Australians love to live in coastal areas. Beachfront and seaside properties are in demand, with the highest amount of development and land use since 2011 occurring near the cost according to the Australian Bureau of Statistics. While stunning views, sea breezes and close proximity to the beach may make coastal areas the ideal home for many Australians, there can be drawbacks to living on the coast. 

Seawater and salt spray create a corrosive environment, which can present a major challenge when building in coastal areas. Coastal areas are also subject to other harsh environmental conditions, such as strong sunlight, humidity and high levels of traffic. This means that designers and specifiers must consider the impact of humidity, sea spray and UV solar radiation on the products they use. The closer to the sea a development is built, the higher percentage or moisture and salt particles, accelerating the rate of corrosion and deterioration on building components. Even the smallest fixings are subject to rust over time – and salt particles can break down common powder coatings on steel building products, compromising both performance and aesthetics. This can result in property owners frequently needing to repair or replace materials or fixings on their homes. 

 Picture above: DecoClad, DecoWood Weathered Timber

When designing and building in coastal areas, specifiers need to choose products that can withstand the elements – and marine grade products are the answer. Marine grade building products and finishes are specially designed for coastal areas, taking into account the need for higher durability and resistance to sun, sea and salt. 

For a quality building product designed to last, choose DecoWood for all your coastal building needs. The DecoWood sublimated, powder coated finish  – available on a number of aluminium building products including cladding, decking, battens and slats –can provide your building with long-lasting elegance and style. DecoWood complies with Australian and international standards for quality, and uses Qualicoat Class 2.0 powders, which are designed to be corrosion-resistant, UV stable and retain their gloss levels even after years of constant exposure to grime, salt spray and moisture.  The pretreatment used on all DecoWood products adds extra corrosion resistance. 

Tested in extreme exposure sites in Miami and Venice, DecoWood is proven to stand up to harsh levels of sea and sun. As a sublimated, powder coated finish for aluminium extrusions, it also offers a stunning timber look for your coastal property, minus the rotting and warping that timber often undergoes when exposed to salt spray. DecoWood is also non-combustible, meaning it can be applied in bush fire areas overlooking the coast.

For stunning coastal buildings that will retain their beautiful appearance and performance qualities, DecoWood is the ideal marine grade product.

Find out more about DecoWood here. 

 Picture above: DecoBatten, DecoWood Smoked Ash