The NB Guide to Composite Decking & Cladding

Is composite decking better than wood?

Millboard Composite Decking is generally considered better than wood for long-term performance and low maintenance. It doesn’t need to be stained, sealed or painted and it’s far more resistant to water damage, splintering and warping.

Although wood can be cheaper initially, composite offers a longer lifespan and lower upkeep costs over time. Aesthetically, Millboard also mimics timber closely, providing the look of wood without the drawbacks.

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Millboard produces high quality UK composite decking kits that typically last between 25 and 40 years, depending on the environment. Unlike wood, composite decking does not rot or decay, so factors such as board quality, correct installation and exposure conditions largely determine its lifespan. Millboard offers either a 25-year Limited Structural Decking Warranty or a 10 year Limited Structural Decking Warranty, depending on how installers fit the boards.

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Can composite decking be painted?

Millboard manufactures its composite decking with protective caps or pigments that do not accept paint well, so the boards are not designed to be painted. Painting the decking will also void the manufacturer’s warranty.

A Millboard deck can warm up in direct sunlight, particularly with darker coloured boards. However, it is engineered with improved heat-resistant properties to make it cooler underfoot. Choosing lighter colours, providing shading and ensuring adequate airflow beneath the deck all helps reduce heat build-up.

How to clean composite decking?

Cleaning your Millboard Composite Decking is simple and requires minimal effort. Begin by sweeping away leaves, dirt and debris. Mix warm water with a gentle detergent and use a soft or medium bristle brush to scrub the boards in the direction of the grain. Rinse thoroughly with clean water when finished.

For stubborn marks, such as grease or algae, use a composite-safe cleaner recommended by the manufacturer. Pressure washing is acceptable, but it should be done at a safe distance of 30 to 40cm and at a controlled pressure to avoid damaging the board surface. Get in touch for more information.

Millboard composite decking typically costs more upfront than timber, but it saves time and money in the long term thanks to its low maintenance. Composite decking requires no staining, sealing or board replacements, making it more cost-effective over its lifespan.

You can view our Millboard collection and prices here.

What is composite cladding?

Traditional composite cladding panels use a blend of recycled wood fibres and plastics to create an exterior wall covering that enhances a building’s appearance and weather resistance.

Specifically, Millboard manufactures its composite cladding panels from a polyurethane resin mixed with mineral stone and finishes them with a durable Lastane® coating. The wall panels mimic the look of natural timber while delivering improved durability, stability and colour retention. Homeowners and developers use Millboard exterior cladding on homes, commercial buildings, garden rooms and outbuildings to achieve a sleek, contemporary finish.

Composite wall cladding boards are highly water resistant, but not fully waterproof on their own. The boards repel moisture, won’t rot and maintain their structural integrity in wet conditions. However, the underlying wall structure must still be properly sealed and ventilated, and the cladding panels must be installed with the correct spacing and fixing systems. When installed according to manufacturer guidelines, composite wall cladding provides excellent long-term weather protection.

Does composite cladding need maintenance?

Millboard cladding boards requires very little maintenance. They don’t need painting, staining or sealing. Routine care involves simply washing the external cladding panels periodically with warm soapy water to remove dust, dirt or algae. Because composite is UV-resistant and colour fast, it keeps its appearance far longer than traditional timber.