How Much Snow Can Your Deck Hold Before You Need to Shovel?
Living in a snow-prone area, such as Traverse City, means dealing with heavy snowfall throughout the winter. While snow-covered landscapes can be beautiful, excessive snow accumulation on your deck can lead to structural issues and safety concerns. So, how much snow can your deck hold before you need to shovel it off? Let’s break it down.
Understanding Your Deck’s Load Capacity
Most residential decks are built to handle a specific load capacity, typically around 50 pounds per square foot (psf). This includes the weight of the deck itself and any additional loads like furniture, people, and, of course, snow.
To understand how much snow your deck can safely support, consider the following general estimates:
- Fresh, light snow weighs about 3-5 pounds per cubic foot.
- Packed, wet snow can weigh 15-20 pounds per cubic foot.
- Ice is much heavier, at roughly 57 pounds per cubic foot.
If your deck is built to a 50 psf standard, that means it can support roughly 10 inches of packed, wet snow before reaching its limit. If the snow is light and fluffy, you might not need to worry until it exceeds two feet. However, if ice accumulates, the weight adds up much faster, making shoveling necessary sooner.
Signs It’s Time to Shovel
While snow can accumulate without immediate consequences, there are a few indicators that it’s time to grab the shovel:
- Snow depth exceeds one foot – If snow is accumulating quickly and nearing the 12-inch mark, it’s a good idea to start clearing it.
- Heavy, wet snow or ice accumulation – Even a few inches of wet, dense snow can add significant weight.
- Creaking or sagging – If you hear unusual sounds or see your deck slightly bending under the weight, it’s crucial to remove the snow immediately.
- Obstructed exits or walkways – Keeping paths clear for safety is just as important as protecting the deck structure.
Best Practices for Safe Snow Removal
When it’s time to clear your deck, follow these tips to prevent damage:
- Use a plastic shovel – Metal shovels can scrape or gouge your deck boards.
- Shovel parallel to the boards – This reduces the risk of catching edges and damaging the surface.
- Be gentle with de-icers – Avoid rock salt, which can corrode wood and hardware. Use a pet-friendly, deck-safe ice melt instead.
- Keep up with snowfall – Removing snow periodically throughout the season is easier than dealing with a heavy accumulation all at once.
Protect Your Deck This Winter
A well-maintained deck can handle winter conditions, but regular upkeep is essential. If you’re unsure about your deck’s structural integrity or need repairs before the snow flies, consider a professional inspection. At Traverse City Deck Builders, we specialize in building and maintaining durable decks designed to withstand harsh winters. Contact us today for an assessment and keep your deck safe all season long!
By staying proactive with snow removal, you’ll extend the life of your deck and enjoy a safer, more functional outdoor space throughout the winter months.