What Safety Issues to Look for on Your Deck This Winter

If you’ve lived in New England all your life or just a couple of years you know the impact that winter weather can have on just about every aspect of your life. SEAL-A-DECK’s experts want you to know that your deck is no less susceptible to winter safety issues. Keeping your family safe and your deck in the best shape year-round is our priority. Here are the top changes and things to look for on your deck throughout the winter to ensure its security.

Clear Snow and Ice

First and foremost, you should always address any snow and ice that’s on your deck. This wintery combination can be very hazardous to the well-being of you and your family. Overloading your deck’s substructure and the slip/fall hazards associated with icy conditions can affect anyone at any time. Our experts recommend removing any snow that accumulates over a foot and not waiting to do so. Clearing the snow and ice is always the primary concern when caring for your deck.

Watch for Expansion and Contraction

Undoubtedly, your deck will go through some amount of expansion and contraction during the winter due to the freeze-thaw cycle. Wood naturally moves with water and ice because these get into the small areas and push things apart. This movement can cause lifting boards, rotting wood, and even stripped screws or nails. All of these can cause accidents from tripping or falling. Every inch of your deck should be inspected prior to the winter to determine its ability to withstand massive amounts of snow and ice. If your deck boards are not spaced appropriately it can cause major damage. We suggest having a professional evaluate your boards prior to the cold weather. If you are well into the winter and notice issues with your deck, we can always repair them as long as it is not actively snowing.

Other Hazards

If you know you have not been keeping up with the preventative maintenance that SEAL-A-DECK suggests, you are more likely to have safety issues in the winter. The North American Deck and Railing Association has a 10-point checklist that makes preparing your maintenance plan for winter even easier. We urge you to get your deck inspected before the cold seasons. The following areas should be examined and repaired before winter to avoid safety issues. These vulnerable areas include:
If you have any questions at all about the safety of one or more of these areas, calling in an expert is highly suggested. At SEAL-A-DECK, we also offer the Advantage Plan for our customers as a way to save money and get the help your deck needs every year. Doing small fixes throughout the year will help you to avoid costly damage in the future.

• Flashing
• Fasteners
• Stairs
• Railing and Banisters
• Wood
• Furniture
• Surrounding Trees

Get Expert Help

It is never too late to get your deck the attention it needs to avoid winter safety issues. Give us a call today at 1-877-SEALADECK to get more information on a free estimate and our money-saving Advantage Plan.