Under-Deck Drainage for Snow & Ice: Keep the Patio Dry All Winter
Nebraska winters aren’t easy on decks — snow, slush, and ice melt can wreak havoc on both the surface and the space below. If you’ve got a second-story deck with a patio or storage area underneath, an under-deck drainage system is one of the smartest upgrades you can make before winter fully sets in.
At Decks, Decks & More Decks, we’ve installed hundreds of systems across Omaha, Papillion, and Bellevue to protect decks from water damage, ice buildup, and erosion. Here’s why they matter — and how they keep your space usable all year long.
What Is an Under-Deck Drainage System?
An under-deck drainage system is designed to collect and divert water that seeps between deck boards, channeling it away from the framing and open space below.
Think of it as a gutter system for your deck — installed just beneath the surface. It typically includes:
-
Trough panels or membranes that catch water runoff
-
Downspouts that direct the flow away from your house
-
Flashing and sealing to prevent drips or leaks
Systems like TimberTech DrySpace are made specifically for composite decks and integrate seamlessly into new or existing builds.

Why It Matters During Winter
Snowmelt and freeze-thaw cycles can cause serious damage if your deck isn’t properly drained.
Here’s what happens without a drainage system:
-
Melted snow seeps through deck gaps and freezes below, creating icicles and slip hazards.
-
Trapped moisture accelerates rot in wood framing.
-
Concrete patios under decks can erode, stain, or crack from constant runoff.
With a drainage system, that moisture is redirected safely away — keeping the lower space dry, clean, and usable all winter.
Benefits Beyond Winter
Even after the snow melts, under-deck drainage keeps working for you year-round:
✅ Creates a usable dry space — great for patio furniture, storage, or outdoor kitchens.
✅ Prevents mold and rot by keeping framing moisture-free.
✅ Adds value to your home by protecting your investment.
✅ Pairs perfectly with composite decking for a lifetime of low maintenance.
Many homeowners in Papillion and Elkhorn use this system to turn the area beneath their deck into a covered outdoor room — perfect for grilling, entertaining, or relaxing out of the weather.
Our Installation Process
At Decks, Decks & More Decks, we integrate drainage systems directly during deck construction — but they can also be retrofitted on existing decks.
Here’s how we handle it:
-
Inspection: We evaluate your current deck framing for slope and spacing.
-
Installation: Drainage panels and downspouts are installed beneath the boards.
-
Sealing: Flashing is added where needed for full water protection.
-
Testing: We simulate runoff to ensure everything flows properly.
The end result — a fully sealed, dry area ready for Nebraska’s unpredictable weather.
Keep Your Patio Dry All Winter
A well-built deck isn’t just about looks — it’s about performance through every season. If you’re tired of snowmelt dripping through your boards or water pooling under your deck, an under-deck drainage system is your year-round solution.
Decks, Decks & More Decks is Omaha’s top choice for composite decking and waterproof drainage installs that last decades.
Call (402) 690-1050 or visit our Papillion showroom to explore TimberTech DrySpace and other drainage options in person.





