Anti-Slip Decking Inserts for Existing Timber Decking
RetroGrip® aluminium anti-slip decking inserts are designed to transform suitable existing grooved timber decking into a safer, grippier walking surface without replacing the deck.
How to Stop Slippery Decking Without Replacing the Deck
Decking can become slippery due to rain, algae, moss, leaf debris, shade and general outdoor exposure. If your decking boards are still structurally sound and have suitable grooves, RetroGrip® anti-slip decking inserts may provide a practical way to improve grip without replacing the whole deck.
RetroGrip® is a retrofit decking insert system designed for suitable existing grooved timber decking. Each aluminium insert contains a durable epoxy resin and aggregate anti-slip surface, creating a long-lasting decking grip strip that helps improve slip resistance in wet and dry conditions.
Is RetroGrip® Right for Your Deck?
RetroGrip® is designed for suitable existing grooved timber decking. It is not a repair for rotten, loose, unstable or badly damaged decking boards. Before ordering, check the condition of the boards, groove size and whether the deck is still safe and structurally sound.
| Usually Suitable | Usually Not Suitable |
|---|---|
| Sound existing grooved timber decking | Rotten, loose or unstable decking boards |
| Decking grooves approximately 6mm wide x 6mm deep | Ungrooved decking or grooves that do not fit the insert profile |
| Small decks, garden decking, steps, ramps and balconies | Surfaces that need structural repair before safety products are fitted |
| Projects where replacing the whole deck is not necessary | New decking projects where factory-applied GripDeck® boards may be better |
Why Choose RetroGrip® Anti-Slip Decking Inserts?
Improves Decking Grip
RetroGrip® helps improve grip on slippery timber decking affected by rain, algae, shade and general outdoor exposure.
Cost-Effective Retrofit Upgrade
Upgrade suitable existing grooved decking without the cost and disruption of replacing the whole deck.
Aluminium Decking Inserts
Each insert is made from aluminium and includes a resin and aggregate anti-slip surface for long-term performance.
Slip-Resistant Surface
RetroGrip® creates a durable slip-resistant decking strip within the existing timber groove.
Sample Packs Available
Request a RetroGrip® sample pack to check groove compatibility and product suitability before ordering.
Request SampleInstallation Guide
Download the RetroGrip® fitting instructions before installation and follow the guidance carefully.
Download GuideAnti-Slip Decking Insert Close-Up
RetroGrip® is designed to sit neatly within suitable existing decking grooves. The aluminium profile holds a hard-wearing resin and aggregate surface, creating a visible anti-slip strip that improves foot traction while retaining the existing timber decking boards.
Anti-Slip Insert Close-Up
Durable resin and aggregate anti-slip surface fitted into the decking groove.
Stop Slippery Decking
Retrofit anti-slip inserts for suitable grooved timber decking without replacing the boards.
Will RetroGrip® Fit?
RetroGrip® is designed for suitable grooved timber decking. Request a sample pack or contact us with photos and groove measurements before ordering.
Request Sample PackIndependently Tested Slip Resistance
RetroGrip® has been independently tested for slip resistance and achieved LOW slip risk potential. This makes it a strong retrofit option for improving safety on suitable existing timber decking where a non-slip or slip-resistant decking surface is required.
| Test Area | RetroGrip® Performance |
|---|---|
| Wet conditions | LOW slip risk potential |
| Application | Retrofit anti-slip decking insert |
| Use | Suitable existing grooved timber decking |
Download RetroGrip® Slip Test Results
How RetroGrip® Decking Inserts Work
1. Clean the Groove
Existing decking grooves must be clean, dry and suitable before fitting RetroGrip® inserts.
2. Apply Adhesive
Apply suitable adhesive into the decking groove in accordance with the installation instructions.
3. Fit the Insert
Place the RetroGrip® insert into the groove and allow the adhesive to cure before using the deck.
Download Installation Instructions
RetroGrip® Samples, Fit & Installation
Before ordering RetroGrip®, check that your existing grooved decking is suitable. A sample pack is the easiest way to confirm the fit before buying larger quantities.
Request a Sample Pack
If you are unsure whether RetroGrip® will fit your decking, we strongly recommend requesting a sample pack before placing an order.
- Check groove compatibility
- View the anti-slip surface
- Test fit on your decking
Will RetroGrip® Fit?
RetroGrip® is designed to fit suitable existing grooved timber decking boards.
Installation Guidance
RetroGrip® should be fitted into clean, dry, suitable decking grooves. The inserts can be cut to length on site where required.
- Clean groove before fitting
- Check board condition
- Follow installation guidance
Anti-Slip Decking Insert Installations
Decking Upgrade
RetroGrip® fitted into existing grooved decking to improve grip.
Installation Detail
Anti-slip inserts positioned within the decking groove.
Retrofit Insert System
Designed for suitable existing grooved timber boards.
Timber Decking Insert
Improved decking grip while retaining the existing boards.
