As the crisp air of autumn sets in, it's time to start thinking about preparing your outdoor spaces for the colder months ahead. Winter can be hard on decks, patios, and lawns if not properly cared for. By taking some time now to complete a few key maintenance tasks, you can ensure that your outdoor spaces weather the winter in good condition and are ready to go when spring arrives.

Here’s a checklist of essential outdoor maintenance tasks to help prepare your deck and yard for winter.

1. Clean and Seal Your Deck

Winter’s snow, ice, and freezing temperatures can be tough on wood decks, leading to cracks, warping, and general deterioration. To prevent this, a thorough cleaning and sealing of your deck is a must.

• Clean Your Deck: Start by removing any furniture, planters, or décor from your deck. Sweep away debris like leaves and dirt. Next, use a deck cleaner or a pressure washer to remove built-up grime, mold, and mildew. If you notice any stains, now is the time to scrub them out.
• Inspect for Damage: After cleaning, take the time to inspect your deck for signs of damage such as loose boards, nails, or screws that need tightening. Replace any damaged boards before winter hits.
• Seal or Stain: To protect your deck from moisture and freezing temperatures, apply a water-resistant sealant or wood stain. This will help prevent the wood from absorbing moisture, which can cause it to expand and crack when temperatures drop.

Pro Tip: If you’ve never stained or sealed your deck before, consider applying two coats for maximum protection. Be sure to complete this step before freezing temperatures set in to allow the product to dry and cure.

2. Winterize Your Lawn

Your lawn needs some extra attention in the fall to prepare for the cold months ahead. Taking a few proactive steps will help ensure your grass stays healthy and comes back strong in the spring.

• Rake and Remove Leaves: Fallen leaves can suffocate your grass if left in place. Rake leaves regularly to ensure your lawn gets the sunlight it needs. You can compost the leaves or use them as mulch for garden beds.
• Mow One Last Time: Give your lawn one final mow before winter. Set the mower blade to a lower setting than usual (around 2-2.5 inches) to prevent matting under snow. Shorter grass is also less susceptible to mold growth.
• Aerate the Soil: Aerating your lawn will relieve soil compaction and allow water, nutrients, and oxygen to reach the roots. If you don’t have an aerator, they’re commonly available for rent at hardware or home improvement stores.
• Fertilize for Winter: Applying a winter fertilizer with high potassium content will help your grass store nutrients and maintain its health through the colder months. This is especially important if you live in a region with freezing temperatures.

3. Prune Trees and Shrubs

Winter winds and snow can wreak havoc on trees and shrubs, especially if they are overgrown or weak. To minimize damage and reduce the risk of branches snapping under the weight of snow, prune back any dead or damaged branches.

• Remove Dead Limbs: Dead or diseased branches are more likely to break during a winter storm, potentially damaging your home, fence, or deck. Cut them back now to avoid any accidents later.
• Thin Out Overgrown Areas: Thinning out overgrown areas will improve airflow and prevent branches from becoming too heavy with ice and snow.

Pro Tip: Always use proper pruning tools, such as sharp pruning shears and a saw, to make clean cuts. If a tree’s branches are too high or the tree is large, consider hiring a professional for safety reasons.

4. Store Outdoor Furniture and Décor

Winter weather can take a toll on outdoor furniture and decorative items. To extend their lifespan, clean and store them away before the cold sets in.

• Clean Furniture: Before storing, give your furniture a thorough cleaning. Wash cushions and wipe down surfaces to prevent mold and mildew.
• Store Properly: If you have space, store furniture indoors (such as in a garage or shed) for maximum protection. If you need to keep furniture outside, invest in quality weatherproof covers to shield them from snow and ice.
• Remove Garden Décor: Store or cover any garden décor such as statues, bird baths, or fountains to prevent damage from freezing temperatures.

5. Protect Outdoor Plumbing and Irrigation Systems

Frozen pipes and irrigation systems can be costly to repair, so it’s important to protect them before freezing temperatures arrive.

• Drain Hoses and Sprinklers: Disconnect and drain garden hoses, sprinkler systems, and outdoor water features. Store hoses in a dry location to prevent cracking and deterioration.
• Shut Off Water Lines: Shut off any outdoor water lines, and open the outdoor spigots to allow any remaining water to drain. If possible, install insulated covers on outdoor faucets to prevent them from freezing.

6. Check and Clean Gutters

Gutters play a key role in directing water away from your home, which is especially important during winter snow melts and rainstorms. Clogged gutters can lead to water damage, so be sure to clean them out before winter.

• Remove Debris: Remove leaves, twigs, and other debris from your gutters and downspouts to prevent blockages. If left untreated, clogged gutters can cause water to pool and potentially freeze, leading to damage.
• Check for Damage: Inspect gutters for any signs of damage, such as cracks, sagging sections, or loose connections. Make repairs as needed to ensure proper water drainage during the winter months.

Conclusion: Protect Your Deck and Yard from Winter

Winter can be tough on outdoor spaces, but with a little preparation, you can ensure that your deck, lawn, and yard remain in great shape until spring arrives. From cleaning and sealing your deck to protecting your lawn and outdoor plumbing, these essential tasks will help your outdoor spaces withstand the cold and be ready for use when warmer weather returns.

By following this checklist, you’ll not only protect your property from the elements but also save time and money on potential repairs down the road.

Need supplies or equipment to get your outdoor maintenance done? Whether you’re a DIY enthusiast or a contractor, we’ve got everything you need to prepare your outdoor space for winter!