We export more than 20000 tons wood-plastic composites including WPC decking, WPC fence, WPC wall panel and WPC decking tiles to Europe, America, Oceania and the Middle East. Once you move them, your deck is the same as it was before. Here is a comprehensive article on how to make your Trex decking less slippery. Just so, is composite decking less slippery? After letting it sit, take a stiff-bristled broom and scrub down your deck, removing all of the algae and moss. Share them with us on our Facebook and Twitter social channels and we’ll add them to this blog with a credit. Before we start discussing solutions to your slippery deck problems, it’s important to understand why your deck is slippery in the first place. Just so, how can I make my decking less slippery? Why is Composite Decking Slippery? That’s a lot of bang for your buck! If you’ve recently installed some timber decking and made the discovery that it can be a very slippery decking area when wet, rest assured, you’re not alone. Use Rubber Mats. First, you could use heavy rubber mats, like the ones used in commercial kitchens, in the most highly trafficked areas. Knowing how to prevent and treat slippery decking surfaces can make all the difference as the adverse weather conditions begin to close in, so we’ve put together a list of five easy tips on how to stop decking being slippery to help you prevent any nasty slips and falls this winter. Also, if your decking surface becomes wet, do not leave it so that it becomes damp. That’s four parts paint for each part sand. It’s extremely effective at killing and removing all algae, mold, and more. It will do the same job with a similar level of effectiveness. 1. Unlike Trex and TimberTech, MacLumber is not a well-known brand, however they do maintain their synthetic lumber is among the best manufactured. After the second coat dries, you’re all done! It’s 80-grit, which will provide tons of grip and ensure that no one slips on your deck again. However, we would still recommend cleaning non slip decking to keep it looking its best. As the algae and mold grow, they create even more moisture, which can help grow more algae, or it can turn into ice. This works great for roads and driveways, but the salt can wreak havoc on your decking material and destroy it prematurely. Worst, this problem can equally affect natural wood and composite decking. When this happens, you’ll get water pooling and excess moisture that can lead to a slick deck surface in the near future. It’s got a five-year warranty that guarantees your deck will stay waterproof for at least five years between coats. Totally, clean composite decking is less slippery, with natural wood texture surface. It is very dangerous to slip on decks. But not everyone wants to put that much time and energy into their deck. This site uses cookies to provide and improve your shopping experience. However, rain and the build-up of algae or moss on the timber can make your decking extremely slippery and dangerous. Often the stairs leading up to a deck provide an emergency entrance and exit to the home and must be kept accessible for safety reasons. A slippery deck can be a real liability. Load coarse sand into a handheld broadcast spreader. It should be a very simple process. How to make composite decking less slippery? If you want to benefit from this improved service, please opt-in. Plus, they’re easy to install and will take just a few minutes, even if you have no experience with DIY projects. They notified us back via email that we should use their 'Trex strips to make it less slippery' They have these readily available for their stairs! This will provide you with plenty of traction, even when your deck gets slick. Likewise, is composite decking good around pools? Before you or someone you love gets hurt, it’s a good idea to nip your slippery deck problems in the bud with one of the 11 solutions I’ve provided. But what can we do about it? She has no problems going up the stairs, but will slip 75% of the time going down. One way to make your composite decking surface less slippery is by maintaining it. Then, using a mop or a sprayer, coat the entire deck in your solution. Mats can also be used to cover the entire deck, giving you a complete solution that anti-slip tape or anti-skid strips. The INSL-X Sure Step is specifically meant for high-traffic areas like decks, porches, and stairs. The best method to remove ice and snow from the top of your composite decking is for you to use a rubber shovel. CONTACT. That’s it! Arnold Laver Co Ltd , Registered in England. Now your slippery deck problems are done! Not to worry! "Most plastic boards are smoother on top than composites, which have a rough texture to improve slip resistance," he says. The Dangers of Slippery Decking. Hello Daisy, There is another post on this in the group that answers this question and lots of people have given lots of suggestions. Installing a specially-designed anti-slip deck will eliminate the need for all of the above preventative measures. A cheaper method of making your deck surface gritty and therefore less slippery is to sprinkle sand onto the wet sealer where it will remain embedded once the sealer dries. Get into the habit of giving your decking a good brush down every week or fortnight to dislodge fresh fungal growth and any stray leaves, as the more you keep on top of it, the easier it will be to keep