Being that your backyard retreat is constantly subjected to nature’s elements, at some point you’ll find that it’s become dangerously slick. Rainy and icy conditions are the main reasons for a slippery deck, but there are other factors in play as well. Once you understand what causes a deck’s surface to become hazardous, you can take the proper precautions to ensure the safety of yourself, your family, and your friends.
Reasons why your deck is slippery, and what to do about it.
You’ve allowed debris to accumulate. Unless your deck has a roof or is completely enclosed, natural waste such as leaves, pollen, and dirt will find their way onto your deck. Much of this debris harbors moisture, so when it’s allowed to collect on the decking, the ideal conditions are created for the growth of slimy stuff such as mold, mildew, moss, and algae. Once these nasty conditions set into the wood, cleaning it can be difficult.
The best way to combat this is to sweep your deck on a regular basis. However, if your deck is starting to resemble a forest floor, treat the decking boards with an algae and moss killer.
You aren’t allowing for proper drainage. When you aren’t sweeping debris off your deck, the space between the decking boards can become impacted with dirt and grime. When this happens, water can’t escape. Soon, puddles will form on the deck and cause it to become slick. This situation becomes dire during the winter months because the standing water will become a sheet of ice.
To prevent this from happening, clear away all debris that’s caked between the boards’ gaps. This can be accomplished with a broom, but if the dirt won’t budge, a forceful stream of water from a garden hose should knock it loose.
You’ve neglected to perform seasonal deep cleanings. It would be nice if just sweeping your deck was enough to maintain it, but unfortunately it needs to be blasted with a pressure washer once or twice a year. In order to conduct a thorough wash, be sure to use a pre-made or homemade cleaning solution. Using plain water won’t eliminate all the grime that’s attached to the boards.
You haven’t sealed your deck. To prevent muck from collecting on the decking boards and keep them from absorbing moisture, apply a standard deck sealer or waterproof deck stain at least once a year. Be sure to deep clean your deck prior to sealing it.
You’ve allowed snow to build up. When Old Man Winter pays you a visit, brush the snow off your deck as soon as possible. If you let the snow remain, the boards will become icy. When this happens, don’t use salt! This will cause the decking material to deteriorate.
You haven’t applied non-slip paint. The easiest way to give your deck the traction it needs is to coat the boards with a non-slip paint. Doing this will create a textured surface that will keep the deck from becoming slick during wet conditions—and even when there’s algal growth!
Kansas City Deck Care Begins with the Experts
When your outdoor retreat beckons, it’s practically impossible to resist enjoying all it has to offer. However, choosing to ignore the necessary maintenance it yearns for is a huge mistake.
We at All Weather Decks understand that decks need to look and perform at their best. After all, it’s not just a place to relax and entertain, it’s an investment. We believe in building quality decks and appreciate the opportunity to educate homeowners about the care required to keep their outdoor retreat in optimum condition. However, when the time comes that your backyard sanctuary needs some professional TLC, we also specialize in Kansas City deck repairs.
If you’re ready to make your dream deck a reality, or enclose the one you’ve got, we’d love to discuss your ideas. Give us a call at 913-206-1974 or contact us online today! We’re eager to help you create the RIGHT Deck at the RIGHT price!
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