How To Protect Your Deck This Winter

It’s no secret that New Hampshire has harsh winters with plenty of ice and snow. What you may not realize is that these conditions can be very damaging to your deck if you don’t take the right precautions.

Foremost Builders has extensive experience in exterior remodeling, including deck building and remodeling, and we know what it takes to maximize the life span of your outdoor spaces. Here, we’ll share our advice for ensuring your deck is properly protected this winter.

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Clean Your Deck Regularly

Keep your deck free from clutter, especially during winter. Forgotten food from barbeques, ground-in dirt, fallen leaves, and planters can all cause wood discolorations or staining. Regularly clean any spills, foliage, and dirt from your deck, and to move planters to a garage or similar area to protect your plants as well as your deck.

Likewise, unused patio furniture should be stowed away for the winter. To clean and restore your deck, you can also use a bleach-free cleaner that’s designed specifically for wood.

Remove All Mold & Mildew

Decks are a breeding ground for mold and mildew, especially during winter when ice and snow provide prolonged exposure to moisture. Look out for mold and mildew growth on the deck’s surface and remove it when it pops up.

Cleaners like JOMAX and Deck Wash can remove mold and mildew stains in addition to dirt buildup.

Apply a Protective Finish

The best way to protect your deck from harsh New Hampshire winters is with a high-quality water-repellant seal. There are a variety of finishes to choose from so you can pick one that fits your aesthetic.

This will fill any cracks and coat the surface of the deck to guard against moisture and ice that can cause splitting, cracking, and warping. You may first need to remove any existing finish from the wood, but you’ll be glad you did when your deck is free from damage in the spring.

Need Deck Refinishing or Replacement in New Hampshire?

If your deck is already damaged and needs to be professionally refinished or replaced, the experts at Foremost Builders can help. We’ve served the area with premiere design/build/remodel services since 1996, and we have the experience to tackle any interior or exterior project you may have.

We build and replace decks, and our home services division, First Homecare & Repair, offers comprehensive deck services, including repairs and refinishing.

Ensure your deck is properly refinished and protected with the team at Foremost Builders. Call 603-763-1344 to get started.