I4F, a group of companies providing patents and technologies to the flooring industry, has signed an exclusive patent partnership agreement with Exterpark, a Spanish manufacturer of outdoor decking solutions.  

This new agreement gives i4F the sole licensing rights for all Magnet technologies from Exterpark worldwide, and signals i4F’s official entrance into the global outdoor decking market.

I4F said the patented Magnet installation system provides an easy do-it-yourself installation solution for outdoor decking that is up to two times faster to install than traditional installation systems. Its mechanical, screwless installation system enables panels to be removed in a matter of a few seconds to offer easy accessibility. The system also offers sound reduction as well as an invisible profile system that eliminates gaps in-between outdoor decking boards while providing optimal drainage and ventilation. Additionally, Magnet aluminum joists offer enhanced stability and have the capacity to hold up to 4,000 kg [over 8,800 pounds] per square meter [10.76 square feet]. This ensures that boards remain straight and avoid decay.

"The global outdoor flooring market is projected to reach at least $20 billion by 2027, with a very fast-growing share for decking," said I4F CEO John Rietveld. "With consumers worldwide focusing more and more on their outdoor spaces, this is clearly a sector not to be ignored So far, our technologies have focused on enhancing where people live, work and play ‘inside’ but now we can extend our reach via a wider portfolio targeting outdoor players."

Located in Barcelona Spain, Exterpark was the first to launch a hidden fastener solution worldwide, eliminating visible screws on top of the decking in the early 1990s. It is also the inventor of the invisible profile.

Mario Rodriguez and Cristian Rodriguez, co-owners of Exterpark, said the goal of teaming up with i4F is to help the Magnet system for decking become the world standard by working with manufacturers everywhere.