Updated 20 September 2024

Aluminium DryDeck technology is revolutionising the way Australians build decks in bushfire prone areas.

There is good news for homeowners living in Bushfire Attack Level (BAL) areas. No longer do high BAL Ratings like BAL40 or Flame Zone (BAL FZ) mean an end to your outdoor entertainment – so long as you use the right materials.

Building a deck in bushfire zone areas

Following catastrophic bushfire events such as Ash Wednesday in the 1980s, Black Christmas in 2001, and Black Saturday in 2009, Australian standards were updated to minimise the risk of bushfire vulnerability where possible. 

This meant introducing standards for a range of bushfire resistant materials, especially those deemed non combustible, to give Australian homes a better chance of surviving fire. What you need to do to reduce the threat depends on how your home is rated. The most extreme is also the newest addition to this category: BAL FZ.

Knowing your zones

The ratings run from BAL LOW (very low risk, possible ember attack) to BAL FZ (extreme risk of embers, burning debris ignition from windborne material, radiant heat, and direct exposure to flames from the fire front).

The higher the BAL rating, the less choice you have in building materials… including whether or not you can use wood for decking areas. Fortunately, you can still get a beautiful look without a traditional timber deck.

Enter Aluminium DryDeck: A non combustible alternative to decking boards, and the best alternative to timber decking when you want to upgrade your outdoor entertaining, but live in a high rated bushfire zone.

Using Aluminium DryDeck in a BAL FZ area

Here are five reasons why Aluminium DryDeck is a smart investment for your home – and the perfect solution for homes in bushfire prone areas.

1. Flame Zone Approved

With the increasing numbers of bush fires threatening Australian property, local authorities are forever expanding the amount of BAL rated areas.

NexGEN Aluminium DryDeck has BAL FZ decking approval, which means it withstands fire damage and prevents the spread of fire. 

Barbeque with the peace of mind that only NexGEN DryDeck brings. This fireproof material neither combusts nor burns, making it the safest choice for your home.

Responsible homeowners know that fire resistant decking materials, like flame zone decking, protect not just their own property – but the property of friends and neighbours as well.

2. Waterproof Technology

NexGEN flame zone decking is not only fireproof; it is also waterproof. Water causes DryDeck no damage.

The unique design keeps the area under your deck dry too. Turn this under-utilised outdoor space into a storage area, workshop or additional patio area to maximise your outdoor entertainment area.

3. Family Friendly

DryDeck flame zone decking is perfect for family fun. The material stays cooler than traditional decking material due to its very high thermal conductivity properties, protecting bare feet from hot surfaces. 

Enjoy peace of mind, knowing your new deck provides a cool, splinter free decking experience for your family and friends. 

No need to worry about a mess either – this aluminium flame zone decking is easy to clean. Soap and water eliminate spills without damaging the deck surface. No special maintenance is required to keep it clean.

Most importantly, no harmful chemicals are used in the production of DryDeck, making it safe for kids and pets to play on.

4. Long-Lasting than a Traditional Timber Deck

Even if you were able to use timber, why would you bother? Your DryDeck flame zone decking is guaranteed to last for years without obvious signs of wear and tear. With a super durable, high-density polyester powder coated aluminium, you can effortlessly keep your deck looking good as new. 

DryDeck flame zone decking is salt spray resistant for 3,000 hours and receives top quality outdoor ratings, making it ideal for locations exposed to the elements. 

The deck’s top colour retention ratings and excellent stain and dirt resistance keeps it clean and free of unpleasant discolorations no matter how much activity your deck experiences.

5. Easy, incredibly durable construction

DryDeck uses an innovative tongue-and-groove design to create a low-maintenance, solid surface that fits tight together to keep out moisture. It’s impervious to insects, won’t rust, won’t rot, and simply will not burn even in the most extreme conditions.

DryDeck aluminium decking is easy to DIY. It can be installed with readily available tools, and our team are available to assist with any questions you may have during the process.

NexGEN Decking: Suited for every application

If aluminium decking is not for you, consider solid timber composite deck boards for your next project. Our range has something suitable for all bushfire zone areas.