However, if it becomes necessary to remove a build-up of ice and snow for safety reasons, most composite decking manufacturers recommend using rock salt or a calcium-chloride based product to melt away the snow and ice.

How to Make Composite Decking Less Slippery

1. Apply Mildew, Algae and Moss Remover.
2. Nonslip Paint or Anti-Slip Coating.
3. Slip-Resistant Mats.
4. Anti-Slip Tape.
5. Install Shingles on Danger Zones.
6. Deep Clean the Composite Deck Surface Twice a Year.
7. Ensure There’s Space Between Your Deck Boards.
8. Pay Attention to Weather Conditions.

Salt Effects Salt does not damage composite decking under normal circumstances. In fact, some manufacturers, such as Trex, suggesting using rock-salt to melt ice on the decking. The salt has little drying effect on the decking.

Calcium Magnesium Chloride could be a good choice for ice melt components as they are biodegradable and are also less-corrosive. They also do not cause any harm to pets and plants. Sodium Chloride on the other hand may cause damage to plants, concrete, and wood decks.

When deciding the best means for making your deck less slippery, choose calcium chloride-based “ice melt” or rock salt to remove snow and ice from your composite decking. Ice melt is the ideal choice, since sand is naturally abrasive and could easily damage the surface of the deck boards.

Over time, your composite decking or porch will probably need to be cleaned from common problems such as mold, dirt, food and beverage stains, etc. While mildew and mold can infiltrate and ruin a wooden deck, it can’t damage a composite deck.

Tip: As soon as a winter storm begins, you can put down ice and snow melts. It may help prevent snow and ice from building up on your deck. Calcium chloride melts are best for very cold climates and composite decks. Even better, it’s the safest component for a composite deck because it won’t scratch the surface.

Never chop ice on your deck, even with a plastic shovel. You’re guaranteed to also chop your deck. Instead, melt the ice with chemicals. Use chemical power rather than muscle power.

If you have pets, North American Salt’s Sure Paws and Safe Pet Ice Melter from Milazzo Industries are popular pet-friendly brands. If you have a wood deck, the best thing to do is shovel it with a plastic shovel and then use good traction sand or kitty litter, because rock salt or ice melters will damage the wood.

6 Ways To Protect Your Deck This Winter

1. Clean It Up. Similar to our roofing advice for the winter, you should clear away clutter on your deck.
2. Scrub It Down.
3. Remove Mold or Mildew Buildup.
4. Apply Water Repellant Seal.
5. Cover With a Tarp.
6. Remove Snow.

On average, the cost to refinish a deck is between $3 and $6.80 per square foot. Since a standard deck measures about 200 square feet, a refinishing project will cost about $600 to $1,360 or $975 on average.

The average cost of composite decking ranges from $20 to $38 per square foot with most homeowners spending between $5,821 and $10,826 to install a 12′ x 24′ composite deck with railings. In comparison, a pressure-treated wood deck costs $15 to $25 per square foot while a cedar wood deck starts at $30 per square foot.

The average homeowner spends $2,200 to build a 10×10 foot deck, $6,160 to build a 14×20 deck, and $8,800 to build a 20×20 deck….New Deck Installation Cost.

When Should I Repair or Replace My Deck? When the cost of repairs starts to get close to the cost of replacing the entire deck, you should consider replacing the whole thing. Even decking materials that are structurally sound are still old, and you may have to replace them anyway in just a few years.

Aluminum decking is the most expensive out of the deck material and will last the longest with a lifespan of 30+ years. Steel decking can have a lifespan of 60+ years when correctly installed by a professional builder.

Which material lasts longer? A deck made of untreated wood can last anywhere from 10 to 30 years. Decks made of treated wood and composite materials can last as long as 50 years. Many composite decks come with a 20-year warranty – and often a lifetime guarantee.

between 25 and 30 years

Advantages of Composite That brings us to composite’s first major advantage over PVC. Because it does contain wood pulp, composite decking looks more natural. The wood grain also helps to make these decks more slip-resistant than plastic decks.

6 Signs That a Backyard Deck Needs to Be Replaced Rather Than Repaired

• Erosion around the Post. Most decks sit on strong posts set into concrete or simply anchored deep in the ground.
• Extensive Deck Surface Damage.
• Gaps between the Deck and House.
• Rotten Posts.
• Unstable Railings.
• Widespread Discoloration and Stains.

A typical wood deck can last anywhere from 15 to 40 years. This will depend on the materials used and the quality of routine maintenance performed. However, if your deck is showing signs of age and is over 20 years old, you should begin considering a deck replacement.

Interlocking deck tiles are a low-cost way to transform your deck into a safer, more attractive space while helping to protect the actual deck from wear and tear. Installing outdoor tile over a wood deck can help to protect you from splinters, while offering the deck protection from sun and wear and tear.