How to Clean Your Composite Decking: A Comprehensive Guide

Composite decking has become a popular choice for homeowners who want a beautiful, low-maintenance outdoor space. While one of its unique features is its ease of maintenance, proper cleaning routines are important to avoid damaging the boards. This guide on how to clean your  composite decking will walk you through the best practices for keeping your decking in top condition, ensuring it remains a stunning feature in your garden for many years.

Why Is Regular Cleaning Important?

Although composite decking is known for its durability and low maintenance, regular cleaning is important to keep it looking nice and fresh. Dirt, debris, and organic materials can accumulate over time, leading to potential staining and even damage if not properly managed. By dedicating a few hours a year to cleaning your decking, you can prolong its lifespan and maintain its appearance.

What are the Key Features of Composite Decking?

One of the major advantages of this decking is that it doesn’t require painting, staining, or sealing like traditional timber decking. The boards are designed to be resistant to rot, splintering, and cracking, making them the perfect option for outdoor spaces. Additionally, the joists elevate the decking, preventing weeds from sprouting through cracks, unlike paving slabs. This rise also helps in proper drainage, reducing the risk of water damage.

Composite decking is available in different wood grain patterns and colours, including popular options like grey and black composite decking. These colours provide a modern, sleek look that mimics the appearance of natural wood without the associated maintenance issues.

Step-by-Step Cleaning Process

To keep your decking in “as-new” condition, follow the simple cleaning process below:

Step 1: Cleaning Preparation: Before you start cleaning, remove all furniture, plants, and other items from your decking. This will give you full access to the surface and make the cleaning process more efficient.

Step 2: Sweep the Deck: Use a soft brush or leaf blower to remove loose dirt and debris. Pay special attention to the gaps between the boards, as debris can accumulate here and cause drainage issues. Regular sweeping will prevent organic materials from building up and reduce the risk of staining.

Step 3: Hose Down the Deck: After sweeping, use a garden hose to rinse off any remaining dirt. This step will also help prepare the surface for deeper cleaning.

Step 4: Prepare the Cleaning Solution: Mix warm water with a mild, non-abrasive detergent in a bucket. Avoid using harsh chemicals like chlorine bleach, as they can damage the protective coating on composite decking, especially on capped varieties.

Step 5: Scrub the Deck: Use a soft bristle brush or a manual pressure sprayer to scrub the decking. Focus on areas with stubborn dirt or stains. Work in small sections, especially if you’re cleaning in direct sunlight to prevent the cleaning solution from drying up on the surface.

Step 6: Rinse and Dry: Once you have scrubbed the entire deck, rinse it thoroughly with a hose to remove all soap residue. Leave the decking to completely air dry before returning any furniture or decorations.

Cleaning Different Types of Stains

Different types of stains require specific cleaning techniques to ensure they are effectively removed without damaging the decking. Let’s look at how to get rid of different stains from your decking:

• Oil and Grease Stains: For oil and grease, warm soapy water and a soft brush are usually sufficient. Gently scrub the area until the stain is gone, then rinse with clean water.
• Mould and Mildew: Mould can develop in shaded or damp areas. Use a soft brush to loosen the mould, then clean the area with warm soapy water. Regular cleaning will help prevent mould from returning.
• Bird Droppings: Bird droppings can be acidic and potentially damaging if left untreated. Clean them off as soon as possible using warm soapy water and a soft brush.
• Snow and Ice: In colder climates, it’s important to remove snow and ice promptly to prevent damage. Use a plastic shovel to gently clear snow. Avoid metal tools that could scratch the surface. For ice, a soft brush or warm water can help remove build-up.
• Scratches: Minor scratches on composite decking will often fade over time. If you notice deeper scratches, consult your decking manufacturer or installer for recommended repair products.

How to Maintain Composite Deck Railing

While the decking boards themselves require regular cleaning, don’t forget about the railings. Decking railings can be cleaned using the same methods as the decking. Simply use warm soapy water and a soft scouring pad to scrub the railing, then rinse with clean water. Since there are no gaps or standing water concerns with railings, this task is straightforward and quick.

Common Questions about Composite Decking Care

Q: Can I Use Bleach on Composite Decking?

A: Bleach is not recommended for cleaning decking. Chlorine bleach is corrosive and can strip away the protective coating, especially on capped decking. Also, bleach is not effective on porous surfaces, making it a poor choice for cleaning uncapped boards. Instead, use a dedicated cleaner, which is specially formulated to clean without causing damage.

Q: Can I Use a Pressure Washer on Composite Decking?

A: While pressure washers can be used on capped decking, it’s important to exercise caution. High-pressure settings can damage the decking’s surface, especially on uncapped boards.

 If you choose to use a pressure washer, keep the nozzle at least 30 cm away from the surface and set the pressure to under 3000 psi. Always spray around the grain to prevent damaging the look and feel of the decking. A gentler alternative is to use a manual pressure sprayer to simply scrub with warm soapy water.

Q: How Frequently Should I Clean My Composite Decking?

A: It’s advisable to clean your decking at least once or twice a year, depending on the level of use and exposure to the elements. Regular cleaning helps prevent the build-up of dirt, debris, and stains, keeping it in top condition. If your decking is in a shaded area or surrounded by trees, you may need to clean it more frequently to prevent mould and mildew growth.

Final Tips for Maintaining Composite Decking

Decking is highly durable and low-maintenance, but adequate care is important to ensure it lasts for many years. Follow these cleaning and maintenance tips to keep the decking looking beautiful and extend its lifespan:

• Avoid Standing Water: Ensure your decking has proper drainage to prevent water accumulation, which can lead to swelling, warping, or cracking.
• Clean up Spills Immediately: Quickly clean up any spills, especially oil and grease, to prevent staining.
• Use Protective Mats: Place mats under grills or outdoor furniture to protect the surface from potential damage.

Conclusion

Composite decking offers a low-maintenance, durable solution for outdoor spaces, with the added benefit of being easy to clean. By following the correct how to clean your composite decking guide and by using the right products, you can keep your black or grey composite decking looking as good as new for many years.

Regular care and attention will not only maintain the beauty of your decking but also ensure it remains a valuable and functional part of your garden. Remember, the key to a beautiful outdoor space is in the details, and proper cleaning is an essential part of maintaining the perfect decking.