it at bay all winter. Eugene has been a DIY enthusiast for most of his life and loves being creative while inspiring creativity in others. A power washer will easily remove anything that’s sticking to your deck and making it slick, including the dirt, debris, leaves, and even the mold, algae, and mildew. First, is to prevent the deck from getting slick in the first place, which is what we’re going to discuss next. ft.). Also, with the exception of a few brands, most composites … You can make your decking surface less slippery by cleaning it regularly. You can buy outdoor rubber grip matting as a quick and easy way to make decking non-slip. An anti-slip decking oil, on the other hand, will not crack or peel and is easy to replenish when needed. Large decking areas are also prone to collecting rotting leaves left over from the autumn months, which create a super-slippery layer of their own. When pressure washing your deck, make sure to use no more than 1,300 PSi. Rock salt and calcium chloride are safe to use on composite decks but. It’s made durable to hold up to regular abuse and foot traffic. It was cost-effective, easy to install, and the results were great. And this is a compounding problem. Tip: Don’t use sand on your composite deck either. More importantly, they’re made to help prevent slips and falls, so they’ll provide plenty of traction. Regularly sweeping your deck to avoid the buildup of debris and dirt is a great idea, but it’s not going to keep your deck surface completely clean. One easy solution is to use rolled roofing or shingles on your steps to add plenty of traction and grip. Can you install Trex decking in the winter? Composite decking is the building material with low maintenance, all you do is to keep it clean and tidy. Composite decking, such as Trex decking, costs $3 to $7 per sq. This includes dirt, pollen, leaves, and anything else that tends to build up on your deck. 45. Best of all, they’re an affordable solution that’s available at a home improvement store near you. Just as importantly, it sticks extremely well and won’t fall off in a few days like other tapes. And once you’ve factored those costs in, a composite deck can actually be less expensive in the long-run. If this sounds like you and you don’t want to wait 30 minutes for the solution to take effect or you don’t want to sweep the algae off the deck with a broom, then you might try a power washer instead. Acrylic resin can be used on wood decks, pool areas, walkways and concrete. I know that not all composites are like that and some that are textured, that have a grain pattern to them, are not going to be as slippery. These mats are a great temporary solution to get you safely through the winter months and, though they’re not the prettiest of options, they’re ideal for the colder seasons when you’re spending less time in the garden. But what should you do if your deck is already a slick hazard that’s waiting to make someone fall? Also question is, is composite decking less slippery? Grit tape will definitely improve … | eHow Long wear, appearance and low maintenance are among the reasons that some homeowners and builders choose composite materials rather than wooden. Trex 4-in x 4-in Composite Deck Post Sleeve. Remember to keep up on the cleaning and prevent the mold and algae from growing in the first place to avoid having this problem again in the future. If your deck seems to be slippery too often, then the problem might be what it is or isn’t coated with. Plus, it’s still extremely easy to apply. MacLumber, headquartered in Bamberg SC, is a manufacturer and supplier of plastic lumber used for decking and other outdoor areas. Even when wet, wood deck surfaces typically present less risk for slipping than composite deck boards ... How to Prevent Slippery Wood Deck Surfaces by Rogue Parrish. Don’t worry, I’ve got 11 solutions for you that will help to fix your slippery decking problems today. All of that debris holds moisture, which it traps against the wood of your deck. The Solution for Slippery Decking. Sunlight and rain can cause wood to crack or rot, and mold growing on decks can also make decks slippery. Before we delve into how to make your existing deck non-slip, we better, first, explore what’s out there as an option if you’ve never had a deck before and are thinking of installing one sometime soon. Abrasive, non-slip decking strips are the more permanent solution, as they need to be screwed into the surface of your decking (this works best in decking with grooved boards, but check the dimensions and widths of all strips before you buy). If you have lots of snow and ice build-up on your decking, try using a plastic shovel to remove as much as you can. The metal tools can damage and open up weak points in your decking, while the harsh chemicals in grit salt can also corrode your timber and metal hardware if left to sit for days. Now you know how to stop decking being slippery in winter (and all year-round, too) you can step out with confidence, knowing you’re protected against any nasty slips and trips. This is easy to do. Below are 4 ways to make your composite decking less slippery. Treat Your Deck With a Waterproof Coating, EdenProducts Heavy-Duty Anti-Slip Traction Tape. Wooden decking is an attractive addition to many homes and gardens in the UK. If you prefer the look of stain or even just a natural wood finish, there’s still a way