Types Of Deck Washes And Cleaners

Step 2: Spray With Soapy Water & Scrub

For a deeper clean, always use a soft bristle scrub brush, never use a wire brush. Again, if you are using the right cleaner, only a small amount of scrubbing will be required. For snow or ice removal, always choose a plastic shovel instead of metal. Pressure washing is typically not recommended for composite decking. If done incorrectly, it can be a big mistake and cause damage.

Premixed Vs Concentrated Deck Cleaners

I bought my Trex deck because of its environmentally friendly reputation. Corte Clean did not corrode my fasteners or kill my plants like the chlorine bleach based products. Courtesy of AmazonTSP, or trisodium phosphate, is a powder-based cleaner that is one of the best at killing mold and mildew.

Can I Seal Composite Decking?

Do not cut any product and always remove job site dust, clay, dirt, mud, and other construction products from an TimberTech Deck, Rail, and Porch quickly. Do not allow construction dirt and debris to sit on the TimberTech Deck, Rail, or Porch surface. Do not cut metal objects such as railing on the deck surface, the hot debris from the cut may become embedded in the deck surface resulting in staining and damage. A power washer can be used for RINSING ONLY with TimberTech products. Spray in the direction of the grain pattern, never across the grain or width of the board, to avoid damaging the product. Use caution not to damage the material and always take proper safety precautions when operating a power washer. Using the incorrect brush can make cleaning more difficult or even damage the deck board.

• Instead, clean with warm, soapy water as noted above.
• Decks created from earlier-generation Trex products should not be pressure washed, because doing so may damage the decking materials.
• Often, the only maintenance composite decking requires is an occasional power washing.
• The fast-acting foaming formula eliminates stains from mold and mildew, tree sap, pollen, oxidation, weathering and other grime.
• It utilizes the power of peroxide to provide high-performance cleaning without toxic or abrasive chemicals.
• Simple Green Oxy Solve Deck and Fence Cleaner is ideal for both manual and pressure washing to lift and remove dirt and debris from the deck surface.

Composite decking requires a little extra attention when cleaning. Regular cleaning of dirt and debris can easily be done with a household broom or a garden hose.

However, TSP is not considered an especially environmental choice and has all kinds of precautions on the back of its box. But if the deck has not been cleaned in a long time and algae is visible, it may have to occasionally be used, with care and caution.

If you ever spill grease, oil or food on your deck, clean it up immediately. If you don’t wipe up these spills within seven days, any resulting permanent stains will not be covered under the Trex stain warranty.

Removing Stains

Never use a chlorine bleach based deck cleaner, as it is extremely corrosive and will eventually discolor and damage your deck boards. Plus, it is unsafe to use around plants and in areas frequented by children or pets. If a cleaning product contains Sodium Hypochlorite, it contains bleach. Finally, intensely wash the surface of your composite deck to avoid leaving a thin layer of dirty water. Start by adding one part of water and two parts of vinegar in a bucket and mix.

Dip the scrub brush into the deck-cleaning solution and apply directly to the stain. Leave the solution on the stain for up to five minutes. Sprinkle baking soda on the area, making sure to cover the surface entirely and allow the baking soda to sit for at least 20 minutes. Use a scrub brush to wash away any mold or mildew and rinse thoroughly. Cleaning your deck not only keeps it looking nice, but it also protects and extends the life of your deck.

How To Clean A Roof Safely, Effectively And Without Bleach

To remove tannin stains from debris, such as leaves, apply a commercial deck brightener once the Trex decking is dry. Make sure to follow the manufacturer instructions, and check to see if the product contains bleach or acid. If it does, it will lighten the color of your Trex decking, so apply some on an inconspicuous area first to see if you like the look. If the deck is made from a composite material, use a composite deck cleaner.