Torrential Designs

It seems as if it were just yesterday that we were worried about fall deck maintenance.  Now the snow is beginning to fly and we’re already looking forward to next spring and another season of outdoor enjoyment  on our deck. Here in Minnesota, we average about 45 inches of snow per winter.  In climates like this, we have to enjoy our decks as much as we can, when we can.  It only makes sense to take care of your deck throughout the winter to make sure it is ready to go once the spring returns again.

Should I shovel the snow off my deck?
Without a doubt - yes!  Regardless of whether your deck is made of pressure treated wood, redwood, cedar, or other natural untreated woods, water may still enter the wood and expand and contract with the absorption and release of water.  This swelling and shrinking action causes nails to pull or pop and will eventually weaken and rot deteriorate the wood.  It is important to remove the snow and ice from your deck as soon as possible to minimize the amount of moisture that the wood can absorb.

How do I shovel the snow off my deck?
Regardless of the type of wood your deck is made of, you should remove the snow after each snowfall.  Most hardware stores sell plastic shovels that work great.  Be sure to avoid any shovel with a metal strip on it, as it will gouge and scrape the wood as you clear the deck.  Begin shoveling the snow going in the lengthwise direction of the wood.  Shoveling crosswise can scratch or cut into the wood.

Should I use salt to melt the ice?
Salt and ice melters are not recommended for use on a deck.  They can easily damage or discolor the wood of your deck.

Photo courtesy of inkswamp

Tags: deck, winter