If you want to avoid major deck repair in Bismarck, ND, it pays to pay attention to ice. Even if you have a tarp covering your deck or patio for the winter, water can still find its way underneath. When ice festers for extended periods of time, it can lead to extensive problems and even bigger bills. Here are some reasons why ice is bad for your deck.

 

Creates Excessive Weight

 

Although a few specs here are there are typically nothing to worry about, large chunks or sheets of ice can be quite heavy. Decks generally support much weight, but that job is made extremely difficult when water and ice are concerned. Not only does the wood have extra pressure to contend with, but also moisture. In extreme cases, the deck can buckle and break.

 

Works Nails Loose

 

In less extreme cases, ice can cause nail holes to contract and become larger. This in turn loosens nails and forces them out of place. While not a direct threat to your deck installation in Steele, ND, it does give damage the opportunity to become worse. If nails are dislodged, water can seep in deeper to planks.

 

Causes Cracking and Splitting

 

If your deck had existing splitting going into winter, be sure to monitor the area closely. Just like nail holes, ice and cold weather can force cracks to contract and grow. If you do notice the problem getting worse, intervening early will spare you significant repair costs.

 

Poses Risk of Rot

 

One of the worst threats of ice on decking is rot. As the ice starts to melt, it sinks into damaged boards and stays there. When this happens for months on end, you risk losing the entire structure to rot, not to mention putting your personal safety at risk.

 

If you have ice on your deck, contact your local deck company in Wilton, ND, for assistance with removal.

North Dakota sees some of the most extreme winters in the country, but that doesn’t mean we have to say goodbye to patio time altogether. There are plenty of great ways to make the most out of your patio installation in Bismarck, ND, throughout fall and beyond. Here are some of our favorite ways to stay warm and enjoy the outdoors from the comfort of your patio.

 

1. Install an Enclosure

 

If your outdoor space is already fitted with a heated enclosure, congratulations! You are already set to enjoy the chillier months. If not, however, there are several options for turning your alfresco terrace into an indoor setting. You can invest in a full-fledged glass enclosure, complete with a heating system and door to the outdoors, or you can keep it simple with a collapsible canvas curtain. Both are excellent at creating warmth. As an expert tip, always keep weight limits in mind to avoid patio repair in New Salem, ND.

 

2. Bring in the Heaters

 

Whether or not you choose to invest in an enclosure, you can always bring in heaters to maximize patio time. The options in outdoor heating systems are nearly endless. From traditional standing gas heaters and hanging versions to fire pits and stylish torches, there is no shortage of choices. Heaters also come in a variety of price points and aesthetics; you can choose the one that fits your needs and personal style. Regardless of what kind you choose, an outdoor heater lets you enjoy your patio well into the fall.

 

3. Add Blankets

 

Once you are equipped with an enclosed space and adequate heat, it is time to make things extra cozy. Encourage gathering and lingering on your patio by leaving a few woolen blankets on chairs for guests. When you are snuggled up next to a fire pit and wrapped in a blanket, even the chilliest winter feels warm.

 

Talk to your patio company in Mandan, ND, for even more ways to extend usage.

Whether you are investing in a brand new patio installation in Steele, ND, or are making repairs to your existing one, your choice in contractor matters. The right one will not only take the time to listen to you needs and budget, but also provide quality workmanship that lasts for years to come. Here are four signs you are working with a reliable patio contractor.

 

1. Take the Time to Understand Your Goals

 

Before beginning any work to your property, a quality patio company in Bismarck, ND, will take the time to listen to your vision for the results. Your contractor should ask about budget limits and strictly adhere to them throughout the project. He or she should also spend ample time getting a sense of your expectations and how you want the final results to look.

 

2. Talks to You About Different Design Options

 

A great contractor doesn’t work with just one brand or specific material. He or she should have a wide variety of options and price points from which to choose. Beyond the materials involved, a skilled contractor should also have an excellent sense of design and talk to you about different styling options.

 

3. Works Efficiently and Cleanly

 

When it comes down to the actual work, a reputable contractor will get the job done efficiently and neatly. He or she will leave your property in the same or better condition than when they first arrived. If you are undergoing patio repair in Wilton, ND, your contractor should not cause any additional damage.

 

4. Has an Excellent Reputation

 

Last but not least, one of the surefire signs of a great patio company is reputation. You can confirm your contractor’s character by perusing reviews online and reading testimonials from previous customers.

 

When your contractor demonstrates these essential qualities, you can be sure you have found a good one.

Winter in North Dakota brings brutal conditions. Unfortunately, heavy snow and ice can sometimes lead to major problems on outdoor living components like decks and patios. If you hear your deck come crunching down under the weight of the latest round of ice, there are a few precautions you should take to mitigate damage and protect your personal safety. Here are the first steps to take after sustaining major damage to your deck installation in Mandan, ND.

 

Do Not Stand on a Compromised Deck

 

Although it may be tempting to go survey the scene after a major accident, you should never stand or walk around on a compromised deck. Areas that may still look intact can quickly come down under new weight. Always put your safety first and alert anyone else in your home to avoid going on the deck until further notice.

 

Call Your Contractor

 

Instead of scoping out the scene yourself, give your deck company in New Salem, ND, a call and let the professionals handle it for you. Generally, the sooner you can call your contractor, the better. He or she will be the best authority on assessing the damage and will also know the safest ways to do so without causing further destruction.

 

Assess the Severity

 

Once your contractor is on the scene, he or she will evaluate the extent of damage and go over the report with you. If only one or two boards buckled under the weight of snow, you may be able to get by with minor deck repair in Bismarck, ND. If you are dealing with severe rot or extensive breaks, however, you may be better off partially or totally replacing your deck.

 

These are just some of the most important actions to take immediately following major deck damage. When in doubt, always let a professional deck contractor handle the cleanup for you.

Were you too busy to schedule that patio installation in Bismarck, ND, this summer? Now that October is here, you may be wondering if you missed your window of opportunity altogether. Although fall in North Dakota is known to bring a few bouts of gnarly weather, this month is generally still a good time to add that new patio. While you may not be getting a ton of use out of it in the near future, your investment will be ready and waiting for you next spring. Alternatively, you can always add a heated enclosure to your patio to get the best of both worlds this winter and beyond.

 

Working With the Weather

 

Bad weather, particularly ice, can impact the timeline of exterior projects. Delays are common when conditions are poor. The month of October usually brings the first front of snow, which can make patio construction in New Salem, ND, a gamble. Generally, however, the ground is still warm enough for much of the month to accommodate new construction. By understanding that your new patio may take slightly longer than expected if bad weather strikes, you will be prepared to be patient.

 

Setting Realistic Expectations

 

The reality is that, unless you are adding a heating component, you probably will not be spending much time on your patio until next spring. Setting realistic expectations about your new addition can go a long way. Do not call your patio company in Mandan, ND, to schedule an October installation and expect to be able to use it every day. Instead, know that you are beating the rush by installing in fall and consider your patio an investment for next spring.

 

Getting a Great Deal

 

By undertaking new patio construction in October, you are also avoiding the summer price surge. Your patio contractors are at their busiest in the warmer months, which means workforces are spread thin and traffic is high. By booking outside of the summer rush, you will be able to seize a great deal.

 

It’s not too late to install that patio!