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During the summer, your home’s deck is the place for barbecues, outdoor parties, and gatherings for families and friends. However, when the temperatures drop and winter arrives, it’s time to protect your deck from the harsh weather. Taking the time to winterize your deck will help avoid damage from ice, snow, and overexposure to moisture. As the temperatures drop, learn how to winterize your deck by following the guide below.

How Do I Winterize a Deck?

1. Fix Any Damage

Before bad weather sets in, do a quick inspection of everything. Check for any loose nails, cracked or damaged bars, wiggly handrails, and significant structural damage. It’s essential to fix these issues since they can allow moisture to seep into the wood, causing wood rot. If you notice your deck fading or peeling anywhere, strip the finish before applying a new stain or water-repellent sealer. Stripping and restoring your deck before applying sealant or stain will help them adhere to the wood and apply evenly.

2. Clean the Deck Thoroughly

decks Wentzville, MOYou’ll then need to clean the deck thoroughly. Remove any potted plants, furniture, outdoor grills, fire pits, and outdoor decorations from the deck. Sweep any dirt, loose branches and leaves, or debris from your deck. Use a bleach-free cleaner specially formulated for your deck material to clean stains and dirt. Don’t forget to rinse it thoroughly with water, too. If needed, you can power wash the deck to remove especially tough stains.

3. Seal the Deck

Finally, you should apply a finish to protect your deck against rain, ice, snow, and sleet. This heavy winter moisture can cause your deck to warp, crack, and eventually decay. There are certain stains designed for certain deck materials, so find one that’s appropriate for your deck. A good quality stain will protect your deck for at least a few years.

 

If you’re looking for a home improvement company in Wentzville, MO, contact Gateway Exteriors. This family-owned and operated local business has over 30 years of experience in the home remodeling industry. Gateway Exteriors offers services in siding, windows, sunrooms, decking and railing, and much more. Call (636) 327-8609 today for more information, or view a list of services on their website.

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