Temperatures are dropping and winter is just around the corner. Soon, snow will blanket outdoor living spaces, turning decks and patios into white winter landscapes. Beautiful as it is, snow and ice can be incredibly tough on outdoor living spaces, especially multi-level decks. Heavy snow loads, freezing temperatures and repeated freeze-thaw cycles can take a toll on deck framing systems, threatening their long-term integrity.

So, how do you protect a deck from snow and ice? Multi-level deck or not, it literally starts from the ground up. When it comes to building a deck that can brace against harsh winter conditions, the most important decision is choosing the right deck framing material. What is the best deck framing material for cold climates? The correct answer is one that supports heavy loads, resists the damaging effects of moisture and requires little maintenance to maintain its long-term structural integrity. In other words, all the qualities that have become synonymous with steel deck framing.

Start with the right framing material under the multi-level deck

In regions that experience heavy and frequent snowfall, the strength of the deck framing material makes a big difference to the longevity of the outdoor living space. Multi-level decks, in particular, face unique structural demands because they have to support today's sought-after outdoor amenities, multiple platforms, staircases and connection points. Snow accumulation can push traditional wood framing to its limits.

On the other hand, with up to 10 times the strength of wood, steel flexes with force, making it a trusted choice on multi-level deck builds. All muscle and brawn, steel deck framing can handle loads up to 250 psf. The high load-bearing capacity of the deck framing system directly correlates with its ability to provide greater spans with fewer intermediate supports. For example, Fortress Building Products offers an engineered steel deck beam that can span as long as 20 feet between supports. This gives clients more usable space and cleaner lines across multiple levels, helping them maximize the square footage of their expansive outdoor living space.

Prioritize a weather-resilient and durable deck framing material

Any client will want their multi-level deck to last for years, especially when they’re making such a huge investment in their outdoor space. But winter weather will put their investment to the test. When snow melts, deck framing can be exposed to moisture for long periods of time, which can weaken wood framing systems to the point of collapse. But when supported by steel framing, multi-level decks are going to deliver reliable performance.

Unlike wood, steel deck framing is not vulnerable to the damaging effects of weather. It will not rot, split or warp when exposed to moisture or extreme temperature changes. Steel frame profiles will remain straight and true over time, giving multi-level decks a dimensionally stable foundation that’s as dependable as it is strong. For contractors, it means delivering bigger and better projects that not only impress on day one but also stand up to the elements, season after season.

Proactive care before and during snow events

Even a well-built multi-level deck can become hazardous if snow and ice accumulate. This is why winter deck maintenance and proactive care are critical for ensuring the safety and longevity of outdoor spaces. To protect deck users and reduce liability, contractors should emphasize preventative measures to their clients. This includes recommending regular snow removal before it compacts and freezes, specifying safe de-icing products that won't damage surface boards and installing anti-slip treads or textured coatings on stairs and walkways. These simple steps help reduce hazards, improve deck usability and demonstrate a commitment to their client's safety. In turn, it protects both the multi-level deck and the contractor's professional reputation.

Building a winter-ready multi-level deck is easy with Fortress® Evolution

Ready-to-assemble solutions like the Evolution steel deck framing system from Fortress Building Products makes delivering a winter-ready, multi-level deck a straightforward job. Installing the interlocking joist and ledger system looks and feels like working with lumber. In fact, plenty of the top builders will tell you that framing a deck with steel is easier than working with wood. For ultimate peace of mind and confidence in its winter-ready performance, the deck framing system is backed by a 25-year manufacturer warranty.

Ready to deliver a winter-ready multi-level deck? Reach out to your local Fortress Building Products rep or check out our Where to Buy page to locate a dealer near you.