Protect Your Deck this Winter – 7 Answers to Commonly Asked Questions

As we look forward to spring and fun times on the deck, there are seven questions deck owners commonly ask when it comes to protecting their decks during the winter. Winter weather certainly can have detrimental consequences on a deck, and if the proper deck maintenance is neglected, you may have problems with your deck in the spring. Keep reading best practices on composite deck maintenance.

1. Should I sweep my deck?

Yes, routinely remove built-up organic debris such as leaves, twigs and dirt. We recommend using a handy leaf blower or a broom to clean off your deck. By keeping it clear of debris, you’ll prevent slipping hazards, protect it from the formation of tannin stains and maintain its safety.

Tannin stains are the brown or tan discolorations that can develop when your deck’s materials interact with moisture and the natural compounds in certain plants. These stains can be a bit tricky and time-consuming to remedy, so be sure to keep your deck clear so you won’t have to worry about removing them when spring arrives.

Structural damage to a deck can also occur from accumulated debris. Trapped moisture on the deck’s surface can lead to mold, mildew and rot. This weakens the wood and can make the deck unsafe. It’s best to regularly sweep up debris to prevent pooling of water.

2. Do I need to pressure wash my deck before winterizing it?

It depends on the deck you have. We suggest that you check the guidelines provided by the deck’s manufacturer before pressure washing. Typically, it’s not necessary to pressure wash your deck before winterizing. If you happen to have a significant amount of organic material build-up, it is to your advantage to clean it off before winterizing.

Pressure washing is a terrific way to remove built-up dirt, grime and debris. This reduces opportunities for mold and mildew growth, which can be exacerbated by damp winter conditions. If you have a MoistureShield deck, here are some guidelines for pressure washing:

• Set the pressure to no more than 1300 PSI.
• Keep the wand at least 8 to 10 inches away from the deck surface.
• Use a fan tip nozzle to spread the water pressure evenly.

If you have a real wood deck and are planning to seal it, pressure washing is needed because you want a clean base for the sealant to adhere to. A clean surface allows the sealant to penetrate the wood more effectively, which over the long run helps to extend deck life.

3. Do I need to seal my wood deck for winter?

It depends on where you live. By applying clear ice melt formulas before a snow event, you can help reduce slip hazards and prevent accidental stains on your deck.

Guidelines for sealing:

1. Remove excess solution with a push broom as needed.
2. Select an ice melt that is safe for use on concrete and flagstone. These ice melts are less likely to harm surrounding areas, especially if your deck is near a garden or landscaped area. They are also safe for children and pets.
3. Test solutions ahead of time in a small inconspicuous area.

If you have a MoistureShield composite deck, you don’t need to seal your deck. It’s designed to be highly resistant to moisture, rot and other environmental damage.  However, to help prevent slipping, apply a safe ice melt product as mentioned above.

4. Should I grit my deck in winter?

No, never add an abrasive material to composite or wood decking. This can cause damage to the walking surface and is not recommended.

5. Can I keep furniture on my deck in the winter?

We recommend storing your non-essential furniture and planter pots during the winter months. This will protect your furniture from mold, mildew and rust as the combination of rain, snow and ice can be abrasive. You’ll also prevent furniture damage from freezing temperatures, high winds and wildlife. When certain types of furniture are exposed to harsh winter conditions, cracking and fading may occur. Additionally, wildlife seeking shelter from the harsh cold can be destructive. By removing the furniture, you’ll also eliminate tripping hazards that can develop when furniture gets covered and obscured in heavy snow.

6. What’s are the best ways to remove snow?

It’s best to remove snow from the deck and not let it pile up. For snow and ice removal, use a plastic shovel or broom working parallel to the deck’s boards to avoid damage. Do not use sharp tools such as metal shovels and metal/plastic ice picks. They can accidentally gouge your deck’s surface.

To melt ice, you may use a clear ice melt formula to prevent accidental stains to the deck. Don’t use regular rock salt as it’s abrasive and can damage the deck walking surface as well as corrode deck fasteners and hardware.

Tip:

When temperatures allow, clean your deck with warm soapy water and thoroughly rinse to ensure the surface is clear of any remaining ice melt.

7. Do I need to inspect and make repairs to my deck before winter?

Yes, we suggest that you check your deck for damage before winter sets in.

Look for loose boards or screws and make the necessary repairs while the weather is good. By repairing any damage you may have, you can prevent significant structural damage from the repeating freeze and thaw winter cycle. You will also  ensure safety during the winter months and going into spring.

With our helpful answers to the common deck protection questions, we hope you now have the information needed for maintaining your deck throughout the winter and ensuring it will be in excellent condition for spring enjoyment.

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