Sofia Martinez
With winter comes snow, ice, and frost, all of which can make your decking a potential hazard. While composite decking is made from slip-resistant materials, it can still become slippery if not properly maintained. This is also true of plastic decking, which can become a breeding ground for slips and falls if not maintained. To prevent this, it is recommended to regularly sweep leaves and debris from your decking and to fit your decking at a slight angle to encourage drainage.
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What You'll Learn
Composite decking is less slippery than wood decking
While no decking is completely slip-proof, composite decking is less slippery than wood decking. This is because composite decking is made from wood fibres and recycled plastic, and is resistant to rotting, warping, mildewing, splintering and fading. Composite decking has anti-slip or non-slip surfaces that keep you standing even when wet. It also has more traction and creates more friction, allowing for more secure footfalls and less slippery boards.
Wood decking, on the other hand, can become a breeding ground for slips, trips and falls during winter. The natural material is prone to rotting, warping, and growing mould or debris, all of which cause slipping hazards.
To ensure composite decking remains slip-resistant, it is important to maintain it by regularly removing dirt, debris, leaves, and standing water. You can also fit your composite decking at a slight angle to enable rainwater and ice melt to drain away more successfully.
If you are looking for a more permanent solution, you can screw abrasive, non-slip decking strips into the surface of your decking. Non-slip tape is a cheaper alternative, but it is not a long-term solution. You can also apply anti-slip decking oil to create a rougher, non-slip surface.
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Non-slip treatments
Plastic decking can become extremely slippery in the winter when frost, ice, and snow settle on it. While composite decking is rot-resistant, it is not immune to the dangers of slippery surfaces caused by winter weather. To prevent slipping on plastic decking in the winter, there are several non-slip treatments you can consider:
Regular Cleaning and Maintenance
Keeping your plastic decking spotless is essential for maintaining a safe walking surface. Sweep away leaves, dirt, and debris that can cause mould and fungus to grow, making the surface slippery. Use a soft-bristled brush to gently sweep the deck and clear any residue. You can also use a trowel or thin tool to remove stuck leaves between the decking boards. Additionally, consider using warm water or a composite decking cleaner to brush away any remaining dirt or grit.
Drainage and Installation Techniques
Install your plastic decking at a slight angle to allow rainwater and melted ice to drain away, reducing the formation of standing water that can freeze and create slippery patches. Ensure you clear your deck of snow, leaves, and debris before and after winter storms to prevent the weight of snow and ice from damaging the decking and creating hazards.
Non-Slip Accessories and Coatings
Purchase non-slip decking accessories, such as abrasive, non-slip decking strips or tape, to enhance the traction of your plastic decking. These accessories are designed to be screwed or stuck onto the decking boards, providing a more permanent solution. Alternatively, apply anti-slip coatings, such as decking oils, paints, varnishes, or stains, to the surface of your decking. These treatments help prevent the growth of mould and algae, which can cause slipping hazards. However, some coatings, like non-slip paints and varnishes, may start flaking off over time.
Non-Slip Footwear
Encourage the use of non-slip footwear, such as rubber-soled shoes or boots, when walking on plastic decking during winter. This can provide additional traction and reduce the risk of slipping, especially in high-traffic areas.
Salt and Grit Application
While not recommended for timber decking, you can lightly spread salt or grit on composite plastic decking to melt ice and improve traction. Just be sure to brush it off once the ice has melted to avoid damaging the decking material.
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Preventing ice build-up
Regular Cleaning and Maintenance
One of the most important steps to prevent ice build-up is to regularly clean and maintain your decking. This includes removing any leaves, dirt, debris, and standing water from the surface. A soft-bristle broom or a leaf blower can be used for regular cleaning. Additionally, a more thorough cleaning should be done twice a year, once in the spring and once in the fall. This will help prevent the formation of mould, mildew, and algae, which can make the surface slippery.
Proper Drainage
Ensure that your decking is installed with proper drainage solutions. This will help reduce the collection or pooling of water on the surface, minimizing the potential for ice build-up. Fitting your decking at a slightly sloping angle will also enable rainwater and melted ice to drain away more effectively, reducing the amount of standing water that can freeze in cold temperatures.
Anti-Slip Treatments
There are various treatments available to make your decking more slip-resistant. Non-slip decking strips, non-slip tape, non-slip coatings, and anti-slip decking oil can all be applied to the surface of your decking to increase traction and create a rougher surface that is less likely to become slippery.
Use of Mats
During the winter months, consider using rubber mats as a temporary solution to create a non-slip surface. Simply lay out a narrow walkway using mats designed to withstand all weather conditions, and then store them away once the winter is over.
Choice of Decking Material
Composite decking materials are generally more slip-resistant than wooden decking. They are made from wood fibres and recycled plastics, making them resistant to rotting, warping, and splintering. Composite decking often has narrow grooved surfaces that provide additional low-slip benefits. However, even with composite decking, proper maintenance and cleaning are still necessary to prevent slipperiness during winter.
