How to Preserve Your Deck This Winter
Sam Lutz • September 25, 2018
When you’ve worked hard to build the perfect deck for your home, you want to preserve that investment as long as possible to be able to enjoy it long into the future. But what steps should you take to preserve your deck this winter to ensure it stays in great shape for spring, summer and fall enjoyment? Here are a few tips to help you keep it in amazing shape.
- Clean it off. When you leave debris on your porch over the winter, or even furniture or other items, it creates a space for moisture, mold and decaying agents to build up, staining and damaging your deck.
- Put a fresh coat of stain on. If your deck is starting to look a little ragged, fall is a great time to add a fresh layer of stain. Start by doing a deep cleaning to remove all the previous stain, then lay down a new layer to help recondition and preserve the wood.
- Consider tarping it for the season. East coast winters are harsh, so if you don’t need to access your deck over the winter, consider adding a tarp to keep the extra moisture off the surface. Check underneath for moisture buildup.
- Clear off the snow. If you decide against tarping, try keeping your deck clear of snow. This helps prevent moisture from building up, causing damage and rotting in the future. For light, fluffy snows, try simply sweeping it off to reduce the snow load.
- Add a water repellent layer. Much like several of the previous steps, your aim here is to keep the moisture off the deck’s surface and away from the wood. This helps prevent rot and decay in your deck, keeping it sound for years to come.
By taking the time to do these easy steps, you can ensure that your deck will last for many years to come, giving you a wonderful backdrop for making new memories. But if you decide to add a layer of stain to preserve the wood’s personality and finish, how do you decide which one will best compliment your home’s exterior while preserving your deck? The professionals at Ace Paint are ready to help. Please feel free to reach out today to connect with our experienced associates
and see how we can help you beautify your home.

One of the wonderful things about good wood furniture is that it doesn’t have to be merely functional. It can be beautiful as well. We’ve seen some amazing pieces made with wood stains that are more than just furniture, they’re works of art. So if you’ve got an old table, desk or other piece of wood furniture that needs jazzed up, why don’t you consider using some of our great stains to try one of these ideas.