When winter arrives, snow and ice can make a wood deck slippery and difficult to use. While clearing it off is important for safety, you need to be careful about which ice melt you use. Some products can leave residue, stain surfaces, or contribute to corrosion around metal fasteners.
So, can you put ice melt on a wood deck? Yes, but you should use a product specifically formulated for decking. Traditional rock salt and generic ice melts aren’t necessarily suitable for wood surfaces.
Is Rock Salt Safe for Wood Decking?
Rock salt, also known as sodium chloride, is commonly used to melt snow and ice on driveways and sidewalks. However, it’s not the best choice for wood decking.
As rock salt dissolves, it leaves behind a salty solution that can collect between deck boards and around fasteners. Repeated exposure to chloride salts can contribute to corrosion of metal hardware. It can also leave white residue on the deck surface and affect nearby landscaping as it washes away.
Other common deicers, including calcium chloride and magnesium chloride, aren’t automatically suitable for wood decking either. Their effects depend on the product’s complete formulation.
Rather than using whatever ice melt you have available, look for one specifically designed for outdoor decking.
What Ice Melt Can You Use on a Wood Deck?
One option is DeckWise® Deck Ice-Melt, a liquid deicer formulated for most wood and composite decking.
DeckWise uses magnesium chloride combined with an r. According to the manufacturer, this formulation is designed to melt snow and ice while reducing concerns about corrosion and damage to surrounding surfaces.
A few of its key features include:
- Deck-friendly formula: Designed for most hardwood, pressure-treated, modified wood, and composite decking.
- Liquid application: Sprays directly onto the surface instead of leaving piles of granular crystals.
- Non-staining: Formulated to avoid staining treated surfaces.
- Cold-weather performance: Designed to work in temperatures ranging from 37°F to -20°F.
- Extended protection: Advertised to provide a reactivation effect for up to 14 days.
You can apply DeckWise before a storm to help prevent snow and ice from bonding to the deck or use it to loosen ice that’s already formed.
For preventive use, the manufacturer recommends applying a light mist approximately two hours before an expected snowfall. If ice has already formed, apply the product in a 1/4-inch stream and allow 60–90 minutes for maximum effectiveness.
Tips for Removing Snow and Ice From a Wood Deck
Even when using the right ice melt, a few simple precautions can help protect your deck during winter.
- Remove snow regularly: Fresh snow is easier to clear than snow that’s been packed down and frozen. Whenever possible, shovel before it has a chance to turn into ice.
- Use a plastic snow shovel: Metal shovel edges can scratch or gouge wood decking. A plastic shovel or one with a rubber edge is a better choice.
- Avoid chipping ice: Don’t use hammers, metal scrapers, or sharp tools to break up ice. You could damage the boards underneath.
- Keep stairs clear: Pay extra attention to deck stairs and landings, where slippery conditions can create a safety hazard.
- Follow product instructions: Apply ice melt according to the manufacturer’s directions, and remove excess meltwater when appropriate to help prevent refreezing.
If you have pets, keep in mind that magnesium chloride can cause stomach upset if ingested, and some pets may have sensitive paws. Take appropriate precautions when applying ice melt around areas where they walk.
So, Can You Put Ice Melt on a Wood Deck?
Yes, you can put ice melt on a wood deck, but avoid traditional rock salt and generic deicers that aren’t approved for decking. A product specifically formulated for outdoor wood surfaces, such as DeckWise Deck Ice-Melt, is a better option.
With the right product and a little regular snow removal, you can keep your deck safer throughout winter without putting unnecessary stress on the decking.
Looking for deck maintenance products? Check out our selection of deck care products to keep your deck looking great.
