As residents of the very snowy state of Vermont, we know how important it is to take care of your home in the winter. We also know how easily damage can spin out of control. From wood rot to loose boards, a lot can happen as a result of snow and ice. This blog will address how to care for your deck so it survives the winter months.
Autumn
Once the first leaf falls in September, you should have the broom on hand. If piles of leaves are left to sit for too long, they will start to decay. This process releases tree oils that stain your deck and eat away at its sealant. Sealant protects your deck from wood rot, so it is vital that it is kept intact. Being proactive by sweeping away dead leaves keeps your deck healthy and clean.
Winter
As winter arrives, it is important for you to keep moisture out as much as possible. This means clearing snow when possible, and even moving any outdoor furniture you may have. Moisture can easily become trapped underneath any furniture, so if you cannot bring it inside you should rotate the pieces so they are not sitting in the same spot all winter. Moving furniture inside would also decrease the weight on your deck.
Spring
Spring at last! Once there is no more snow, you should perform an inspection for loose boards and nails, and check for ice dams on and around your deck. Ice dams are dangerous because they can cause an excess of moisture to pile up. On uncovered decks, they commonly form when ice on a second-story roof drips down onto the deck. This can trap water against your house, which often creates other, larger problems. If you find an ice dam, use ice melt or call a professional to remove it.
Summer
Clean your deck! This helps remove pollen and anything left over from winter that was trapped beneath the snow. Your deck should be cleaned at least once a year to make sure no organic matter gets trapped under the snow.
We hope this blog post gave you some insight on how to help your deck survive the winter wherever you call home. If you have further questions, feel free to give us a call!