Like any other exterior surfaces of your home such as your house, drive way and even your car, composite decks will collect many contaminants, such as dust, dirt, pollen. It is necessary to clean decks periodically so as to keep them looking good. Debris and pollen like to work themselves into cracks and the wood grains of the decking and handrails which all can be easily removed with a simple washing making everything look new again.  Here are some simple tips for cleaning a composite deck so as to help you avoid extra work and get the most out of your deck project.

Pressure Washer

Pressure washing is NOT recommended for composite decking.  Pressure washing uses too much pressure or if used too close can be ruinous for your composite decks.  It is ok to use a pressure washer at the proper setting to pressure wash wood decks.

Low maintenance or no maintenance

A basic cleaning using a combination of mild soap, hot water and a soft bristle brush with an appropriate composite deck cleaner is all that is required to keep your deck shining like new. I find that a long handle brush makes very for very quick work on cleaning a deck.  After your cleaning the deck, rinse thoroughly. If unsure about a particular cleaning product, it is recommended that you test a small area in a not immediately obvious spot to help determine if your cleaning product will cause any unwanted discoloration.

Simply hose off your entire deck with an ordinary garden hose and not with a pressure washer.  Use a common garden hose and rinse off the soapy mixture and remove all water spots.  Your deck will look awesome.  Remember if your deck needs cleaning most likely the something else around your house needs cleaning too, so keep the garden hose out for awhile yet.  Happy Cleaning.

Care of Your Deck

A few pointers to help you have better deck system

• More frequent deck cleaning is good
• Use grill mats under grills to protect the deck
• Place felt pads under chairs and tables
• Do not install Hot Tub unless deck is rated for such an installation
• If composite handrails brackets get loose for some reason, most get be easily tighten
• In designing of landscape of yard, always divert water away from the deck
• More sunlight and airflow the deck gets typically the better the deck
• Wood decks need to be stained or water sealing at regular intervals to maintain durability