New England weather is brutal on outdoor living spaces. Between the heavy snow loads we shovel off our decks in West Medford and the humid summer heatwaves, your composite deck takes a beating year-round. While composite materials are built to outlast traditional wood, they still need some attention to survive our local climate.
Platinum Decks Medford sees what regular upkeep actually looks like around here.
The Spring Cleanup
Once the snow finally melts off your deck near the Mystic River, grab a broom and clear away the winter debris. Trapped leaves and organic matter hold moisture against the composite surface, which leads to stubborn mold and mildew spots, especially in shaded yards. Wash the deck down with a mild mix of dish soap and warm water, scrubbing gently with a soft-bristle brush. Rinse it thoroughly before the sun bakes the soap residue onto the boards.
Beating the Winter Freeze
When January hits, you will be reaching for the snow shovel. Ditch the metal shovel immediately. Metal edges gouge composite boards faster than you would think, leaving permanent scars. Use a plastic shovel, and always push the snow in the direction of the grain pattern. Skip the rock salt or chemical ice melters too, because they can damage the surface finish and corrode hidden fasteners. Plain calcium chloride pellets are a safer bet if you really need to cut through the ice.
Warning Signs to Watch For
Composite does not rot like wood, but other issues pop up as structures age and shift during freeze-thaw cycles. Platinum Decks Medford suggests keeping your eyes open for these problems:
- Loose railing posts that wobble when you lean on them after a hard winter.
- Gaps between boards closing up or widening because of thermal expansion.
- Dark, stubborn staining under outdoor furniture that will not rinse away.
- Corroding screws or pop-ups in the fastener line.
When to Call a Professional
Most cleaning and minor tightening are easy weekend DIY tasks. But sometimes you need backup. If you notice structural sagging, significant frame movement from frost heaving in our clay-heavy local soil, or extensive surface damage, it is time to bring in some help. Platinum Decks Medford sees these climate-driven issues all the time and can fix them before they turn into major safety hazards. For homes and businesses in Medford, Platinum Decks Medford provides Deck Builder services.