Winter is in full swing, and as the snow falls and temperatures drop, you may be thinking less about your outdoor additions, like your deck and fence. But keeping these structures in good condition throughout the colder months is an essential aspect of maintaining their longevity. In this blog post, we’ll cover some tips for taking care of your decking and fence during the winter season, so you can protect your investment for years to come.
Sweep and Clear Snow
Clearing snow from hard surfaces in your yard should become a regular task during the winter season. When left to accumulate, snow can cause damage by adding weight to structures and creating moisture that can lead to rot, mold or mildew. Use a broom or soft-bristled brush to remove snow, taking care not to damage any surfaces. You can also use a plastic shovel to scrape away stubborn ice patches, but avoid using metal shovels, as they can scratch, chip, or damage your wooden surfaces.
Check for Damage
Winter’s cold weather and wind can cause minor damages to wood over time, such as splitting or cracking along the grain. Checking for damages frequently will help avoid any further or more serious damages that may negatively affect your outdoor structures. Look for loose connections, missing or damaged balusters, splintering boards, among other damages, and make repairs as necessary before the issue worsens. You can call in a professional deck contractor if needed, but you can also make needed repairs yourself with proper instructions and tools.
Maintain with Sealant
Sealing your deck and fence is an essential maintenance step to protect them from environmental damages, including snow during the winter season. Applying a sealant regularly will ensure longevity and protect against wear and tear. You can also paint or stain your decking and fence, as these protect against water and resist damage from rot, pests, and other natural elements.
Store Furniture and Other Outdoor Accessories
During winter, it’s best to store outdoor furniture and other accessories to protect them from winter weather damage, prolonging their lifespan. Also, storing items like grills, umbrellas, and other outdoor entertaining equipment will help you avoid any accidental damage that may occur if they remain outside during cold weather. If you have a garage or storage building, use them to house outdoor items, and you can also invest in protective covers to shield items that have to stay outside.
Properly Ventilate Your Deck
Ensuring appropriate ventilation for your deck is crucial, particularly during the winter months. Condensation can build up due to the difference in temperature between the outdoor air and the surface of your deck. If left unaddressed, this condensation can lead to the growth of mold and mildew, which can cause damage over time. Regularly check for areas of your deck that may be prone to poor ventilation, like spots covered by outdoor mats or furniture, and make adjustments as necessary to promote airflow. This preventive measure can help maintain the quality and longevity of your deck.
As we conclude, taking care of your decking and fence during the winter season is essential to ensure their longevity and avoid costly damages. Regular removal of snow and checking for damages, maintaining your outdoor surfaces by sealing, appropriately storing outdoor accessories, and ensuring adequate deck ventilation are simple tasks any homeowner can complete. Following these steps will help protect your investment, and you can enjoy spending time in your outdoor spaces for many seasons to come.