CHS Custom Decks Now Scheduling Winter Porch Assessments for Coates Homeowners
COATES, MN — CHS Custom Decks & Design, a family-owned and veteran-owned outdoor construction company with more than 30 years of experience serving the region, is now scheduling winter porch assessments and snow and ice management consultations for residential property owners in Coates before Minnesota’s most demanding weather arrives.
Minnesota Winters Put Porches Under Compounding Stress
Coates sees some of the most challenging winter conditions in the country, and porches bear the full weight of them. Heavy snowfall adds significant load to porch roofs, decking surfaces, and support columns that weren’t designed to carry sustained heavy burdens. When snow is allowed to accumulate without removal, structural fatigue builds in framing members and fastener connections in ways that aren’t always visible until spring reveals the damage.
Ice compounds the problem. Snowmelt refreezes at deck edges, stair treads, and low points on porch flooring, creating slip hazards and forcing moisture into surface cracks that widen with each freeze cycle. Catching ice formation early in the season prevents the cumulative damage that shortens porch service life and turns manageable maintenance into major repairs.
Material Selection Makes Winter Easier to Manage
Composite decking resists moisture absorption and doesn’t expand and contract as dramatically as wood under temperature swings, making it a reliable surface choice for Minnesota’s freeze-thaw environment. Composite boards also resist the surface cracking that allows ice and water to penetrate and weaken the substructure beneath. Hardware matters just as much as the surface material. Standard fasteners loosen over time as temperature fluctuations drive repeated expansion and contraction in surrounding materials. Hidden fastener systems and stainless steel hardware maintain connection integrity through multiple winter seasons and reduce the inspection burden needed to keep porch structures secure and code-compliant.
Snow Removal Done Right Protects the Structure
A consistent snow removal routine prevents the load accumulation and moisture infiltration that cause the most significant winter damage to Coates porches. Plastic snow shovels and rubber-edged tools protect composite and wood surfaces where metal blades gouge the material and create entry points for ice and moisture. Removing snow in layers rather than attempting full clearance in one effort also reduces physical stress on porch decking and framing during heavy accumulation events.
For covered porches, roof rake tools allow property owners to clear snow from roof sections without climbing onto icy surfaces. Keeping porch roofs clear protects rafters, ledger connections, and column bases from the compressive stress that prolonged accumulation generates. Clearing after each significant snowfall produces far better structural outcomes than infrequent removal of large accumulated depths.
Drainage and Ice Prevention Work Together
Clearing debris from between deck boards and confirming that the porch surface maintains adequate slope away from the home allows snowmelt to drain freely rather than pool and refreeze on the surface. Inspecting and clearing drainage pathways before the first significant snowfall confirms the system is ready for winter conditions before they arrive.
Calcium chloride is the right tool for ice management on porch surfaces. It handles ice effectively without the surface and hardware damage that rock salt causes over time. Applying it proactively before anticipated freezing rain or overnight temperature drops reduces ice bonding to deck surfaces and stair treads. Paired with prompt snow removal after each storm, it gives porch surfaces the most reliable protection available through Coates’ extended winter season.
About CHS Custom Decks & Design
CHS Custom Decks & Design is a family-owned and veteran-owned outdoor construction company serving Coates and the surrounding region with more than 30 years of experience and over 400 completed projects. The company builds residential and commercial decking, deck railing and lighting, pergolas, porches, patios, gazebos, pavilions, sheds, and outdoor kitchens. CHS Custom Decks provides free estimates, 3D design services, and financing options, and backs all work with a two-year craftsmanship warranty and material warranties of up to 50 years on qualifying products.
Property owners in Coates can schedule a free winter porch assessment or snow and ice management consultation by calling CHS Custom Decks & Design at (651) 368-2661.
Additional Deck Services
Deck Inspection
Ensure safety and durability with professional evaluations.
Deck Addition
Expand your current deck for more outdoor enjoyment.
Deck Remodeling
Upgrade design, layout, or features for a modern look.
Deck Resurfacing
Refresh your deck’s appearance and lifespan.
Deck Railing Installation
Secure and stylish railing solutions.
Deck Lighting
Enhance visibility and ambiance with expert lighting installs.
We Work With The Best Manufacturers
We build using top-tier materials to ensure lasting quality and aesthetic appeal.
Trex
Durable and eco-friendly composite decking for a low-maintenance, high-performance finish.
TimberTech AZEK
Advanced polymer decking offering the look of wood with minimal upkeep.
Deckorators
Innovative decking and railing solutions designed to withstand the elements while offering standout style and versatility.
Westbury
High-performance aluminum railings known for strength, sleek profiles, and long-term durability.
Viewrail
Modern railing systems with minimalist design, ideal for creating open, contemporary outdoor spaces with glass and cable options.
Barrette Outdoor Living
A wide range of outdoor products including fencing, railing, and decking components built for style and strength.
Struxure
Smart pergola systems that provide adjustable shade and shelter with high-tech, motorized louvers for year-round outdoor comfort.
EZ-Screen Porch Windows
Transform your porch into a versatile, enclosed space with durable, easy-to-operate screen window systems.
SCREENEZE
A no-spline, easy-to-install screen system offering clean lines and long-lasting performance for porches and patios.
Porch Windows Direct
Custom porch window solutions that allow homeowners to enjoy their outdoor spaces longer through seasonal protection and flexible ventilation.
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Contact
CHS Custom Decks & Design
Transform your outdoor space with CHS Custom Decks & Design today. From decks to porches, we offer premium craftsmanship you can trust. Visit us at 14607 Felton Ct #115, Apple Valley, MN 55124, United States, near Galaxie Library. Call (651) 368-2661 or click below to get started.