Autumn weather can be crisp and beautiful, especially when combined with the crimson shades of the changing leaves. Still, in the absence of these tranquil autumnal moments, it can also be cold, wet and windy. That’s not to say that on those lovely scenic days, you can’t squeeze a few final moments out on your decking and fencing; on the contrary, it’s a beautiful bubble of time to spend out in the garden. While you’re out there, though, it’s best to spare a few moments to maintain your decking, preparing it for the cold weather to come so it’s still just as beautiful come next spring, and here’s how to do it.
Take care of any damage as soon as you notice it
One of the best things about composite decking and fencing is that it’s incredibly durable and hardwearing. Due to the plastic inclusions of the boards, composite naturally withstands impact and weather damage much better than standard timber. Plus, they don’t need painting or staining! That said, nothing is indestructible, so even composite structures can suffer damage, as robust as they are.
More minor damages can be patched up. However, it is important to address any damage as soon as you become aware of it, especially with the ice and frost on the way. This might look like getting a composite repair kit or entirely replacing a fencing or decking board so the structural integrity of your fence or deck isn’t compromised over the winter months. If you’re unsure of how to proceed with any damage to your composite boards, it’s always best to consult your manufacturer.
Keep your decking free of any debris
With composite being so sturdy, it’s easy to be slightly more lax on your upkeep than you would be with a timber fence, and while this is somewhat true, they still need to be maintained; the work just isn’t as rigorous as constantly having to treat wooden boards. You do want to ensure that you’re keeping your composite fencing and decking free from any debris building up. This goes for piles of falling leaves, grass trimming, twigs, dirt or anything else that turns up. It’s more than likely not going to damage your board per se; after a while, leaves and other organic matter break down, which can lead to staining if left for extended periods of time.
It can be easy to retreat inside as soon as the weather turns unsavoury, but in those few brief reprieves from any harsh wind and rain, it pays to go out with a soft sweeping brush and clear off any debris that starts to accumulate every so often – no one wants an unsightly stain on their beautiful and otherwise well maintained composite decking or fence!
Take stock of any nearby trees
One thing that could easily slip anyone’s mind when taking care of routine deck and fencing maintenance is keeping your eye on any nearby trees. Living in the UK, it’s safe to say the vast majority of us have seen our fair share of some pretty nasty storms. Unfortunately, it would be wishful thinking to assume that’s not going to happen at least once or twice over the autumn and winter months this year. So, with that in mind, it’s best to trim back any overhanging branches near your face or deck that look like they may be at risk of falling in a period of bad weather – the last thing you want to be dealing with in a bout of awful weather is boards cracked by the force of a fallen branch.
Give your decking and fence boards one last big clean
Last but certainly not least, give your composite decking and fencing one last good clean. No doubt they’ve seen their fair share of use over summer, and before we head directly into the wet and windy weather, one last good scrub with warm, soapy water and a soft, bristled brush will go a long way toward keeping them in as good a condition as possible, even over autumn.
Composite boards are generally incredibly low maintenance and only need a deep clean every so often (every 3-6 months or so, or as and when they need it). Usually, between seasons is ideal unless, of course, you have spillages to clean up. If you’ve completed or are keeping on top of all the other tasks we mentioned above, all you now have to do is the occasional bit of maintenance, and your boards will still be just as beautiful as they were this summer when spring next year rolls around!
With these tips, your boards will hold up beautifully in all kinds of weather, no matter how unsavoury! And if you’re looking for a new composite fence or decking solution, you’re in the right place! At North Valley Composites, our decking boards and fence panels are durable, long-lasting and effortlessly stylish, and available in a choice of 5 different colours, giving you a variety of options to suit your space!
From the striking yet modern Black Ash, to the contemporary Driftwood and classic Golden Oak, you’ll find exactly what you’re looking for! If you have any questions about any of our products or how to maintain them, don’t hesitate to get in touch with our friendly team on 01282 677300, and we’ll be happy to assist you!
