With ice and frost expected in quite some quantity over the winter months, it’s only natural you’ll want to ensure your decking doesn’t become a waterslide. The last thing you’ll want is you or your children to slip and be seriously injured – because let’s face it, you’ll still want to use your garden over the chilly winter and spring months.

If you want to remain slip-free, take a look at our tips below on how to stop yourself falling head over heels.

1. Keep the decking clean

The ice and frost will obviously make things a little slippery than before, but if you really want to reduce the risks of falling, you’ll need to have a good clean of your decking. Sometimes the moss, algae, leaves and other debris can be just a bad as the moisture itself. Use a pressure washer to remove the toughest of dirt, whilst clearing leaves and snow before it becomes an issue.

2. Buy non-slip mats

These are handy to have stored away in the shed over winter, because as your decking becomes a slippery runway, you can easily whip them away and throw down at your leisure. They won’t break the bank either and you’ll find them at your nearest DIY or gardening shop. For a more secure finish, invest in mats that’ll screw down for the duration of winter.

3. Paint on a non-slip coating

Slipping is caused by a slick, smooth surface. So, to reduce the odds of sliding around over winter, you want to add texture to your decking. This can be achieved with a non-slip coating that helps your shoes grip the wood better. These will come in the form of paints and varnishes, but check the tin to ensure it won’t cause damage to the wood.

4. Safely remove the ice

No matter what action you take to prevent slips, heavy snow will lay regardless. Therefore, what you do to remove this will be important. Of course, you could invest in a roof or awning to keep snow at bay, but this isn’t always possible. Ice melts are likely your best bet – just be sure to wash the decking down after use as the calcium chloride can be corrosive to the metal fixings.

5. Secure decking railings

Of course, you shouldn’t just focus about preventing slips and slides, but also work on measures to help you adjust to the wet surface over winter. Railings are a great way to do just this and will give you something to hold onto when walking outside. Just ensure they’re well fixed to the decking, otherwise they’ll come toppling down with you.

At Millhouse Landscapes, we can help you with your full decking requirements, ensuring it’s slip-free and in gret condition all year round. Contact us today and speak to a member of the team, by calling 01732 590130 or 01634 261010