0
Manila Decking Rope
Follow the steps below to build Manila decking rope to the exact size you need.
For a longer-lasting outdoor rope see synthetic hemp rope
- 100% natural (Grade 1 Manila)
Manila Rope Overview
| Look & Feel | |
| Appearance | Rich golden dark brown |
| Feel | Hard course & hairy (Not soft or smooth) |
| Handling | Good flexibility. Rough on the hands. Sheds hairs. |
| Material |
100% natural Grade 1 Manila Made from the leaves of the Abacá, relative of the banana plant, native to the Philippines |
| Colour | Dark brown |
| Effects of Weather | |
| UV resistance | Good |
| Biodegradable | Yes |
| Absorbs water | Yes |
| Swells when wet | Yes, approx 10-15%. Ensure a 15% drape between posts to accommodate shrinkage when it rains |
| Change of colour in weather | All rope will change colour when exposed to weather |
| Lifespan in normal UK weather conditions | 3-5 years Consider synthetic hemp for a longer-lasting outdoor rope |
| Rope Construction | |
| Treated with | Has been treated with 100% mineral oil. It is unknown what the exact treatment consists of as it is a trade secret |
| Smell | If recently manufactured Manila can smell chemically even though it is treated with 100% natural oils. The smell will wear off over time (approx 3 weeks) |
| Construction | Twisted 3 Strand |
| Made in | Manila, Philippines |
| Quality Certified | EN ISO 1181 – 2004 |
| Diameter Disclaimer | Natural ropes can shrink and expand. Please allow +/- up to 6mm. |
Installation Instructions
| Rope Length | Installation Options |
|
One Continuous length
|
The centre bracket screws onto the side of the post. This allows you to thread the rope through the loop.
|
|
One Continuous length
|
Posts with holes Decking posts will have holes pre-made for you. Simply thread the rope through the holes provided.
|
| Multiple Short Lengths |
The Decking Plate screws onto the side of the post. The Hook Eye attaches to the end of the rope by threading a central screw through the rope. The Hook Eye will latch onto the Decking Plate
|
| Multiple Short Lengths |
The cup ends screws onto the side of the post. The rope attaches to the cup end with a central screw |
Measuring Instructions
| Step 1) |
|
| Step 2) |
|
Natural vs. Synthetic Rope
| Pros & Cons | Manila / Sisal | Synthetic Hemp |
| Pros |
Biodegradable – leaves no unwanted footprint behind Great looking, traditional rope Holds knots well Natural resistance to UV degradation – great for sunnier climates |
Natural looking but with benefits of synthetic properties Is weather resistant On average, will last longer outside than natural fibre Holds knots well |
| Cons |
Susceptible to water, rot and mildew Will shrink when wet, and lengthen when dry, making it slightly trickier to install Diameter may vary slightly from that stated |
More susceptible to UV degradation and will eventually flake |
Installing Natural Decking Rope – Handy Hints!
- Consider pre-soaking in water for a few hours, before installation. Natural ropes shrink when wet, then revert back to their original length when dry. This shrinkage can pull on the posts. Pre-soaking will help you take this into account before fixing into position.
- Applying Linseed Oil may help to offer some water resistance. However, check for linseed oil that also offers resistance to mildew.
- Do not drill any holes until you have received the rope – as diameters may differ slightly from those stated.