Your decking probably won’t get much use this winter, but it needs more attention than ever. Wind, rain and low temperatures can harm your decking, reducing its lifespan. If you want to ensure yours looks and performs at its best for longer, check out our tips for winter maintenance.
Annual decking maintenance
First things first, you need to give your decking a good clean to prevent build-up causing problems over the coming months. First, use a hard-bristled brush to sweep away dirt. Next, apply a specialist decking cleaner that tackles mould, such as this from Pro-Kleen.
Normally, you will need to scrub the surface with a brush and leave to stand before hosing or pressure-washing your decking down. However, make sure to consult the instructions on your chosen product. Leave to dry for at least 48 hours before the next step.
Now you need to coat your decking with a protective layer, which will help maintain condition even in harsh weather. A transparent protector is best if you’re happy with the colour of your decking, whereas a stain or oil is preferable for rejuvenation.
Whatever product you choose, make sure that it is suitable for your wood type. Always follow the manufacturer’s application instructions and leave to dry thoroughly before walking across or placing furniture.
Replacing damaged decking
Decking boards that are split or rotting will be an even bigger and more expensive problem after the cold season. It is recommended that you replace damaged parts now, to prevent issues escalating. To start, remove soft and damaged sections with a circular saw, so they end on the centre of a joist.
Treat the newly exposed ends with a preservative, before replacing the missing wood. Cut top-quality anti-slip deck boards from a brand like Arbordeck to size, and treat with protector, stain or oil before installation.
