We designed and built a pioneering custom-curved Millboard deck at this lakeside property in Oxshott, Surrey, forming the bullnose boards to a clean 2.4-metre radius around an established tree.
When we were told that it was impossible to heat and curve Millboard decking successfully, we had to put that theory to the test. After all, we never truly know what can be achieved until we try.
We developed a technique that allowed us to heat and form the Millboard bullnose boards into a clean and consistent 2.4-metre radius using blankets. To our knowledge, this was the first time the boards had been successfully curved in this way, opening up entirely new possibilities for bespoke Millboard deck design.
It was not long before we had the perfect opportunity to put our curved-decking technique into practice. A previous Millboard client recommended us to a neighbour who had recently moved into a lakeside property in Oxshott. Their existing timber deck had become rotten and needed to be replaced.
Having seen the Millboard deck next door, the clients had already chosen Brushed Basalt for the main boards with Smoked Oak as a contrasting picture-frame border. During our site visit, they asked whether we could create a circular deck around the established tree, extending out over the lake.
It was the ideal setting for our newly developed technique. We curved the Millboard bullnose boards around the tree to create a seamless circular edge, turning a complex design idea into a distinctive lakeside deck. The completed installation transformed the outdoor space and proved just how far Millboard decking could be taken with the right experience, imagination and craftsmanship.
If you are considering replacing an old deck or creating a new outdoor living space, we can help. We design and build high-quality composite and timber decking throughout Surrey, South London and the surrounding areas.
Call us on 07756 269011, email hello@deckanddesign.com, or complete the form to tell us about your project.
Millboard boards are manufactured as straight profiles and cannot simply be bent into shape. We developed a specialist heat-forming technique that allowed us to curve the bullnose boards cleanly and consistently for this bespoke Oxshott installation.
The achievable radius depends on the board profile, the design and the conditions of the individual project. For this lakeside deck, we successfully formed the Millboard bullnose boards to a consistent 2.4-metre radius.
Yes, but the design must be carefully planned around the tree and its surroundings. We consider the shape of the trunk, potential future growth, drainage and the supporting structure before determining the size and position of the curved opening.
Lakeside decking requires careful consideration of moisture, drainage, ventilation, access and the supporting structure. At this Oxshott property, the design also had to respond to an established tree and the deck’s position extending out over the lake.