to create your own non-stick surface using sand and either a deck stain or sealer. To apply non-slip paint to your deck, you’ll first need to wash your deck thoroughly and allow it to dry so that the paint has a clean surface to stick to. Avoid using metal implements or anything sharp to scrape away the debris, as this can scratch and damage your timber further, which can lead to rotting. Even with a build up of algae, anti slip decking will remain slip resistant. Although composite decking does not absorb water, dirt, dust, dry leaves, and other particulates can accumulate on the surface which can encourage fungal, or mold growth, causing the surface to … It is a popular alternative to wood because it needs no sanding, does not splinter, holds up well under inclement weather conditions, and is available in a variety of colors and finishes. If you use your deck quite a bit in winter, consider purchasing some non-stick mats to strategically place around walkways. Winter weather is typically wet, and wet timber is a breeding ground for slippery algae and fungus growth. We chose Trex Transcend composite decking and Gracie is finding the stairs to be a bit slippery. She has no problems going up the stairs, but will slip 75% of the time going down. This type of ice melt is often made of an abrasive material that can leave marks and cause permanent damage to the surface of your deck. Mix it together. Sunlight and rain can cause wood to crack or rot, and mold growing on decks can also make decks slippery. But weather conditions aren’t always perfect, and the adverse weather can turn your deck into a slippery mess that can be potentially dangerous. You don’t have to run out during a snowstorm and shovel it off as it lands, but head out the next morning and remove the snow from the deck. On the other hand, this is a permanent addition that won’t go anywhere and only takes a few minutes to install. Then, if the rubber matting option really doesn’t suit you, you CAN sprinkle a little grit salt onto your decking, as long as you remember to rinse it off as soon as the ice and snow have melted away. Not everyone is up for the DIY approach of my first suggestion, so instead, you can opt for the store-bought solution that kills algae, mildew, and mold. Wood is more likely to have smooth spots created by wear; such spots may be slippery when wet. Most composite decking is slippery compared to wood decking when wet. Non-slip tape is a cheaper and much faster way to stop decking being slippery, but isn’t necessarily a long-term solution. Composite decking is made from a combination of recycled wood and plastic. Ease of Installation. How to Prevent Slippery Wood Deck Surfaces | Home Guides | SF . In comparison, composite decking is less porous and absorbs very little moisture when cleaned or faced with the elements. Bear in mind, however, that you’ll need to wait for a clear, dry day to apply decking tape for best results, and you’ll need to remove any fungal growth and other debris before you apply it.Whichever you choose, anti slip decking tape and strips both create a safer, more grippable surface for you to walk on. We sweep the insides of our homes regularly to prevent the dirt and mess from building up. Another quick and easy way to make decking non slip is to use specially-made abrasive strips or non-slip decking tape. You can use a brush, roller, or even a sprayer. First, the debris of all kinds starts to fall onto your porch, blown by the wind from nearby trees, plants, and more. While composite decks are resilient to weather, certain brands can be extremely slippery when it is wet and cold out. Its innovative design means water remains on the surface before evaporating rather than soaking into the decking boards and freezing in the cold weather. One great way to prevent this from happening is by using a waterproof coating to cover your entire deck. Most lumberyards and home centers stock one or two brands and can special order others. You have to clean your composite decking regularly when you see dirt on it. These are similar to the mats used in restaurants to provide the non-slip surface they need in the kitchen where things can get very slick and slippery. By performing certain regular maintenance to your deck, you can greatly reduce or even eliminate the chances of your deck getting slippery this year. An issue in both summer and winter, the reason for decking becoming slippery in the rain, surprisingly isn’t in fact the fact that the wood is wet per se, it’s because of the fungus that grows on the wood when the surface has been soaked by the rain. They notified us back via email that we should use their 'Trex strips to make it less slippery' They have these readily available for their stairs! But no matter which solution you choose, they’re all going to make a big difference. Most decks require a full on retreatment consisting of sanding, cleaning, staining or painting and sealing every two to five years. One of my favorite non-slip paints is the INSL-X Sure Step. Limit the power washing and thorough cleaning to once or twice each year to avoid prematurely wearing out your decking. Wood floors are not naturally slippery. You can use a small putty knife or screwdriver between the boards to dislodge anything that might be filling up the spaces. It’s dead-simple. Learn all about non-slip coating for your composite deck. "Composites are