As the demands of urban architecture continue to evolve, so too does the need for building finishes that offer considerably more than visual appeal. Porcelain decking is emerging as a sophisticated solution for terraces and balconies, particularly on high-rise residential developments where fire safety, slip resistance and long-term reliability are paramount considerations.
Porcelain is classified as an A1 non-combustible building material making these decking boards fully compliant with the latest fire safety regulations across the UK, including Approved Document B (ADB), which ban the use of combustible materials in or on the external walls of mid- to high-rise residential buildings.?The material does not burn, melt or release harmful emissions when exposed to flames.
Beyond its excellent fire credentials, porcelain decking offers a suite of other technical benefits perfectly tailored to high-exposure and high-use external environments. Manufactured through a high-temperature vitrification process, each board is highly resistant to frost, staining, and UV degradation and has a hardness close to diamond. It maintains structural and aesthetic integrity under extreme weather conditions and temperature fluctuations, and will not fade or expand.
These characteristics contribute to a sustainable, virtually maintenance-free surface that remains consistent in appearance for decades.
Slip resistance offers another critical advantage of this material. With a surface rated R11/C for anti-slip performance, porcelain decking ensures secure footing even in wet conditions, making it suitable for both residential and commercial applications.
Installed using a customised clip system, porcelain boards are laid over A-rated substructures. This offers quick, accurate installation and allows for access beneath the deck if required.
A carefully selected standard colour palette - all stocked in the UK for rapid delivery - ensures availability and ease of specification for any application, from light to dark and from classic to contemporary.
A bespoke collection includes 60+ additional colours and is further extended by a print service for a totally customisable solution. Contact us for details.
Boards are available in both standard and square edge variants in a size of 1217mm (L) x 141mm (W) x 26mm (H) and can be used in either a linear or staggered layout, depending on your design preference.
Porcelain decking stands at the intersection of aesthetics, safety, and resilience—making it an ideal choice for architects and building owners looking for an elegant decking solution for elevated outdoor spaces.
Contact the BM Architectural team on 0114 254 3226 to discuss your project requirements. We’re here to help with correct product selection, specification and ordering to your site schedule.
