Composite decks are so much easier to clean than any other decking material. Although composite decks require little maintenance, cleaning it is essential to reduce the risk of damage and extend its life.
This article will outline the most efficient and safest ways to clean your composite deck. Continue reading to find out what to do, what to avoid, and the best way to eliminate the common stains that affect composite decking.
How to Clean Composite Decking in 5 Easy Steps
Composite decking is made from recycled materials, wood fibres, and polymer plastics. Therefore, it is far more durable, low-maintenance, and easier to clean than timber decking. Despite the minimal upkeep, composite decking requires periodic cleaning to maintain its natural appearance.
What You Need
- Soft bristle brush
- Mild dish soap (ammonia-free)
- Warm water
- Bicarbonate of soda
- Distilled white vinegar
- One teaspoon of lemon juice
Step 1: Prepare Your Deck
The first step is removing all the furniture, potted plants, and accessories from your deck, so you can see any hidden dirt and debris around furniture and plants.
Step 2: Sweep Your Deck
Sweep your deck to remove any loose dirt. Use a hand broom to remove any dirt stuck to your composite deck, or use a vacuum to suck up loose dirt and debris.
Step 3: Rinse the Deck and Prepare a Soapy Water Solution
Before scrubbing your composite decking boards, rinse your deck with warm water. This will make scrubbing and removing dirt and stubborn stains from textured composite decking boards easier. Once done, mix two tablespoons of dish soap into a bucket of warm water.
If your deck is plagued by mildew or mould, mix one tablespoon each of lemon juice and bicarbonate of soda and a quarter of a cup of distilled white vinegar and add the mixture to the water. Using the soft-bristled brush, apply gentle pressure as you scrub away any mildew or mould. Use a toothbrush with soft bristles to scrub the spaces in between the deck boards.
Step 4: Scrub and Remove Dirt and Debris
Gently start scrubbing your composite deck using a soft-bristled brush and soapy water. Ensure that the bristles are soft; a hard bristled brush could leave scratches on the deck surface. Gently apply pressure to remove stubborn stains and get into the spaces between each decking board.
Top Tip: If your deck receives direct sunlight, it is best to clean your composite deck in sections. The sun might dry out the soapy water, leaving behind a filmy residue.
Step 5: Rinse Your Deck Thoroughly
Once you’ve finished scrubbing your deck, the most important step is to rinse away the soapy water solution. As mentioned above, you don’t want to be left with residue on your clean composite decking, so ensure that you rinse it thoroughly.
How To Pressure Wash Composite Decking
Cleaning composite decking with a pressure washer is possible, but follow the manufacturer’s guidelines to avoid damaging your deck. Pressure washing can be used on capped composite decking, but using a pressure washer on uncapped decking is not recommended since the boards are much softer and can damage easily.
- Always use a fan tip nozzle to wash your composite decking. The nozzle will disperse the water evenly and avoids concentrating on a specific area that could strip away the composite decking board’s protective layer.
- The best setting on a pressure washer to avoid damage is a maximum of 1,500 pounds per square inch (PSI). Do not exceed the PSI limit since this can cause cuts and scratches on the composite decking surface.
- Keep the pressure washer at a safe distance from the deck’s surface; at least 20 to 30 centimetres.
- To avoid unsightly scratches and cuts, clean with the grain and not against it. Use the pressure washer with each individual composite decking board to get the best results.
Note: Exercise caution when using a pressure washer and follow the manufacturer guidelines to the letter. It is essential to note that a pressure washer is best suited for cleaning composite decking instead of a power washer. Power washers use steam and may be less effective in removing dirt and debris.
Things to Avoid When Cleaning Composite Decking
Avoid using chlorine bleach products or bleach on your composite structure.
Bleach will cause your composite deck to fade and chip. It is incredibly corrosive and will eventually discolour and damage your deck boards.
Bleach and industrial cleaners contain harsh chemicals and should be avoided. Instead, use a cleaning product that is made specifically for composite decking. If you find the ingredient Sodium Hypochlorite listed on a composite deck cleaning product, avoid it at all costs. Sodium hypochlorite is a chlorine beach that will cause discolouration.
Always use a soft-bristled broom to sweep dirt and debris from your composite deck. Hard bristles will scratch your deck’s surface.
Common Issues Affecting Composite Decking
You can expect your composite deck to be exposed to dirt and grime over time. However, common issues can affect your composite deck, and the good news is that removing them is no hassle.
Mould and Mildew
Invasive mould and mildew are common issues that composite decking boards experience. Unlike traditional wooden decking, mould and mildew do not ruin the structural integrity of composite boards, but they can harm your health. Luckily, using soap and water and gently scrubbing your deck is all it takes to eliminate the mildew and mould.
