10 Ultimate Tips For Cleaning Composite Decking

Call us on 067 676 0787

Why are composite decks easyer to clean

When compared to traditional lumber decks, which require frequent staining and sealing, composite decks are a low-maintenance alternative for homeowners. They are constructed using a combination of wood and vinyl or plastic, and then given a vinyl treatment before being coated.

The percentage of wood content can vary widely depending on the type of composite decking; nevertheless, many products contain anywhere from 40-70% wood content. To prevent and treat rot in wood materials, antifungal compounds and preservatives are typically applied to the wood.

Composite decks are superior to wood decks in terms of durability as well as ease of maintenance because they are created from a combination of wood and vinyl. They still require some upkeep in order to keep their attractive and welcoming appearance, but happily, you can clean them using only the items that you already have lying about the house.

Tip #1 – Firstly, lets look at what NOT to do when cleaning composite decking

No Bleach

Don’t use bleach or other harsh chemicals when cleaning composite decking. These can cause discoloration and damage to your decking’s finish, as well as pollute the ground around your house or pool area.

No Steel Wool

While cleaning composite decking don’t use steel wool or other abrasive materials on composite decking surfaces—they’ll scratch the finish and dull its appearance over time!

No Boiling Water

Don’t use water that’s too hot or too cold when cleaning composite decking. Water that’s too cold won’t be able to remove dirt from the surface of the decking; water that’s too hot may cause damage to the wood fibers and dull the finish over time. Use warm water instead of cold when cleaning your decking If you feel you need to use hotter water then, hot tap water from your geyser will do.(around 70 degrees Fahrenheit max).

Interested in Composite Decking Prices, then click this link

Tip #2 – How often should you clean your composite decking?

We recommend that you wash your composite decking at least every six months, ideally on a warm, sunny day. We have more information about general maintenance on your composite decking.

If your deck is in full sunlight, we suggest you wash small areas at a time; this will prevent the soapy water from drying before you can wash it off

Tip #3 – Deck preparation for cleaning

To protect them from cleaning products, first cover any plants, grass, garden décor, or other anything that are close to or under your deck. Remember that plants or grass maintained under cover for an extended period of time risk dying.

Take out all furniture, including tables, chairs, barbecues, rugs, and potted plants. Clear the surface, including the corners, of any debris such as branches, leaves, and any other objects. To remove dirt and leaves from the cracks, use a wide putty knife. The deck should then be hosed off to remove any loose dirt or debris.

deck cleaning soap

Tip #4 – Clean the Deck with Water, Liquid Detergent and a Nylon Bristle Brush

The majority of surface stains and layers of dirt and grime that collect on a composite deck can usually be removed with just a thorough scrubbing with soapy water and with a scrubbing brush.

Pour 5ltr of warm water  into a bucket with a ¼ cup of liquid dish detergent, such as Sunlight Liquid, which is biodegradable, safe for both people and animals into a bucket. While being gentle enough to neither harm the environment or your skin, it is also powerful enough to remove debris from the rough grain of composite decking.

For stubborn stains pour a light dishwashing liquid directly onto the composite decking and scrub with the scrubbing brush.

Spray the deck off with a hose to remove all soapy water. Allow to dry in the sun.

Tip #5 -How to clean the grooves in the decking

Scrubbing the boards of your deck is only one part of the cleaning process; you also need to be familiar with the proper technique for cleaning the grooves. Utilizing the bristles on your broom or brush to sweep any debris out of the crevices is the most effective method for accomplishing this task.

Pro tip

Our composite decking has a coating which will help keep many stains to just on the surface, having said that it is always good practise to wipe up spills of any kind as soon as possible. It is more likely that they will seep into the decking and become more difficult to remove the longer they sit.

Tip #6 – Pressure Washing

Can you use a pressure washer to clean your composite decking, “Yes, you can, but use caution.”

It is not advisable to make use of high pressure washing systems to clean your composite deck as the pressure from the water can strip the wood grain, leaving it looking dull and splotchy, and it can also cause damage to your decking and void your warranty.

Cleaning composite decking with a high water pressure can harm your decking if not used appropriately.

While cleaning composite decking can typically be done without a pressure washer,  “warm soapy water, a deck brush, and some good ol’ elbow grease usually work the trick and keep your deck from potentially becoming damaged.”

