Winter is just around the corner. Is your deck ready for the upcoming season? With the nasty weather on the way, you’ll want to prepare your deck from all that rain, snow, and sleet. To help you protect your home’s outdoor activity hub from the harsh elements, our deck builders have put together some handy tips on how to winterize your deck.
Clear off your deck
Leaving your planters and furniture out all winter long can wreak havoc on your deck. Moisture can leach from your items, leaving behind stains, and causing mould and mildew. To prevent a decking disaster, clear off all the clutter from your deck and store them away in the storage shed or garage.
Get rid of the debris
Before the winter sets in, make sure to remove all the debris from your deck. Leaves, twigs, and dust can trap moisture that will not only create a breeding ground for mould, but also cause rot that can seriously damage the wood.
Warped-Wood-Deck repair
Scrub it down
One of the most important things you can do to protect your deck this winter is to give it a thorough cleaning. Scrub your deck using mild soap or a specialized cleaning solution that doesn’t contain any bleach. Remove all the dirt and grime from the surface and in between cracks.
Seal your deck
Rain, snow, and sleet can damage your deck, causing warping and discolouration. Applying a fresh coat of sealant will go a long way in protecting the wood from the harsh winter elements. If your finish is starting to fade, make sure to replace the stain to shield your deck against moisture and ice.
Shovel that snow
Nobody likes to shovel snow. But keeping up with the snow removal duties will help prevent water damage and warping. Before you start scooping away, however, make sure to only use a plastic shovel. Metal objects can scratch your deck or even remove that new finish you spent the afternoon applying.
Cover the deck with a tarp
For that added layer of protection, spread a tarp over the deck. It will help keep moisture from seeping into the wood, preventing cracking boards, warping, and mildew from forming.
With Old Man Winter right around the corner, you don’t want to wait too long to shield your deck from the upcoming winter elements this season. With these handy tips and a little TLC, you’ll be back out on your deck in no time.
For professional deck builders you can count on, contact Sunbury Cedar.
