How to clean composite decking

HOW TO CLEAN COMPOSITE DECKING

January 31, 2024

This article is a guide on how to clean your composite decking the most efficient way and what tools you will need to do this. We will also look what to do and how to eliminate common stains that effect composite decking.

Composite decking doesn’t require painting, staining like wooden decking. You also wont find weeds coming through the deck gaps like paving slabs, due to the elevation provided by Composite Joists that create the underlying structure.

Composite Decks are much easier to clean and requires less time and effort to maintain than your traditional timber decking. Although Composite decks require little maintenance, cleaning is still essential to reduce the risk or damage and extend its life.

Tools you will need

washing up liquid
Warm water in a bucket
Sponge
Hose Pipe
Soft bristle brush

Step 1: Clear the decking area

Start with sweeping all decking clear of any leaves or debris. Then you will need to remove any furniture so you have a clear working space. This will give you chance to get into those hard to reach places like the edges. Any hard brush will work, here are some examples of brushes that will work.

Step 2: Cleaning your decking

Mix a bucket of warm water with washing up liquid. You are looking for a nice soapy mix like when you are washing the dishes. Pour mixture onto the decking area and clean thoroughly with a soft bristled brush. Brush the surface going along the grain of the decking boards to ensure all dirt and debris is removed

Step 3: Cleaning corners and edges

Take extra care when cleaning corners and edges of the deck as you will find this is where most of the dirt builds up. Apply warm soapy water to the surface of the decking and clean with a sponge.

Deep cleaning Composite Decking

Tools you will need

Pressure washer no more than 3.100psi
Composite Decking cleaner

Step 1: Apply composite decking cleaner

For a deep clean finish use a pressure washer. First apply composite decking cleaner to the surface of your composite deck. We work on 50 parts warm water to 10 parts decking cleaner ratio.

Step 2: Removal of cleaner

Using a pressure washer rinse the deck. Do not apply the nozzle any closer than 250mm from the surface of the deckboard. Any closer could cause damage to the boards. Clean along the grain of the boards and pay extra attention to the edges and expansion gaps.

Common issues effecting composite decking

Mould and Mildew

Mould & mildew are common problems for composite decking boards. Unlike traditional timber decking. regularly cleaning your decking boards with warm soapy water and a soft bristle brush will eliminate this.

Oil and Grease

When oil and grease is spilt on the composite decking you should use the water, soap and sponge method to clean it up. Grease and oil can cause discolouration or staining so should be wiped up as soon as you can.

Food and Drink Spillages

While enjoying your Al fresco dining on your decking. Take extra care to wipe up any spillages or oily foods. Do this using the soapy water and sponge method.

Pollen

Although pollen does not cause a major problem, cleaning pollen from composite decking is a must. You may find the soapy water and brush may not be as effective as using the pressure washer.

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