Thinking Outside the Box with Composite Materials

Millboard is primarily known for creating premium decking products, but their exceptional durability, weather resistance, and authentic timber appearance make them surprisingly perfect for vertical cladding applications as well.

When our team presented various cladding options to our clients at the Ashbourne project in the Peak District, the Millboard samples immediately stood out for their realistic wood grain, texture, and low-maintenance promises.

For this rural outbuilding project, we selected Millboard Board & Batten in Golden Oak for the vertical cladding, complemented by Millboard Enhanced Grain Golden Oak for the decking areas. Using the same material and colourway for both applications was a deliberate design choice that would create a harmonious visual flow throughout the entire exterior space.

Why Millboard Made Sense for Our Ashbourne Project

1. Authentic Timber Looks Without the Drawbacks

What truly sets Millboard apart from other composite materials is their manufacturing process. Using real timber to create their moulds results in a remarkably authentic appearance that captures the character and warmth of natural wood. The Board & Batten profile we selected echoes the proportions and character of nearby agricultural buildings, helping our new structure blend seamlessly into its rural surroundings.

The vertical rhythm of the cladding intentionally references the corrugated aluminum cladding on the stables visible in the background of the property, creating a subtle visual conversation between the new and existing structures.

Unlike actual timber, however, Millboard won't:

• Warp or twist over time
• Require regular staining or treatment
• Rot when exposed to moisture
• Fade significantly from UV exposure
• Suffer from insect damage
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2. Material Continuity with Textural Contrast

One of the most striking aspects of the finished project is the material continuity achieved by using the same product family for both the cladding and decking. While the color and material remain consistent, the textural variation between surfaces adds visual interest:

The vertical board-and-batten cladding creates a strong rhythmic pattern and shadow play on the building's walls. The horizontal decking boards with their smoother grain pattern define pathways and seating areas

This interplay between textures allows us to maintain material cohesion while still creating distinct zones and visual interest. The Millboard Enhanced Grain decking extends across the built-in seating, steps, and pool surrounds, creating a cohesive design language that connects indoor and outdoor spaces.

The warm golden tones add a welcoming quality that helps the structure feel established in its setting, while the textural variation prevents the unified material approach from becoming monotonous.

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3. Indoor-Outdoor Connection

Beyond aesthetics, this material strategy reinforces the relationship between interior and exterior spaces. The seamless transition from vertical cladding to horizontal decking guides the eye and the body through the landscape, blurring boundaries and creating a natural flow from building to garden.

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4. Installation Considerations

While installing Millboard as cladding requires some adaptation from traditional decking installation, we found the process straightforward with proper planning. The vertical installation required double battens to maintain proper airflow behind the cladding - an important consideration for any cladding system.

Millboard provides detailed installation manuals that our build team found invaluable in ensuring professional results. The material cuts cleanly with standard woodworking tools, allowing for precise fitting around windows, doors, and corners.

Cost vs. Value and Performance Benefits

Whilst Millboard is a premium product - costing 2-3 times more than traditional timber or basic composites, this investment delivers significant long-term advantages:

• Lifecycle value: Zero maintenance costs, 10-15 year warranty, and consistent appearance over time
• Weather resistance: Millboard's non-porous surface prevents water absorption and the expansion/contraction cycles that damage timber
• Sustainability: Despite higher initial production impact, the extended lifespan means fewer resources consumed over time
• Minimal maintenance: Just occasional cleaning with water and a soft brush, no annual treatments required
• Planning approval: We encountered no issues with planning authorities when specifying Millboard in this rural context

Is Millboard Right for Your Project?

This approach works best for projects where design quality, material longevity, and low maintenance are priorities, and where the budget can accommodate premium materials. For more budget-conscious projects, full render may offer a more cost-effective solution, though without Millboard's distinctive character.

Our Thoughts

Our experience with the Ashbourne Retreat project has expanded our thinking about material applications. Using Millboard for both cladding and decking created a striking exterior that conveys quality while harmonising with the surrounding landscape.

The material continuity between horizontal and vertical surfaces demonstrates how thoughtful material selection can create spaces that feel cohesive yet visually dynamic. By varying the texture and orientation while maintaining the same material, we achieved both unity and contrast - principles that are fundamental to good design.

For self-builders willing to consider unconventional applications of high-quality materials, Millboard represents an exciting alternative that combines aesthetic appeal with exceptional performance.

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Powell Design & Construction specialises in bespoke architectural projects, bringing innovative design and construction approaches to both new builds and renovations. For more information about our Ashbourne Retreat project or to discuss your own self-build plans, contact our team today.

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