As another summer draws to an end, you’re probably starting to think about plans for the cooler months. Is having your new composite decking fitted one of them? If not, it should be!
While the summer seems like the more obvious choice to upgrade your garden, the winter is just as perfect a time to refresh your outdoor space. Below, our decking specialists explain why you should consider having your decked area installed over the colder months and in time to enjoy it to its full potential come the spring.
Seasons Change, Composite Decking Stays the Same
One of the biggest draws of composite deck boards is how resilient they are to the elements. Despite the freezing temperatures the winter treats us to, your composite boards will not be affected. They hold their own against rain, ice, and snow, too. With composite decking, you can feel absolute confidence that your decking will look as good as new by the time spring arrives.
We’ve designed our wood composite decking collections to have all the properties they need to remain in excellent condition, no matter the season. Vale & Eden boards are:
- Rot and split resistant, even when the temperature drops
- Not impacted by excess moisture, so they don’t expand in the wet (unlike timber boards)
- Easy to maintain, thanks to a robust finish which doesn’t need varnishing or painting to cope with the changing seasons
On the other hand, timber decking is vulnerable to the effects of Mother Nature. So if you’re after the beautiful colours of traditional boards without the hassle of seasonal upkeep, a woodgrain effect composite board is your perfect solution.
Why winter is a good time to install wood composite decking
With all these winter-friendly properties, it’s no wonder that composite decking is a popular choice for British homeowners. The same can be said for fitting it over winter, too, so it’s primed for you to enjoy when the springtime comes around again.
1. Installing decking in the winter helps protect your garden
A dormant garden is ideal for a composite decking installation. It’s likely that areas will need to be dug out or levelled off to make space for your new decking area, which usually means your garden will be home to wheelbarrows or mini diggers and lots of activity. Opting for a winter install helps to minimise damage from people and machinery to your grass, shrubs, and plants, and gives them plenty of time to recover so they can thrive again in the spring.
2. There’s usually more installer availability
This said, many people still choose to have their decking installed over the summer. After all, you need to do what’s best for your lifestyle. However, if your diary is full to the brim between May and August, then you could be limited on when your installer has availability to fit your new decking.
Winter may be the least popular time of year for this activity, but that doesn’t mean it’s any less appropriate than other seasons. It does mean you’re more likely to be able to get your decking fitted on days and times that suit you, though!
3. Decking fitted in the winter is ready for the summer
Arguably, the biggest draw of getting your composite decking fitted in the winter is the fact it’s primed for you to enjoy from the first hint of sunshine. You’ve got plenty of time to accessorise your new outdoor space with furniture and decorations so it’s ready for spring afternoons reading in the garden or alfresco meals in the gorgeous summer sun.
Caring for Composite Decking Fitted in the Winter
With the installation complete, you may be wondering how to keep your decking looking sleek in the winter weather. Our wood composite boards are designed to be as easy for you to look after as possible. Use a soft brush to remove any debris, then spray the boards with a hosepipe to keep them looking as good as new.
How to Stop Decking Getting Slippery Over Winter
‘Is decking slippery in the winter?’ is one of the most common questions we’re asked at Vale & Eden. The texture of our composite boards has been engineered to have low slip potential, meaning there’s a low chance of it causing a slip or fall, particularly when wet. We understand how important it is to feel confident on your new decking year-round, so a composite board is perfect for that extra peace of mind.
Can You Cover Decking in the Winter?
Your composite decking from Vale & Eden will withstand the elements over the winter, so you don’t need to worry about covering it. But if you’d still prefer to only let it see the sunshine, you can place a decking cover over it during the colder seasons. Bear in mind you’ll probably need to move any outdoor furniture or accessories off the deck first, so make sure you’ve got somewhere safe and dry to keep them protected, too.
Summer may seem like a distant memory, but we’ll be graced with the longer, brighter days again before we know it. Make the most of the winter to prepare your outside space for the summer, so you can enjoy it to its fullest. To start your garden upgrade, get in touch with our friendly team. Together, we’ll make your dream decking area a reality.