11 Checks Before You Approve Rooftop & Balcony Composite Decking (2026)
Boards don’t pass reviews—assemblies do. If slip method, drainage fall, ventilation and wind rows aren’t drawn,
you’re buying problems. Copy these 11 checks into your tender.
TL;DR — what reviewers actually look for
- Slip = method + texture: name Pendulum/DCOF for shod routes; DIN 51097 (A/B/C) for barefoot. Background: HSE overview.
- Assembly evidence: balconies/roofs are judged as build-ups, not board-only brochures.
- Drainage/ventilation: 1–2% falls to outlets; keep ≥50 mm airspace; fascia must breathe.
- Wind rows & edges: perimeter restraint near edges/doors; picture frame/bullnose at thresholds.
- Our data (for submittals): wet slip AS 4586 P5 / R13; MOR ≈ 44 MPa, MOE ≈ 2600 MPa; absorption <1%, swell <0.1%; freeze–thaw/high–low cycles ~±10%. See Why CopoSurface.
11 Checks (copy into your tender)
Rooftop/BalconyAssembly EvidenceDrainage & VentilationWind Restraint
| # | Check | What to verify | Why it matters |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Slip method + texture | Pendulum/DCOF/DIN 51097 on the exact emboss supplied | “Slip resistant” alone isn’t comparable |
| 2 | Assembly fire evidence | Evidence references the build-up (board + rails/pedestals + substrate) | Balconies/roofs are assemblies |
| 3 | Subframe | Aluminum rails over adjustable pedestals; centers tightened for diagonal/herringbone | Lightweight, level, serviceable |
| 4 | Drainage fall | 1–2% to outlets; pedestals not on drains; inspection access drawn | Stops ponding and blocked outlets |
| 5 | Ventilation | ≥50 mm airspace; fascia breathes; no boxed corners | Controls moisture & odor; improves drying |
| 6 | Wind restraint | Rows near edges/doors; fixings specified | Safety and movement control |
| 7 | Gaps | Side gaps 4–6 mm via clips; end gaps by temperature | Clean lines; expansion tolerance |
| 8 | Edges & thresholds | Picture frame/bullnose; step nosings coordinated | Safe, durable finishes |
| 9 | Heat & color | Light/mid matte tones; shade plan noted | Comfort & surface temperature |
| 10 | Maintenance SLA | Neutral-pH cleaning cadence; owner/contractor responsibilities | Maintains slip & look |
| 11 | Logistics & spares | Batch/lot control; color continuity; spare strategy | Fewer delays & color mismatch |
Compare finishes: Ecosolid Decking · See installs: Project Gallery · Policy & data: Why CopoSurface · Sustainability · Answers: FAQ.
FAQ — quick, copyable answers
Do glossy caps pass on rooftops?
They can, but glossy finishes show films and feel slick sooner. Matte/open-grain textures plus neutral-pH cleaning behave more predictably.
Are pavers always a bad idea?
No—just heavier and harder on logistics/drainage. Light composite assemblies keep outlets serviceable and weight lower.
Can I approve with “slip resistant” only?
Risky. Name the test method and the exact texture supplied (Pendulum/DCOF/DIN 51097). Otherwise results aren’t comparable.
