RELAZZO DECKING SYSTEMSTechnical Information

This technical information “RELAZZO decking systems” is valid from January 2016.

With its publication the previous technical informa-tions R20600 (date January 2014) and R20675 (date May 2015) become invalid.

Our current technical documentation is available to download at www.rehau.com/relazzo.

The document is protected by copyright. The rights conferred therein, in particular those relating to the translation, reprinting, extraction of pictures, electronic transmissions, reproduction by pho-to-mechanical or similar means and storage on data processing equipment, remain reserved.

All dimensions and weights are reference values. Subject to errors and technical alterations.

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CONTENTS

1 General information 41.1 Validity 41.2 Area of application 41.3 Ecology/economic efficiency 4

2 Product information 62.1 Product description 62.2 Dimensions and permitted deviations 72.3 Surface finish 72.4 Colour properties 82.5 Thermal properties 92.6 Chemical properties 92.7 Physical properties 92.8 Accident prevention 10

3 Practical Information 113.1 Care/maintenance 113.2 Care tips 113.3 Processing/assembly advice 123.4 Storage suggestions and handling 14

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1 GENERAL INFORMATION

1.1 Validity

This technical information applies for the REHAU RELAZZO decking system, consisting of boards, substructure and system components. Information about the assembly can be found in the assembly instructions.

1.2 Area of application

The RELAZZO decking boards, the substructures as well as all of the system components were specially

developed for use as decking floor. The products do not have building authority approval and for this reason are not to be used for self-supporting, structural purposes. The local building regulations are to be observed accordingly.In the case of installation on e.g. balconies or jetties for example, it is important to provide a structurally sound foundation and, where necessary, to use a steel substructure (e.g.mesh) to provide load-bearing strength.

1.3 Ecology/economic efficiency

In terms of sustained environmental ecology, all RELAZZO decking boards are completely recyclable. The RELAZZO decking systems are both FSC- as well as PEFC-certified and therefore illustrate REHAU’s sense of responsibility to the environment

Due to the wood content of over 50 %, the RELAZZO decking boards and substructure fall into waste wood ordinance category A IV and are classed as biomass. The local disposal regulations are to be observed accordingly.

RELAZZO decking boards are considerably more economically efficient than conventional timber planking in the long term thanks to the significantly longer durability and minimal need for cleaning. The RELAZZO decking systems comply with DIN CEN/TS 15083-01 “ Durability of wood and wood-based products - Determination of the natural durability of solid wood against wood-destroying fungi” of the highest durability category 1 (very durable).

Jointly with the VHI, we are committed to sustainable construction via EPDs for WPC decking boards and WPC curtain walling elements in the IBU. The worldwide first Environmental Product Declaration (EPD) for curtain walling elements and decking boards made of wood-poly-mer materials was raised via the Institute for Construction and Environment e.V. (IBU).

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The environmental product declaration supplies the data basis for ecological building assessments to DIN EN 15978 “Sustainability of construction works - Assessment of environmental performance of buildings - Calculation method”. It is based on the international standards (ISO 14025; ISO 14040 ff) and serves the purpose of evidence for environmental effects of construction products during public procurement. The EPD makes statements regarding the environmental effects (use of resources, emissions, greenhouse effect, destruction of the stratospheric ozone layer, acidification of water and soil, depletion of fossil energy resources, depletion of mineral resources) of products.

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2 PRODUCT INFORMATION

2.1 Product description

The RELAZZO decking boards and WPC substructure are made of high-quality polymers and at least 50% wood fibres from sustainable, European forestry. This material combination of wood and polymer is known as wood-polymer composite or WPC for short. The WPC formulations specially developed by REHAU perfectly combine the positive properties of wood and polymers. With excellent mechanical characteristic values, the profile also retains a natural feel and look.Natural-looking decking coverings are the result of specially developed surface finishing processes such as brushing or embossing.

Advantages compared to solid wood decking include, amongst other things, reduced cleaning and maintenance, greater durability and improved dimensional stability.

The RELAZZO decking boards are reversible and thus offering a choice between two different surfaces.

The individual decking boards are fixed to the WPC substructure using a specially designed stainless steel bracket system (V4A) or with a quick installation system made of optical fibre reinforced polymer for the aluminium substructure. An easy, quick installation as well as stability of the construction is achieved by coordinating the individual components. In addition to this, the individual boards can be dismantled and reassembled at a later date.

