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How to protect your composite decking in colder months
As the colder months approach, it’s essential to make sure your composite decking is prepared to handle the drop in temperature. While composite decking is built to be durable, a bit of winter care can help maintain its appearance and prevent potential damage.
In this blog, we’ll cover both installation and maintenance tips to protect your composite decking during the colder seasons.
Installation tips:
If you are hiring an approved installer to install your decking, you can jump straight to the winter maintenance tips. If you’re thinking of installing the decking yourself, make sure that you follow our installation guides and consider the following to winter-proof your deck:1. Prevent water damage
Composite decking is resistant to water, but standing water can still cause issues, especially during winter's freeze-thaw cycles. Water that pools on the surface and freezes can expand, leading to potential damage. To avoid this, make sure you design your deck with proper drainage in mind.
Using slope correctors and joist pedestals can help create a slight incline so water runs off instead of collecting. Additionally, applying protective tape to the deck’s subframe will protect it from moisture, extending the life of your deck.
2. Protection against expansion and contraction
As temperatures rise and fall, composite decking can expand and contract. This is a normal process, but it can lead to problems if not accounted for during installation. To avoid issues like warping or buckling, make sure your decking boards are spaced properly.
Following the recommended installation guidelines, including leaving a 4-6 mm gap between boards, will ensure that the natural expansion and contraction won’t cause any structural problems.
3. Consider capped composite decking for extra durability
If you want a decking option that offers superior protection in cold weather, consider capped composite decking. These boards have a protective polymer layer that makes them more resistant to moisture, stains, and fading. For example, our Premium and Supreme decking ranges are designed to withstand tough weather conditions, providing long-lasting performance even in colder climates.
With guarantees of up to 30 years, capped composite boards are a great choice for those looking for extra durability during winter.
Winter maintenance tips
Once your composite decking is installed, proper care during the winter months will help it stay in excellent condition. Here are a few simple ways to keep your deck looking great.1. Minimal cleaning upkeep
One of the best things about composite decking is how low-maintenance it is. A quick clean before winter arrives can help prevent dirt and moisture from building up. Use a soft brush or leaf blower to remove debris, and wash the surface with soapy water and a non-abrasive brush to remove any lingering grime.
Unlike traditional wood, composite decking doesn’t need to be stained, sealed, or painted. Routine cleaning is usually enough to keep it looking fresh and vibrant throughout the year. This means less time spent maintaining your deck and more time enjoying your outdoor space, even in winter.
2. Keep an eye on ice and snow
Composite decking is weather-resistant, but it can still become slippery when icy or wet. To safely remove snow, use a plastic shovel or broom to avoid scratching the deck's surface. Metal shovels can cause damage, so it's best to avoid them.
For icy spots, stay away from harsh chemical de-icers or rock salt, as these can harm the surface of your deck over time. Instead, choose de-icing products that are safe for composite decking, such as calcium chloride, and always follow the manufacturer’s guidelines.
3. Minimise scratches and scuffs
During the winter, debris like grit or small stones can be tracked onto your deck, leading to scratches. If you notice any minor scratches, don't worry! Composite decking is designed to handle wear and tear. Most small scuffs can be easily buffed out with a soft cloth.