Photo by Toni Tan on Unsplash

A properly sealed deck is your first—and best—defense against Colorado’s extreme winters. We recommend contacting DeckTec ASAP if you feel your deck’s current finish is not up to the task. Here are a few dos and don’ts to ensure your deck thrives this winter and is ready to go next spring.

1. Do Remove Planters and Excess Furniture

Avoid unsightly marks and make room for easy shoveling by removing excess furniture from your deck. Be sure to add plastic foot covers to the pieces that remain. Cover your tables and chairs with vinyl covers to keep them in good shape.

2. Don’t Leave Mats and Rugs

Useful in the summer, but mats are unwelcome in the winter because they get wet, freeze, and stain your deck. Remove them from the exterior of your door so you can shovel with ease and keep the area clear.

3. Do Shovel

Don’t let the snow pile up. Instead, shovel it off as soon as possible to avoid damage to the wood and reduce the danger of ice. Use a dedicated, plastic shovel that won’t harm the wood like a metal shovel might.

4. Don’t Cover It

Wood is ideally suited to the elements with a bit of help. Covering your deck with a tarp not only does little to protect it, but it also renders your outdoor living inoperable until spring.

5. Don’t Salt.

De-icer can damage your deck’s wood and destroy its protective finish. Instead, identify ice-prone spots and try to keep them shoveled.

6. Tape the Top of Your Handrail

Steve swears by adding a layer of clear 3” gorilla tape to the top of your handrail. The tape adds some extra grip and protects against rough edges that can occur during winter.

Don’t Neglect Your Deck!

Winter can take a toll on your deck. Keeping it free of snow and ice, along with these other tips helps to maintain the natural beauty and value of your deck. Colorado decks in particular endure drastically changing winter conditions; from snow and ice to intense sun. It is important to protect your deck. Luckily, DeckTec is the Denver areas largest and most experienced deck service team. If your deck is in need of refinishing or repair, call our team of specialists at 303-277-1550 or contact us online today.

Don’t let the cold keep you from having your deck ready for spring.