Designing for Grip: Three Wet Environment Decking Projects

Some outdoor areas are more exposed to water than others. A spa terrace, marina boardwalk or floating pavilion all bring an added level of slip risk, making reliable underfoot performance particularly important.

When these kinds of spaces call for decking with a natural timber or bamboo finish, specifying grip strips offers a way to increase slip resistance without changing the overall character of the deck.

The following projects show how grip strips have been successfully specified in three very different wet environments, improving slip resistance while retaining a natural deck finish.

South Quay Plaza: A Spa Terrace Exposed to the Elements

Located in London’s Isle of Dogs, South Quay Plaza is a major mixed-use development designed by Foster + Partners. Its resident amenities include a wellness spa with an external terrace overlooking the docklands.

As the terrace is not only exposed to the elements but also forms part of a spa environment, wet feet and additional moisture are to be expected. Grip strips were incorporated into the bamboo deck boards, increasing surface grip while retaining the natural appearance of the material.

South Quay Plaza

Marine Deck, Wood Wharf: Along the Water’s Edge

Designed by Adamson Associates, Marine Deck at Wood Wharf brings the public realm right to the water’s edge.

Thousands of linear metres of Cumaru with integrated grip strips were used to create the marina boardwalk, with ramps and staircases connecting the surrounding green spaces, seating areas and marine facilities. Its waterfront location and changes in level made slip resistance an important consideration throughout the design.

Marine Deck, Wood Wharf

Water Pavilions, Wood Wharf: Decking on the Water

Designed by Glenn Howells Architects, the K1 and K2 water pavilions at Wood Wharf are floating structures that now house restaurants and bars.

Cumaru decking with integrated grip strips was installed across the platforms, gangways and balconies, alongside timber seating. Positioned directly on the water and connected by a series of boardwalks, the project called for additional consideration of slip resistance while retaining a natural timber finish.

Water Pavilions, Wood Wharf

Building Slip Resistance into the Design

Where a natural timber or bamboo finish is important, grip strips are an effective solution. However, they're not the only way to achieve slip resistance. Some decking materials, including Silvadec composite and Zerodeck Porcelain decking, offer excellent inherent slip resistance without the need for additional inserts.

Slip resistance should always be considered in relation to how and where a space will be used. The right approach will depend on the chosen material and the demands of the environment, particularly around water, ramps, steps and heavily trafficked routes.

If you’re working on an external decking project, our team can advise on slip resistance and the options available for your chosen surface finish.