- Technology and Innovation
The New Decking Standard: How Heat-Based Design Creates Custom Surfaces
The Decking Debate Solved: Function Meets Form
For decades, deck materials forced manufacturers into a trade-off: choose durable, safe composites or beautiful, high-maintenance surfaces. Smartdeck, presented by Brand ID Oy, is built on the philosophy that this compromise is obsolete. Their appearance at METSTRADE 2025 confirmed this stance, particularly with the DAME Design Award Special Mention for Smartdeck™ HEAT. This is not merely decking; it is a fundamental advancement in material science that addresses multiple requirements simultaneously, proving that technical performance and visual design are complementary goals.
The Heated Solution: All-Weather Comfort
Smartdeck™ HEAT is a Finnish innovation rooted in the necessity of coping with colder climates. This heated decking system brings active warmth and comfort onboard, making it ideal for cockpits, swim platforms, and extending the usability of the vessel well into the shoulder seasons. This feature creates added value for boat buyers through sheer practical comfort, allowing them to enjoy their vessel year-round rather than being restricted by ambient temperature.
Customization by Heat: Branding the Surface
The most intriguing aspect of the solution is the application process. Smartdeck™ HEAT uses heat-based technology to allow manufacturers to personalize deck materials and surfaces precisely. This capability grants manufacturers the flexibility to design distinctive visual elements that reflect their brand identity, incorporate complex visual patterns, or match specific aesthetic requirements. This moves deck design from accepting standard materials to actively creating a surface that functions as a sophisticated brand statement.
The Full System: The Smartdeck Ecosystem
Smartdeck offers a cohesive family of products built on the same lightweight, durable, and fully recyclable PE/EVA foam. Beyond HEAT, the range includes Smartdeck™ LED, which integrates waterproof, energy-efficient lighting for safety and ambiance; OCTOPUS, providing an adhesive-free, repositionable solution for smooth surfaces; and MAGNET, offering effortless magnetic installation on steel hulls. This comprehensive ecosystem ensures that manufacturers have reliable, innovative solutions for every surface need, from anti-slip performance to subtle, integrated lighting.
The Verdict: The Final Word on Efficiency
Smartdeck meets the demanding requirements of the marine environment with durability, UV protection, and anti-slip properties, all while maintaining aesthetic flexibility. For manufacturers seeking competitive advantage, Smartdeck provides the capabilities that traditional materials simply cannot offer. The company’s focus on innovation and reliability, as recognized by the DAME award judges, confirms that Smartdeck is the essential choice for builders ready to differentiate their vessels in a competitive market.
