{"id":10427,"date":"2021-08-02T11:38:41","date_gmt":"2021-08-02T10:38:41","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.wood-finishes-direct.com\/blog\/?p=10427"},"modified":"2025-06-16T14:48:07","modified_gmt":"2025-06-16T13:48:07","slug":"what-way-is-the-right-way-up-for-decking-boards","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.wood-finishes-direct.com\/blog\/what-way-is-the-right-way-up-for-decking-boards\/","title":{"rendered":"What Way is the Right Way Up for Decking Boards?"},"content":{"rendered":"\n

When it comes to \n\ndecking<\/a>, there are many variables to consider. What is the predominant purpose of your decking? What aesthetic will you go for? How much grip and comfort do you require? <\/p>\n\n\n\n

The considerations continue when it comes to selecting your decking boards. The modern market today usually offers decking with grooves on one side and a smooth face on the other, though this isn\u2019t always the case. The existence of composite decking, as well as double-sided, throws even more variables into the mix. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Ultimately, answering the question: what way is the right way up for decking boards, isn\u2019t as straightforward as you might believe. Fortunately, we\u2019re here to offer our expert advice, in the hopes of helping you make the right choice for your decking.<\/p>\n\n\n

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\n\n\"smooth-decking\"<\/a>
Smooth decking is still no1 in North America. Photo credit to: \n\nHouthandel Van de Voort<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n

All About Grooves<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Grooved decking is said to have come about when demand for decking increased within the UK. The theory was that it would offer an innovative solution to smooth decking that offered a better grip in the UK climate. Unfortunately, we now know this isn\u2019t the case. Grooved decking offers no superior grip over smooth decking. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Laying your decking groove side up can aid water runoff, but this is only possible if your decking is laid at a slight angle. Flat, grooved decking can also lead to standing water and grime build-up, which can be time-consuming to clean.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

One thing, at least, seems to be clear. Having grooves on the bottom of your decking planks allows for greater airflow from the timber frame beneath and the underside of the board. This is especially important as it prevents the build-up of damp conditions which can lead to wood rot. Additionally, this can also help negate the risk of timber warping.<\/p>\n\n\n

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\n\n\"\"<\/a>
Grooved decking, contrary to belief, does not hold superior anti-slip properties. Photo credit to: \n\nRob Brewer<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n

Other Factors to Consider<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n