🚨 Slippery Decking: Why Autumn Is the Time to Act Before Winter Hits
There’s nothing worse than stepping outside on a crisp autumn morning, only to find your decking as slippery as an ice rink. Slippery decking isn’t just a nuisance — it’s a real safety hazard that can cause serious injury if left untreated. With autumn leaves falling, damp weather setting in, and winter around the corner, now is the time to tackle it head-on.
🌿 Why Does Decking Become Slippery?
Moisture Build-Up
Autumn rains soak into timber and composite decking, creating the perfect breeding ground for algae and moss.Organic Debris
Fallen leaves, dirt, and even bird droppings trap moisture on the surface, speeding up algae growth.Shade & Lack of Sunlight
With shorter days and longer nights, decking often stays damp for longer, encouraging slime, moss, and mould.Wear & Tear
Over time, wood fibres break down, and if decking isn’t cleaned or treated, it loses grip — making it dangerously smooth underfoot.
⚠️ Why Slippery Decking Is a Real Danger
Trip & Fall Risk → A simple slip on decking can lead to broken bones, sprains, or head injuries.
Legal Responsibility → If you’re a landlord or property manager, you’re responsible for ensuring pathways and decking areas are safe for tenants and visitors.
Property Damage → Algae and moss don’t just sit on the surface — they eat away at the decking material, shortening its lifespan.
🍂 Why Autumn Is the Best Time to Sort It
Pre-Winter Safety → Deal with slippery decking now and avoid icy, algae-ridden surfaces in December and January.
Prevention Over Cure → Regular autumn cleaning with the right treatments can stop moss and algae reappearing during the damp winter months.
Boost Kerb Appeal → Clean decking looks fresh and welcoming, especially if you’re hosting friends and family over Christmas.
âś… How We Fix It
At Cotswold Exterior Surface Cleaning LTD, we use professional pressure washing and eco-friendly treatments to:
Safely remove moss, algae, and built-up dirt.
Restore natural grip to timber or composite decking.
Apply biocide treatments to keep decking cleaner for longer.