How do I remove snow from my deck?

How do I remove snow from my deck?

The best way to clear a little snow is with a broom. A simple corn broom is best. It works well if the snow is fairly light and only a few inches deep. Light, fluffy snow is ideal, for you can sweep it under the rails; and, more importantly, the broom will not scrape, scratch or gouge your deck.

Should I remove snow from my balcony?

Snow can weigh heavily on balconies and should be removed. Balconies are often neglected in the winter, since they are rarely used. Accumulated snow can weigh them down, sometimes damaging their integrity, especially wooden balconies.

How much snow weight can a deck hold?

40 to 60 pounds
How Much Snow Can a Deck Handle? According to Deck Expressions, decks that comply with building codes can withstand 40 to 60 pounds of snow per square foot — or about 3.5 feet of snow buildup. Before a big snowfall, make sure your deck is sturdy. Tighten any loose screws or boards.

Should you shovel your wood deck?

Don’t shovel your deck to protect the wood. Indeed, in the south many experts recommend cooling wood decks on very hot days with water – turn on the hose and spray away. High summer temperatures and the drying sun cause deck boards to cup and misbehave.

How do I stop snow buildup on my deck?

Here’s how you can make your deck free of snow in extreme cold snowy weather:

1. Corn Broom. Use a corn broom to clear snow off your deck.
2. Hot Water. You may experience thick layer of ice on your deck in extreme winters.
3. Chemicals. You can also use chemicals that melt the ice, just like hot water.
4. Shovel.
5. Snow Blower.

Does ice Melt damage wood decks?

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. A little prior planning and prompt purchases now will help prevent those slippery sidewalks.

How do I keep snow off my balcony in my apartment?

If you live in an area that gets very cold and regularly sees snow, you can go all out winterizing the space by using clear plastic drapes, tarps or curtains to enclose the space, keeping the elements out and heat in, and using patio heaters to warm things up.

How do I protect my balcony from snow?

Enclose Your Balcony Outdoor curtains, blinds or a balcony privacy screen are quick to install and are cost effective. However, they may not be able to withstand driving rain or snow. Sliding glass doors will allow you to enjoy the view without being exposed to the cold.

How much snow can a wood deck handle?

A secure deck can hold about 3 feet to 3 1/2 feet of snow, approximately equal to the height of your deck’s railings. Wood decking can hold around 50 pounds per square foot, while composite decks can hold twice as much.

How do you calculate snow load on a deck?

To determine the maximum load capacity of your deck, start by calculating its total area and multiply by 50 psf. So, a 100 sqft deck would be designed to support 5000 lbs. Do not get confused with what weight you might think or want to load the deck with.

How do I get ice off my wood deck?

Best Methods to Remove Snow and Ice from Your Deck

1. Use a broom. If snowfall is light enough, a broom is your best bet.
2. Use a plastic, rubber-blade shovel.
3. Leave a layer.
4. Avoid rocks, gravel, and sand.
5. Avoid ice melt with colorant.
6. Never use salt.
7. Prepare you deck before it snows.

Can I use a snowblower on my deck?

Decks and Porches Electric snow throwers are still relatively lightweight and maneuverable for clearing porches and decks, but they provide more clearing power than an electric snow shovel. Electric snow blowers don’t require any gas. You just plug them in and go.

What’s the best way to remove snow from a wood deck?

Any product that has a colorant added can stain your deck, too, so it’s best to avoid them. You want to remove the snow and ice with as little damage to the wood as possible, so use a pressure washer or a rubber or plastic shovel. If you use a shovel, scrape the snow off sideways instead of lengthwise.

Is it OK to shovel snow off my deck?

Actually: You don’t. 1) Don’t shovel your deck to avoid collapse. Building Codes require decks support more snow than most roofs. A properly built deck is not likely to collapse from the weight of snow. Here’s a rule of thumb: Your deck rails are probably 36” high. Don’t worry until the snow is above your rails (deeper than 3 feet.)

When to worry about snow on your deck?

When snow is deeper than 3 feet, begin to worry. When snow is deeper than 3-1/2 feet, begin to shovel. ♦ Don’t shovel your deck to protect the wood. Water and snow are not nearly as harsh on wooden decks as some TV advertisers would have you believe.

How much snow can you put on a deck?

No. With snow between 3 ½ feet and 8 feet, your deck — and you — survive in the limbo of that safety margin. Any imperfections in that deck — knots, splits in the wood, sloppy carpentry, weak nails instead of screws, wood that has dried and shrunk — reduce the deck’s safety.