How To Clean Composite Deck

If the mold caused stains, use oxygen bleach to treat the stains. If you use oxygen bleach, follow up with a deck brightener solution as this returns the pH levels of the wood to a stable level. Trex Decks can last a lifetime and will maintain their quality but sometimes they show their age. One of the best ways to care for your deck is to clean it regularly - don’t let it get past the point of no return.

Any decking material exposed to the outdoors is susceptible to mold/mildew growth especially in climates with higher humidity levels. Water left pooling on the surface or inside your deck can create problems such as mold/mildew growth, deck rot, and warping. The good news is that mold can be prevented with a simple but consistent application of a moisture barrier. Once again, choosing the correct product is crucial to successfully protect your deck from mold.

The label should specify the cleaner is safe for painted surfaces. The product may also contain surfactants to help stave off staining. Most painted deck cleaning products come premixed and should be sprayed or squirted on, mopped lightly to clean away dirt and grime, and then wiped dry with clean, soft rags. Composite decking is manufactured from wood byproducts and plastic, and it comes with an impermeable surface, designed to resist rotting and decay. Wood deck cleaners may be too harsh for composite decks, especially if they contain brightening ingredients, which can strip the sheen off decking, leaving a dull, unattractive look. A deck cleaner made specifically for composite lumber may contain surfactants, ingredients that leave a thin protective layer on the surface to help repel staining.

Cleaning Composite And Wood Decking

Removing Mold, Tree Sap And Mildew Stains On Composite Deck Railings

After washing each board, rinse decking thoroughly with fresh water. When completed, rinse the deck off with water, a pressure washer and/or a scrub brush will assist in the cleaning process. Though bleach will not damage the structure of the deck the way it will with wood and vinyl decks, it could lighten the surface of your composite deck. This is true for products that contain acid as well.

Pressure Washing Your Composite Decking

On the other hand, when it comes to the best way to clean composite decking, the answer looks quite different from cleaning methods for natural decking. To maintain the beauty and functionality that you want from your deck, a little care and cleaning can go a long way. You can then use your garden hose or a pressure washer to rinse the surface of the deck. Try to time your deck cleaning project for nice weather.

• Like other wood deck varieties, composite decking is quite porous.
• Pressure washing is not usually recommended for composite decking.
• Pressure washing too close or using too much pressure can be ruinous for your deck.
• It's best to use an oxygenated cleaner that will sink deep into the material to clean the lower layers as well as on the surface.

If you prefer to pressure wash your Trex decking, that’s fine. But, the pressure washer cannot be greater than 3100 psi or it could damage the decking, which would void the Trex warranty. To clean with a pressure washer, first spray your deck with commercial pressure washer soap. (Buy some now on Amazon.) Next, scrub each board with a soft-bristle brush. Finally, rinse each board thoroughly, using a pressure washer fan tip that’s no closer than eight inches from the surface. The best way to clean mildew and mold from composite decking is by using the soap-and-water method mentioned in the previous chapter. Over time, your composite decking or porch will probably need to be cleaned from common problems such as mold, dirt, food and beverage stains, etc.

How To Treat Stains On Your Outdoor Deck

In most cases, a garden hose should be sufficient for regular duty cleaning. If you must pressure wash, just remember to keep it at the lowest pressure possible and no closer than 8″ from the surface. Pressure washing too close or using too much pressure can ruin your deck.

Even if it appears clean, it is important to prevent build-up of pollen/debris. Mildew stains may occur where moisture, pollens, and/or dirt are present.

It’s important that you use a brush with soft bristles in order to not damage the boards’ finish or color. If stains are still apparent, let your deck dry and then consider applying a stain stipper. Stain strippers are tougher than soap and can remove almost any stain, especially tree sap stains. Stain strippers require a firmer bristle brush or broom in order to truly remove the stains. For how to clean composite decking DIY, start by spraying the deck off with a hose and water to remove any surface debris.