The investment homeowners make in a beautiful new deck can last for years to come with the proper care. And the furniture you purchase to use on your deck can be enjoyed for many years as long as it is properly cared for. You spend time and money choosing the best deck material, and accessories to place on it. When outdoor recreation and entertaining family and friends is something you value, it’s important to winterize your deck and it’s accessories properly so your investments last.
Winter can be harsh on anything in its path
At MN Contractor Pros, we understand that Minnesota winters are tough. That’s why we encourage homeowners to take the proper precautions to winterize their decks and outdoor furniture so they last. We’ve helped homeowners in the Twin Cities Metro area transform their home both inside and out. Our home specialists help homeowners select the right products and materials for their needs—including decking. We keep you involved from start to finish while we execute your project.
Why it’s important to winterize your deck and outdoor furniture from Minnesota winters
There are consequences when outdoor furniture is left outside all winter long.
If you choose to leave your expensive deck furniture outside this winter, regardless of how well it is built, the snow, rain, ice, and wind will take a toll on it.
Your furniture won’t last as long
Your outdoor furniture may look like it’s just fine sitting outside with a foot of snow piled on top of it, but the elements, in fact, are actually decreasing your furniture’s lifespan. Heavy Minnesota snowfalls could damage your furniture, so bypass that trouble too by simply keeping your deck furniture inside during the winter.
Your furniture will get dirty
With direct exposure to the harsh winter weather of Minnesota, your furniture is likely to get soiled with dirt, grime, and moisture penetration. Avoid the hassle of cleaning your furniture after each winter, and simply keep it indoors.
Your furniture could get stolen or wrecked
Avoid the trouble caused by intruders and porch thieves by simply not leaving your deck furniture out all winter.
How to care for your new deck and its accessories:
Before winter, take these precautions, and your decking and its furniture will last longer:
1. Declutter
Before winter starts, clean the clutter off your deck. Store outdoor planters inside for the winter. Stow patio furniture away in a safe, dry spot until spring.
2. Clean
Keep your new deck surface clean to prevent deterioration. If mold or mildew are present, remove them so they don’t spread. Ground-in dirt or barbeque stains can ruin your new deck’s look. Moisture penetration can cause mold, mildew, moss, and even algae to grow on your decking. So, clean your deck thoroughly when summer ends, and prepare for the winter ahead. Quality cleaners can actually help loosen and lift dirt, stains, mold, and mildew from your deck surface. Cleaning prepares your deck for a new protective coating.
3. Protect
To protect and winterize your deck from the harsh winters of Minnesota, use a quality sealant to fill cracks and coat your deck surface, protecting it from moisture penetration including snow and ice. You may need to remove prior finishes, but applying a good sealant will keep your deck looking fabulous and prevent damage. A water repellent finish will help protect your deck in winter. Unprotected decking can warp, split or crack. Protect and winterize your deck from the elements with a premium wood finish. Shield your deck from water damage with a good sealer. Or for maximum fortification, choose a premium deck stain. It is great preparation for not only winter months, but also upcoming summer months when you’re outside enjoying your deck.
4. Add a barrier
Cover your deck with a tarp for the winter to prevent warping and keep moisture out of its cracks. It will dim the possibility of winter damage to your new deck.
5. Shovel snow
It’s important to remove any snow from your deck to prevent damage. Shovel in the same direction as the boards of your deck to keep its finish intact. Avoid using salt or ice-melting products on your deck because they can cause discoloration or damage to its finish.
Winterize your deck and resist damaging winter elements
Realize that harsh Minnesota winters can wreak havoc on your new deck unless you take precautions. But with the right preparations, your deck can be winterized and well protected from snow, ice, sleet, and the damage winter can bring.
The premier Minneapolis area deck builder
At MN Contractor Pros, we build beautiful decks so you can enjoy the outdoors with your family and friends. As a deck contractor, we take pride in our attention to detail and exacting work. So if you’re looking for a deck installer in the Minneapolis area, consider the qualified team of experts at MN Contractor Pros.
We understand that you want your home to look great inside and out, and if you have any damaged areas, you want them to be fixed properly and with superior products. A failing home exterior or interior can leave homeowners frustrated. That’s why we address the problems with practical, beautiful solutions.
No homeowner should be uncertain about the life of their home. At MN Contractor Pros, our team of experts is here to exceed your expectations as we earn your trust with our reliable products and workmanship. Take a look at our project gallery and dream a little about your next remodeling project.