The RELAZZO decking system has the „Quality association for wood materials e.V.“ quality seal of the VHI and bears the TÜV octagon of the TÜV-SOUTH (certified in accordance with TÜV guidelines). This quality seal specifies uniform quality criteria for decking profiles and identifies products which fulfil the highest of qualitative requirements. The TÜV certificate stands for more stringent, international tests and limit values.The properties of RELAZZO decking system are subjected to regular testing by independent, external institutes.

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2.2 Dimensions and permitted deviations

All dimensions and tolerances are defined on the latest version of the REHAU drawings.

Component Dimensions W x H x L [mm]

Weight [kg/lfm]

RELAZZO puro 30x140 140 x 30 x 4.000 / 5.000 / 6.000 1,9RELAZZO puro 30x194 194 x 30 x 4.000 / 5.000 / 6.000 2,6RELAZZO puro solid 30x140 140 x 30 x 6.000 4,4RELAZZO naturo 23x169 169 x 23 x 4.000 / 6.000 2,3RELAZZO finello 23x169 169 x 23 x 4.000 / 6.000 2,3RELAZZO coro 23x140 140 x 23 x 4.000 / 6.000 3,6RELAZZO calmo 23x140 140 x 23 x 4.000 / 6.000 3,6RELAZZO WPC substructure 60x40 60 x 40 x 4.000 1,7RELAZZO WPC substructure 50x30 50 x 30 x 4.000 1,3RELAZZO AI substructure 21x30 21 x 30 x 4.000 0,62

Length tolerance: +20 mm

2.3 Surface finish

Special finishing processes such as brushing or embossing are used to increase the anti-slip properties of the surface. Unlike solid wood decking or untreated WPC decking boards, this achieves a high anti-slip category (≥ 24° / category C to DIN 51097). Above all, this process minimises the risk of an accident on wet profiles. It is however to be borne in mind that the anti-slip properties are likely to be reduced in wet or icy conditions.

The special surface treatment also enhances the wood characteristic of the profiles. Decking boards are brushed in one direction, thus raising the wood particles evenly. In order to avoid an irregular finish, you should ensure that all boards are laid in the same direction. The direction of brushing is indicated by a printed arrow on the side of the board. In addition to this, continuous pips can be seen inside cavities on hollow profiles and on the side of solid profiles to indicate the profile orientation.However, if desired you can also vary the orientation of brushing to achieve different visual effects.

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2.4 Colour properties

The RELAZZO decking board colours are UV-resistant. The colour characteristics are therefore retained even in the case of intensive weathering.

However, wood is a natural product and is subject to a colour adjustment in particular in the beginning. A reaction of the substance contained in wood, lignine, with the UV part of the light occurs during the first few weeks. This causes a yellowing of the wood fibres in the surface layer of the decking boards. This effect may already be visible prior to installation under certain circumstances. This yellow discol-ouration is washed out again by the effect of water (e.g. rain) within the first few months. Colour differences resulting from the movement of objects (for example flower pots) also progress through this natural process. You can accelerate this natural process by spraying the surface with water within the first 8 to 10 weeks after installation.The wood fibres then progress through the natural process of greying. Subsequent removal of the greyed fibres by means of high pressure cleaning with a high nozzle pressure or by sanding the surface only leads to a brief lightening of the wood particles. The process of yellowing and greying then starts all over again.Light-dark areas of the surface structures as in RELAZZO naturo and RELAZZO coro can adapt in terms of colour due to natural weather-ing. The structure of the emboss remains intact during this.

Terra Ciottolo

Original colour directly after the installation.

Yellowing depending on sunlight after one day to 2 months.

Brightening and greying depending on the weather condition after 2 to 5 months.

The base colour of the decking, which is derived from the dyed polymer component, is also retained in the long term and reflects the product‘s colour characteristics at any given time. However, the colour changes described do not impair the mechanical properties of the RELAZZO decking systems in any way and therefore do not represent a defect.

The raw material wood also accounts for possible colour variations and tinges that enhance the natural

wood appearance. When using different batches, it is recom-mended to mix up the batches, so that this natural effect is used to its full potential.

Due to the colour variations described, all samples provided can only be used as a guide for colour selection. The individual batches are subject to the natural colour differences of wood.The colours are represented as realistically as possible. Deviations from the original may occur. RELAZZO decking systems were specially developed for outdoor use. As it contains natural wood fibres, the colour of the boards will change under the effects of UV rays. For (partly) covered decking, there may therefore be colour variations over time. In order to avoid this, the covered area should be regularly sprayed with water until the colour has stabilised in the ageing process.

