How to Prepare Your Deck for Winter

Even when you’re a winter wonderland fan, you can’t deny that the season brings some of the harshest weather conditions around. In fact, it’s not unheard of for homeowners to need hail storm damage restoration during the colder months. Given the beating it’s going to get once winter sets in, your home needs to be prepared, starting with exterior components like the deck.


Here’s what you can do:

Give Your Deck a Thorough Clean

Depending on how dirty your deck is, you can use specialized deck cleaning products or a pressure washer to quickly remove dirt and get stains out. Pressure washers can splinter wood and scar the boards, so be mindful of how much pressure you’re using. Before getting started, however, give your deck a good sweep to remove as much debris as you can.

Strip the Finish

Faded and deteriorated patches will have to be stripped after cleaning your deck and letting it dry for about 24 hours. This is an important step because it will ensure your sealant adheres as it should. Not sure how to do this? You can ask an exterior remodeling contractor for assistance.

Apply Water-Repellant Sealant

The water-repellent sealant will protect your deck from ice, snow, sleet and rain, prolonged exposure from which rotting and decay can develop from. Make sure your sealant is designed for your specific decking material.

Consider Wood Decking Alternatives

If you want to lessen the deck-related maintenance tasks you have to do before winter, consider getting a wood decking alternative like TimberTech. Designed to be easy to care for, it will maintain its color and beauty for years without sealing, staining or painting. It also resists warping, mildew and insect activity, letting you avoid replacing damaged boards. Looking to sell down the line? TimberTech products also come with transferable warranties.


At Timberland Exteriors, we believe in never compromising and never cutting corners in our work, allowing us to provide you with only the best solutions around, whether you’re considering TimberTech or need residential roofing service. To learn more about what we can do for you, simply give us a call at 651-439-1760 or fill out our contact form. Ask us for a free estimate today! We serve Detroit Lakes, MN, and the surrounding communities in Minnesota.

Schedule Your

Free Estimate

Contact Us

Convenient Financing Options

We Make Quality Exterior Remodeling Affordable

Two men are working on the roof of a house.
April 30, 2025
A roof is one of the most essential parts of your home. It keeps you protected from the elements and plays a critical role in the overall integrity of your house.
A group of people are standing in front of a house under construction.
May 8, 2024
Preparing your home for a roof installation is a crucial step to ensure that the process goes as smoothly as possible. Taking the time to get your home ready can significantly impact the efficiency and success of your roofing project.
A person is opening a window with a white handle.
April 26, 2024
In today’s environment-conscious market, energy-efficient windows have become a core component of home improvement projects, particularly in areas known for their harsh climates, such as Maplewood, MN.
A large white house with a black roof and red shutters
April 22, 2024
As the remnants of winter melt away and the first blooms of spring start gracing us in Maplewood, MN, it’s a signal for many homeowners to start contemplating home improvement projects that were put on hold during the colder months.
A blue house with white trim and a window
April 19, 2024
In the picturesque landscapes of Maplewood, MN, a home’s exterior is the visual handshake it extends to the neighborhood. Maintaining and enhancing the curb appeal of your property is crucial, not only for fostering a sense of pride but also for augmenting the value of your home.
Roof replacement
April 15, 2024
For homeowners in Maplewood, MN, and the surrounding areas, making decisions about roofing can be daunting. There’s a widespread practice known as a “roof-over,” where a new layer of shingles is installed over the existing one, which might seem cost-effective at first glance.
A large house with a large lawn and patio area in front of it.
March 29, 2024
One aspect that homeowners often overlook when tackling a siding installation or any home improvement project is the importance of a local contractor’s expertise.
An aerial view of a large house with a gray roof and blue shutters.
March 27, 2024
When embarking on a roofing project, the array of terminology used by professionals can sometimes be daunting. Understanding these terms is not just about making informed decisions for your home’s exterior but also about communicating effectively with your contractors.
A large house with a lush green lawn in front of it.
March 25, 2024
In the world of home improvement and design, a feature window isn’t just an opening in the wall; it’s a statement piece that transforms the aesthetics and functionality of your living spaces.
Show More