A deck can be revitalised and a thin coating of grime removed by giving the surface a brief spray with the pressure washer fan tip. The fan tip reduces the nozzle’s pressure and reduces the likelihood of damage.

how to pressure wash composite decking

Tip #7 – Important to note: when pressure washing

In general, it is advisable staying below 1,500 psi (pounds per square inch). For the same reasons, keep the nozzle at least six inches away from the deck boards. Make sure you move with the grain of the board by making broad, sweeping motions.

Fill the pressure washer soap dispenser with dishwashing liquid or a solution made especially for pressure washers for decks with thick layers of dirt and difficult stains. For optimal results, read the manufacturer’s instructions. Use a hard brush to scrub away any tough stains, then work the cleaner into the corners.

Using the widest pressure washer nozzle (fan nozzle), clean the deck with plain water. Use the nozzle to make broad, sweeping strokes about two feet above the deck’s surface.

Tip #8 -How to Remove Mildew when cleaning composite decking

Mildew is a common problem on composite decking, especially in humid areas. If you’ve got a mildew problem on your composite decking, don’t worry! It’s not permanent—you just need to take the right steps to remove it.

What kind of mildew?

The first step is to figure out what kind of mildew you’re dealing with. If it’s black mold (Stachybotrys chartarum) which is often referred to as “toxic”, then you should call an expert who can help you get rid of it safely without exposing yourself or others in your home or yard.

However, if the mildew is greenish or white, then there are some things you can try at home before calling in an expert.

Removing the mildew

Unfortunately, simply washing off mildew won’t remove it—you’ll need to scrub the surface with a stiff-bristled brush to get rid of stubborn stains.

Here’s how: Use an enzyme cleaner such as Enviro Enzyme D’our from Blendwell Chemicals. Enviro Enzyme d’Odor contains microorganisms which are a very specific set of helpful microbes that are capable of decomposing organic material such a mildew and mould. The bacteria and enzymes that are produced during the digestion of the mildew are self-limiting and completely biodegrade.

Application

Dilute 10:1 ratio, 10 liters water to one litre Enviro Enzyme D’our, apply to the affected area, then leave over night for the microbs to do their work. Wash off with a mild detergent.

Tip #9 – How to Remove Rust Stains from Composite Decking

Rust stains are often caused by the oxidation of iron or steel, which can occur when water comes into contact with the metal. If you have composite decking that has been discolored by rust, don’t worry! It can be fixed with a little bit of elbow grease and some natural cleaners.

1. Use vinegar

Vinegar is one of the most popular home remedies for removing rust stains. It can be used either as a spray or a soak. For best results, use white vinegar and make sure to rinse it off thoroughly once you’re done cleaning.

2. Use baking soda

Baking soda is another simple, inexpensive option that works well to remove rust stains from composite decking. Mix 2 tablespoons of baking soda with 1 cup of water, then scrub the stain with a brush or sponge until it disappears. You can also sprinkle baking soda directly onto the stain and let it sit overnight before rinsing it off in the morning and then cleaning up any leftover residue with soap and water.

3. Use lemon juice

Lemon juice is a natural alternative to vinegar that works just as well at removing rust stains from composite decking! Just mix equal parts lemon juice and water, then apply it directly onto the stain with an old toothbrush or sponge before letting it sit for 15 minutes (or more if needed). Afterward, wipe

Tip #10 -Removing Snow and Ice from Composite Decking

Even if you won’t be using your deck frequently throughout the winter, you might still want to clean the backyard access paths and make your deck a safe place to walk.

Make sure to use products and techniques that won’t harm the deck surface while clearing snow and ice off your composite deck.

Let’s look at the safest methods for using ice melt or shovelling your deck.

Using a shovel with a plastic or rubber edge to prevent damage, you can remove snow off composite decking without harming the deck. Don’t use something which may nick, cut, and hurt your decking in any way.

If there is any remaining ice or snow after using a scraper, spray it with warm water until all of it melts away.

Then use a soft bristled brush to clean out any remaining residue from the wood fibers of your decking.

You might not even need a shovel to clear your deck during mild snowfalls. You may easily remove any snow that is less than 1-2 inches deep using a broom.

Our composite products are made to withstand the elements and provide a long-lasting, stunning deck.