Composite Deck Cleaner

Midwestpro · Posted: Fri Dec 14, 2007 1:05 am Post subject: Composite Deck Cleaner

The truth be told, composite decking is not maintenance free regardless of what the manufacturers are claiming. Nothing exposed to mother nature is going to remain clean and free of contaminants for very long on its own.

Mold, mildew and color fading are the major problems with composite decking. Most composites are half wood and half plastic so they have to be cleaned differently than an all wood or all plastic deck. Most of the manufacturers sell a cleaner for their own decking, I would try that first. Otherwise try a strong bleach solution, a scrub brush and some good old elbow grease to remove the mold and mildew.

A light washing with a pressure washer will remove the dead wood fibers and restore some color. Be careful not to use too much pressure, composite decking is soft and can scar easily so be very careful if you plan to do the job yourself. If this work doesn't sound like its for you, I don't blame you. You can always resort to hiring a quality pressure washing company if it sound like too much work.