Tis the season – protect your deck this winter

Before the chill in the air turns into harsh winter weather, prepare your decks, patios and sidewalks for the winter months ahead. The combination of foot traffic, food spills and weather can take its toll on any deck unless properly maintained.

Clear and Clean Thoroughly:

  • The first step to prepping your deck is always clearing it of any items that could be damaged or cause damage in the winter. Ensure you store and protect any cushions, mats & area rugs.
  • Clean your deck thoroughly to remove the remnants of summer and get it ready for winter. Exposure to sun can cause wood to turn gray and exposure to moisture can create the perfect conditions for the growth of mold, mildew, moss and algae.
  • Don’t forget your BBQ! After all of your summer entertaining, be sure you clean out your BBQ. Whether you grill all year long, or put it away until the spring, a clean BBQ will last longer without any surprises.
  • With the cold approaching, be sure you blow out any irrigation systems. Water in pipes can freeze and cause bigger problems down the road.
  • A winter must-have is lighting. With shorter days lighting is important for safety and provides the atmosphere for you to enjoy your outdoor spaces any time of the year. Consider adding more lighting to your landscape and your living spaces.

Don’t forget to start your Spring To-Do list:

  • Restore the Deck: As you clean your deck, you’re going to want to keep an eye for any damaged boards or other signs of damage on your structure – add these repairs to your spring list.
  • Apply a Protective Finish: It is important to apply a water-repellent finish to protect your deck. Moisture such as ice, snow, sleet and rain can penetrate an unprotected surface, which can cause splitting, cracking and warping. Once your repairs are done, stain/seal your deck again and enjoy for another year.

You have invested a great deal of time and money on your outdoor living space; you want to make sure your investment is protected. Contact us today and we’ll help you with all of your outdoor living space needs.