Summary

Novano’s composite decking redefines outdoor design for architects. Made from rice husks and bio-based renewables, it delivers sustainability, elegance, and long-lasting strength. Fully recyclable, low-maintenance, and aligned with LEED standards, it’s the modern choice for future-ready architecture.

Everything to Know About NOVANO's Composite Decking

Decking materials have evolved significantly, moving beyond traditional wood to more advanced alternatives. Architects today prioritize not just aesthetics but also sustainability and durability in their designs. To meet these demands, newer materials need to be eco-friendly and maintenance-free while maintaining design flexibility.

Novano’s composite decking addresses these needs by combining innovative materials engineered with environmental consciousness in mind. It offers a forward-thinking choice designed for modern architectural projects seeking both long-term performance and a reduced carbon footprint. This guide explains why Novano is gaining attention as a future-ready decking material for architects.

Key Takeaways

Novano’s composite deck merges sustainability, aesthetics, and engineering strength.

It uses a hybrid composition with no traditional plastics yet remains fully recyclable.

Architects gain long-lasting durability with very low maintenance demands.

The material supports LEED and next-generation green building certifications.

Decking Material Composition & Engineering

Modern composites are changing how architects think about decking. Novano uses an engineered blend of agricultural byproducts and renewables to create a product that is both sustainable and performance-driven. 

Material Composition:

  • Rice Husks (approximately 60%)
  • Common Salt (approximately 22%)
  • Mineral Oil (approximately 18%)

Structurally, the boards are water-resistant, weather-resistant, and insect-resistant, making them suitable for all climates. With a Class A Fire Rating (ASTM E84), they also add safety assurance for residential, commercial, and hospitality projects. Architects can specify Novano decking with confidence, knowing that the material is built for long-term use and low lifecycle costs.

Novano Deck as a Hybrid Composite Material

Traditional composites often rely on plastics to hold wood fibers together. Novano advances this approach with a new type of hybrid construction material that uses organic rice husks and renewable binders instead of plastics. The result is a decking board that is 100% wood-free and part of a circular economy.

By eliminating plastics, Novano decking reduces environmental impact while maintaining the resilience that architects expect. It is fully recyclable, making it ideal for projects where material reuse and long-term sustainability matter.

For architects specifying LEED-focused developments, Novano is not just an option but a strategic choice. It allows designers to combine environmental responsibility with high-performance building standards without compromise.

Nice Residential Pool Deck with text overlay: “Deck Types and Design Approaches

How To Design: Floating Decks

A floating deck rests directly on the ground or piers and is not attached to a building. This design minimizes site impact and is ideal for rentals or modular applications.

Key considerations:

  • Simple foundation
  • No ledger board attachment
  • Allows natural ground drainage

How To Design: Rooftop Decks

Rooftop decks maximize space in urban environments but require careful structural and waterproofing design. 

Key considerations:

  • Load capacity for the roof structure
  • Drainage systems and waterproof membranes
  • Wind uplift resistance

How To Design: Pool Decks

Designing pool decks focuses on water drainage, slip resistance, and heat tolerance.

Key considerations:

  • Use materials that resist moisture damage
  • Non-slip surfaces improve safety
  • Smooth transitions between hardscape and decking

How To Design: Patio Decks

Raised or flush patios connect indoor and outdoor living areas. Coordination with adjacent hardscape materials like concrete or pavers is crucial for aesthetic continuity.

Key considerations:

  • Match height with door thresholds
  • Ensure smooth, seamless transitions between patio hardscape and decking
  • Design for appropriate drainage to prevent water pooling

How To Design: Longboard Decks

Longboards extend linearly along property lines or scenic views. Design challenges include expansion management and structural support for longer spans.

Key considerations

  • Allow for expansion and contraction with proper spacing
  • Use strong structural supports for longer spans
  • Maintain a clean visual alignment with the surrounding architecture and views

Material Considerations: Hybrid Composites in Modern Deck Design

Choosing the right material ensures beauty and performance over decades.

Why Hybrid Composites?

  • Durability: Resists rot, insects, and UV damage
  • Sustainability: Made from recycled and bio-based materials
  • Low Maintenance: No painting or sealing
  • Design Flexibility: Multiple colors and finishes
  • Fire Safety: Added protection and peace of mind in various applications


NOVANO Building Products USA offers
hybrid composite decking that combines sustainability, Class A fire rating, and high-end design, perfect for residential, commercial, and hospitality builds.

 

Benefits of Using Novano Decking

Durability

Resistant to UV, water, and mold

Resistant to moisture, rot, and insect damage

Designed to withstand extreme climates (from humid coastal regions to cold climate regions)

Long lifespan with minimal lifecycle costs

Does NOT require regular painting or sealing

Safety

Class A fire-rated

Does NOT splinter, crack, or warp

Sustainability

Made from recycled, renewable resources

Fully recyclable at the end of its lifecycle

Meets global sustainability benchmarks, including LEED

Aesthetics

Mimics the natural warmth of wood without its weaknesses

Available in a palette of modern finishes and colors

Long-Term Value

Novano composite decking delivers strong ROI through minimal maintenance and a long lifespan. Over time, it proves both economical and environmentally responsible. Every board is backed by a 25-year warranty on material and a 5-year warranty on the finish for decking, providing added assurance of lasting performance.

Decking Installation Tips & General Maintenance

Installation is straightforward when best practices are followed. Architects and contractors can rely on Novano’s technical guides to simplify the process.

Installation Best Practices:

Maintain proper spacing and allow airflow for natural expansion.

Ensure substructure alignment for uniform aesthetics.

Always store materials flat, covered, and in a dry, ventilated area before installation.

Use starter clips for secure board placement.

Once installed, Novano decking requires very little care compared to traditional wood. The boards maintain their finish and structural strength with minimal effort.

Care & Maintenance Guidelines:

Clean regularly with warm water, mild dish soap, and a soft-bristle brush

Rinse with a garden hose to remove dirt and debris

Treat stains (oil, grease, hard water, or mildew) promptly with gentle cleaning methods such as soapy water or diluted vinegar

All products are fully recyclable: never burn, and always dispose responsibly

For more details, explore Novano’s care and cleaning resources to help keep every project looking its best.

Your Forward-Thinking Choice

NOVANO composite decking is designed for architects who want to balance sustainability, aesthetics, and engineering strength in their projects. Its hybrid, recyclable composition meets rising environmental standards while delivering a natural look and long-term durability.

Get FREE Samples today and experience the quality, texture, and craftsmanship of Novano decking for yourself, or Shop Now to start your next project!

FAQs

What makes Novano composite decking different from traditional wood materials?

It is wood-free, fully recyclable, and engineered to resist water, rot, insects, and UV rays, unlike natural wood that requires constant upkeep.

How does Novano’s hybrid composition eliminate plastics while staying durable?

Novano blends recycled rice husks with biobased renewables, creating a strong board without relying on traditional plastics.

Can NOVANO decking contribute toward LEED building credits?

Yes. Its recyclable, sustainable composition supports green building certifications and eco-focused specifications.

Grab your FREE samples today!