Decking strips are an easy yet fantastic solution to safe and durable outdoor decks, patios, and walkways. They are made to offer a non-slip surface that ensures there are no falls and slips, particularly in icy or wet weather.
Anti Slip Strips For Decking, or decking strips, are long, thin pieces of material—often GRP (glass-reinforced plastic), aluminum, or rubber—that have a coarse or abrasive surface. They are most often glued or screwed into composite or wooden decking boards on slippery or high-traffic sections.
Decking strips are most popular for residential gardens, commercial decks, schools, care homes, and public boardwalks. Their slip-resistance coating offers better safety under wet, frosty, or algal conditions.
Advantages of Fitting Decking Strips
Maintenance Easy: Simple to clean and easy to maintain.
Cost-Effective: A simple addition that can avoid expensive accidents.
Step-by-Step Installation Manual
Selecting the Right Decking Strips
Select decking strips that are the same width as your decking boards and are suitable for footfall. GRP decking strips are best for high-risk-slip environments, aluminum strips for commercial or business premises, and rubber for domestic use and low traffic.
Verify whether your selected strips have pre-drilled holes or you will have to drill them yourself.
Measure and Mark Installation Points
Mark the position of the strips using a tape measure. A rule of thumb is to install strips along the leading edge of the steps or decking boards, where slips are most apt to take place.
Mark the locations with pencil or chalk. Maintain equal spaces to give a beautiful look and even grip. If you are installing strips on more than one board or stairs, maintain balance in the design.
Clean the Decking Surface
Remove dirt, moss, algae, and debris by using a stiff-bristled brush or power washer. For oily stains or heavy grime, clean well with a deck cleaner or soap.
Let the deck dry completely before undertaking the next task, especially if using adhesive in addition to screws.
Prepare the Strips
If the wooden strips are not already drilled or cut:
Trim to Size: Cut the strips to the length you want using a hacksaw or an angle grinder (for aluminum or GRP).
Drill Holes: Mark and drill holes for screws—usually 2 per strip for short strips or more for longer ones. Ensure the holes are evenly spaced.
This step may be skipped if you’ve purchased pre-prepared decking strips.
Position the Decking Strips
Install the strips along your previous markings. Double-check that they are in position to guarantee consistency. The Decking Strips should be in contact with the decking boards, level, and not beyond the edge.
With adhesive as well as screws
- Place a thin bead of adhesive on the back of the strip using a caulking gun.
- Push the strip into place firmly.
- Use a rubber mallet if needed to make full contact with the surface.
Secure the Strips with Screws
Using a drill or power screwdriver, install anti-slip decking screws. Drive screws flush with or below the surface of the strip to avoid tripping.
For best results:
Use stainless steel screws to avoid rusting
Screw the ends and midpoints for long strips.
Check Stability and Safety
After installing all the strips, walk around the decking area to look for any loose or uneven ones. Secure loose screws and make sure each strip is well-locked. Smooth jagged edges or exposed screws by realigning the strip or filing rough edges if you happen to find any.
Optional Step: Touch-ups
Paint or stain: If you find your strips are not the desired color, it may be necessary to paint them to blend in with your decking.
Sealant: Apply a weatherproof sealant around the edges if extra waterproofing is needed.
Decking Strips Maintenance Tips
Regular Cleaning: Sweep out debris and wipe down the surface now and then to ensure a good grip.
Check Fasteners: Inspect loose screws and tighten where appropriate.
Monitor Wear: Over time, replace worn or damaged strips to provide continuous safety.
Avoid Harsh Chemicals: Clean with non-abrasive cleaners to maintain anti-slip texture.
Preventable Faux Pas
Neglecting Surface Prep: Application over dirty or wet surfaces may decrease adhesion and life.
Incorrect Screw Placement: Misplaced screws can cause loose strips or splitting wood.
Overtightening Screws: This can distort the strip or destroy the deck boards. Also Read
Using the Incorrect Strips: Select strips suitable for your deck type and usage.
Overlooking Aesthetic Alignment: Random or disorganized strip installation may be aesthetically displeasing and impact safety.
