A: Magnesium chloride is a less harsh deicing salt and it's not thought to harm plants or pollute waterways. Other products marketed as safe for concrete, plants and animals are also suitable for using on a wooden deck. Potassium chloride is also less corrosive and does not harm plants, but since it requires a higher air temperature to melt ice, it's one of the least effective options. Do not use a metal shovel to remove snow from a wooden deck; instead use a plastic shovel. Metal will chip the wood or composite and cause damage. Also, shovel lengthwise of your decking boards instead of across your boards. Remove snow from the deck often to prevent ice build up. Only use deicing salts on a wood deck that is water-sealed. Apply deicing salts before an ice or snow storm to prevent ice formation. Salt will leave a chalky residue on your composite decking. This can make the deck look dirty. Remove the salt residue by rinsing the deck with water from a garden hose. Fit the hose with a high-pressure nozzle for a faster and more efficient result. Check your composite clean and care guidelines for use of a cleaner to remove any residue or stains.
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