As most of your home activities take place inside during the winter, don’t forget that your deck will still require your attention and maintenance.
As most of your home activities take place inside during the winter, don’t forget that your deck will still require your attention and maintenance. In the harsh weather, outdoor furniture undergoes a lot of stress as temperatures fluctuate and as precipitation freezes, melts, and freezes again. To prevent a collapse, be sure to be aware of these precautions.
Reduce Weight
Although high-quality decks are built to be strong and trustworthy, they do have weight limits. Along with furniture, a grill, plants, and even coolers, many people choose to decorate their decks in the wintertime. Avoid adding too much weight on your deck, which will put even more stress on the supports. Try to use lightweight furniture and decorations instead.
Check Supports and Railings
Damaged and weak supports can cause your deck to fail and collapse in the winter. Inspect the metal connectors and the concrete in the ground surrounding the deck supports. Make sure that it isn’t cracking or flaking in any areas. Given enough time, seasonal changes can put stress on the concrete and metal that will compromise the deck’s structural integrity. Loose railings aren’t just dangerous but can also make the entire deck unstable.
Repair Rotten or Decaying Material
Inspect your deck for any rotten, rusted, or decaying material. These types of issues will create weak spots on your deck, which leaves it vulnerable to collapse. Normal humidity and moisture in the air can also cause wood to rot if it isn’t regularly maintained and protected. Use a screwdriver or putty knife and press them against suspected trouble spots. If the tool sinks into the wood, then you are likely dealing with an issue that could become problematic in the winter.
Remove Snow
Promptly remove snow from the surface of your deck after it snows. It will make your deck safer and reduce the amount of weight on your deck. However, be mindful not to use a metal shovel or other sharp-edged implements on your deck as they’ll leave gouges and scratches in the wood. The best way to remove snow from your deck is with a broom. It’s also critical to remove the snow before it melts and refreezes.
Get a Brand New Deck This Winter!
Mid-Atlantic Deck & Fence has almost 30 years of experience in building beautiful custom fences, gazebos, screened-in porches, and decks throughout the state of Maryland. We have the expertise to design your dream fence or custom deck and have it installed in a headache-free process. Give us a call at 1-800-833-9310 or visit us online for a quote today! We offer many different styles of fencing and decking in addition to custom options designed specifically to suit your preferences and tastes. To see examples of our work and get more tips on how to choose the right decking for your family, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, Houzz, Pinterest, Google+, YouTube, and LinkedIn.
Tags: deck maintenance, preventing deck collapse, winter safety