We like to be different and stay ahead of the curve. All Malvern Garden Buildings are made in Britain by the factory that first introduced painted sheds in the 1990s—a brave move back then that raised a few eyebrows in the sector!
We work very closely with the factory to develop garden retreats that meet your needs and desires. By listening to your feedback and staying in tune with trends, together, we continuously evolve our range to reflect the best in garden building design.
As many of you have asked about composite garden buildings, our factory has been on the lookout for the perfect partner to help shape the future of garden buildings. That’s where Millboard comes in.
Based in Warwickshire, just down the road from our factory, Millboard is another British manufacturer that shares our commitment to quality and innovation.
We’ve combined Millboard’s advanced resin mineral composite cladding with our expertise in garden building to create something truly exceptional.
We spoke to Warwick Devenish, Strategic Account Manager, UK&I at Millboard, to find out what makes this material perfect for garden buildings.
What is Millboard cladding?
Millboard cladding is a resin mineral composite board, with its core made from a polyurethane resin reinforced with glass fibre and recycled limestone powder, with an elastane surface applied to the top. It is hand moulded from real oak masters, replicating a smooth timber with a flat grain finish – unlike other composites that are extruded or pressed.
Because the polyurethane resin expands, it forms under pressure, eliminating the need for heat, unlike other composites that require a heating element to produce their products. Once released from the mould, the board is hand finished and given a unique batch code.
How was it invented?
The Douglass family once owned a company called Stonemarket, which was acquired by Marshalls. They specialised in moulding concrete to resemble natural stone and ran a plant nursery and landscaping business.
In 2007, they began developing products made from polyurethane resin, starting with outdoor planters and fish tanks. One of the founders, Jerry, then had the idea to create decking. While the boards still look the same, their composition has evolved significantly since then. Today, the company has offices in the United States, France and Germany with its head office and global design and manufacturing facility located in Warwickshire, UK.
What’s its lifespan?
Millboard cladding products come with a UK backed warranty of 15 years, but in reality, they have a lifespan of 30 years plus. Projects using the original boards from 2007 are still going strong and look as good as the day they were first laid.
How do Millboard products fair in different weather?
Millboard products have been used in 40+ countries across the globe and exposed to a wide range of climates, from the harsh conditions of the Alps to the intense heat of Australia. The products undergo continuous testing, with live outdoor tests ongoing in Florida, where they perform excellently in a multitude of conditions. Unlike wood, Millboard products are non-porous so are highly resistant to mould growth and don’t need sealing. Any debris can easily be cleaned off with warm soapy water and a light brush or a pressure-washer. One customer even has their window cleaner spruce up their Millboard clad building while doing their windows. Generally, cleaning once or twice a year – usually in spring and before winter – will be enough.
How does it differ from wood?
It doesn’t swell, crack, split, or warp because it contains no timber. You may notice slight shrinkage, but over a three-metre length, it’s typically only up to 0.2%. It’s also highly durable, passing impact resistance tests and hail and wind tests in the UK and US.
How much does Millboard cladding and decking cost?
Millboard cladding retails from £139.50 per m² (inc. VAT) and customers often comment that it represents great value for money, given the exquisite product quality, long lasting durability and ease of maintenance. It allows people to enjoy their outdoor space with minimal effort.
How is Millboard used to construct a building?
A framework is built, and the Millboard cladding is then installed using a tongue-and-groove system, with the fixings sitting behind the join. No special tools are required. The cladding can be applied vertically or horizontally, and corner profiles are used to create a seamless finish.
What finishes are available?
There are nine colours in the Shadow Line+ range and eight in the Board & Batten+ range. One of the most popular is Burnt Cedar, while Smoked Oak is especially popular on the UK coast. There are also lighter colours, including Smoked Oak, Limed Oak, Golden Oak, and two pastel shades: Salt Blue and Sage Green.
Is there any colour change over time?
Millboard decking and cladding is highly fade resistant and is constantly tested under laboratory conditions. The boards have variation from board to board to create a more natural feel, however, unlike timber, any colour change is consistent across the area.
What’s the warranty on Millboard cladding?
It currently comes with a UK-backed 15-year warranty, which is regularly reviewed.
Where might we have seen Millboard products in use?
Millboard decking and cladding can be found in various locations across the globe, enhancing both residential and commercial spaces alike – from small urban courtyards and sprawling country manor houses, to zoos, theme parks and holiday villages.
Wimbledon Court One Stadium featured this cladding in a project completed before its official launch in 2007. It still looks as good today as it did when first installed. And now, of course, it will soon be available at a Malvern Garden Buildings showsite near you.
