How Do You Remove Snow From Composite Decking?

When snow blankets the ground, outdoor decks face the challenges of winter. Composite decking board is highly favored for its exceptional weather resistance and low maintenance requirements. Unlike wood, it won’t rot or warp. However, this doesn’t mean it’s completely immune to snow and ice. Incorrect snow removal methods can leave permanent damage on the surface.

This article outlines methods and precautions for winter deck snow removal. Follow these guidelines to safely and efficiently clear snow and ice from your composite deck. This ensures your composite deck retains its luster long after winter’s end.

Why is It Important to Remove Snow From Composite Decks?

Moisture in snow and ice affects composite decks in multiple ways. For example, moisture can cause deck boards to expand and contract. This may lead to structural issues. Even composite decking can develop mold when exposed to prolonged moisture.

Furthermore, heavy snow accumulation may exceed the deck’s weight capacity. In severe cases, this could lead to deck collapse or safety hazards. Therefore, timely snow removal is a key aspect of winter deck maintenance. It preserves the composite deck’s appearance and functionality. When spring arrives, your deck will be ready for immediate use.

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Preparations Before Winter Arrives

Experienced homeowners prepare for snowfall well in advance. You can complete the following tasks before winter sets in:

Thorough Cleaning

A clean deck surface effectively prevents dirt and ice from freezing together. This makes the deck easier to clean and avoids potential damage to the decking material. Use a broom or leaf blower to thoroughly remove loose debris like fallen leaves, pine needles, and soil from your deck.

These organic materials can foster mold growth in damp conditions. If snow melts, they may also leave stubborn stains. If your deck shows visible stains or mold spots, consider a deep cleaning.

Move or Cover Outdoor Furniture

Bring all outdoor cushions, rugs, planters, and movable furniture indoors for storage. For large, immovable furniture, cover it securely with waterproof covers. This not only protects the furniture itself but also clears obstacles for snow removal.

How to Remove Snow From Composite Decking Using a Shovel?

Proper clearing methods and tool selection are key to protecting your deck surface. In most cases, you can use a shovel to remove snow. Follow these steps:

Select The Right Tool

While composite wood decking surfaces are durable, they remain softer than metal. When removing snow from a deck, the sharp edges of metal tools can easily scratch the surface, leaving marks that look bad. So, choose a plastic shovel with a wide blade and sides that are smooth and rounded. Plastic shovel blades are much softer than metal ones, so they don’t damage the surface as much.

For light, loose snow, a long-handled broom is the most efficient and safest tool. It effortlessly sweeps snow away. Leaf blowers are also highly effective tools. They quickly remove snow from the deck without any physical contact whatsoever.

Shoveling Snow Parallel to Deck Boards

When you’re clearing snow, pay close attention to which way the shovel is moving. This is the most important technical point that is easy to miss when clearing snow off composite deck boards. The correct approach is to move the shovel parallel to the direction in which the deck boards are laid.

Do not shovel perpendicular to the boards. Composite decking boards typically feature fine seams and edges between them. When shoveling perpendicular to the boards, the shovel blade can easily get caught in these seams. This may cause irreversible notches and damage. Shoveling parallel allows the blade to glide smoothly over the board surface, avoiding the seams.

Apply the Right Amount of Force When Shoveling Snow

If the base of the snow has frozen solid, it may be frozen to the deck. Exercise patience and avoid forceful ice removal. Some homeowners strike or pry at the ice with shovels. This sudden impact can cause cracks and dents in composite deck materials. If encountering ice buildup, consider using an ice melt. First, dissolve the bond between ice and decking, then clear it away effortlessly.

How to Use Ice Melt?

When stubborn ice forms on the deck, using ice melt is an effective method. However, not all ice melts are suitable for composite deck boards.

Using Calcium Chloride-Based Ice Melt

Calcium chloride is a widely recognized safe choice by composite deck manufacturers. It doesn’t corrode or discolor things very much because its chemical qualities aren’t too strong. When purchasing de-icer, carefully review the ingredient list. Ensure calcium chloride is the primary active ingredient.

Proper Application of Ice Melt

For best results, apply de-icer as ice begins to form or before freezing is expected. It is also effective on established thick ice. Follow the recommended application rate specified in the product instructions. Wear gloves and spread the granules evenly over the ice surface, avoiding clumping. Overuse is not only wasteful but may also increase residue.

