How To Stop Decking from Being Slippery

Decking is a fabulous addition to any space. Not only can it be aesthetically pleasing, but it’s also a brilliant way of creating sociable and functional outdoor areas. However, many people find that their deck is slippery in damp and wet conditions.

Without remedy, slippery decking can lead to some nasty falls. Regardless of your age or mobility, this can present a significant risk of injury to you and those around you.

The good news is that there is a permanent solution to tackle the hazard of slippery decking. In this article we will explain exactly how to make decking non-slip so you can always enjoy using it with confidence.

Why Does Decking Become Slippery?

As wood is porous and retains moisture, it is common for decking to become slippery, especially in the good old British climate!  Here’s how it happens:

• Rain: If you have a wooden deck, it may not stay nice for long in wet weather. The timber gets damp and when it does, even if it has a grooved surface, the outcome is hazardous slippery decking.
• Snow: Snow can pile up on the decking surface in winter and if not cleared promptly, creates a compressed icy layer that can make walking across your deck perilous.
• Fungi: Even if you maintain your wooden deck surface by cleaning, before long Mother Nature will step in and cause the surface grip to quickly deteriorate through the effects of moss, algae, fungi & autumn leaves. These all serve to further retain moisture in the wooden decking, increasing the slippery conditions.
• Wear and tear: Heavy use of your deck can exacerbate the effect of slippery decking as the surface wears smooth from continued use.

As we can see, decking becomes slippery due to a variety of reasons, many of which are out of our control. The good thing is it is easy to achieve a slip-proof decking. With the right slippery decking solution, it won’t be necessary to replace your decking.

How To Make Decking Non-Slip?

The installation of Anti-slip Decking Strips is a highly effective solution to slippery decking. Anti- slip strips for decking boards are simple to install and cost effective. But most importantly, they work incredibly well to prevent slippery decking.

These slip resistant decking strips have a durable gritted top surface and act like brakes, providing enough traction to prevent common slip and fall accidents. The contoured and low-profile strips are screwed onto the surface of your deck to create an instant slip resistant surface.

Our anti-slip strips for decking boards are much easier to apply than you might think. What’s more they also look great and when used with our coloured matched stainless-steel screws they will complement the aesthetics of your deck and give it a whole new lease of life!

How Do Anti-Slip Strips Stop Decking Being Slippery?

Anti-slip decking strips are a good safety and security feature to have on your decking. They will help you to create a safe decking experience free from the risks of slips and falls.

Here are some unique benefits of slip resistant decking strips:

• Effective slip-proof decking: Anti-slip strips for decking boards create a durable, safe and slip-resistant surface over existing wood. They can help to prevent the risk of accidents by increasing the friction between the sole of shoes and the boards. This makes them safer for everyone to use even when conditions are wet or the deck is damp.
• Easy to install: Slip resistant decking strips are simple to install and do not require specialist tools or equipment. If you have a drill and basic DIY skills, you’ll probably be able to install them yourself and get a great result.
• Cost-effective: These slip proof decking strips are also inexpensive, which makes them perfect for anyone looking for a lasting solution that does not cost a fortune. Once fitted, they are a very low maintenance option compared to other slippery decking treatments.
• Suitability: Slip proof decking strips can be used for decks made from all types of wood including hardwood and softwood. They are also great for use on steps, ramps and walkways – regardless of the volume of foot traffic.
• Durability: Anti-slip strips for decking boards are extremely durable and have a long lifespan. They are resistant to corrosion, fungus and most chemicals and oils. They can also withstand heavy foot traffic.
• Presentation: With three colours to choose from, slip proof decking strips can also be aesthetically pleasing, offering an inconspicuous way to make your decking safer.

Our anti-slip strips for decking boards are made from GRP (Glass Reinforced Plastic or Glass Reinforced Polymer). This a highly versatile and cost-effective material with a wide range of applications.

What is GRP? Here’s everything you need to know.

Where can this slippery deck solution be applied?

The purpose of anti-slip decking strips is to make decking safer for use.  They can also be used in a variety of interior and exterior settings where a surface or deck is slippery including:

• Walkways
• Picnic areas
• Boardwalks
• Ramps
• Platforms and bridges

With Evergrip’s anti-slip decking strips, you can say no more to worrying about anyone slipping and falling on your deck. If you have any questions about how to make decking non-slip, please don’t hesitate to get in touch with our anti-slip experts today.