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2.5 Thermal properties

The WPC materials used in RELAZZO were developed in order to ensure high dimensional stability and profile strength even in strong sunlight. However, long-term exposure to direct sunlight at tempera-tures of over 70 °C on the surface of the decking boards is to be avoided in order to prevent damage to the surface when simultane-ously also subjecting it to mechanical stress.

The substructure clearance is to be reduced by 10 cm depending on the type of installation in the case of

permanently higher surface temperatures.

WPC products warm up under the effect of sunlight just like any other building material. Dark shades warm up more than light shades. It is important to remember this when walking barefoot on the decking.

As a natural material wood reacts to the influences of weather (temperature and humidity). In order to retain the long life, sufficient air circulation is to be ensured.

The influence of heat and humidity occurring simultaneously acceler-ates the decomposition of the wood structures and therefore influences the mechanical properties as well as reducing the life of the RELAZZO decking boards.These are therefore not suitable for use in particular in the tropics and similar areas.

2.6 Chemical properties

The REHAU WPC products do not contain any heavy metals or any other components that are harmful to the environment. RELAZZO boards were tested according to EN 71-3 (safety of toys - part 3: migration of certain elements) amongst other things.

REHAU’s WPC material used demonstrates a high resistance to external environmental influences. However, exposure to strong oxidants, such as industrial bleaching agents and strong acids as well as organic solvents (e.g. ethanol, acetone, xylene, hydrocarbons, etc.) is to be avoided.

Please therefore take care when using fuel, fire lighters and sulphur compounds, as these can attack the

material.

Thanks to the use of high-quality materials (e.g.stainless steel brackets V4A, aluminium substructure made of 6060), the RELAZZO decking system is suitable for the use on a pool (environment containing chloride) and by the sea (environment containing salt).

2.7 Physical properties

Certain materials rubbing against each other (e.g. rubber sole) can cause an electrostatic charge under

certain circumstances (e.g. low air humidity and dry profile) and may cause a noticeable discharge with sparking.

In order to avoid or discharge the static charge, the earthing of the floor covering, the use of conductive and earthed jointing profiles, antistatic mats or appropriate shoes and the shielding of electronic components is recommended.

National standards, specifications, legislation, operating instructions (e.g. electronic devices) or similar are to be observed.

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2.8 Accident prevention

In order to rule out any risk to life and limb, it is imperative that the following information is observed and followed.In the case of point loads exceeding 300 kg, the substructure are to be laid closer together than specified (depending on the installation direction).

The products do not have building authority approval and for this reason are not to be used for self-support-

ing, structural purposes. The local building regulations are to be observed accordingly (see chapter “1.2 Area of application”). The subsoil must be sufficiently load-bearing for the load.

In the case of wet, icy or other slippery conditions, beware of the reduced slip resistance.

Due to the grooved effect on the boards as well as the joints, there is an increased risk of tripping when wearing shoes with thin heels. This risk can be minimised using relevant jointing solutions.

Lighting installationThe installation and fitting of lighting elements (LED spotlights, etc.), fitting electrical auxiliary devices, the connection and commissioning of the whole system for low voltage is to be carried out by a certified electrician.

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3 PRACTICAL INFORMATION

3.1 Care/maintenance

Due to the material properties, RELAZZO decking boards do not require any subsequent protective coating treatment (oil, varnish), as is necessary with solid wood products to protect the wood. There is also no need to treat the boards with wood protection substances for fungal growths or discolouration.

3.2 Care tips

Dirt cannot, or only in extreme conditions, penetrate deep into the profile due to the fact that the wood fibres are embedded and dispersed within the polymer matrix under high pressure and temperature. Dirt usually remains on the surface or is absorbed by the wood fibres exposed due to brushing or abrasion. The polymers used stand out not only in its positive environmental properties (e.g.no formation of hydrochloric and hydrocyanic acids during burning) but also due to its high light-fastness and good chemical resistance (e.g. in comparison to PVC and ABS) Care and maintenance of the RELAZZO decking boards is the responsibility of the user.

Regular cleaning removes various deposits (dirt, dropped food etc) especially from the grooves. This

prevents mould, which would otherwise grow on the deposits.

