How to Maintain Your Composite Deck for Longevity

For property owners and investors, it is important to have an understanding of your property’s construction—including the installation of your deck, which are now often constructed with composite deck boards. 

Composite deck boards are crafted with either 100 percent polymer material or a blend of plastics and organic wood flakes. You’ve likely seen them in some high-end properties. They’re can be as pretty as traditional wood boards but their beauty also lies in their sustainability. 

However, despite their versatility and eco-friendliness, they require maintenance—just like any element of construction. Even if they are known for being low-maintenance, it is still crucial to know how to clean your composite decking. 

What Are the Recommended Regular Cleaning Practices for Composite Decking?

Let’s begin by discussing the necessary pointers to remember when cleaning your composite deck boards. 

Routine Cleaning Steps

Start by sweeping off debris using a soft-bristle broom and carefully rinsing it with water. The thin layers of dirt and dust may seem harmless, but this simple habit can go a long way. Left unaddressed, layers of dirt can become a hotbed of bacteria, mold, and fungi. Worse yet, they can become embedded in the fibers over time, giving your deck an ugly, discolored appearance. 

Use Soapy Water

Use a soap-and-water solution that’s not too harsh for cleaning your composite deck boards. Soapy water or a mild soap solution is ideal for deeper cleaning, removing dirt, mold, and mildew without damaging the deck’s structure. Make sure to use a soft cloth or sponge as they are gentle on the boards.

Avoid Pressure Washing

A common mistake among property owners is pressure washing (or worse, power washing) their composite deck. While pressure washing works well in cleaning building exteriors, garage floors, fencing, and the like, it is not appropriate for composite deck boards because high pressure can break through the outer surface or even peel away the adhesives between boards. 

The high temperatures in power washing may also warp and melt the polymers in the fibers. A simple low-pressure hosing should suffice, provided that no water is allowed to settle and remain on the boards or in the spaces under them for extended periods. 

Choose the Right Cleaning Products

Also, avoid using these products when cleaning your composite decking: 

• Bleach-based cleaners
• Oil-based soaps
• Abrasive cleaners
• Products made of ammonia
• Undiluted vinegar and too-acidic solutions

How Should You Inspect and Repair a Composite Deck?

Proper maintenance of your composite decks doesn’t just end with regular cleaning. It is also vital to conduct regular inspections and, if necessary, repairs.

Regular Inspections

If you want to maintain the attractiveness of your composite decks, regular inspections must be done. With these, you can spot loose boards, popped fasteners, and other structural problems that those who neglect inspection routines might miss. By conducting periodic inspections, you can prevent issues from elevating before it’s too late, ensuring the longevity of your boards. Inspecting your decks at least twice a year should be enough.

Identifying Common Issues

Some of the most common issues you can encounter with your composite decking are:

• Warping: Warped composite deck boards create uneven surfaces, causing accidents for people who walk on them. They also distort the board’s overall appearance, making the deck appear as though it’s poorly maintained. 
• Loose Boards: These also cause hazards and accidents, as they may wobble the boards, or result in exposed screws and fasteners. Loose boards also create gaps and misalignments that allow dirt, water, pests and other harmful things into the structure. 

DIY Repairs vs. Professional Help

Regardless of whether your boards are made of the best composite decking material, if you are not knowledgeable on how to keep them in good shape, the quality of the materials can only take you so far. While you can carry out DIY repairs—filling scratches and holes and sealing joists and beams—there are instances when it is best to call professional help. Professionals have the expertise to address extensive damage, perform major repairs, and resolve severe issues. 

Warranty Considerations

It’s also a smart move to maximize the warranty of your composite decking related to maintenance requirements and repairs. Likely, there are terms that can help you save money on repairs and replacements.

How Can You Best Prevent Stains and Damage on Composite Decking?

Sometimes, even if you conduct regular cleaning and inspection, problems may arise, such as sap drips from overhanging trees, unseen leaks, and impact damage. But, don’t fret—here’s what you can do:

Immediate Cleanup of Spills

Stains can be cleaned up properly with a soft cloth and a warm water-detergent solution. You may also use a soft-bristled brush to gently scrub away the spillage. It also helps to use a deck brightener for composite decking. 

Using Outdoor Rugs

Aside from preventing slips and accidents, outdoor rugs also serve a second purpose: protecting the composite decking from deterioration. Outdoor mats or rugs in high-traffic areas will minimize wear and tear, ensuring your deck will last longer. 

Protecting Against Furniture Scratches

You may need to redesign and rearrange your outdoor spaces. Don’t be afraid to do so, but mind your decking. Place furniture pads or coasters under heavy furniture so they won’t damage or scratch the deck.

Managing Plant Growth

Composite decking near overhanging trees and shrubs is at risk of sap drips or falling leaves. It is important to immediately remove these fallen dried leaves or better yet, trim the overhanging branches to reduce the amount of sap drips or falling leaves.

Seasonal Maintenance Tips 

Before ending this discussion, here are more maintenance tips for your composite deck depending on the season. 

• Spring Cleaning: After the winter holiday feasts, the busiest time of the year, conduct a thorough cleaning of your deck. Look for any accumulated dirt or debris that may have settled during the colder months, hidden under the snow. 
• Summer Care: In summer, it is recommended that you address concerns in your composite decking, especially because of the lower likelihood of rain and frost. This season is also the perfect opportunity, especially in tropical areas, to monitor mold and mushroom growth and address it promptly. If there is a way to fix mushrooming in composite decking, it would be during this season.
• Fall Preparations: During the fall season, you’ll often find yourself sweeping fallen leaves and organic debris. It requires effort, but this ensures your deck is clean and ready for another holiday season. It also deters pests from hiding under piles of decaying leaves.
• Winter Protection: In winter, melting snow and frost could seep between your boards and damage it upon freezing. During this season, use a plastic shovel to remove snow on your deck. This type of shovel can lower the chances of scratching and prevent damage to the boards. 

Conclusion

Oakio’s catalog of composite decks is best known for its low-maintenance appeal, reducing the need for frequent maintenance as they can resist fading, staining, scratching, and more. They can allow you to enjoy your outdoors more and spend less time on the upkeep. A leader in this category is Matshield Decking, notable for its fire and scratch-resistant features. 

However, even if you have the finest products for your composite deck, you must never forget to do your part. Regular maintenance of your deck is important to ensure its longevity and beauty. Taking a proactive approach, your composite decking can provide years of enjoyment and maximize the value of your property. Learn more about composite decks and score deals by signing up for the Oakio newsletter.