Composite decks are a beautiful addition to your Chicagoland home. One of the reasons why people choose composite decks over wood decks is their low maintenance. Even though they require little maintenance, it is still important to care for them properly to preserve their long life. Here are a few tips to help you keep your composite deck looking new.
1. Cleaning Products
The first tip is to read the manufacturer’s instructions and only use approved cleaning products. Every manufacturer uses different materials and techniques to create their deck material. This means you must make sure to only use cleaning products that are listed specifically by the manufacturer. It is generally recommended that you never use acetone or other solvents on your composite decking.
2. Dirt and Debris
Dirt and debris might not seem like they are that important, but they can begin to decompose, produce tannins, and leave stains. You should always try to sweep the dirt and debris away with a soft broom. You can also spray them off with a garden hose and warm, soapy water. You can use a soft brush to remove any that are stubborn.
3. Pressure Washer
You can use a pressure washer to clean your composite deck, but it should be set low, preferably below 1300 PSI. You should hold the tip no closer than 12 inches. You can remove any tough dirt with a soft scrub brush and soapy water.
4. Hard Water Stains
If you live in an area that has high amounts of minerals in the water, such as calcium, lime, and silica, it can leave behind unsightly spots when it dries. These can easily be cleaned with white vinegar followed by a careful rinse afterward. These spots do not harm the decking, but you might want to remove them to keep it looking its best.
5. Ice and Snow
When removing ice and snow, it is important not to use a metal shovel. This can damage the surface and allow ice and water to penetrate the material. You should always use a plastic shovel or calcium chloride to remove snow and ice.
6. Food and Oils
If you use your deck for dining, you might have the occasional food, grease, or oil spill. They should be removed as quickly as possible because they can leave permanent stains. This can void your warranty and ruin the look of your deck. You should always remove food or oil using a soft bristle brush and dishwashing detergent or another degreaser.
7. Mold and Mildew
Most composite decks are mold and mildew-resistant. If you allow dirt and pollen to remain on the deck, mold and mildew can begin to form on them and eventually stain your deck. It can be removed using warm soapy water and a soft brush.
Following these tips will help you keep your deck looking new and will help you meet the requirements of keeping your warranty intact. Royal Decks services the Naperville, IL, and the western Chicago suburbs. We have a long list of happy customers and are a trusted builder in the area. We are a family-owned business and care about the quality of the services we provide. If you would like to talk about a composite deck, contact us, and one of our team will be happy to discuss your plans.