Additionally, opt for pet- or plant-safe ice melt whenever possible. After application, temporarily restrict pets from the deck until the area is cleaned and rinsed. Avoid spreading de-icer onto surrounding plants.

Cleaning and Rinsing

Once the ice has completely melted, use a broom or plastic shovel to sweep away any undissolved particles and ice water from the deck. It is recommended to finish by thoroughly rinsing the deck surface with a garden hose. Remove any residual chemicals. Prevent their prolonged presence from potentially affecting the composite deck surface.

Prohibited Ice Melt Types

Some homeowners may consider using rock salt. While inexpensive, this ice melt has long-term drawbacks. Not only is it inefficient at melting ice, but its residue forms unsightly white crystals. Prolonged use may damage composite decking boards. Additionally, certain ice melts contain dyes.

These colors can potentially seep into the composite decking surface, causing permanent staining. Some homeowners also use sand to increase traction. This can severely damage composite wood decking. The coarse grains of sand act like sandpaper when walked on, creating fine scratches on the deck surface.

Precautions

During cleaning, observe the following precautions to prevent hazards or damage to your deck.

• Follow Manufacturer Maintenance Guidelines: Using unapproved tools or chemicals may void product warranties. Consult your deck manufacturer if unsure about any method.
• Turn off Appliances: When removing snow, turn off all outdoor appliances. Ensure all wires are intact and free of exposed areas. When cleaning, avoid splashing snow or water onto outlets and light fixtures. Before energizing, ensure all appliances and deck surfaces are completely dry.
• Prevent Ice Buildup: Do not wait until a snowstorm ends. Clear fresh snow promptly during breaks in precipitation. This prevents compaction or ice buildup beneath the surface, making future cleaning easier.
• Prevent Scratches: Capped composite decking typically features a tough polymer protective layer. While resistant to moisture and weight, surface scratches remain a primary concern.
• Inspect Drainage: Before winter arrives, thoroughly examine your composite deck’s drainage system. Ensure unobstructed flow beneath the deck to prevent melted snow accumulation.
• Prioritize Safety: Exercise caution when walking on icy decks. Wear slip-resistant boots during snow removal. Promptly remove icicles hanging from eaves and railings. Falling icicles can damage deck surfaces with their sharp edges and pose a serious safety hazard.

Conclusion

Composite decking materials offer you effortless and comfortable outdoor living. With the right snow removal methods, you can easily tackle winter challenges. Come spring, your deck will be in prime condition to welcome you and your family back. If you have further questions, feel free to consult COOWIN. We provide premium composite decking materials and address all your inquiries.

FAQ

What Should I Do If My Deck Gets Scratched by a Metal Shovel?

Minor surface scratches will fade over time. For slightly deeper scratches, try light sanding to reduce their appearance. Deeper gouges may be difficult to repair and may not fully disappear. Prevention is always the best strategy. You may also consider replacing individual boards.

Can Heavy Snow Accumulation Collapse My Composite Deck?

Properly installed composite decking boards can withstand significant snow loads. However, all decking has a weight capacity limit. For safety, promptly clear accumulated snow. Simultaneously, inspect the deck’s underlying structure for signs of abnormal bending or sagging.

Can I Use Hot Water to Melt Ice and Snow on Composite Decking?

This is strongly discouraged. Sudden temperature changes can cause uneven contraction in composite decking. In severe cases, this may lead to micro-cracks or warping. Furthermore, melted ice water that cannot drain quickly may refreeze on the deck surface.

Should I Clear Snow If My Deck isn’t Used in Winter?

Although composite decking is water-resistant, leaving snow undisturbed all winter is not recommended. Persistent heavy snow accumulation places unnecessary stress on the deck structure. Repeated freezing and thawing of ice can form stubborn ice layers on surfaces. This makes subsequent cleaning more difficult.

Furthermore, snow accumulation can conceal fallen leaves and debris. After the spring snow melts, these contaminants cling to the wet, slippery deck. They eventually form stubborn stains and may foster mold growth. Therefore, it is advisable to clear snow at least from the main deck areas and railings after heavy snowfalls.