Are Your Decks Slippery?

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If you have a wooden deck, you know just how scary it can sometimes be to walk outside after the rain and slip and fall. I was recently walking outside on my deck to take some trash out and nearly fell on my back. Here are some tips from This Old House to prevent a slippery deck:

Q: The steps up to our deck are made of treated lumber that has been stained to match the house. Problem is, they get very slippery when wet. What can I do to solve this problem?

-Clide Sipes Jr., Shade Gap, PA

A: Tom Silva replies: Your best bet is to install self-adhesive nonskid strips on each step. The gritty surface of the strips really improves traction, even when wood steps aren't wet. I get mine at a marine supply store, but I've also seen similar products at home centers and hardware stores. The strips come in rolls 1 and 2 inches wide; simply cut off what you need.

I'd apply two or three strips parallel with the front edge of each tread. Before installing them, be sure the wood is sanded, thoroughly cleaned, and dry so the adhesive will stick.

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