In principle, it is important to always deal with contamination (particularly grease and oil) as quickly as possible to minimise the amount that can be absorbed by the wood fibres. In most cases immediate treatment with warm water and soap is sufficient. If other substances are used to treat heavy contamination, the respective agent is to be tested first on a hidden or inconspicuous area of the decking to test its compatibility.

The following cleaning measures should generally be carried out for light to heavy contaminations:

Cleaning recommendationLight Cold water

Cont

amin

atio

n

Warm waterMild cleaning agent (e.g.soap)Strong detergentHigh-pressure cleanerBleaching agent (e.g. cleaning agent with sodium chloride)Abrasive paperWire wool

Heavy Steel brush

Basic cleaning (dirt):Weekly sweeping and rinsing with warm water (not too hot) at least twice a year will generally keep the decking clean in the long term. Should it not be sufficient to simply wash the decking down, we recommend rinsing it with a high-pressure cleaner in the direction of the grooves (max.60°C, 100 bar, at a minimum distance of 50 cm) and cleaning with soap or a commercially available WPC floor cleaner. The use of sand blasters is not recommended for this.

Oxalic acid-based decking cleaners are to be used for stubborn stains. Animal excrement and urine can usually be treated and removed like any other dirt with warm water, high-pressure cleaner or mild cleaning agents.

Dirt from the barbecueGrease, charcoal or cigarette marks are some of the most difficult contaminations to remove. Whilst grease marks can generally be removed with special decking cleaners or fat solvents, charcoal or ash marks can only be removed by means of abrasive measures (e.g. using sandpaper, metal brush, wire wool). However, each time the decking is sanded, the original brushed look deteriorates. It is therefore to be ensured that any sanding is carried out in the direction of the grooves and brushing. We therefore recommend placing a mat under the barbecue. Take care with fire lighters (see chapter “2.6 Chemical properties”).

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MouldWarm water with soap helps to combat mould/algae and fungi. Several treatments are often necessary for well-established mould/algae or fungi: special cleaners against mould/algae and fungi are available from specialist retailers and must be tested beforehand on a hidden or inconspicuous area on the decking board for its compatibili-ty. We would advise against using bark mulch in the immediate vicinity, as this generally contains mould spores. Under certain climatic conditions and where installation is not compliant with REHAU standards, fungal growth is also possible.

It is therefore important to ensure that the decking (with gap spacing) and the substructure are well-ventilated in

accordance with the current installation instructions.

CorrosionComponents made of high-quality raw materials (brackets, screws, quick-installation clips etc...) supplied are to be used for fixing the profiles. Use of other fixings could result in corrosion and destruction of the fixing components.

Snow and iceIn order to prevent scratches on the decking, we only recommend using plastic shovels to remove snow. Never scrape or hack away at ice with an ice pick. Normal gritting salt can also be used to remove snow and ice. Stains may occur during this process but they are easy to remove.

3.3 Processing/assembly advice

Please observe the current installation instructions.

ProcessingRELAZZO decking boards can generally be processed using common wood working machines. Drilling, sawing, milling and planing are possible in principle. However, due to the polymer content, a reduced service life of the tool blades is to be expected. When sawing (manual circular saw) a hardened metal saw blade with alternating teeth is recommended. Clean deburring is generally advisable.

ConstructionThe construction is dependent on the subsoil. This can be ballast, concrete or a sealed surface (flat roof), see installation instructions. It is always to be checked that the subsoil is sufficiently and perma-nently load-bearing to withstand the future load.

- Ballast sub-base:Ballast and gravel beds have to be created according to local building regulations, and should be well compacted. A final surface gradient of 1-2% should be created to support the terrace system and avoid water logging. The substructure profiles have to be securely mounted, either with RELAZZO fixing brackets ( concrete or paving slabs) or screwed to adjustable feet.

- Concrete sub-base:A gradient of 1--2 % is to be ensured in the case of a concrete base construction. The substructure profiles are then placed on top and the outermost profiles fixed to the subsoil using RELAZZO fixing devices.

If the substructure profiles are installed on sloping ground, rubber spacers, slabs (stone, decking slabs)

or adjustable feet are to be used to prevent water logging. Stacking rubber spacers is not permitted.

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- Sealed surfaces:It is to be checked whether the flat roof materials are compatible with the RELAZZO decking system materials. Any damage to the flat roof membrane is to be avoided. The substructure is to be laid floating. The substructure is not screwed to the ground but instead, a substructure frame is built using RELAZZO fixing devices. The prescribed gaps between the substructures are to be observed. Rubber spacers have to be used on sealed surfaces to prevent water logging and other damage to the sealing membrane as well as the substructure. Stacking rubber spacers is not permitted.

