19 Jul How to Make A Wooden Deck Not Slippery in Winter
It’s winter, and if you’re anywhere in the Western and Southern Cape, you’re likely experiencing the luscious lappings of rain.
The Western and Southern Cape is known for its Mediterranean climate and sees most of its rain during the winter months. While the rains bring much-needed replenishment, they also create the perfect conditions for a slippery deck. So, how can you protect your deck from becoming a hazard?
Understanding the Problem
The combination of rain and limited sunlight creates an ideal breeding ground for algae and moss. This moisture accumulation on your deck can make it dangerously slippery. Additionally, organic materials like leaves, mud, and debris can form a slick layer when wet. Some types of wood are more susceptible to becoming slippery during winter due to wear and the breakdown of natural oils, which can create a smooth, slippery surface.
As temperatures drop and evaporation rates decrease, decks remain wet for longer periods. Algae and moss thrive in these conditions, particularly when fallen leaves decompose and add to the slipperiness. The short daylight hours of winter also contribute to the risk, as people are more likely to venture into their gardens when it’s darker outside, increasing the likelihood of accidents.
So, How Does One Avoid This?
Regular Cleaning
The first step in maintaining a safe deck is regular cleaning. Remove fallen leaves, twigs, and any fungal growth using a stiff-bristle brush or plastic scraper. Establish a routine of brushing down your deck every two weeks to prevent the buildup of organic material and maintain a clean surface.
Apply Non-Slip Decking Oil
Applying non-slip decking oil can help prevent your deck from becoming slippery. Unlike paints and varnishes, which can crack and peel, decking oils contain compressed particles that create a rougher, non-slip surface. Although this option can be more expensive, especially for large decks, it’s a worthwhile investment for maintaining safety.
Use Algae and Moss Killers
To further protect your deck, observe it regularly for green spots or streaks indicating the presence of algae or moss. Invest in a good moss and algae-killing product if you notice these growths. Using grooved decking boards can also reduce the need for frequent cleaning, as they are less prone to slippery buildup.
Clean Your Deck Regularly
Look after your deck by clearing debris with a broom and sweeping off standing water after rain. Use a trowel or thin tool to remove stuck leaves between decking boards.
Install Rubber Mats
A temporary but effective solution is to use rubber mats. These mats can be laid down as a narrow walkway on your deck during the winter months and stored away once the weather improves. Designed to withstand all weather conditions, they offer a quick fix to slippery decks.
Use Non-Slip Decking Strips or Tape
For a quick and easy fix, apply specially-made abrasive strips or non-slip decking tape. Abrasive strips are more permanent, requiring screws to attach them to the deck surface. Non-slip tape is a cheaper and faster solution but may not be as durable.
Install An Anti-slip Deck
For those with old, worn-out decks or planning to install a new one, consider investing in an anti-slip deck if you stay in an area prone to heavy rainfall and algae buildup. These decks are made from pre-treated timber resistant to fungal growth and insect attacks, with built-in abrasive strip inserts for added safety. This long-term solution eliminates the need for regular maintenance and provides peace of mind.
Wooden decks can become very slippery during the wet, cold winter months, but with proper care and maintenance, you can significantly reduce the risk. Whether you choose regular cleaning, non-slip treatments, or installing an anti-slip deck, ensuring your deck is safe and slip-resistant will keep you and your family safe throughout the winter.
Make a habit of inspecting and maintaining your deck throughout the winter months. Address any issues promptly to prevent them from escalating and causing further damage.
By following these tips from Garapa.co.za, you can protect your Garapa deck and keep it looking beautiful for years to come, even during the harsh winter months. With proper care and maintenance, your Garapa deck will continue to be a source of enjoyment and relaxation for you and your family.
For more information feel free to contact us or send an email to anton@onlinebuilding.co.za.