How to maintain your composite decking and fencing this autumn
Autumn weather can be crisp and beautiful, especially when combined with the crimson shades of the changing leaves. Still, in the absence of these tranquil autumnal moments, it can also be cold, wet and windy. That’s not to say that on those lovely scenic days, you can’t squeeze a few final moments out on your decking and fencing; on the contrary, it’s a beautiful bubble of time to spend out in the garden. While you’re out there, though, it’s best to spare a few moments to maintain your decking, preparing it for the cold weather to come so it’s still just as beautiful come next spring, and here’s how to do it.
Take care of any damage as soon as you notice it
One of the best things about composite decking and fencing is that it’s incredibly durable and hardwearing. Due to the plastic inclusions of the boards, composite naturally withstands impact and weather damage much better than standard timber. Plus, they don’t need painting or staining! That said, nothing is indestructible, so even composite structures can suffer damage, as robust as they are.
More minor damages can be patched up. However, it is important to address any damage as soon as you become aware of it, especially with the ice and frost on the way. This might look like getting a composite repair kit or entirely replacing a fencing or decking board so the structural integrity of your fence or deck isn’t compromised over the winter months. If you’re unsure of how to proceed with any damage to your composite boards, it’s always best to consult your manufacturer.
Keep your decking free of any debris
With composite being so sturdy, it’s easy to be slightly more lax on your upkeep than you would be with a timber fence, and while this is somewhat true, they still need to be maintained; the work just isn’t as rigorous as constantly having to treat wooden boards. You do want to ensure that you’re keeping your composite fencing and decking free from any debris building up. This goes for piles of falling leaves, grass trimming, twigs, dirt or anything else that turns up. It’s more than likely not going to damage your board per se; after a while, leaves and other organic matter break down, which can lead to staining if left for extended periods of time.
It can be easy to retreat inside as soon as the weather turns unsavoury, but in those few brief reprieves from any harsh wind and rain, it pays to go out with a soft sweeping brush and clear off any debris that starts to accumulate every so often – no one wants an unsightly stain on their beautiful and otherwise well maintained composite decking or fence!
Take stock of any nearby trees
One thing that could easily slip anyone’s mind when taking care of routine deck and fencing maintenance is keeping your eye on any nearby trees. Living in the UK, it’s safe to say the vast majority of us have seen our fair share of some pretty nasty storms. Unfortunately, it would be wishful thinking to assume that’s not going to happen at least once or twice over the autumn and winter months this year. So, with that in mind, it’s best to trim back any overhanging branches near your face or deck that look like they may be at risk of falling in a period of bad weather – the last thing you want to be dealing with in a bout of awful weather is boards cracked by the force of a fallen branch.
Give your decking and fence boards one last big clean
Last but certainly not least, give your composite decking and fencing one last good clean. No doubt they’ve seen their fair share of use over summer, and before we head directly into the wet and windy weather, one last good scrub with warm, soapy water and a soft, bristled brush will go a long way toward keeping them in as good a condition as possible, even over autumn.
Composite boards are generally incredibly low maintenance and only need a deep clean every so often (every 3-6 months or so, or as and when they need it). Usually, between seasons is ideal unless, of course, you have spillages to clean up. If you’ve completed or are keeping on top of all the other tasks we mentioned above, all you now have to do is the occasional bit of maintenance, and your boards will still be just as beautiful as they were this summer when spring next year rolls around!
With these tips, your boards will hold up beautifully in all kinds of weather, no matter how unsavoury! And if you’re looking for a new composite fence or decking solution, you’re in the right place! At North Valley Composites, our decking boards and fence panels are durable, long-lasting and effortlessly stylish, and available in a choice of 5 different colours, giving you a variety of options to suit your space!
From the striking yet modern Black Ash, to the contemporary Driftwood and classic Golden Oak, you’ll find exactly what you’re looking for! If you have any questions about any of our products or how to maintain them, don’t hesitate to get in touch with our friendly team on 01282 677300, and we’ll be happy to assist you!