I'm going to build an entrance staircase in wood. The downside is that it can become extremely slippery in the winter with a wooden staircase. Is there a good way to address that? Salt? Sand? I had some thoughts about having a mat on the stairs, but then I need to know which mat so I can build the stairs lower to ensure the door doesn't hit the mat when opening. How would you do it?
Plastic is likely to become more slippery than wood in snow and frost...
Have not experienced an issue with the wooden stairs. You just have to remove the snow.
If you let an ice layer form, there are ice picks well-suited for removing these.
If you let an ice layer form, there are ice picks well-suited for removing these.
I also have two wooden decks, and I don't find them slippery either. I shovel one of them occasionally but not the other. It might become slippery when the snow melts and if the water can't drain away before it freezes. However, I've never experienced that in the years I've had them.M Förstagångsköparen said:
The most important thing is to keep the decking clean. When algae start to grow and dirt accumulates, it becomes slippery when it gets wet. Going out and scrubbing with a sturdy scrub brush when it starts to feel slippery is my tip! Whether or not you plan to have a mat, you should still leave a few centimeters free by the door so it doesn't get stuck as soon as some trampled snow gathers outside the door!
Agree that wooden stairs can become quite slippery, was close to a fracture this morning. I think workingclasshgero's solution is great, considering it myself. Otherwise, we've used rag rugs or chicken wire. I think plaster mesh might be more sensible than chicken wire. One has to consider if one wants a year-round solution or if one is willing to put winter tires even on the entrance.