If this doesn’t work, follow our tips above using lemon juice, vinegar, and bicarbonate of soda.
Food Spills
Your composite deck is a place where you can relax, have a drink, and enjoy a meal. Most spills come from accidentally dropping food or knocking over a glass.
Clean up any food or liquid spills with a paper towel and if that does not work, use the handy soap and water technique to remove any food debris. Even if you have grease stains from food debris, warm soapy water should be all you need.
Oil and Grease
In the summer months, we want to enjoy juicy steaks on the grill, and the issue is stray oil and grease splatters landing on your composite decking boards. Grease and oil can cause discolouration and permanent stains on composite decking, so they should be cleaned up as soon as possible.
Use a soft-bristled brush, warm water, and soap to remove grease and oil stains.
Snow and Ice
Winters can be harsh with heavy snowfalls; however, composite decks are engineered to withstand the harshest weather elements. Removing ice and snow often only requires a plastic shovel. Avoid using a metal shovel since this can cut and damage your composite deck.
To remove snow quickly, use a leaf blower or a broom before gently scraping off the ice underneath. To remove stubborn ice that won’t budge, use calcium chloride to melt the ice before gently proceeding with the plastic shovel. Avoid using a snow blower since it can cause cuts and abrasions on the deck’s surface.
Note: Once the ice has melted, remove all traces of the salt from the composite deck boards to avoid damaging the deck surface. Please exercise caution; ice could cause you to slip, fall and injure yourself.
Pollen & Seeds
Pollen, leaves, and seeds will naturally make their way onto your deck if plants and trees surround it. Although pollen dust does not cause long-term harm, cleaning pollen from composite decking as soon as possible is a must.
If left alone, pollen, seeds and dirt can cause a biofilm. Mould can feed off the biofilm, which causes it to spread, creating an avoidable issue with mould on your composite deck. The best solution is to use a pressure washer to remove pollen debris from your composite deck.
Hard Water Stains
Hard water stains are a combination of lime, silica and calcium. As water evaporates, it leaves behind an unsightly residue. You can find a composite decking cleaner that can remove hard water stains. Ensure the product is made for composite decking to avoid damaging your composite deck.
White vinegar is pretty effective in removing the hard water stain build-ups. Leave the white vinegar on the stain for a few minutes before gently washing it away with water.
Important Step: Dry the area immediately with a dry towel or blower.
How To Extend the Lifespan of Your Composite Deck
In addition to cleaning your composite deck regularly, there are a few things you can do to maintain and extend the longevity of your deck.
- Deep clean your composite deck at least twice a year. Spot cleaning should be done as needed – like when you notice something has been spilt on the deck.
- If you notice mould and mildew forming, use the soap and water method or the bicarb vinegar mixture to remove it. Ensure that your deck is kept dry. Use a clean towel to remove any moisture.
- Keep an eye out for any drainage issues. Although composite decking is resistant to rot and moisture, the underside of your deck may not be. The soil under your composite deck should absorb moisture and prevent water from pooling, and if it does, you may need to replace the soil.
FAQs
Can you use vinegar to clean a composite deck?
Although vinegar is generally safe for composite decking, it is not the ideal cleaning solution. However, distilled white vinegar with other products like bicarbonate soda effectively removes debris and stains. Avoid leaving vinegar on the decking surface for longer than necessary, and always ensure you rinse off the vinegar thoroughly.
What household items can I use to clean my deck?
Natural products like lemon juice, distilled white vinegar, and bicarbonate soda combined with water effectively remove mildew, mould, and algae from composite decking. Always rinse your deck with clean water afterwards to remove residue.
What should you not use on a composite deck?
Never use bleach, harsh chemicals, or cleaning products containing chlorine bleach on composite decking. Always try the soap and warm water method on your deck boards first. If this specific cleaning method is unsuccessful, try using an oxygenated cleaning product like Oxylyse to clean composite decking.
Can I use patio cleaner on composite decking?
Composite decking is a porous material, and most patio cleaners contain harsh chemicals that can harm the surface of your composite deck. Instead, use an oxygenated cleaner designed specifically for composite decking.
Final Thoughts
Even though composite decks require little to no maintenance, it is essential to take the necessary steps clean and sweep away loose debris and dirt. To avoid causing irreversible damage to your composite deck, follow the manufacturing guidelines when using a power washer and use the soap and water method for basic cleaning and upkeep.
Comments (24)
“Great tips for cleaning composite decking! I’ve been hesitant to invest in a composite deck because I wasn’t sure how to properly maintain it. Your step-by-step guide makes it seem so easy and hassle-free. I’m definitely going to give it a try. Do you have any recommendations for where to purchase a high-quality composite deck? Thanks for sharing this helpful information!”
