Why Composite Decking Is the Best Choice for Cold Weather Climates

Homeowners in cold weather climates or regions with extreme temperature swings need outdoor decks that can withstand the elements. From freezing temperatures to snow and ice, the right deck will rally back in time for spring training and the sizzling summer heat. Your best choice? Composite decking—here’s why.

Composite Decking Is Durable in Cold Weather

There are seven key reasons why composite decking can tolerate cold temperatures and winter weather. They are:

1. Stability
2. Quick drying
3. Slip resistant
4. Mold and mildew resistant
5. Splinter resistant
6. Strength
7. Long life span

Stability

Unlike traditional lumber, composite decking contains a high percentage of inert plastic material, so it is much less likely to expand and contract in response to changes in temperature or moisture levels.

Quick Drying

Composite decking typically dries much faster than a traditional lumber deck because water has a hard time adhering to and absorbing into it. Composite decks are also manufactured so precisely that they are less likely to have indentations or other imperfections where water may pool up and be slow to dry.

Slip Resistant

DuraLife decking is made of a unique polypropylene and hardwood formula that outperforms other composite and PVC decking. Known as the CoolTrac™ advantage, it’s 136% more slip resistant than competitors when wet and 56% more slip resistant than competitors when dry. This is one reason why many contractors now believe that composite decking is the best type of decking for cold climates.

Mold and Mildew Resistant

Another attribute that helps composite decking maintain a high-quality appearance year after year is its built-in resistance to mold and mildew. When natural pollutants like pollen, dirt, and debris remain on outdoor surfaces (trapping moisture beneath), there’s the potential for mold growth.

Because very little adheres to composite decking, most dirt and debris can be easily swept away by the wind. Occasionally washing with warm soapy water and a soft bristled brush will quickly remove any remnants of previous seasons, too.

Splinter Resistant

Unlike traditional pressure treated (PT) decking, composite decks are not prone to cracking or splintering. Machined to a precise, uniformed edge, it’s much more difficult to damage a composite deck board when removing snow with a plastic-edged shovel. Traditional lumber, on the other hand, may suffer from small nicks and splinters that can ultimately lead to water absorbing into the wood, causing the board to eventually rot.

Strength

A properly framed DuraLife composite deck can hold the weight of more than 3 feet of snow so homeowners can rest easy knowing their deck will safely withstand winter storms. DuraLife boards minimize sagging and flex between the joints, improving the overall performance of your deck.

Long Life Span

One of the biggest benefits of composite decking products is that they simply last for a very, very long time. Supported by one of the best warranties in the business, DuraLife’s 25-year limited stain and fade warranty also includes two years of replacement labor.

Removing Snow and Ice From Your Composite Deck

Ice and snow buildup is inevitable during the winter. The safest ice melts for removing snow from composite decking are calcium-chloride-based products that say “safe for concrete,” “safe for flagstone,” and/or “safe for children and pets” on the packaging. Simply apply this kind of calcium-chloride based product to melt snow and ice. When shoveling, it is best to use a plastic tip shovel and avoid chipping any ice directly on your deck for added protection.

You can also keep your composite deck in great condition for seasons to come by avoiding abrasive snow materials like sand. If your deck does get any residue picked up from roadways and sidewalks, the best time to rinse it away is when temperatures warm in the spring.

Composite decking is the best for cold climates and the winter season because of its stability, slip resistance, quick-drying surface, and more. And with its long life span, a DuraLife deck will be able to weather storms for years to come. Select your samples of DuraLife composite decking and have them shipped directly to your door without stepping foot outside into the cold. Order your samples now!