A beautiful, well-maintained deck can do wonders for your outdoor living space and your home’s overall appeal. Unfortunately, winter weather can take a toll on even the finest deck, so it’s important to ensure your deck is ready for the onslaught of snow, ice and freezing temperatures.

In this article, the deck and siding installation experts of Colonial Remodeling, LLC share four ways to protect your deck this winter.

1. Clean the Deck – To protect your deck from winter weather, make sure to give it a thorough cleaning before the temperatures drop and the snow starts to fall. Remove any debris and bring in the planters to prevent wood discoloration before scrubbing it down to keep the deck surface clean. Afterward, remove any mold or mildew buildup on your deck surface. A home remodeling contractor can help you with this task if you’re not sure how to go about it.

2. Apply Water Repellent Seal – If you want quality winter protection for your deck, consider applying a water repellent seal on the surface of the deck after cleaning it. The sealant will fill all the cracks and shield your deck against moisture and ice for the duration of the season. 

3. Cover Deck With a Tarp – Alternatively, you can also cover the deck with a tarp once you’re finished cleaning it. This added barrier will prevent snow from collecting directly on the deck’s surface, which in turn can prevent cracks and warping.

4. Remove Snow – Prevent snow from piling up on your deck as well. Remove the snow by shoveling in the same direction as your boards to prevent damaging the finish. Avoid using salt and ice melting products, which might cause discoloration or damage to the finish.

Colonial Remodeling, LLC provides top-of-the-line deck building and James Hardie® siding installation services. Give us a call at (703) 822-7222 or fill out our contact form to get a FREE estimate. We serve homeowners in Arlington, VA, and nearby areas.