How To Clean A Composite Or Wood Deck

Step 2: Spray With Soapy Water & Scrub

I blame myself for being so ignorant, but I really have a big issue with our Contractor and Trex for selling crap like this to consumers. I sincerely hope that people looking to use this product will visit this forum. If you don't own a pressure washer or can't borrow one from a friend or neighbor, they can be rented from a local hardware store, usually by the day. Once you've read the instruction manual, start at the center of the deck and direct the spray to both ends, hitting all areas.

Premixed Vs Concentrated Deck Cleaners

I bought my Trex deck because of its environmentally friendly reputation. Corte Clean did not corrode my fasteners or kill my plants like the chlorine bleach based products. Courtesy of AmazonTSP, or trisodium phosphate, is a powder-based cleaner that is one of the best at killing mold and mildew.

Can I Seal Composite Decking?

Do not cut any product and always remove job site dust, clay, dirt, mud, and other construction products from an TimberTech Deck, Rail, and Porch quickly. Do not allow construction dirt and debris to sit on the TimberTech Deck, Rail, or Porch surface. Do not cut metal objects such as railing on the deck surface, the hot debris from the cut may become embedded in the deck surface resulting in staining and damage. A power washer can be used for RINSING ONLY with TimberTech products. Spray in the direction of the grain pattern, never across the grain or width of the board, to avoid damaging the product. Use caution not to damage the material and always take proper safety precautions when operating a power washer. Using the incorrect brush can make cleaning more difficult or even damage the deck board.

• We try not to play favorites with our products but there’s no denying that Spray & Clean is one of our stars.
• This can be done by diluting 4 parts water with 1-part Spray & Clean and spraying your deck every 60 days or so during the season.
• The best way to get rid of mold, tree sap, and mildew stains is to stick to a soap detergent, water, and a soft bristle brush.
• You can also spray an hour or two before an oncoming rain storm which is a perfect way to rinse your deck naturally.
• We’re going to start with this product which you can buy at WashSafe.com.

Dry sweep occasionally with a bristled broom to keep debris off the deck surface and to keep the gaps between the deck boards clear. Wash with warm water and a non-bleach dish soap using a sponge as needed. For any stains it is always best to remove immediately. Looking for a more natural way to restore and clean your composite deck? To keep up the beauty and functionality that you want from your deck, a little care and cleaning can go a long way. Now that your deck is clean as new, take a look around you.

Ways To Damage Your Composite Deck

front deck in Canberra is cedar and I am so sick of scrubbing, brightening lightning, cleaning, oiling and sanding! I put composite in the back and I've been a little better." Use oxalic acid on rust stains and other stubborn spots. Deck brightener products will also work on these tougher stains. Sweep the deck and apply the product directly to the stain. Saturate the area and allow it to sit on the stain for about 15 minutes.

We spent an entire soccer free weekend, cleaning the deck with the products recommended on the Trex Technical Mold Bulletin. We used Corte Clean and another product that was supposed to seal the deck to prevent mold growth. Within a month, the mold came back with a vengence. We contacted our deck contractor and he referred us to Trex to file a claim. So, I work part time to pay for my costly deck and spend my days off scrubbing mold off of it.

Removing Stains

Next you can begin to scrub the deck with the grain using your stiff bristle brush to remove dirt, mildew, mold, stains etc. Vinegar is powerful and safe for both composite and wood decking, mix a half-cup of white vinegar or apple cider vinegar to ¼ a cup of baking soda with 1 gallon of water. Warm water can be used on its own to wash a wood or composite deck. Designing and building a deck suited to your wants and needs can be fun and exciting. But when it comes time for care and maintenance, it’s important to know what you’re getting yourself into beforehand. Examine the pros and cons of composite or wood decking -- specifically when it comes to how to clean your decking. And in addition to routine cleaning, you should also be aware of other maintenance work you may need to do from time to time on your deck.

This isn’t more effective than scrubbing by hand, but it’s much faster. If you have a large deck, you may prefer this approach. Use a pressure washer with no greater than 3100 psi and make sure it has a fan attachment and soap dispenser.

How To Clean A Roof Safely, Effectively And Without Bleach

If the stains penetrate too deeply, they may be difficult to remove. Allowing metal items such as furniture or planters to remain wet for long periods of time on your deck will cause rust stains to occur. If the stains penetrate the decking too deeply, they may prove nearly impossible to remove. Wash your railing with a solution of warm water and mild non-abrasive detergent and rinse to remove all residues. The railing should be cleaned using a soft cloth or sponge. For more difficult stains, Simple Green, Mr. Clean Magic Eraser, mineral spirits, trichloroethylene, CLR or vinegar work well. Wash with warm water and a non-bleach dish soap using a sponge as needed… alcohol wipes for spot cleaning.