How to Prepare Your Deck and Fence for an Ottawa Winter

Ottawa winters are hard on anything left outside. Snow loads, freeze-thaw, salt and ice melt all attack decks and fences. The good news: most winter damage is preventable with a quick fall checklist.

Deck prep

1. Clean leaves and debris from between deck boards. Trapped moisture rots joists from the top down.
2. Move planters and furniture that trap moisture against the boards.
3. Inspect the ledger, flashing and railings for looseness or rot.
4. Re-stain or seal if water is no longer beading on the surface.
5. Use a plastic shovel or broom — metal shovels gouge decking and railings.

Fence prep

1. Walk the fence line and tighten any loose nails or fasteners.
2. Check gates: do they swing, latch and close properly? Fix sag before snow arrives.
3. Trim back plants that touch the fence — they hold moisture and freeze against the wood.
4. Avoid piling snow directly against the fence base. The freeze-thaw cycle can push shallow posts loose.

Ice melt and salt

Rock salt can damage decking, stain wood, and corrode fasteners. Use calcium chloride or a pet-safe ice melt on steps and walkways, and sweep off any excess. For composite decks, check the manufacturer's guide before applying any de-icer.

When to call us

If your fall inspection turns up rotted posts, a loose ledger, or widespread board failure, we can repair or replace before winter makes it worse. We serve Orléans, Barrhaven, Manotick and the wider Ottawa area through fall and into early winter for urgent repairs.