Will Snow Damage My Deck This Winter?
Sam Lutz • November 28, 2017
When winter arrives, decks will require maintenance and protection from the ice and snow. At Ace Paints and Unfinished Furniture, we help homeowners to care for their decks at all times of the year. Knowing what causes damage to your deck, and what you can do to stop that damage, can help you protect your home and investment.
Yes, Snow Can Damage Your Deck
Snow and ice can do significant damage to wood over a long period of time. Wood that is regularly exposed to moisture may mold, rot, or grow mildew. This impacts the look of the deck and can also compromise the structural integrity of the deck itself.
Proper Sealant Can Protect Your Deck
Proper sealant is needed to prevent ice and snow from being absorbed by the wood when warm weather finally returns. Homeowners with wooden decks need to reseal the wood periodically to ensure that the sealant is still working.
How can you tell if the sealant has worn off? Spray the deck with a fine mist of water and watch for the moisture to bead up on the surface. If the water is absorbed back into the wood without beading up, this is an indication that the sealant has worn off and needs to be refreshed.
To reseal your deck, start by cleaning the surface. Sweep, then remove algae or mildew by scrubbing your deck with oxygen water and bleach. Then, use a paint roller to roll sealant over the entire deck. Use an angled paintbrush to apply sealant to corners and tight spaces.
When and How to Shovel Your Deck
Many homeowners worry that the weight of snow can cause their deck to collapse. In reality, though, a properly built deck can withstand a great deal of snow before damage occurs. Experts recommend
shoveling snow off of your deck if the depth of the snow reaches 3 to 3.5 feet.
When shoveling your deck, use a plastic shovel and remember to shovel in the direction of the boards, not against the boards. Expert tip: Hammer down any nails that may be popping up, and tighten loose screws before the snow falls in winter. This makes it easier to clear snow accumulations because nails and screws can catch on shovels.
Remove Furniture From Your Deck Before Snow Falls
Furniture and planters can trap moisture on your deck and may lead to rot over time. Remove furniture from your deck to protect the wood. If you have nowhere to store your furniture, place it in your yard.
Stop in At Ace Paint For the Products You Need
At Ace Paint and Unfinished Furniture, we sell deck sealant, paint and stains
to keep your deck looking its best over the course of the winter. Now is the time to prepare your deck for the coming season! Stop in today to pick up the tools and products you need.
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