“Great tips for cleaning composite decking! I’ve been struggling to find a safe and effective way to remove stains from my deck, so this article was really helpful. I’m curious about where I can purchase the recommended products – do you have any suggestions or personal experience with specific brands? Thanks for sharing this useful information!”
“Great tips for keeping your composite deck clean and looking like new! I’ve been using a similar method with mild dish soap and warm water, but I never thought to add bicarbonate of soda and lemon juice for tougher stains. I’ll definitely give that a try next time. Do you have any recommendations for where to purchase these cleaning supplies? Thanks for sharing this helpful guide!”
“Great tips on how to clean composite decking! I’ve been struggling to find a way to remove stains without damaging the material, so this article was really helpful. I’m wondering, do you have any recommendations on where to purchase the mild dish soap and other cleaning products mentioned? I’ve heard that some brands can be too harsh for composite decking. Thanks for sharing this informative guide!”
“Great tips on how to clean composite decking! I’ve been wanting to install one in my backyard but was worried about the maintenance. This article has reassured me that it’s actually quite low-maintenance and easy to clean. I appreciate the step-by-step guide and the list of materials needed. My only question is, where can I purchase the recommended products? Overall, a helpful and informative read. Thank you!”
“Great tips for cleaning composite decking! I’ve been considering switching to composite for my deck, and this article has convinced me even more. However, I’m curious about where I can purchase the products mentioned, like the mild dish soap and vinegar. Do you have any recommendations or personal experience with specific brands? Thanks for the helpful information!”
“Great tips for cleaning composite decking! I’ve been struggling to find an effective way to remove stains without damaging the material. Thanks for mentioning the use of bicarbonate of soda and white vinegar, I’ll definitely give that a try. Do you have any recommendations for where to purchase these products? I’ve had a hard time finding them in my local stores. Overall, a helpful and informative article. Thanks for sharing!”
“Great tips for keeping composite decking looking clean and well-maintained. I’ve been considering installing a composite deck, and this article has convinced me even more with its low-maintenance requirements. I do have a question about where to purchase the recommended cleaning products mentioned in the article. Would love to hear from others who have used these methods and their experiences. Thanks for sharing this helpful guide!”
Thank you for your comment! I’m glad to hear that our tips have convinced you to consider installing a composite deck. As an expert in composite building supplies, I can assure you that composite decking is a great choice for its low-maintenance requirements and durability. In terms of purchasing the recommended cleaning products, I would suggest checking with your local home improvement store or contacting the manufacturer of your decking for their recommended products. It’s always helpful to hear from others who have used these methods, so I hope others will share their experiences as well. Thanks for reading our guide and happy decking!
Hi there! Thank you for taking the time to read our blog and leaving a comment. It’s great to hear that you have had a positive experience with composite decking and have found it to be a low-maintenance and durable option. As an expert in composite building supplies, I can definitely attest to its many benefits. As for finding the recommended cleaning products, I would suggest checking with your local home improvement store or reaching out to the manufacturer of your decking for their specific recommendations. It’s always helpful to hear from others who have used these methods, so I hope others will also share their experiences. Thanks again for your support and happy decking!
Hi there! As someone who has been in the composite building supply industry for years, I can attest to the effectiveness of these tips for keeping your composite decking looking great. I’m glad to hear that this article has convinced you to consider installing a composite deck – trust me, you won’t regret it! In terms of purchasing the recommended cleaning products, I highly recommend checking with your local hardware store or home improvement center. They should carry a variety of options that are specifically designed for composite materials. And for those who have used these methods, I would love to hear about your experiences as well. Let’s keep sharing our knowledge and helping each other maintain beautiful and low-maintenance composite decking. Thanks for reading and happy decking!
“Great tips for cleaning composite decking! I’ve been struggling to find an effective and safe way to clean my deck, and this article has provided me with all the necessary information. I’m curious to know where I can purchase the recommended products, as I want to make sure I use the right ones. Overall, this article is a must-read for anyone with a composite deck. Thanks for sharing!”
“Great tips for keeping a composite deck looking its best! I have been considering installing a composite deck and was worried about the maintenance, but this article has reassured me that it’s actually quite easy to clean. I do have a question about purchasing the product though – is it widely available and what brands do you recommend? Thanks for sharing this helpful information!”
As a seasoned expert in composite building materials, I couldn’t agree more with the importance of cleaning composite decking. I have seen firsthand the benefits of using this material in terms of durability and low maintenance, but regular cleaning is still necessary to keep it looking its best.
I appreciate the 5 easy steps outlined in this article, especially the use of mild dish soap and warm water. It’s important to avoid harsh chemicals that can damage the composite material. I would also recommend using a soft bristle brush to prevent any scratches or damage to the surface.
