Paul Smith, head of marketing at F.H. Brundle, discusses the modern materials shaking up the fencing and decking sectors.

Since the turn of the millennium, rapid advances in technology have seen traditional materials increasingly replaced with stronger, longer-lasting and easier to maintain alternatives.

It’s unlikely the humble timber fence or metal railings will ever disappear completely from Britain’s gardens – but now, it’s got serious competition.

New man-made materials like WPC – wood-plastic composite – can deliver the timeless timber aesthetics that homeowners like so much, but without timber’s many drawbacks.

Where wood is susceptible to rotting and warping, WPC products are water-resistant. Where timber needs costly, time-consuming and regular maintenance, WPC products require virtually none – and what’s more, its longer life-span means it needs replacing less often too.

Long-lasting, easy-maintenance decking

WPC has quickly become a leading material in the decking sector, as well as becoming popular for fencing, cladding and more.

At F.H. Brundle, for instance, we supply the popular Rinato™ range of WPC fencing and decking – offering the look of wood, without the hassle.

With the option for a woodgrain finish, it’s able to offer much-sought-after traditional aesthetics. But it’s much stronger, longer-lasting, and virtually maintenance free.

Rinato combines Forest Stewardship Council-certified recycled eucalyptus wood and non-toxic recycled polyethylene or polypropylene, making it both incredibly strong and environmentally friendly.

What’s more, Rinato products also come backed with a 25-year guarantee!

But WPC isn’t the only modern alternative challenging timber’s dominance.

Aluminium was once a material you’d associate with sleek commercial buildings and high-end windows and doors – but now, the style and strength that’s made it so popular in other sectors is now seeing it increasingly adopted elsewhere, too.

Just this year, for instance, we’ve unveiled our new innovative Synergised ™ decking system.

Designed in the UK, Synergised decking is made from structural-grade 6063 T6 aluminium, and finished with a 100 micron Qualicoat™ premium powder coating, making it ideal for high-traffic areas.

Stylish, versatile fencing

In recent years, we’ve seen aluminium and WPC shake up the fencing market, too.

Long-lasting, maintenance-free and easy to handle and install, lightweight Marano slats and boards come in both a realistic golden oak timber effect finish, and a stylish and contemporary anthracite grey.

Within the Marano range, you find a variety of different systems.

Elements is arguably the most versatile – letting you create striking, ultra-modern fencing with a combination of double-sided boards, aluminium strips, and acrylic panels.

Marano Convex slats can be fixed to the external face of virtually any fencing posts, for a striking and quick-to-install privacy fence.

Our stylish Marano Stripe fencing boards are double-sided – on one side, you find a contemporary flat design, while they feature a traditional grooved effect on the other.

Speak to F.H. Brundle

Thousands of installers around the country are already benefitting from the strength and stability of WPC and aluminium, among other alternatives – and if you’re interested in joining them, we’d be delighted to help. www.fhbrundle.co.uk/