Alright, let us talk about Composite Decks here in Cambridge. You have made a smart choice, going with a material that is built to last a long time and requires less work than traditional wood. But just because it is low-maintenance does not mean it is no-maintenance, especially with our New England weather. I have seen all kinds of weather, from humid summers to brutal winters, and how this weather impacts outdoor spaces. So, here is the straight talk on what you need to know to protect your Composite Deck investment.
When to Schedule Your Composite Deck Project
You might think summer is the obvious time to build a Composite Deck, right? Everyone wants to be outside. But for us contractors in Cambridge, spring and fall are often the best times for Composite Deck installations. Why is this?
- Spring (March-May): The ground is thawed out in Cambridge, but it is not scorching hot yet. This means easier foundation work for the Composite Deck and more comfortable conditions for the crew. You will beat the summer rush for Composite Deck projects, which can mean better availability for Cambridge Deck Solutions and potentially quicker permit processing from the city of Cambridge. Just be ready for those unpredictable spring showers; rain delays can happen with Composite Deck work.
- Summer (June-August): It is peak season for Composite Deck building, no doubt. Long daylight hours mean we can work longer on your Composite Deck, and sealants cure fast. But everyone wants their Composite Deck done in summer, so contractors in Cambridge get booked solid. You might face longer wait times for your Cambridge Composite Deck and potentially higher costs due to demand. Plus, extreme heat can make working conditions tough, and while Composite Decks handle moisture well, very high humidity can still make surfaces slick.
- Fall (September-November): This is often the hidden gem for Composite Deck building in Cambridge. The weather is usually mild and dry, humidity drops, and the ground has had all summer to dry out, making excavation cleaner for your Composite Deck. We are past the summer rush, so you might get more focused attention on your Composite Deck project and potentially better pricing. If you are building your Composite Deck in the fall, your landscaping will not take as much of a hit, since it will soon be covered in snow anyway.
- Winter (December-February): Honestly, winter is not ideal for new Composite Deck builds in Cambridge. Our Cambridge winters are snowy and very cold, with average lows in the 20s and highs in the 30s. Frozen ground makes digging footings for a Composite Deck a nightmare, and extreme cold can affect materials. While Composite Decking can handle the cold, installation is just tougher. If you are looking for a cheaper build, winter might offer it, but the potential for delays due to snow and freezing temperatures is high for a Composite Deck in Cambridge.
Weather Conditions That Affect the Work
Even with Composite Decking, weather plays a role during installation. Here in Cambridge, we get a good mix of everything.
- Temperature: Composite Decking expands and contracts with temperature changes. Installing Composite Decking in moderate temperatures, like spring or fall, helps make sure there is proper gapping between Composite Deck boards. If it is too hot, Composite Deck materials can expand too much during installation, leading to issues when they contract in colder weather.
- Humidity: Cambridge summers can get very humid. High humidity can make Composite Deck surfaces slick, even Composite Deck surfaces, because the Composite Deck material resists moisture absorption, leaving it on the surface. This is more of a concern for existing Composite Decks, but it is something to be aware of during Composite Deck installation too.
- Rain and Snow: Obviously, Cambridge Deck Solutions cannot build a Composite Deck in a downpour or a blizzard. Rain delays are a fact of life, especially in spring. Heavy snow in winter can halt Composite Deck projects completely. Our city gets about 60 inches of snow annually, with January being the snowiest month for Cambridge.
- Freeze-Thaw Cycles: This is a big one for us in New England. Moisture gets into tiny cracks, freezes, expands, and then thaws. This constant cycle can stress fasteners and Composite Deck boards, though Composite Decking is designed to resist this better than wood.
Protecting Your Composite Deck Year-Round
You have invested in a Composite Deck because you want durability and low maintenance. Here is how to keep your Composite Deck looking great no matter what Cambridge throws at it:
Spring & Summer: Keep your Composite Deck Clean and Clear
Our humid Cambridge summers mean mold and mildew can be a real pain for your Composite Deck, especially in shady spots or if you are near the Charles River where moisture hangs around.
- Regular Sweeping: Sweep off leaves, dirt, and debris from your Composite Deck regularly. Do not let damp leaves sit on the Composite Deck, as they can cause discoloration.
- Mild Soap & Water: For general Composite Deck cleaning, a mild soap (like dish soap) and warm water with a soft-bristle brush or broom will do the trick. Scrub along the grain of the Composite Deck.
- Pressure Washing (Carefully!): You can use a pressure washer on your Composite Deck, but keep it on a low setting (40-60 degree fan nozzle) and at least 8 inches from the Composite Deck surface to avoid damage.
- Spot Cleaning: Clean spills on your Composite Deck, especially grease or oil from the grill, immediately with soapy water. A splash guard under your grill is a good idea for your Composite Deck.
- Mold & Mildew: If you see those black or green spots on your Composite Deck, a solution of warm water and mild dish soap, or a specialized Composite Deck cleaner, should work. Some folks use a vinegar and water solution (2 parts vinegar, 1 part water) or even baking soda for stubborn spots on the Composite Deck.
Fall & Winter: Prepare your Composite Deck for the Cold
Cambridge winters are no joke, and while Composite Decking holds up well, a little prep goes a long way for your Composite Deck.
- Final Clean-Up: Before the real cold sets in, give your Composite Deck a thorough cleaning. Get rid of all leaves, twigs, and dirt from the Composite Deck. This prevents debris from getting frozen onto the Composite Deck surface.
- Inspect for Damage: Check your Composite Deck for any loose boards or fasteners. It is easier to fix these before snow and ice cover everything on your Composite Deck.
- Snow Removal: Shovel snow off your Composite Deck regularly. Do not let it pile up and freeze on the Composite Deck. Use a plastic shovel to avoid scratching the Composite Deck surface.
- De-icing: If you need to de-ice your Composite Deck, use products specifically labeled safe for Composite Decks. Avoid rock salt or harsh chemicals, as they can damage the Composite Deck material.
- Ensure Drainage: Make sure water can drain freely off your Composite Deck. Standing water that freezes and thaws can cause problems for your Composite Deck.
Composite Decks are a fantastic choice for Cambridge homeowners looking for a beautiful, durable outdoor space that can handle our climate. With a little seasonal attention, your Composite Deck from Cambridge Deck Solutions will be a place you can enjoy for many decades. For homes and businesses in Cambridge, Cambridge Deck Solutions provides Composite Deck services.