Introducing the architectural products built to endure our treasured seaside living
Written by
18 September 2024
•
5 min read
Australians' fondness for coastal living remains unwavering. However, constructing a home by the ocean requires materials that can withstand the harsh environmental conditions associated with a desirable seaside location.
DECO Australia, a leader in architectural building products, continues to set the standard for quality and innovation by announcing its new Qualicoat Seaside certification.
As a licensed Qualicoat Seaside applicator, DECO can provide additional durability for architectural projects located near the coast, where saltwater exposure and humidity can be detrimental to poorly finished aluminium.
What is a Qualicoat Seaside Certification?
Switzerland-based Qualicoat is the world’s leading quality label for aluminium coating. The independent, not-for-profit organisation was formed to achieve the best possible quality powder coatings for architectural aluminium products.
DECO Australia’s National Specification Manager, Richard Parkes, explains, “Qualicoat is the only specification for architectural powder coating with independent third-party accrediting and auditing of powder materials and powder coat applicators. DECO received its initial standard Qualicoat licence in 2022, cementing us as a leading applicator of exceptional-quality architectural powder coat and sublimated finishes.”
Parkes highlights the importance of obtaining the Qualicoat Seaside certification, noting its rigorous testing standards. "The Qualicoat Seaside certification involves more rigorous pre-treatment and extra testing on our part, specifically for marine environments. It's a higher standard compared to others on the market and measures the entire finishing process, not just the end result.”
Parkes continues, “We have been working towards this Qualicoat accreditation for several years, and to be the only finisher in Australia with the Qualicoat licence just proves our commitment to quality finishes and products.”
“Quality finishes not only provide high aesthetic value but also extend the life of aluminium products. Regarding the sustainability of building materials, finishes play an important factor in a building’s whole-of-life approach,” Parkes adds.
This certification is more than just a mark of quality; it assures that every aspect of DECO’s production process, from pre-treatment to the final powder application, meets the highest international standards.
“Qualicoat doesn't just test the final product; it measures every step, from pre-treatment to the powder quality. We've even worked with leading powder suppliers to get their sublimation powders accredited under Qualicoat here in Australia," says Parkes.
Durable solutions for harsh conditions
DECO’s architectural building products, which include cladding, battens, slats and decking systems, are purposefully designed to withstand the Australian climate, especially in coastal areas. Super Durable ‘Class 2’ powders, known for their durability under UV and marine conditions, are a key factor in the longevity and low maintenance of its products.
"Our products have used the Qualicoat process specification for years, and we switched to ‘Class 2’ powders when they became available as we know these offer up to 50 per cent more durability than standard powders typically used in Australia."
“This makes a significant difference in the longevity and maintenance of our products compared to our competitors," Parkes explains.
This durability is crucial for applications in coastal environments, where exposure to saltwater and intense sunlight can quickly degrade lesser materials. DECO’s Qualicoat-approved finishes ensure that their aluminium products remain resilient and beautiful for years, with minimal upkeep required.
Versatile and sustainable aluminium
Aluminium is at the core of DECO’s product offerings and is notable for its durable and recyclable nature. As Parkes notes, "Aluminium, as a material, is lightweight, robust, and long-lasting. It’s also recyclable, making it a sustainable option. The Qualicoat-approved finish ensures low maintenance, unlike timber, which requires constant upkeep like staining, painting, and sanding."
This low-maintenance quality is especially appealing to homeowners and developers looking for long-lasting beauty without the burden of ongoing maintenance. Additionally, aluminium's unique thermal properties make it an ideal material for various applications, such as DECO’s decking product, DecoDeck.
"Aluminium will generally only heat up to the ambient temperature around it, unlike materials like hardwood timbers and composites, which retain heat and keep getting hotter. So it’s perfect for products, like decking, where heat underfoot is an important factor," says Parkes
Innovative architectural solutions
DECO Australia’s innovative architectural building products, including its award-winning aluminium decking and QuickClick batten systems, provide specifiers with practical and aesthetically pleasing facades, screening, and fencing solutions. All DECO products come with a Super Durable and low-maintenance powder coat finish, available in various contemporary colours and finishes including concrete, rust-look, and a premium timber-look finish, DecoWood.
DECO Australia’s Qualicoat Seaside certification demonstrates the brand’s commitment to producing high-quality, sustainable architectural building products that meet the demands of Australia’s coastal and marine environments. With a focus on durability, sustainability, and innovation, DECO continues to lead the market, providing effortless, beautiful living through its extensive range of aluminium solutions.
View the full range of architectural building products or contact DECO Australia on ArchiPro today.
*DecoWood, DecoDeck, and QuickClick are registered trademarks.