DeckMark® Plus is a new initiative from the TDA to meet requests from architects and commercial designers for formal performance guidance for the slip resistance rating of deckboard surfaces or the load bearing capabilities of structures like parapets. According to TDA Director, Steve Young, architects are increasingly asking for guidance on component selection and performance ratings to build into specifications, particularly in connection with commercial and public access projects. He says “Wood is being specified increasingly for outdoor surfaces and complementary features such as landscape joinery, outdoor rooms and cladding; and architects are looking to the TDA for more than just specification clauses, they want help with sourcing quality materials and guidance on performance.”

DeckMark® Plus is an extension of the TDA’s DeckMark® quality assurance scheme. Introduced in 2000, DeckMark® was designed to give reassurance to specifiers and consumers that timber deck components have been manufactured to established quality standards. DeckMark® Plus builds on this widely adopted scheme to combine a quality accredited product with a formal performance rating. “Enhanced grip deckboards are a typical example,” says Young. “They are specified increasingly for steps, ramps, deck access/egress points and high traffic walkways like bridges. DeckMark® Plus now enables architects and designers to specify boards that have been independently slip tested in line with BS7976 and provide a ‘low slip potential’ in both wet and dry conditions.”

ENDS

Timber Decking Association
5 Flemming Court
Castleford
West Yorkshire
WF10 5HW

Contact: 01977 558147
E-mail: info@tda.org.uk
 

This enhanced grip deckboard from the Hoppings Q-Deck range has been slip resistance tested to BS7976 and has a ‘low slip potential’ rating in both wet and dry test conditions.