One additional tip I would like to offer is to avoid using pressure washers on composite decking. While it may seem like a quick and easy solution, the high pressure can actually cause the material to splinter and become damaged.
I also find that using a mixture of bicarbonate of soda, distilled white vinegar, and lemon juice is a great natural solution for removing tough stains on composite decking. This not only helps to keep the deck clean, but also maintains its natural appearance without the use of harsh chemicals.
Overall, I highly recommend following these steps and regularly cleaning your composite deck to extend its lifespan and maintain its beauty. Thank you for sharing this valuable information with your readers.
“Great tips for cleaning composite decking! I’ve been considering installing a composite deck, but was unsure about the maintenance. This article has definitely eased my concerns and I appreciate the step-by-step guide. One question I have is where can I purchase the recommended products, such as the mild dish soap and distilled white vinegar? Thanks for sharing this helpful information!”
“Great tips for cleaning composite decking! I’ve been considering getting a composite deck for my backyard, and this article has convinced me even more. I appreciate the step-by-step guide and the use of natural ingredients like vinegar and lemon juice. My only question is, where can I purchase these cleaning products specifically for composite decking? Overall, very informative and helpful article. Thank you!”
Great tips for cleaning composite decking! I’ve always found it to be much easier to maintain compared to traditional wood decking. However, I’m curious about what type of cleaning product would be best to use on composite decking. Would a specific cleaner be recommended, or would a mild dish soap and warm water suffice? Overall, this article was very informative and I appreciate the step-by-step instructions. Thank you for sharing!
“Great tips for cleaning composite decking! I’ve been struggling to find an efficient and safe way to clean mine without damaging the material. This article was really helpful and informative. I’m definitely going to try using bicarbonate of soda and distilled white vinegar for those tough stains. However, I’m wondering where I can purchase these products? Any recommendations? Thanks for sharing this useful guide!”
“Great tips for cleaning composite decking! I’ve been looking for an easy and effective way to maintain my deck and this article has provided all the necessary steps. I’m curious about where I can purchase the recommended cleaning products mentioned in the article. Overall, a well-written and informative piece that has definitely helped me in taking care of my composite deck. Thank you!”
Thank you for your positive feedback on our article about cleaning composite decking. As an expert in composite building supplies, I understand the importance of proper maintenance for these types of materials. I’m glad to hear that our tips have been helpful for you in maintaining your deck.
In regards to the recommended cleaning products, they can be purchased at most home improvement stores or online retailers. It’s important to use products specifically designed for composite materials to ensure the best results and avoid any damage.
Thank you for taking the time to read our article and for your kind words. We strive to provide valuable information to help our customers properly care for their composite decking. If you have any further questions or concerns, please don’t hesitate to reach out.
I appreciate your response, but can you provide any specific brands or products that you recommend for cleaning composite decking? Also, have you personally tested these products and seen positive results? Thank you.
As someone who has been in the composite building materials industry for over 15 years, I can attest to the fact that composite decks are indeed much easier to clean than other decking materials. The low-maintenance and durability of composite decking make it a popular choice among homeowners.
I appreciate the tips outlined in this article on how to clean composite decking in 5 easy steps. It’s important to note that while composite decking requires little maintenance, periodic cleaning is necessary to maintain its natural appearance and extend its lifespan.
I would like to add that using a soft bristle brush and mild dish soap (ammonia-free) is not only efficient but also safe for your composite deck. Avoid using harsh chemicals or pressure washers as they can damage the surface of the deck.
Another helpful tip is to sweep your deck before cleaning to remove any loose dirt or debris. This will make the cleaning process more effective and prevent any scratches on the deck surface.
I also recommend using a mixture of warm water, bicarbonate of soda, distilled white vinegar, and a teaspoon of lemon juice for tougher stains such as oil or grease. This natural solution not only removes stains but also helps to prevent mold and mildew growth.
In conclusion, proper maintenance and cleaning are essential to keep your composite deck looking its best. With these easy steps, you can ensure that your deck remains in top condition for years to come. Thank you for sharing this informative article.
“Great tips for cleaning composite decking! I’ve been struggling to find an easy and effective way to clean mine, so this article was really helpful. I especially appreciate the step-by-step guide and the list of necessary materials. However, I was wondering if you could also provide some information on where to purchase these products? Overall, a well-written and informative post that I will definitely be referring back to. Thank you!”
“Great tips on how to clean composite decking! I’ve been looking for an easy and efficient way to maintain my deck, and this article has provided all the necessary steps. I appreciate the use of natural and mild cleaning solutions, as it’s important to avoid harsh chemicals on outdoor surfaces. However, I’m wondering where I can purchase the recommended products. Any suggestions or personal experiences with specific brands would be helpful. Thanks!”