Family-friendly Balcony Decking System: Tips & Considerations

Designing a family-friendly balcony decking system requires careful thought and consideration to ensure a safe and enjoyable outdoor space for everyone.

Balcony decking systems present a unique opportunity to blend creativity with functionality, especially when catering to the needs of families. Beyond mere aesthetics, the focus shifts towards crafting spaces that prioritise safety, versatility, and ease of maintenance.

In this guide, we delve into essential tips and considerations aimed at ensuring the construction of balcony decking systems that not only captivate visually but also offer a secure and adaptable environment for families to enjoy.

Balcony Decking System: Safety First

The paramount consideration when designing a family-friendly balcony decking system is safety. Ensure that the materials used are slip-resistant, durable, and weather-resistant. Look for decking options with high-quality finishes that minimise splinters and provide a comfortable surface for bare feet.

At Raaft ®, we offer premium surfaces that offer an abundance of advantages:

• Porcelain tiles: Our porcelain tiles offer a myriad of advantages, including exceptional durability, resistance to stains and scratches, low maintenance requirements, and a versatile aesthetic that can seamlessly mimic various natural materials.
• Porcelain decking: Our porcelain decking not only boasts exceptional resistance and longevity but also meets the BroofT4 British fire rating standards and integrates a reliable wind tie-down system for added safety.
• Composite decking: Our composite decking presents a range of advantages, including its resistance to rot, splintering, and fading, low maintenance requirements, eco-friendly composition often incorporating recycled materials, and a visually appealing aesthetic that replicates the natural look of wood without the associated drawbacks.
  

Regularly inspect the decking for wear and tear, and promptly address any issues to maintain a safe space for your family.

Low-Maintenance Balcony Decking System

Families are often looking for low-maintenance solutions to accommodate their busy lifestyles. Opt for decking materials that require minimal upkeep, such as composite decking. 

Composite decking is easy to maintain due to its unique composition, which typically consists of a blend of wood fibres and recycled plastic materials. This combination provides several key advantages contributing to its low-maintenance nature:

1. Resilience to Rot and Decay: Unlike natural wood, composite decking is resistant to rot, decay, and insect damage. This inherent durability eliminates the need for regular treatments or preservatives to prevent these common issues.
2. Stain Resistance: Composite decking is less susceptible to staining from spills, mould, or mildew compared to traditional wood. Its non-porous surface makes cleaning relatively simple, requiring only occasional washing with soap and water.
3. Splinter-Free Surface: The composite material creates a smooth, splinter-free surface. This characteristic is not only more comfortable for walking but also eliminates the need for sanding or refinishing to maintain a safe and appealing deck surface.
4. Low Water Absorption: Composite decking has low water absorption rates, reducing the likelihood of swelling or warping. This feature makes it well-suited for areas with fluctuating weather conditions and minimises the risk of water-related damage.
5. Minimal Expansion and Contraction: The composite material's stability limits expansion and contraction due to temperature changes. This characteristic reduces the stress on fasteners and the overall structure, contributing to the long-term structural integrity of the decking.

Greenery and Planters for Your Balcony Decking System

Integrating greenery into the balcony design not only adds to the aesthetic appeal but also provides a connection with nature. Incorporate built-in planters or designate spaces for potted plants to create a refreshing and inviting atmosphere.

At Raaft® we offer a choice of standard and bespoke planter systems that will seamlessly integrate with your balcony decking system. Choose from:

• Planterline Straight
• Planterline Curved
• Planterline Prism
• Ambit Integrated Seating

Accessibility within Your Balcony Decking System

Make the balcony accessible for all family members, including those with mobility challenges. Incorporate ramps or lifts if necessary and ensure that the layout is easy to navigate for both children and adults.

Balcony Decking System from Raaft®

As a leading UK designer and manufacturer of roof terrace and planter systems, roof decking and tiles, Raaft® can assist you at every stage of the design, specification, and installation process. To discuss your ideas for a roof terrace, contact the experts at Raaft® today. We’re always happy to help and answer any questions you may have.