Most deck owners only handle maintenance for their deck during the warmer months. However, it is just as important to perform routine maintenance on your deck during the colder months, and especially after a snowfall. By taking the proper precautions, you can keep your deck strong and sturdy, adding longevity to its life before repairs need to be made. Here are a few things we recommend you do for your deck.
How to prepare your deck before snowfall:
Get Cleaning: If your deck isn’t being utilized during the winter, it’s important to store away any furniture, decorations, etc. Keeping these items on your deck can cause discoloration to the deck itself.
“…it’s important to store away any furniture, decorations, etc.”
“This will clear away any dirt, leaves, and other debris that can possibly rot into the deck, or weaken the deck boards.”
“Washing the deck should help displace any mold or mildew on the surface…”
A Good Washing: Once you’ve cleared your deck, it’s time to give your deck a good wash. This will clear away any dirt, leaves, and other debris that can possibly rot into the deck, or weaken the deck boards. Hiring a professional power washer might be a good call for a complete clean of your deck before winter hits.
Get Rid of Mold & Mildew: Washing the deck should help displace any mold or mildew on the surface, but it can still linger in the tight crevices. Make sure you wash in between the boards to get the mold and mildew off.
Water Repellent Seal: If your deck doesn’t already have a water repellent seal, it’s recommended that you do this to prepare your deck for any precipitation. Make sure you get it in all the cracks and slots to ensure the wood stays protected during the wet winter. This isn’t just beneficial for the winter, but also for all seasons.
“If your deck doesn’t already have a water repellent seal, it’s recommended that you do this to prepare your deck for any precipitation.”
“A tarp will act as an additional shield to ensure snow and ice stays off the wood.”
Get A Tarp: A tarp will act as an additional shield to ensure snow and ice stays off the wood. These are affordable and found at any local hardware store, in a variety of different sizes.
What to do during the winter months:
Shovel Regularly: Even if you’re not planning on spending time on your deck, make sure you shovel or sweep the snow off after the storms. Take note of the direction of the boards so you can shovel with them. Shoveling again the boards can damage the wood and leave behind nicks and gouges.
No Ice Melting Products: Do not use any ice melt or rock salt on the deck. It will end up damaging and discoloring the wood.
“…make sure you shovel or sweep the snow off after the storms.”
