Planning a new outdoor space in the UK? Whether you are designing a family garden, or a commercial rooftop, choosing the right decking frame and surface is key for performance and style. With Outdure’s QwickBuild aluminium deck framing system, you don’t have to settle for one surface.
This versatile, modular sub-frame supports a range of surfaces, allowing you to build strong decks with ease. Exclusively available from F.H.Brundle in the UK, Outdure® QwickBuild ® works beautifully with treated softwood boards, composite decking, porcelain tiles and artificial grass. Each surface brings its own unique benefits, giving you the freedom to create a space that suits your needs and style.
Here is a simple guide to help you choose the right decking surface for your project.
Composite Boards: Sustainable, Stylish and Easy to Maintain
Composite decking is fast becoming the most popular decking choice in the UK. It combines the look of natural wood with the benefits of advanced material technology. At F.H.Brundle, we supply premium quality Rinato Natural composite boards that offer a soft woodgrain texture and 6 contemporary colour options. Rinato boards feature 2nd Gen Capstock Shield that provide excellent UV protection and resistance to mold and mildew, therefore, making them virtually maintenance free.
Used in combination with Outdure® QwickBuild, composite boards create family-friendly decks that last for years with minimal upkeep.
Made from 60 percent recycled wood and 40 percent recycled polypropylene, these FSC certified boards are a more sustainable choice than even traditional timber. They are splinter-free, stain-resistant and very easy to clean.
Downside: Some low-budget options available in the UK are poor-quality hollow boards with rectangular cavities, without polymer wraps. These deteriorate quickly leading to unsafe decks. Make sure you consider the trade-off in quality vs price.
Treated Softwood Boards: Affordable, Traditional and Reliable
Softwood decking remains one of the most cost-effective ways to surface a deck. Our solid UC3 treated timber boards are pressure-treated, double-sided and responsibly sourced. One side is grooved, the other smooth, giving you the option to choose your preferred look.
Installed onto the QwickBuild framing, they can be fixed directly to the joists using self-drilling screws.
Best for budget-conscious projects or those who prefer a more traditional timber finish.
The only downside is that timber requires occasional treatment, annual staining or sealing to protect the wood from weathering. Timber is also susceptible to warping over time. All of which means that these boards have a limited lifespan.
Porcelain Tiles: Classic Appearance with a Modern Edge
If you are after a crisp and contemporary finish, Porcelain Tiles from our Station range deliver both elegance and endurance. These tiles have the visual appeal of natural slate, combined with the performance of high-quality porcelain.
Available in four colours, including Black, Iron, Pearl and White, Station tiles feature a lightly riven surface that is slip-resistant and weatherproof. They are a smart choice for projects where indoor and outdoor spaces flow together, are of structural grade making them compatible with the Quickbuild subframe.
Pair with QwickBuild tile accessories for secure, professional installations at any height.
Downside: Not all porcelain tiles are structurally robust, especially those not rated for external use or pedestal systems. The Station range has been specifically selected for its structural integrity, allowing it to span securely over aluminium subframing.
Artificial Grass: Soft, Green and All-Season Ready
Our artificial grass range offers an ultra-realistic, low-maintenance alternative to traditional lawns and acts as an alternate deck surface. With several pile heights and natural colour tones available, it blends effortlessly into any outdoor space.
The Namgrass range of artificial grass is soft underfoot, pesticide-free, moisture and UV resistant and stays vibrant for years to come. It is a great choice for play areas, garden decks transforming rooftop decks into a beautiful oasis. Combined with QwickBuild, it can be installed quickly across uneven terrain, even over waterproof membranes or hard surfaces. Check out our gallery for some inspiration.
Downside: Artificial grass can retain heat on hot days and may not have the same natural cooling effect as real turf. It also requires careful installation to ensure proper drainage and prevent odours or mildew, especially in shaded or high-traffic areas.
No Need to Choose Just One
One of the biggest advantages of the QwickBuild system is its ability to support multiple surface types within a single design. You can combine tile, composite and grass on one frame to create distinct zones for lounging, dining or play.
Whatever your project, F.H. Brundle has the surfaces, structure and support you need to build a high-quality deck that will stand the test of time.
Ready to explore your options? Try the F.H.Brundle Deck Planner to design and spec your space, or contact our team for expert guidance.
