Preparing for the Colder Months: Winterizing Decking 101
As a homeowner, you are tasked with the maintenance and upkeep of your property. But an often overlooked area is the deck. Many of us appreciate the deck during the warmer months for barbecues, lounging, or simply enjoying the outdoors. But as the weather begins to cool down, it's crucial to learn how to winterize your decking. This process helps preserve its structural integrity and appearance through the harsh winter months.
Importance of Deck Winterization
Winterizing your deck is a crucial aspect of home maintenance. Without proper care, your deck could suffer from various issues such as:
- Warping and cracking due to moisture
- Wood rot from accumulated debris
- Fading and discoloration due to harsh weather
- Damage to furniture and fixtures left on the deck
By learning how to winterize your decking, you can prevent these problems and increase the lifespan of your deck. It's not just about saving money on potential repair costs—it's also about enjoying a beautiful and safe deck year-round.
Start Preparations Early
The best time to start winterizing your deck is in the late summer or early fall, before the weather turns harsh. At this point, you should inspect your deck closely for any signs of damage such as loose boards, protruding nails, or areas of decay.
Make sure you make any necessary repairs during this period. It's much easier to find and fix problems when the weather is still mild. Besides, tending to these issues early prevents them from escalating during the winter.
Cleanliness is Key
Once you've inspected and repaired your deck, the next step is to clean it thoroughly. This involves clearing away all furniture and outdoor items for a start. Then, sweep off any accumulated debris.
For a deeper clean, consider using Liquid Rubber Deck and Patio Cleaner. This product is designed just for your deck, it's nontoxic and is particularly useful for tackling stubborn stains or growths like mold, mildew, or fungus.
A pressure washer can also be handy for blasting away stubborn dirt in hard-to-reach areas. Just be careful not to damage the wood by using too high a pressure setting.
Trim Overhanging Branches
Trimming any overhanging branches is an important step in preparing your deck for winter because they can drop debris onto your deck, which can cause damage over time. Moreover, in the event of a snowstorm, heavy branches could break and fall onto the deck, causing significant damage.
Regular Maintenance
Even after winterizing your deck, it's important to maintain it regularly throughout the winter. This includes removing fallen leaves promptly to prevent them from rotting and damaging the wood. If snow accumulates on your deck, shovel it off as soon as possible to prevent moisture damage.
The Modern Day Option: Liquid Rubber
For those in the DIY community, a modern and effective option for deck protection is Liquid Rubber Polyurethane Deck Coating. It stands out for its ease of use, affordability, and reliability. Being VOC-free and non-toxic, it's a safe choice for both the user and the environment.
Liquid Rubber is a versatile product that can be applied to various surfaces, including your deck. It forms a waterproof barrier that protects your deck from moisture, thereby preventing issues like warping, cracking, and rot.
The best part? You can apply Liquid Rubber yourself, saving you the cost of professional installation.
In Closing
Winterizing your deck is a crucial part of home maintenance that can save you time, money, and stress in the long run. By following these steps, you can enjoy a beautiful, safe, and long-lasting deck throughout the year.