not no-maintenance decks; they're low-maintenance decks," says Randall Firmin, regional sales manager for USPL, which makes both composite and all-plastic decking. One great way to do this is by making your own algae-killing solution at home. With composite decking, you don’t have to worry about this problem. Simply lay yourself a narrow walkway using the mats, which are designed to withstand all weather conditions, and then store them away for next year once the weather dries up again in the spring. Painting or staining your deck can be a lot of work and it can completely change the looks of your deck. composite decks less slippery. Once mixed, simply paint it onto your deck like you would apply any other paint. This option can be a little pricey, especially if you have a very large decking area, but it’s a worthwhile investment if you don’t want to change the appearance of your decking too much. Once you’ve brushed it off, take a hose and do a final rinse to ensure that you’ve removed everything. Scrub Away the Algae With a Homemade Solution, 10. On the one hand, this can damage the wood beneath by making screw holes in each piece of decking. Sign up for all the latest news, products and special offers : Garden Improvements: How to Add Value to Your Home. This is an especially good option for those with existing decking that’s on its last legs, or those looking to install a brand new deck from scratch. After applying your sealer or stain, you’ll simply add sand to it. This will turn it into a hazardous mess, so it’s best to tackle this issue before it happens. What I like best about the Wet&Forget solution is that it doesn’t require any power washing or even brushing. The tape is applied to the deck like any other kind of tape, and this method is very simple. It’s important that you have a completely clean and dry surface for the tape to stick to. To prevent this, simply clear out the spaces between decking boards to ensure they can drain properly. He is passionately interested in home improvement, renovation and woodworking. It’s very easy to apply and extremely durable once it has cured. Compare; Find My Store. Since you need to seal or stain your deck after a good cleaning to prevent damage, you can easily make your deck non-slip when you add one extra step. in WPC Decking Tips 2019-01-20. Even when wet, wood deck surfaces typically present less risk for slipping than composite deck boards -- unless they become dirty and neglected. I like the Envelor Home and Garden Anti-Fatigue Commercial Rubber Mats. Even small objects like leaves can trap moisture, which in freezing conditions will make that area slick. Decks can get slippery any time of the year, but they are most susceptible to this problem in the winter when the snow builds up and ice can form on your deck. Is Composite Decking Slippery in the Winter? Whenever the dirt and debris build up on your deck, these drainage spaces can fill up, preventing the water from draining properly. . The top leader of superior color mix producer in the WPC market makes your terraces natural & elegant. She did have a stroke 2 years ago and she is almost 10 years old, so her coordination is not 100% that of a young spry pup. Well, the same works for your deck as well. While composite decking is made to look like natural wood, some people prefer the authenticity of actual wood. So, let’s get started: The first port of call for stopping your decking from being (or becoming) slippery is to remove the most common substances that cause the surface to become slick. There are several reasons why your deck could be getting so slick, and they can even work with each other to compound your issue and make your deck even slicker. Make it a habit to clean the surface regularly. As a result, composite decking needs to be cleaned periodically with a scrub brush and an off-the-shelf deck cleaner or a detergent that contains bleach. Snowy and icy weather can make your deck into a slippery safety hazard. Even with a build up of algae, anti slip decking will remain slip resistant. Just sink a couple of screws into each strip and your stairs will have tons of traction! You can purchase textured abrasive tape to apply to decks. ft. ($1.50 to $5 per lin. MacLumber Synthetic Wood. This will prevent the water from every accumulating and do wonders to curb your slippery deck problems. And I’ll try to respond to any comments or questions in the comments box below as quickly as I can. It can also be abrasive and scratch the surface. I prefer the EdenProducts Heavy-Duty Anti-Slip Traction Tape. If you plan to install decks by the pool or in a humid environment such as frequent rain, you will first be concerned about the safety of decks. Slippery conditions on your deck can potentially lead to injuries and other property damage. Push Snow and Ice from the Surface of Your Composite Decking Another way to make your composite decking less slippery is to remove snow and prevent ice from accumulating on the surface. The polymer cap of the decking repelling the water, creating potential slipping hazards. Slippery decking as soon as it becomes wet and concern about walking over it. This durable and low-maintenance composite material does not crack and rot and does … But you can avoid this if you use my favorite wood waterproofer, the Eco Advanced Wood Siloxane Waterproofer. 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