How to Maintain your Deck Over the Winter

Winter deck maintenance is an important part of keeping your deck in great shape. All seasons require a special and specific kind of care, and winter is no different. Winters can be harsh and unforgiving to your deck. Protecting your deck from the winter elements will ensure that you get the most life out of your deck for years to come. Do you need help thinking of ways to protect your deck this winter? Here are a few helpful tips to get you started!

1. Clean, clean, clean!

As always, the number one way to ensure that you’re keeping your deck in the best shape possible is to clean, sweep, and clean some more. Particularly when entering winter, ensure there are no piles of leaves anywhere on your deck. Once trapped beneath snow and ice, the leaves will begin to rot, which breaks down at the wood of your deck. You should also put away any ornaments, decorations, or planters. Remember, patio furniture that isn’t under a gazebo should be placed into storage.

2. Remove all mildew and mold.

A nasty truth is that, over the winter, mold and mildew that has been left unaddressed will be left to fester over the rest of the season. Any kind of excess moisture that has access to unprotected deck material is going to break down at it, and create an unsafe and disgusting situation. When searching for mold and mildew to wash away, check between tight cracks and underneath of your deck supports.

3. Use a water resistant sealant.

Protect your deck with a water repellent! That way, all the snow and ice during this season won’t be able to get at your wood to damage it. Filling cracks and placing that protective barrier over your deck is one of the greatest maintenance techniques you can provide. Before you do this, however, make sure you’ve completely gotten rid of ALL mold and mildew.

4. Continue to remove snow and ice.

As the season progresses, remove snow and ice as it appears. Keeping the accumulation down will protect your deck from moisture, excess weight, damaging ice crystals, and more. Shovel with the boards to keep from damaging the wood. Use a broom to sweep away light dustings of snow. Whatever you do, though, never use chemicals or salt to melt away ice on your deck. This is an easy way to completely destroy your deck sealant and material.

Do you have any other questions regarding deck maintenance in winter? Your local Maryland custom deck builder, North American Deck and Patio, is here to help. We have a glowing reputation across Maryland, and we’re known for our knowledge and expertise. If you’re interested in building a new deck, we’re here and happy to help! Just give us a call today, and we’ll start working on that beautiful idea.

“Jim at North American patio and deck's came up with the most ingenious way of utilizing our small very slanted very water drained environment and turned it into a virtual oasis. Making this deck the envy of all our ambitions and gem for the community.”

– C. Cross