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Tips to Protect Your Deck Railings This Winter
As the colder months approach, it’s important to take steps to protect your deck and railings from winter weather damage. Exposure to freezing temperatures, snow, ice, and snow removal tools can put your railings at risk if not properly prepared. Following some simple protection tips can help your railings look their best come spring.
1. Inspect Railings Thoroughly
Before the first frost, thoroughly inspect your deck railings. Check for any loose balusters, spindles, or posts that may have come loose over time. Tighten any hardware and make repairs as needed. Loose or damaged railings are more susceptible to winter stresses. Having everything in good shape beforehand helps minimize problems.
2. Apply Protective Sealant
Applying a protective water-based sealant to railings made of wood, composite, or other porous materials forms a barrier against moisture absorption. Look for a sealant made for decks and railings to boost their winter resilience. Two thin coats applied according to the manufacturer’s instructions will shield against cracking or splitting from repeated freezing and thawing.
3. Cover Glass or Acrylic Railings
Glass and acrylic deck railings look beautiful but require special protection from harsh winter weather. Cover railings made from these materials with breathable covers designed for use outdoors. Secured covers block snow and ice and spray from direct contact with the railing surface to prevent scratches or other damage over time. Uncover when temperatures rise safely above freezing.
4. Elevate or Store Railings Properly
Consider elevation or indoor storage for railings that can be removed seasonally. Elevating railings off the deck surface gets them out of the path of snow, ice melt, and soil splash-up, which can all accelerate deterioration. Proper indoor storage in a protected area prevents direct exposure when the deck isn’t being used.
5. Sweep Regularly
Even minor snow and ice accumulation put weight stress on railings over time. Make it part of your weekly winter maintenance to sweep or blow any accumulation off railings as soon as possible after a storm. Quick removal prevents prolonged weight buildup that could potentially cause issues like cracks or loose posts down the line.
6. Avoid Damage from Snow Removal Tools
Heavy snow shovels, blowers, plows, and other removal tools can unintentionally impact or scrape railings if not carefully maneuvered. When clearing snow and ice around railings, especially those closer to walking surfaces, pay close attention. Direct tools away whenever possible to reduce risks of accidental nicks or gouges in more vulnerable periods.
With a little proactive winterizing care, you can help your deck railings maintain their good looks season after season. Minor preparations go a long way towards protecting this valuable home feature from the perils of freezing temperatures, snow and ice.
If you live in Vancouver, count on the experts at Premier Sundecks for deck railing installation and repair services. We specialize in high-quality vinyl decking solutions in various colours and patterns. Our reliable and stylish vinyl decking enhances your outdoor spaces like no other. Contact us today!