3 Tips for Cleaning Composite Decking
Composite decking is a low-maintenance (not maintenance free) decking material, alternative to wood. While composite decking doesn’t require sanding and staining like wood, regular cleaning is essential if you want your deck to look good and last a long time. Join us as we go through three tips to keep your deck in sublime condition.
1. Use the Right Cleaning Solution
Clean your deck twice a year to reduce dirt, dust, grime, and other residue buildup. When you clean, rinse the deck with a garden hose fitted with a fan-tip nozzle, keeping the pressure below 1,000 psi.
Choose your cleaner carefully—harsh chemicals like bleach can damage the surface or change its color. Instead, go with cleaners that contain sodium hypochlorite, such as BEHR® Premium All-In-One Wood Cleaner No. 63, Mold Armor® Deck Wash, or OLYMPIC® Deck Cleaner.
After applying the cleaner, scrub the deck with a soft-bristle brush to avoid scratching the boards. Let the cleaner sit for a few minutes to break down the dirt, then rinse everything off thoroughly with a hose.
2. Clean Debris Regularly
Spring and fall are the perfect times of year to sweep up leaves, pollens, and any dirt that falls in the process. These organic materials can collect between the deck boards and if left alone can trap moisture and lead to possible mold or mildew growth. This simple step goes a long way in preventing stains and moisture-related damage.
3. Address Stains Quickly
The best part of having an outdoor living space is using it! So things like spills are bound to happen. Grill grease, wine, or food can stain your composite deck if not cleaned quickly. As you know, the longer a stain sits, the harder it is to remove. When you notice a spill, blot it with a paper towel, then gently scrub the area with warm, soapy water. A degreasing agent like Super Clean™ Multi-Purpose Cleaner/Degreaser, safe for composite decking, can help with tough spots like grease. Be sure to test a small area first to ensure the cleaner won’t affect the color or finish.
To help prevent grease stains, you should consider utilizing a grill mat. This simple addition can protect your decking from spills and splatters while still allowing you to enjoy your outdoor experience.
Cleaning Your Composite Deck Isn’t Time Consuming
Keeping your composite decking clean doesn’t require much work; it just needs some regular attention. Stick to the right tips, stay on top of debris, and act fast on stains—that’s all it takes to keep your deck looking brand new and ready for whatever comes next.
Choose Composite Decking, Made Different
If upgrading your deck is on your list of outdoor projects this year, Envision composite decking is the way to go. Our decking isn’t just low maintenance—we make it differently, too. Our proprietary process, Compress Technology™, produces deck boards that are 19% stronger, provide 25% better traction, and have 61% less moisture absorption. We manufacture products you can trust will stand the test of time and perform better than competitor boards.
Order samples on our website or browse our Idea Gallery for inspiration.
