Although snow is great for building a snowman, it is not so great for your deck. If you live in a colder climate, you are likely used to dealing with snow on your property. It is essential to know how to remove snow from your deck safely and properly. We have some tips and tricks to help you do that! Even if you live in a warm climate, it is still a good idea to inspect your deck in the winter to see if it is due for a cleaning and to ensure it is structurally sound.
Preparation is Key For Your Deck
It is ideal to start preparing beforehand during the first weeks of winter before the first heavy snowfall. It will help limit moisture buildup and eliminate any pre-existing problems that would otherwise go undetected under a blanket of snow. If you skip the preparation stage, this could increase moisture damage and cause serious structural and aesthetic issues. Below are steps to help prepare your deck for the upcoming winter season.
- Clear your deck of any debris, leaves, rocks, dirt, etc.
- Remove any planters, pots, or other smaller decorative items.
- Cover your deck furniture with waterproof tarps.
- Wash your deck thoroughly, depending on the instructions of how to clean your deck from the manufacturer.
- Inspect your deck for any structural damage or protruding nails.
- Clean off any mildew with soapy water and a soft-bristled brush.
- Keep all your winter gear accessible and ready for the first snowfall including shovels, brooms, snow blowers, etc.
These steps will help make it easier to clear off ice and snow from your deck as the winter season approaches.
Removal of Snow & Ice From Your Deck
Snow by itself will not typically harm your deck and can usually be left alone to melt over time. You will normally worry about clearing your deck if you need an exit route, a path to a hot tub, grill, etc., or the snow accumulates higher than the railings. Some decks are more vulnerable to snow than others. It is always a good idea to check with your deck manufacturer on how to properly clean your deck or what materials to use if you are unsure. It is best practice to try and avoid shoveling if possible in order not to cause unnecessary scratching and shoveling damage.
Most decks can handle around three feet of snowfall before prompting concerns regarding structural integrity but the sooner you shovel, the easier it will be. Metal can damage both composite and wood decking, so you should never use a metal shovel to clear deck snow. Plastic shovels are ideal when it comes to keeping your deck safe. You can also use a shovel with a protective rubber blade to avoid scratching your deck. You can use a broom for light snowfall since the soft bristles will remove the snow gently without scratching your deck. If snow accumulates to the point that your broom cannot handle it, you can use a leaf blower. Leaf blowers effectively blow away any powdery snow from your deck, railings, steps, and sidewalk. This would not be ideal for removing pressed snow or icy mixtures.
Purchase an approved de-ice or ice-melting agent and use it to remove ice from your deck boards. There are several types of ice melts on the market, but you shouldn’t use most of them on your deck. You will want to pick a chemical solution that is safe for your deck board materials and only uses enough to melt the ice. Again, contacting your deck manufacturer is the best way to get advice on the safest solution to use. Try and avoid salt, as it causes metal nails and screws to rust, which leads to structural instability. You should also avoid chopping ice with your snow shovel on your deck as the downward force can pierce your decking boards. Instead, use ice melt to safely and slowly remove the ice. Lastly, you should remove hanging ice as it is a safety hazard and the sharp ice can scratch or damage your decking if it breaks off and shatters on your deck.
Practicing proper snow removal techniques will prevent your deck from becoming more vulnerable to damage and prolong your deck’s life! Check out more of our blogs to see how to properly maintain your Atlantis Rail Cable Railing Systems.
Atlantis Rail Systems: The Leader in Cable Railing Systems
To learn more about beautiful and practical cable railing systems for your deck, stairs, and balconies, browse the Atlantis Rail Systems website. This Plymouth, MA-based company offers many unique, easy-to-install configurations complete with all necessary hardware to ensure a safe and code-compliant railing system.
For more information on planning cable railings for decks, contact the railing experts at Atlantis Rail Systems at 1-800-541-6829 or by completing the Contact Us Form.
Sources:
https://www.angi.com/articles/want-avoid-winter-deck-damage-dont-shovel-snow.htm