By following these steps, you can effectively prevent ice build-up and maintain a safe and slip-resistant decking area during the winter season.
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Sweeping away debris
When sweeping, ensure you use a soft-bristled broom or brush, as harder bristles can scratch the surface of your decking. A gentle sweep is usually enough to clear away the debris. If your decking has already been exposed to ice or snow, it is best to clear it off before sweeping to prevent it from melting and creating additional moisture.
In addition to sweeping, you may need to remove dirt, grit, or natural residue that has built up on your decking over the winter. Warm water is an effective and gentle way to remove ice and clean your decking. Alternatively, you can use a composite decking cleaner or a pressure washer on a low-pressure setting to remove stains, dirt, and grime. However, be cautious when using a pressure washer, as it may increase the visibility of screw holes.
By regularly sweeping away debris and maintaining your decking, you can significantly reduce the risk of slipping on your decking during the winter months. It is also essential to clear any snow or ice from your decking before it has a chance to melt and refreeze, creating an even more significant slipping hazard.
Overall, sweeping away debris is a crucial step in winter decking maintenance and can help ensure a safer and more enjoyable outdoor space during the colder months.
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Proper installation and drainage
To prevent your plastic decking from becoming slippery in the winter, it is important to ensure proper installation and drainage. Here are some detailed instructions to achieve this:
Proper Installation
When installing plastic decking, it is crucial to follow the manufacturer's guidelines and recommendations. Proper installation ensures the longevity of your decking and maintains its safety. Here are some key points to consider:
- Substructure and Framing: Before beginning the deck-building process, establish a sturdy substructure and frame. This provides a sound structure for your decking and ensures stability.
- Joist Installation: Composite decking boards should be fixed to the joists and not laid directly on the ground. The spacing between joist rows should not exceed 400mm. Composite joists should be securely screwed into a concrete base.
- Spacing and Drainage: Ensure proper spacing and drainage by leaving a gap of at least 15mm between the ends of joists and fixed objects, and at least 7mm between the ends of joists at butt joints. These gaps allow for drainage and temperature expansion.
- Starter Clips: Attach a starter clip to the end of the composite joists before laying the first board. This ensures a secure connection between the joists and the decking boards.
- Board Installation: When installing the decking boards, follow the manufacturer's guidelines for angle, overhanging, and placement. Use fixing clips or fasteners to secure the boards, ensuring that each board end has its own fixing clip.
- Ventilation: Adequate airflow and ventilation are crucial to preventing mould and mildew. If installing in areas with poor ventilation, ensure an airflow gap of 30mm for composite joists and 50mm for structural composite and recycled plastic joists.
- Drainage Slope: When installing over a concrete step or patio, consider a slight slope for better drainage. A recommended slope is around 5mm per metre.
Effective Drainage Solutions
To further enhance drainage and prevent water buildup, consider the following:
- Under-Deck Drainage Systems: Install an undermount or overmount drainage system to divert water away from the deck. These systems help prevent rot, mould, and structural issues caused by excess moisture. They also increase the longevity of your deck.
- Slight Angle of Installation: Install your composite decking at a slightly sloping angle. This enables rain or ice-melt water to drain away more successfully, reducing the formation of standing water that can freeze in cold temperatures.
- Regular Debris Removal: Keep your decking clear of leaves, dirt, and other debris that can obstruct drainage and contribute to slippery surfaces. Regularly sweep your decking and remove any stuck leaves with a broom or a thin tool like a trowel.
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Frequently asked questions
Plastic decking or composite decking is made from wood fibres and recycled plastics. It is resistant to rotting, warping, mildewing, splintering, and fading. It is also more durable and longer-lasting in extreme weather. However, it can become slippery in the winter if it is not maintained or cleaned properly.
To prevent your plastic decking from becoming slippery in the winter, you should regularly remove any leaves, dirt, debris, and standing water from the surface. You should also ensure that snow and ice are cleared from the surface in a timely manner. Additionally, you can install non-slip composite decking or apply anti-slip treatments such as decking oil or non-slip tape.
It is recommended to sweep your plastic decking with a soft-bristle broom or a leaf blower to remove debris. For a more thorough cleaning, you can use warm water or a composite decking cleaner to brush and clean the surface. Pressure washing is also an option, but it may increase the chance of screw holes becoming visible.
Yes, you can install abrasive, non-slip decking strips by screwing them into the surface of your decking. Alternatively, you can use rubber matting as a temporary solution during the winter months.
Yes, newer-generation composite deck boards have more slip-resistant qualities compared to early-generation boards. Additionally, some specific types of composite decking mentioned online include Deckorators Voyage, Ultradeck Fusion 2.0, and Fiberon Promenade, which are known for their slip resistance.
