engineers for its attributes of strength , light weight and durability . These , plus the fact that it does not rust – unlike iron and steel – nor rot or degrade as timber does , make it an excellent material for subframes . The inherent rigidity of aluminium offers two specific advantages . First , it maintains a completely straight profile , unlike timber which will move and warp in different climatic conditions . Installation therefore becomes a far simpler and speedier process . Second , it enables spans of up to 1800mm , meaning fewer supports are needed , and cantilever sections that extend up to 600mm – perfect for creating bench seating within vertical frameworks .
Like aluminium , plastic is highly resistant to decay , but unlike aluminium it is not rigid . Combining the two makes it simple to incorporate curved shapes very easily into both vertical and horizontal planes , unleashing the potential for a whole host of creative designs . The result is that DuoSpan is not only an ideal subframe for decking surfaces – including ones with curved edges – but also perfect for creating threedimensional structures , including steps , pergolas seating and planters .
While the resulting designs can be complex , putting them together is very straightforward , thanks to the system offering simple slotand-screw assembly with a range of clever multi-angle brackets . Once the framework has been constructed , decking or cladding boards are easily and securely screwed directly into it using Durafix 45mm screws .
The combination of aluminium and plastic components makes it simple to create curved shapes
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