How to Maintain Composite Decking
Decks add both living space and value to your home. Wood decks need to be stained or painted. Splinters and rough spots can make using the deck uncomfortable. Composite decking is made from plastic and wood or another cellulose-based material. The resulting product is easy to maintain and frequently comes with a warranty. Some composites are made from completely recycled materials, but others use only new materials. Composites that have a preservative as one of their components are more durable. Check your options before you buy. Does this Spark an idea?
Things You'll Need
- Broom
- Leaf blower
- Pressure washer
- Cleansers
- Laundry detergent
- TSP (trisodium phosphate)
- Bleach
- Scrub brush
- Putty knife
Instructions
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1
Sweep the deck regularly. Use a leaf blower if there's a large accumulation of leaves.
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2
Rinse the deck off with a garden hose. Make sure there's adequate drainage so there aren't any spots with standing water. Over time, standing water can stain and damage the decking.
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3
Rent a pressure washer from the hardware store and use it to clean off material that is stuck to the deck. Only apply enough pressure to clean the deck. Too much pressure may harm the surface.
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4
Use a commercially available composite decking cleaner. Read the label to make sure it's appropriate for your deck and follow the instructions. Test the cleaner in an inconspicuous spot first to ensure it doesn't stain.
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Make your own cleaner by combining 1/3 cup powdered laundry detergent, 2/3 cup TSP (trisodium phosphate) powdered cleaner and 1 qt. bleach in 3 qt. water. Use a scrub brush and work in the direction of the wood grain. Rinse thoroughly.
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Clean gaps between boards that are narrower than 3/16 of an inch with a putty knife or a similar tool, to prevent the gaps from becoming clogged and moldy.
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Tips & Warnings
Trisodium phosphate is available at paint stores and home improvement stores.
References
Resources
- Photo Credit Mike French
