Winter Deck Preparation: Answers to the Most Common Questions

Yes, winter is coming, and as a local distributor of decking materials, some of our most frequently asked questions from customers concern winter preparation and deck care during the winter months.



While we're all daydreaming about the upcoming spring days, we thought we'd put together this helpful guide that answers all of your questions about preparing your deck for winter, what you should do now versus what you should do later, and everything in between.



So, wrap up in your favorite warm spot and read our winter deck guide.

Is it safe to use Trex decking in the winter?



The quick answer is yes! One of the reasons we love Trex decking is that it is extremely durable and designed to withstand all of the elements. If you have Trex decking, you're already one step ahead of the game because it requires far less winter maintenance than wood decks.



However, here are a few best practices to remember when caring for your Trex deck and preparing it for the winter.







Protecting Your Deck Before Snow Falls



If you still have leaves or other debris on your deck, we recommend gently scrubbing it down before the snow arrives. This will make cleaning your deck easier once the snow melts.



Cleaning off your deck in preparation for the snow should be as simple as using a mixture of warm, soapy water.







Getting Rid of Snow and Ice on Your Deck



When the snow does fall, you can leave it to melt on its own. If you must walk outside, you should remove the snow and ice to make it safer. If there is only a light dusting of snow on the deck, brush it off with a broom. A shovel may be required to remove thicker layers of snow or ice.



Keep in mind that using a metal shovel may cause damage to your decking material, so opt for a plastic one. Then, shovel in the direction of the boards to avoid unnecessary scratches or dents.







Should I Paint My Deck in the Winter?



If your deck is in need of a makeover, it may be tempting to have it painted during the winter so that it looks brand new when the warmer weather arrives. However, it is preferable to wait until the spring. One of the most important factors to consider when painting your deck is the outside temperature. If the weather is too cold, as it often is in the winter, the paint will not spread evenly and may not adhere properly.



Furthermore, if you paint your deck during the winter, the paint will crack and peel more easily than if you wait until spring. However, you don't want to wait until it's too hot. Hot weather causes the paint to dry too quickly, resulting in brush strokes or a clumpy appearance. That is why most deck restoration projects are best done in the spring.







Should I Replace My Deck in the Winter?



Yes! Contrary to popular belief, winter is one of the best times to build a new deck. If you've been thinking about updating your outdoor living space, now is the time to do it. You'll have a beautiful, brand-new deck to enjoy once the weather warms up.



Regardless of the season, we are here to provide you with only the best decking materials for any home restoration or deck building project. Arlington Coal & Lumber can meet all of your decking requirements. Our professional team is always available to assist you with any decking needs you may have. Simply contact us and we will provide you with all of the necessary information before you make that purchase.