How To Clean Composite Decking?[A Simple and Cost-Few Guide]

Maintaining the beauty of your composite deck is easy and inexpensive; just use common household tools like a broom to regularly sweep, and for harder-to-clean dirt, use soap and a sponge with soapy water, then rinse with clean water; every 6 months to 1 year, use a hose to rinse the entire deck on a sunny day, taking only 30-60 minutes.

Follow these simple steps to keep your deck looking new without any additional costs.

Step-by-Step Cleaning Guide

1. Sweep Regularly:
   • Use a broom or leaf blower to remove dirt, leaves, and debris from the deck surface. Regular sweeping prevents buildup and reduces the need for deep cleaning.
2. Wash with Soap and Water:
   • Fill a bucket with warm water and add a small amount of mild dish soap.
   • Dip a soft-bristle brush or sponge into the soapy water and scrub the deck boards gently, following the grain pattern.
3. Rinse Thoroughly:
   • Use a garden hose to rinse off the soapy water. Simply press your finger against the end of the hose to create a flat spray. Make sure to rinse thoroughly to avoid leaving any soap residue on the decking surface.
4. Dry Naturally:
   • Choose a sunny day to clean your deck. Allow the deck to air dry completely. This helps prevent mold and mildew growth. Depending on the size of your deck, the entire cleaning process should take about 30 to 60 minutes.

Common Cleaning Challenges

Even though composite decks require less maintenance than wood, you might still encounter some challenges. Here’s how to tackle them:

Dirt and Debris

Spray off the affected area with a hose to remove surface debris. Use warm soapy water and a soft-bristle brush to remove dirt and debris from the embossing pattern.

Stubborn Stains

Clean spills and stains immediately, especially from food, oil, or greasy substances. Use a degreasing agent or mild soap and water solution to remove stubborn stains.

Mold and Mildew

In shaded areas, mold and mildew can grow. Use a mixture of one part white vinegar to four parts water to scrub the affected areas, followed by a thorough rinse.

Hard Water Staining

Hard water can leave mineral deposits on your deck. Clean these spots with white vinegar, followed by a rinse with non-hard water. A deck brightener can also help.

Oil, Grease, and Food

Remove all food spills as soon as possible. Clean the surface within seven days to maintain the stain warranty. Use warm, soapy water and a soft-bristle brush to clean spills.

Ice and Snow

Use a plastic shovel to remove snow from the deck. Apply calcium chloride or rock salt to melt the snow and ice without damaging the surface.

Preventative Maintenance Tips

To keep your composite deck looking its best, follow these preventative maintenance tips:

Regular Sweeping

Keep your deck free of dirt and debris by sweeping it regularly. This prevents buildup and reduces the need for deep cleaning.

Avoid Harsh Chemicals

Bleach, ammonia, and other harsh chemicals can damage your deck and fade its color. Stick to mild cleaners and natural solutions whenever possible.

Protect from Scratches

Avoid dragging furniture across your deck to prevent scratches. Lift and move furniture instead.

Use Mats and Rugs

Place mats at entry points to minimize dirt tracked onto the deck. Be cautious with rubber-backed mats, as they can discolor the surface.

Store Properly

Store decking on a flat, level surface with proper supports (dunnage). Do not store directly on the ground and always cover decking products until ready to be installed.

Preventative Care

• Use Mats:
  • Place mats at entry points to reduce the amount of dirt tracked onto the deck.
• Avoid Dragging Furniture:
  • Lift and move furniture to prevent scratches.

By following these simple, cost-few steps, you can keep your composite deck looking beautiful with minimal effort. Enjoy your outdoor space with the ease of low maintenance and the satisfaction of a pristine deck.

LiNice – A Composite Floor Deck Manufacturer in China

LiNice is a leading manufacturer of composite floor decks in China, known for their excellent services and wide range of customization options. They specialize in providing tailored solutions to meet specific project needs. If you want to import composite deck from China, please feel free to CONTACT US.

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