How to Winterize Your Deck
As the temperatures continue to drop across the New England area, SEAL-A-DECK wants to help prepare your deck to make it through a possibly long winter. Just like any other part of your home, decks require a bit of winterizing to ensure their condition is top-notch come next spring. Here are some professionally recommended steps you should take before the first snowfall in your area.
How to Winterize Your Deck
Remove Debris and Dirt
One of the biggest issues for your deck can be accumulated debris regardless of the season. There is an extra burden on your outdoor living space when covered in the weight of snow and ice. Leaves, pine needles, sticks, and dirt need to be removed thoroughly so that once the snowfall begins, it will be safe for the foundation of your structure. Simply sweeping is sufficient to get your deck clear in time for winter. Make sure to do this at least once a week throughout the fall.
Pressure Wash
If there is a little more stuck on grime than a broom can handle, we suggest pressure washing your deck now before ice forms. There’s no reason to leave that layer of filth on your deck through the winter. This step is an additional guard against deterioration once your decking materials are put through a harsh freeze and thaw cycle. Rotting wood is dangerous year-round and power washing is an easy way to avoid it.
Tend to Trees and Bushes
Any hanging branches or overgrown bushes next to your deck can be extremely hazardous throughout the winter. As the snow falls, the tree branches become more unstable and are prone to breaking and falling. If you see any overhanging trees or foliage, make sure to take care of them by trimming them back or removing them early in the fall. This is an important step in the winterizing process.
Do Repairs
Lifting boards, loose rails, and rotting wood are all things that need to be repaired sooner than later. The best time to take care of your repairs is off-season but before the first snowfall. If you want to save money and protect your investment, making your repairs in a timely manner is the way to go. SEAL-A-DECK can provide you with a full inspection and outline anything that we find that needs to be addressed prior to winter.
Preserve Current Conditions
If everything is structurally intact with your deck, sealing can help you extend those conditions and increase the lifespan of your decking materials. Waterproofing and staining are the best ways to ensure that your wood can withstand large amounts of snow and ice. If it’s been a few years since your last treatment, or you’ve never done them at all, call in a professional like SEAL-A-DECK to complete your service.
Store Your Furniture
Don’t forget to take the time to store your furniture for the winter. If you have space inside of your home, garage, or shed protecting your outdoor furniture from the elements is ideal. If you don’t have the extra room, put your furniture in one area of your deck and tie all the pieces together. You will then cover your furniture with a breathable cover that allows moisture to escape as the winter storms roll in.
SEAL-A-DECK Can Help
Our professional crew is standing by to help you get all of your deck winterization steps completed. Give us a call at 877-SEALADECK to get an estimate or schedule an inspection service before it is too late. We want your deck to have the best chance of making it to spring in good condition.
