
04 Feb How to Keep Your Timber Decking Safe and Slip-Free This Winter
As winter settles in across the UK, outdoor spaces face some of their toughest conditions of the year. With heavy rainfall, frost, and even snow, timber decking can quickly become slippery and hazardous. While decking remains one of the most popular and stylish additions to gardens and outdoor areas, maintaining it through the colder months is essential to ensure safety and prolong its lifespan.
At Brookridge Timber, we supply high-quality pressure-treated timber decking that’s designed to withstand the elements, but even the best decking needs regular care to stay in top condition. If you want to prevent slipping hazards and keep your deck safe this winter, here’s everything you need to know.
Why Does Timber Decking Become Slippery in Winter?
Timber decking is naturally porous, meaning it can absorb moisture from rain, frost, and snow. As temperatures drop, the combination of water, algae, moss, and ice creates a perfect storm for slippery conditions. Here’s what happens:
- Moisture Accumulation: Rain and frost cause excess moisture to sit on the deck’s surface, reducing grip.
- Algae and Moss Growth: Damp, shady areas of decking provide the perfect environment for algae and moss to thrive, creating a slick, green film.
- Ice Formation: When temperatures drop below freezing, any lingering moisture can turn into ice, making decking especially hazardous.
Regular maintenance and the right preventative measures can significantly reduce these risks and keep your decking safe and slip-free throughout winter.
How to Keep Your Timber Decking Safe and Slip-Free This Winter
1. Keep Your Decking Clean and Clear
The first step in winter decking maintenance is to keep the surface free from leaves, dirt, and debris. Organic matter traps moisture, encourages algae growth, and creates a slippery layer.
- Use a stiff-bristled broom to sweep leaves and dirt off your decking regularly.
- Clear any puddles or areas where water gathers, as standing moisture increases the risk of mould, mildew, and frost damage.
At Brookridge Timber, our pressure-treated decking boards are designed to resist decay, but keeping them clear of debris will further prolong their lifespan and maintain their slip-resistant properties.
2. Pressure Wash or Scrub Away Algae and Moss
If you’ve noticed green patches forming on your decking, algae and moss are likely the culprits. These thrive in damp conditions and can make surfaces incredibly slippery.
- Use a decking cleaner or a simple soapy water solution to scrub away algae and moss.
- A pressure washer (on a low setting) can help remove stubborn dirt and growth.
- Pay extra attention to shaded areas, as these are where algae and moss tend to develop fastest.
By maintaining a clean and dry surface, you’ll prevent slippery build-ups and help maintain a safe walking surface all winter long.
3. Apply a Non-Slip Decking Treatment
For extra grip and safety, applying an anti-slip decking treatment can be a game-changer. At Brookridge Timber, we offer timber decking boards with anti-slip inserts, making them a great choice for high-traffic outdoor areas.
- Anti-slip coatings and stains help create a textured surface that provides better traction.
- Decking grit strips can be applied to existing decking to enhance grip, particularly on steps and walkways.
- Rubber or grit-infused mats can provide extra safety for commercial spaces or heavily used areas.
If you’re planning on installing new decking, choosing pressure-treated anti-slip decking from Brookridge Timber is a smart investment for year-round safety.
4. Improve Drainage Around Your Decking
Excess water pooling on decking surfaces leads to rot, decay, and slippery conditions. Improving drainage can help prevent water from sitting on your decking and reduce long-term damage.
- Ensure your deck is slightly angled so that water runs off instead of collecting in puddles.
- If necessary, install drainage channels or soakaways to direct water away from the deck.
- Keep gutters and nearby drains free from blockages to prevent overflow onto decking areas.
Brookridge Timber supplies durable, pressure-treated timber decking that naturally resists moisture absorption, but good drainage is key to maintaining its performance throughout winter.
5. Be Careful When Dealing with Ice and Frost
When temperatures plummet, decking surfaces can freeze and become dangerously slippery. If you wake up to frost-covered decking, take care when walking on it.
- Avoid using rock salt, as it can damage the timber’s surface and lead to premature deterioration.
- Instead, opt for sand or a specially formulated de-icer for timber.
- If ice does form, use a plastic shovel to remove it—metal tools can scratch and damage the wood.
Regular maintenance will reduce the likelihood of ice forming, but it’s always good to be prepared for colder spells.
Why Choose Brookridge Timber for Winter-Ready Decking?
At Brookridge Timber, we supply high-quality, pressure-treated timber decking that is designed to withstand the challenges of the UK climate. Our decking is:
✔ Pressure Treated for Longevity: All our decking is treated to Use Class 3 standards, protecting it from moisture, fungi, and insect attack.
✔ Available with Anti-Slip Inserts: Our anti-slip decking boards provide extra grip and are ideal for winter conditions.
✔ Sustainably Sourced: We offer FSC®-certified and PEFC-certified timber, ensuring responsible and sustainable forestry practices.
✔ Available for Collection or Delivery: Order online or visit one of our branches in Devon or Somerset to get everything you need for your decking projects.
Whether you’re looking to install new decking or maintain an existing one, Brookridge Timber has the perfect solutions for you.
Final Thoughts
With the right care and maintenance, your timber decking can remain safe, slip-free, and in excellent condition all winter long. By keeping it clean, improving drainage, and using anti-slip treatments, you’ll not only reduce hazards but also extend the lifespan of your decking.
At Brookridge Timber, we provide high-quality, pressure-treated decking and accessories to help you prepare for the colder months. Whether you need new decking boards, anti-slip inserts, or timber treatments, we’ve got you covered.
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