You have a Trex Deck, or you are thinking about getting one for your Ogden home. This is a smart move. These composite Trex Decks are tough, they are low-maintenance, and they are built to last. But even with the best materials, our local climate here in Ogden can cause some problems. You need to know when to schedule that Trex Deck build and how to keep your Trex Deck in top shape through all four seasons in Ogden. Let us talk about it.
When is the Best Time to Build Your Trex Deck in Ogden?
Most people think summer is the only time for outdoor projects. But for a Trex Deck, that is not always the case. In fact, you might be surprised to hear that winter can actually be a great time to build a Deck in Utah. Winter can be a good time to build a Trex Deck, even with all the snow we get, especially up by the Ben Lomond peak.
- Winter (December - February): This is often the off-season for us contractors. That means we are usually less busy, so you might get a quicker start on your Trex Deck project and more focused attention. You could even get some off-season discounts on labor or materials for your Trex Deck. The cold, firm ground is actually more stable for setting Trex Deck footings, which can lead to a stronger, more structurally sound Trex Deck. Plus, your Trex Deck will be ready to go the moment spring hits in Ogden.
- Spring (March - May): Spring is a popular time for Trex Deck building, and for good reason. Temperatures are mild, making it comfortable for our crew to work on your Trex Deck. But watch out for those spring showers in Ogden. Ogden sees a fair bit of rain in April and May, which can cause delays for Trex Deck construction. Also, everyone else is thinking about their outdoor spaces, so you will need to book early to beat the rush for your Ogden Trex Deck.
- Summer (June - August): Summer gives us long daylight hours, which is great for getting Trex Deck work done. However, our Ogden summers get hot, with July highs often hitting 90°F or more. That heat can make working uncomfortable and can affect material handling for Trex Decks. Plus, it is peak season, so contractors are very busy with Trex Deck projects in Ogden.
- Fall (September - November): This is often the sweet spot for Trex Deck building. The weather is usually mild and dry, much like spring, but with fewer crowds. The ground has had all summer to dry out, making excavation easier for your Trex Deck. Lower humidity is also better for material stability for Trex Deck materials.
Weather Conditions That Affect Trex Deck Work
Trex Decking is tough, but extreme weather can still impact Trex Deck installation. Here is what we keep an eye on for Trex Deck projects in Ogden:
- Temperature: Trex boards can be installed in all temperatures. However, temperature affects the gapping. When it is below 40°F, we need to leave a wider gap between Trex boards. This means 1/4 inch width-to-width, 1/2 inch abutting, and 3/16 inch end-to-end. This allows for expansion when the Trex Deck heats up. If it is hot during installation, we will gap the Trex boards tighter because they will shrink in the cold. Trex has tested their structural performance from -20°F to 125°F.
- Precipitation: Rain and snow are not ideal for Trex Deck installation. While Trex itself will not be damaged, working in wet conditions is slower. It can also be unsafe, and it makes it harder to make precise cuts and fastening for the Trex Deck. Ogden gets significant snowfall in winter, especially January and December. May is typically our wettest month for rain in Ogden.
- Wind: Strong winds can make handling long Trex Deck boards tricky and potentially dangerous. Ogden's wind speeds are pretty consistent year-round, averaging around 8-9 mph.
Protecting Your Trex Deck Year-Round
One of the best things about Trex is how little maintenance it needs. But low maintenance is not no maintenance. A little seasonal care goes a long way to protect your Trex Deck investment in Ogden.
Spring Cleaning & Inspection for your Trex Deck
After winter, your Trex Deck needs a refresh. Give it a good cleaning to get rid of any winter grime, dirt, and pollen buildup. You can use mild soap and water with a soft-bristle brush, or a low-pressure power washer under 1,500 PSI. Do not use harsh chemicals or bleach, as they can damage the Trex Deck surface. Check for any loose fasteners or boards on your Trex Deck. Also, trim back any trees or bushes that are shading the Trex Deck too much, which can lead to mold on your Trex Deck in Ogden.
Summer Heat Management for your Trex Deck
Trex Decks, like any outdoor surface, can get hot in direct sunlight, especially darker colors. If you have a dark Trex Deck and it is 90 degrees out, you will feel it. Here is what you can do for your Trex Deck in Ogden:
- Shade: Consider adding an umbrella, pergola, or awning over your Trex Deck.
- Lighter Colors: If you are building a new Trex Deck, lighter Trex colors reflect more sunlight and stay cooler. Some newer Trex lines even have heat-mitigating technology for their Trex Deck boards.
- Rugs: Outdoor rugs can help protect your feet from hot Trex Deck surfaces.
- Water: A quick rinse with a hose can cool down your Trex Deck in a hurry.
Fall Prep for your Trex Deck
Fall brings leaves and other debris to your Trex Deck. Sweep your Trex Deck regularly to prevent leaves from sitting and causing stains or mold. Hose it down to clear off dirt and pollen from your Trex Deck. Clean the Trex Deck thoroughly before winter sets in. If you are leaving furniture out, cover it up on your Trex Deck.
Winter Protection for your Trex Deck
Trex Decks handle our Ogden winters very well. They will not rot, warp, or splinter from snow and ice. But you still need to be smart about snow removal from your Trex Deck:
- Shovel Smart: Use a plastic shovel, not metal, to clear snow from your Trex Deck. Metal can scratch the Trex Deck boards. Shovel with the direction of the Trex Deck boards to minimize accidental dings.
- De-icers: Calcium chloride or rock salt are generally safe for Trex Decks to melt ice. Avoid sand, as it can scratch the Trex Deck surface. Rinse off any residue once the snow and ice have melted and temperatures allow.
- Avoid Sharp Tools: Do not chip away at ice on your Trex Deck with sharp tools. Let the de-icers do their job naturally.
- Clear Debris: Sweep off standing snow periodically to reduce moisture exposure. Also, clear debris before heavy snowfall so nothing gets trapped underneath your Trex Deck.
By following these seasonal tips, your Trex Deck from Alpha Deck Co will stay looking fantastic. It will be ready for you to enjoy, no matter what our unpredictable Ogden weather throws its way. Alpha Deck Co provides Trex Deck services for homes in Ogden, Utah.