Urbanline Architectural presents a new decking choice for bushfire-prone regions that meets compliance requirements with no compromise on the aesthetics.

While it’s necessary for architects and designers to meet Australian Standards, the tough requirements for bushfire-prone areas can present a challenge in selecting compliant materials that don’t compromise on looks.

Decking for commercial and residential buildings located in areas with a Bushfire Attack Level (BAL) of 29 or higher must be constructed from non-combustible materials such as slate and tiles. However, these materials won’t suit the aesthetic of many buildings.

Timber is always in-demand but isn’t compliant. Composite decking is an excellent solution but without a BAL40 rating, cannot even be considered.

Urbanline’s Latitudes Board Fire Rated (LBFR)

Following its achievement of a BAL40 rating, Urbanline’s Latitudes Board Fire Rated (LBFR) offers a new decking choice for bushfire-prone areas, especially for BAL-12.5 areas and higher.

A composite decking board made from recycled wood fibres and recycled and virgin polyethylene with fire-retardant additives, LBFR is a robust decking choice that can be face fixed, and has the visual appeal of timber with the practical performance of a composite.

A strong and stable composite board, LBFR is maintenance-free, durable, water-resistant, slip-resistant, and rot- and pest-resistant, and offers excellent noise insulation. Recommended for both commercial and residential applications, the board is ideal for pool decks and jetties to bars and body corporates.

Currently available in Ash Grey, LBFR has a realistic anti-slip brushed finish that offers subtle variation in colour for an authentic aesthetic.

When specifying decks in bushfire-prone areas, depending on the BAL category, one may need to accommodate enclosed sub-floor space or non-combustible supports, ensure that decking is gap-free, and provide a clearance area of non-combustible material around any large glazed area such as a glass sliding door.