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You don’t need to read the news to know we’re in the middle of a cold snap in the UK right now – arguably, all you need to do is step outside, and you’ll be able to feel it for yourself! With this kind of weather, it’s likely, possibly even inevitable, that some ice will start to form on your timber or composite decking. When it does, some of the solutions might seem obvious. Unfortunately though, lots of them can easily run the risk of damaging your decking. Here’s what to watch out for!
The humble metal-headed shovel is something of a trusty workhorse for most gardens, and it’s more than a match for all but the thickest of ice. That makes it an understandably tempting option to use to crack the ice on your decking. However, while it’s true that it will probably easily break the ice, it can all too easily end up damaging your decking boards too; timber and composite alike. Honestly, it’s best not to take the risk!
A plastic shovel is a useful alternative, as it can be used to perform basically the same job (as long as you’re careful with it, obviously). Since the head isn’t made of metal, it’s much easier to avoid causing accidental – and maybe even permanent – damage to your decking.
As you’ve already surmised, this can easily damage the wood. That’s largely because the chloride component effectively absorbs moisture from the wood. Then, when the wood is left to dry, it’s not able to perform its natural contraction and expansion process. Sodium chloride can also pose major risks in a variety of other ways – it can corrode the metal supports of your decking, and it’s toxic to children and pets. Plus, the runoff can pollute streams and waterways, and it can affect the growth of plants too. To be honest, it’s just generally one to avoid.
Sand isn’t quite as immediately toxic, but it’s still not a good idea to use that either, simply because it’s coarse and it can end up damaging your boards.
A winter ice-melt solution will do the job just fine. Ideally though you’ll want one that’s ice-free, chloride free, and acetate free. Those can start becoming a little tricky to find, so to be honest, you might even find it safer and easier to use a DIY ice-melt solution instead. Two parts vinegar, one part water, and the job is a good ‘un. When you’re working with a timber deck specifically, a little dish soap never does any harm.
One of the best ways to deal with snow and ice is simply to prevent it from forming in the first place, if you can. To do that, it’s best to sweep off any standing water from your decking as soon as you’re able. This will play a major part in preventing ice from forming, so you don’t have to worry about it quite as much. The same goes for snow, if it gets cold enough for any to develop this year. Not only can it make your decking difficult and dangerous to traverse, but the sheer weight of it can pose a risk to the structural integrity – so make sure to sweep it off your decking sharpish. It’s not a job anyone loves, but it can save you a lot of hassle in the long run!
At Savoy Timber, we’re experts in all things timber decking. If you need help looking after your decking or are still choosing the right boards for your outdoor space, we can help! Give us a call on 0333 272 7985 and we’ll be more than happy to chat about your project.
