Winter Deck Care Guide for Ontario Homeowners

Ontario Winters Are Tough on Decks

With temperatures dropping to -20°C or colder, heavy snow loads, and constant freeze-thaw cycles, Ontario winters pose significant challenges for decks. Proper winter care prevents costly damage and extends your deck's lifespan.

Pre-Winter Preparation

Fall Checklist (Before First Freeze)

• Final deep cleaning: Remove all dirt, debris, and organic matter
• Clear drainage: Ensure water flows away from deck and house
• Inspect and repair: Fix any damaged boards, loose fasteners
• Apply sealant: If wood deck needs it (check with water test)
• Store furniture: Move cushions and delicate items indoors
• Cover grills: Or move to garage/shed

Protect Your Investment

• Remove planters that can trap moisture
• Clear leaves from between boards
• Check that railings are secure
• Trim overhanging branches

Snow Removal Best Practices

Do's

• Use plastic shovels: Won't scratch or gouge deck surface
• Shovel with grain: Follow the direction of deck boards
• Leave thin layer: 1-2" won't harm deck, prevents scratching
• Clear regularly: Don't let snow compact into ice
• Push, don't scrape: Minimize surface contact

Don'ts

• Never use metal shovels: Damages all deck types
• Avoid ice chippers: Gouges and scratches surface
• No rock salt: Damages wood fibers, stains composite
• Don't use snowblower: Unless deck is ground-level with lawn

Recommended Tools

• Wide plastic snow pusher
• Soft-bristle broom for light snow
• Plastic leaf rake for slush

Ice Management

Safe Ice Melters

For Wood Decks:

• Calcium magnesium acetate (CMA)
• Sand or kitty litter (traction, no melting)
• Magnesium chloride (use sparingly)

For Composite Decks:

• Calcium chloride (check manufacturer guidelines)
• Sand for traction
• Follow manufacturer recommendations

Products to Avoid

• Rock salt (sodium chloride): Destroys wood fibers
• Potassium chloride: Can stain surfaces
• Fertilizer-based melters: Damaging to all deck types

Ice Prevention

• Clear snow before it compacts to ice
• Ensure proper drainage slope
• Address shaded areas that stay icy

Wood Deck Winter Care

Special Considerations

• Wood contracts in cold, expanding gaps between boards
• Moisture penetration causes freeze-thaw damage
• Proper sealing is critical before winter

Signs of Winter Damage

• New cracks appearing
• Boards popping up
• Soft spots (rot beginning)
• Significant warping

Composite Deck Winter Care

Advantages

• Won't rot from moisture
• No sealing required
• More resistant to freeze-thaw
• Easier snow removal

Watch For

• Snow that sits too long (can stain lighter colors)
• Ice buildup in textured surfaces
• Check manufacturer winter care guidelines

Freeze-Thaw Cycle Protection

Ontario's frequent freeze-thaw cycles cause:

• Water seepage into wood grain
• Expansion when freezing
• Cracking and splitting
• Accelerated wear

Protection Strategies

• Quality sealant: Prevents water penetration
• Good drainage: Water should never pool
• Proper ventilation: Air flow under deck prevents moisture buildup
• Snow removal: Don't let melting snow refreeze

Weight Load Concerns

Know Your Limits

A typical 300 sq ft deck can handle:

• 40-50 lbs per sq ft live load (12,000-15,000 lbs total)
• Most snow loads are well within limits
• Wet, heavy snow is concerning over multiple storms

When to Clear

• After 12"+ accumulation
• When snow is wet and heavy
• If deck feels "springy" underfoot
• Before ice storms add weight

Furniture and Accessories

Should You Leave Furniture Out?

Metal Furniture: Generally okay if covered Wood Furniture: Bring inside or cover thoroughly Cushions/Fabrics: Always store inside Grills: Cover tightly or store

Covering Tips

• Use breathable covers (prevents mold)
• Secure against wind
• Check periodically for moisture buildup

Post-Winter Assessment

Spring Inspection Checklist

• Look for new cracks or splits
• Check for rot (probe with screwdriver)
• Inspect all fasteners
• Examine ledger board connection
• Test structural integrity

Address Issues Promptly

Small problems become big ones if ignored. Schedule repairs early in spring before deck season begins.

Professional Help

Deck Master Inc. offers:

• Pre-winter inspections
• Spring damage assessments
• Repair services
• Maintenance programs

Protect your investment—contact us before winter hits.