Composite Decking Guide
A technical overview of composite decking systems — covering the Ronjack and Oakio ranges, R11 anti-slip ratings, subframe options, fixing methods and what to look for when specifying composite decking for a garden room, patio or commercial project.
What Is Composite Decking?
Composite decking is an engineered outdoor board made from a blend of wood fibre and polymer — typically recycled hardwood sawdust, polyethylene and binding additives. The result is a board that closely replicates the look of natural hardwood while eliminating the annual maintenance burden that timber requires.
Unlike timber, composite decking boards will not rot, split, warp or fade significantly over time. They do not require oiling, staining, sanding or pressure treating. A correctly installed composite deck can be expected to perform for 25–30+ years with zero annual maintenance.
Modern composite decking uses a co-extruded outer cap layer — a polymer skin that fully encases the wood-fibre core. This capped construction provides enhanced protection against moisture ingress, UV fading and surface staining, and is the specification used in the premium Oakio Iniwood and Oakio Proshield ranges supplied by Forti Nova.
View Forti Nova's composite decking range
Ronjack Deep Embossed, Oakio Iniwood and Oakio Proshield — all stocked at our Blackburn depot.
Composite Decking Systems Available
Ronjack Deep Embossed Decking
10-Year WarrantyThe entry-level composite decking system. A natural timber texture with excellent durability and a wide colour range — Silver Ash, Slate, Chocolate, Teak and Caramel. 3600 × 145 × 25mm boards. R11 anti-slip rated. 10-year warranty. Compatible with plastic joist system. Ideal for garden patios, raised decks and garden room bases.
Oakio Iniwood Decking
15-Year Residential WarrantyA mid-to-premium composite decking board made with 55% recycled oak wood fibres, 35% PE and 10% additives. Capped construction with natural colour variation that more closely replicates the character of real hardwood. Available in Smoke White, Dark Grey, Amber and Oak. 3600 × 147 × 21mm. 15-year residential / 5-year commercial warranty. Hidden clip fixing.
Oakio Proshield Decking
25-Year Structural GuaranteeThe flagship Oakio composite system — a nano-polymer co-extruded capped board with exceptional fade, stain and scratch resistance. The polymer cap uses the same material found in golf ball covers. Maximum performance for premium residential or commercial decking projects. Colour stable, UV resistant and backed by a 25-year structural guarantee.
Technical Considerations
Slip Rating
All composite decking supplied by Forti Nova carries an R11 DIN 51130 anti-slip rating — suitable for commercial installations and wet areas, including pool surrounds and public terracing.
Subframe Options
Boards are compatible with timber joists at 300–400mm centres, or aluminium subframe systems. Aluminium subframes are preferred where longevity, moisture resistance and precision are priorities.
Fixing Methods
Hidden clip systems are standard — boards are fixed via T-clip or starter clip, leaving no visible fixings on the board face. Face-fix screws are available as an alternative for budget installations.
Board Gap
A 5–8mm expansion gap should be maintained between boards to allow for thermal movement. Gaps allow water drainage and prevent board lifting. Clip systems automatically set the correct gap.
Load Capacity
Composite decking boards are typically rated at 400–500 kg/m² — suitable for all domestic and most commercial load scenarios including furniture, hot tubs and planting containers.
Maintenance
Zero annual treatment required. Occasional cleaning with a brush and soapy water or composite-specific cleaner will maintain the surface appearance. No oiling, sanding or retreating is needed.
Browse Composite Decking in Our Store
View current stock, colours and accessories — Ronjack and Oakio decking products listed with pricing.
Browse Decking in StoreComposite Decking by Location
Composite Decking Across the North West
Forti Nova supplies composite decking from Blackburn. Select a town hub for collection and delivery context; current stock and timing are confirmed per order.
Related Systems
Explore the related structural systems, waterproofing technologies and exterior finishes used across modern garden room construction and flat roof waterproofing projects.