RetroGrip® Sample
Samples available to check suitability before ordering.
Silver RetroGrip® Inserts
Aluminium anti-slip insert profile with aggregate surface.
Typical Applications for RetroGrip® Decking Inserts
RetroGrip® is best suited to smaller retrofit areas where existing grooved decking is still in good condition but needs improved grip. For new decking projects, larger commercial areas or high-use public routes, GripDeck® would usually recommend factory-applied anti-slip inserts or replacing the decking with new GripDeck® anti-slip boards.
Garden Decking Inserts
Ideal for improving grip on existing domestic grooved decking without replacing the boards.
Decking Inserts for Timber Steps
Useful for smaller step areas, half steps and short access routes where additional grip is required.
Pathways & Ramps
Suitable for smaller grooved timber pathways, ramps and access areas where the boards are still sound.
Balcony Decking Upgrades
A practical retrofit option for small balcony areas with suitable existing grooved timber decking.
Small Decking Repairs
Well suited to small decks, garden seating areas and shaded areas where decking has become slippery.
Raised Walkways
Can be used on suitable raised timber walkways, although larger or high-use areas may be better replaced with factory-made GripDeck® boards.
RetroGrip® vs Replacing Decking
| What You Want to Do | Best Option | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Improve grip on sound grooved decking | RetroGrip® decking inserts | Allows suitable existing boards to be upgraded without full replacement. |
| Fix rotten, loose or unstable decking | Replace the decking | Safety products should not be fitted to boards that are structurally unsound. |
| Install a new anti-slip deck | Factory-made GripDeck® decking | Factory-applied inserts are usually better for new decking projects. |
| Upgrade a small slippery deck area | RetroGrip® sample pack, then inserts if suitable | A sample pack confirms whether the insert fits before ordering larger quantities. |
RetroGrip® Specification
| Description | Retrofit anti-slip insert for suitable existing grooved timber decking |
| Material | 6063 T6 aluminium extrusion |
| Surface | Epoxy resin and aggregate anti-slip surface |
| Aggregate | RASC Guyanan Bauxite / Dynagrip |
| Standard Length | 1 metre |
| Installation | Adhesive fixed into suitable existing decking grooves |
| Suitable Groove | Approximately 6mm wide x 6mm deep grooves |
| Slip Resistance | LOW slip risk potential |
| Applications | Existing grooved timber decking, walkways, garden decks, steps, ramps and suitable public access areas |
Downloads & Useful Links
Installation Instructions
Download the RetroGrip® fitting guide before installation.
Download InstructionsRelated Products
RetroGrip® Stair Nosing
Anti-slip stair nosing for improving grip and step edge visibility.
View Stair NosingGRP Products
GRP stair treads, floor sheets and decking strips for retrofit anti-slip applications.
View GRPReplacement GripDeck® Decking
If your existing boards are not suitable for retrofit inserts, replacement GripDeck® anti-slip decking may be the better long-term option.
View DeckingNeed to Fix Slippery Decking?
Request a RetroGrip® sample pack or contact GripDeck® for advice on whether RetroGrip® anti-slip decking inserts are suitable for your existing decking.
Request Sample Pack Request a Quote Buy OnlineFrequently Asked Questions
What are anti-slip decking inserts?
Anti-slip decking inserts are products fitted into suitable decking grooves to improve grip on an existing deck surface. RetroGrip® inserts are designed for suitable grooved timber decking.
How do anti-slip decking inserts work?
RetroGrip® inserts are bonded into suitable existing decking grooves. The aluminium profile contains a resin and aggregate surface that helps create a more slip-resistant walking surface.
How do I stop decking being slippery?
If the timber is sound and grooved, RetroGrip® anti-slip decking inserts may be suitable. If the decking is rotten, unstable or badly damaged, replacement with GripDeck® anti-slip decking may be a better long-term solution.
Will RetroGrip® fit my decking?
RetroGrip® is designed for suitable grooved timber decking with grooves approximately 6mm wide and 6mm deep. We recommend requesting a sample pack and checking groove size before ordering.
Can I install RetroGrip® myself?
RetroGrip® can be installed by competent DIY users or professional contractors. Always follow the installation instructions and make sure the deck is sound before fitting.
Can RetroGrip® inserts be cut to length?
Yes. RetroGrip® inserts are supplied in standard 1 metre lengths and can be cut to suit your decking layout where required.
Does RetroGrip® work in wet conditions?
Yes. RetroGrip® has been independently tested and achieved LOW slip risk potential.
Can RetroGrip® be used on composite decking?
RetroGrip® is designed for suitable grooved timber decking. Contact GripDeck® for advice before using it on any other surface.
Are decking inserts better than replacing decking?
Decking inserts can be a practical option when the existing boards are sound and suitable. If the decking is damaged, rotten, unstable or unsuitable, replacement may be the better long-term option.
Can I request a sample?
Yes. RetroGrip® sample packs are available so you can check suitability, groove fit and the anti-slip surface before ordering.