Calgary’s winter is no joke. The heavy snowfall, freezing temperatures, and fluctuating conditions make Calgary’s climate tough for outdoor spaces. So, like any other homeowner, you’re probably preparing your deck for Calgary winters.
Whether you have a wood deck, composite decking, or a pressure-treated wooden deck, maintaining it in Calgary’s winter weather will help it withstand the elements and last for years.
Below, we delve into essential strategies for preserving your deck, protecting it from the harsh winter, and ensuring it looks best year-round.
Choosing the Right Deck Materials for Calgary’s Climate
To prepare your deck for the cold winter months, you first need to consider your deck materials. In fact, deck materials for Calgary’s climate vary in how well they defy the elements.
For example, composite decking materials and pressure-treated wood are popular choices due to their resilience and durability. Composite decking is known for its ability to resist moisture, reducing the risk of:
- Rot
- Mildew
- Warping
On the other hand, wood decks are beautiful. Yet, they require more care and maintenance to protect against winter weather.
Thirdly, pressure-treated wood can be another great option, as it’s designed to withstand temperature fluctuations. Choosing the right material for your deck will go a long way in helping it last throughout the winter.
Already late preparing your deck for Calgary winters? Contact YYC Builders today!
Tips for Preparing Your Deck for Calgary Winters
In this segment, we’ll present you with a few tried-and-tested pieces of advice when it comes to preparing your deck for Calgary winters.
#1: Inspect Your Deck: Identify & Address Vulnerabilities
Before the snow hits, you need to inspect your deck. In other words, regularly examine your deck for any signs of wear, such as:
- Loose boards
- Rusted nails
- Rotting wood
These can worsen during winter, making your deck unsafe. So, check for any areas where water can pool, as moisture buildup can lead to rot and mildew growth, especially on wooden decks.
In any case, make sure your deck is structurally sound, as winter snowfall and ice buildup can take a toll on it. A proactive inspection can catch issues before they worsen, potentially saving you money in repairs and ensuring your deck remains safe and stable.
#2: Deep Clean & Stain Your Deck Before Winter Sets In
A meticulous clean-up is a must to prepare your beautiful deck for winter. So, sweep off leaves, dirt, and debris that can hold moisture, leading to mildew and rot.
As for stubborn grime, you can use a deck cleaner that’s suitable for your deck’s material. In other words, a clean deck allows the surface to breathe and reduces the chance of damage caused by trapped moisture.
After cleaning, consider staining your deck. For illustration, staining your deck is especially important for wooden decks as it protects against moisture and helps retain its color.
When you stain, you’re adding a protective layer that shields the wood from winter elements, prolonging the life of your deck.
#3: Apply a High-Quality Sealant to Protect Against Moisture
One of the best deck maintenance tips to prepare your deck for winter is — using a good sealant. For example, a sealant prevents moisture from seeping into the deck boards. In turn, this often leads to:
- Warping
- Cracking
- Rot
In Calgary’s climate, moisture from snowfall and ice can severely affect the deck. So, make sure to choose a sealant designed for your deck’s specific material — whether it’s composite decking or pressure-treated wood.
To top it off, sealants can extend the lifespan of your deck, ensuring it withstands the winter weather without losing its structure or aesthetic appeal. And that’s probably the top 2 things you want from your deck!
As Christmas approaches, you can even try out traditional Christmas lights installation to make your deck even prettier!
#4: Manage Snow & Ice
One of the biggest winter challenges for a deck in Calgary is snow and ice accumulation. Snow and ice can increase the weight load on your deck, causing stress on the structure.
The best way to clear snow off the deck is with a plastic snow shovel, as metal shovels can scratch the surface.
For other useful tips, avoid using rock salt, as it can damage the deck surface and promote moisture buildup. Instead, opt for calcium chloride or other ice melt products that are safe for decks. Finally, a professional maintenance service can provide guidance on which products are best for your specific deck material.
#5: Protect Your Deck Furniture & Accessories
As you prepare your deck for winter, don’t forget about your deck furniture. If you leave furniture exposed to harsh winter elements, this can result in:
- Rust
- Cracking
- Degradation of materials
To handle these issues, move deck furniture indoors. If that’s not an option for you, invest in durable, weatherproof covers to keep everything protected. In other words, ensure the furniture doesn’t trap moisture on the deck surface.
If you take steps to protect your outdoor furniture, you’re preserving both the longevity of your deck and the deck look you love.
#6: Maintain Deck Boards
Winter moisture can warp deck boards, causing them to crack and shift over time. So, suppose your deck has pressure-treated wood. In that case, it’s particularly vulnerable to moisture-related warping.
To make it all go away, inspect your deck regularly for any signs of bowing or cracks in the boards. As you may well know, warped boards not only ruin the appearance of your deck but can also pose a tripping hazard.
For the ultimate solution, deck maintenance services can help you with regular inspections and repairs to have your deck remain safe and look great all year long.
#7: Hire a Professional Deck Builder
Most of the problems of preparing your deck for Calgary winters can be swept away by hiring professional deck builders. So, you can consider consulting deck builders in Calgary to get expert tips and insights — from selecting the best deck material to applying the proper sealant.
To withstand the harshest winter, professional deck builders can help with deck repair, maintenance, and much more.
Final Thoughts on Preparing Your Deck for Calgary Winters
Once winter sets in, you shouldn’t stop maintaining your deck.
So, make sure to follow our advice:
- Prevent moisture buildup
- Remove accumulated snow
- Ensure ice isn’t forming in crevices
Remember that the longevity of your deck depends on the consistent care you give it, particularly during Calgary’s winter. By dedicating some time each week to checking on and caring for your deck, you’re investing in an outdoor space that will withstand the test of time and continue to bring you enjoyment in any month.
To ease the burden of preparing your deck for Calgary winters, you can seek support from professionals in your vicinity.
Contact YYC Builders today to get expert help!
