The Best Ways To Remove Ice From Composite Decking
A composite deck is a vital investment that provides homeowners an outdoor space for various activities. It adds value to your home by offering space, style, and an exclusive area to entertain your guests. As soon as the first flake of the snow falls, we start worrying about cleaning it from the decks and rooftops. Slippery decks pose a severe safety risk, so it becomes crucial to keep them free from ice and snow. Removing snow from your composite deck is a cinch, but only when you have chosen the correct tools and safe ice melt solution.
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Here are the three best ways to remove ice from your composite decks without causing damage to its surface.
1- Sweep and shovel
For removing light snow from the decks, you can use these time-tested methods. But they are useless during heavy snowfall or if your deck is big enough as it will require a lot of manual effort and time. To get rid of light and soft snow, you can use a leaf blower or a plastic bristled broom.
In case you plan to clean your deck by shoveling, ensure that you have the right tool to do so. Never use metal shovels or sharp-edged tools on your composite deck, as they can easily scratch their surface. A plastic shovel or a rubber edged shovel is the safest bet for a composite deck. Ensure to shovel in a path parallel to the deck board while removing snow, otherwise, you will end up with irreversible damage to the deck surface.
2- Rock salt
It is another commonly used method of removing ice and snow from composite decks. It penetrates the ice and forms a solution of water and salt known as brine. Since its freezing point is lower than water, the ice starts melting. Many people are unaware that salt only lowers the freezing point of water to around 15–20 degrees Fahrenheit, so it is futile to use it during very cold weather.
Rock salt may leave a chalky residue on the deck, so it needs to be cleaned regularly after every use. Avoid using rock salt if you have children and pets, as it can cause gastrointestinal disorders when ingested. It should not be used near vegetated areas as it can destroy your flora.
3- Simple and safe ice melt
There are different types of ice melt solutions available in the market, all of which have different chemicals and serve distinct purposes. They can effortlessly help in removing ice even in extreme temperatures. If you have children and pets who love to visit your deck, opt for an ice melt that is pet-safe and kid-safe.
Most ice melt products have harmful chemicals that can corrode the metal that is holding your deck. These toxic ice melts can also spoil the vegetation. Therefore, settle upon a simple and safe ice melt solution free from maleficent chemicals and keep your composite deck safe.
So, this winter let’s take a break from your worries of splintered or faded deck boards and go for the best ice removal technique. With your little planning and preparation, your composite deck will be all set for hosting barbecues in spring.
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