Weighing down /fixing of the substructure frame against wind loads is to be agreed with a specialist.

In the case of larger loads, installation angles other than 90° to the substructure and permanently high temperatures, the gap between the substructures is to be narrower (see chapter “2.5 Thermal properties” ).

In order to ensure the optimum pull-out resistance of the screws in the boards and WPC substructure, every

screw is to be screwed in with a torque of approx. 1.1 Nm.

GradientThe decking boards must be installed with a gradient of at least 1 % (10mm/lfm). This reduces the risk of damage caused by moisture as well as water spots. In addition to this, the gradient also helps remove dirt naturally with rain.

ElongationDuring assembly, it is to be noted that the RELAZZO decking boards and substructure may swell and shrink as a result of temperature and moisture influences. It is therefore necessary to ensure that there are expansion joints between the individual profiles themselves and all adjacent objects (house wall, etc.). In addition to this, a sufficiently large supporting surface for the substructure and suitable fixings are to be provided. As a rule of thumb: a 3 mm gap is to be left for longitudinal joints for each running metre of decking.

Edge terminationIt is recommended that both ends of each board are trimmed to ensure a 90 º square cut ends prior to installation. Profiles are supplied over-length to allow for this trimming.

The cavities of the decking boards can be covered with RELAZZO end caps or metal or polymer end trims.

The edge terminations are to be attached to the boards with the RELAZZO decking adhesive. Dirty contact surfaces are to be cleaned prior to bonding (e.g.using acetone).

It is to be ensured that the ventilation/drainage slots retain their function and are not sealed by the adhesive

or the edge terminations.

In order to increase the adhesion force, the contact surfaces can be sanded and/or primer can be applied to them (see material data sheet adhesive).

When fitting the aluminium end trim, it is advisable to locate and fasten the supplied spacer blocks to the end trim using superglue.

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Jointing profilesThe RELAZZO jointing profile is only resistant to being sprayed with chlorinated water. Permanent contact with chlorinated water can lead to bleaching of and damage to the profile.

The boards have to be sufficiently well-ventilated when using jointing profiles. The distance from the subsoil to the lower edge of the board must be at least 10 cm.

No tension is to be applied to the joining profiles during installation.

Please take a possible shrinkage of the joint cover profile of max. 1% into account

3.4 Storage suggestions and handling

The decking boards and the substructure are supplied in timber frame crates; the profile package is wrapped in film. Nevertheless, we recommend storage in a warehouse or at least indoors in order to prevent discolouration due to moisture and sunlight. If covered permanently, discolouration, so-called mould stains, may occur on the decking. Opened packaging units and unused profiles are always to be stored flat in dry conditions. Generally it is important to ensure that work areas are clean in order to avoid dirt and scratches, etc.If individual parts are stacked, it is to be ensured that any damage to boards and substructure is avoided.

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DESIGN FREEDOMRELAZZO Decking systems

Do you require more information, samples or advice?Please contact your local specialist retailer. You can find a local distributor and further information about the RELAZZO OUTDOOR LIVING product range as well as the up-to-date installation guide on our homepage www.rehau.com/relazzo. You are also welcome to contact us by e-mail at relazzo@rehau.com.

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© REHAU AG + Co Rheniumhaus 95111 Rehau

Subject to errors and technical alterations.

www.rehau.com/relazzo

R20605 EN 01.2016

The document is protected by copyright. The rights conferred therein, in particular those relating to the translation, reprinting, extraction of pictures, electronic transmissions, reproduction by photo-mechanical or similar means and storage on data processing equipment, remain reserved.

Our verbal and written advice relating to technical applications is based on experience and is to the best of our knowledge correct but is given without obligation. The use of REHAU products in conditions that are beyond our control or for applications other than those specified releases us from any obligation in regard to claims made in respect of the products. We recommend to check as to whether the REHAU product is suitable for the envisaged purpose. Application, use and processing of the products is carried out beyond the scope of our control and are therefore exclusively in your area of responsibility. In the event that a liability is nevertheless considered, then this will be based exclusively on our Conditions of sale, which can be found at www.rehau.de/LZB. This also applies to any warranty claims, whereby the warranty applies to the consistent quality of our products in accordance with our specification.