Once you've created your dream terrace, you need to find out how to clean composite decking so that it maintains its aesthetic appearance for a long time. Composite is extremely durable and resistant to weather conditions. Furthermore, it impresses with appearance and color. Like any surface, composite decking must be properly cared for. They require regular cleaning and maintenance. By following a few simple rules, the surface of the boards will look like new for a long time.
What will you learn from this article?
Composite decking requires regular washing and sweeping. It's worth removing fresh dirt regularly to make the task easier. In this article, you will learn:
- How to clean composite decking?
- How to care for a composite terrace surface?
- How often to clean the surface of composite decking?
Basic rules for the maintenance of composite decking
WPC (Wood Plastic Composite) decks are made from a precise combination of natural wood flour (about 45-50%) and polymers, such as pure polyethylene or PVC (about 45%). The remaining 10% consists of antioxidants, UV filters, dyes, and plasticizers, which give the profiles hardness and exceptional water resistance. They are a popular alternative to glazed stoneware terrace tiles.
A characteristic feature of composite boards is their high resistance to water absorption and weather conditions, durability, and good hardness. To keep the terrace in excellent condition for years, it is worth regularly performing maintenance and care activities.
Composite boards, once laid on the terrace, naturally change their color over several weeks due to solar radiation. To maintain an even color of the boards, it is worth protecting the surface with a special deck oil.
To reduce surface damage through fading in certain areas, it is worth regularly moving furniture, pots, and other decorations on the terrace for a short time after laying them. This will help avoid uneven discoloration.
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How to clean composite decks?
Composite decking requires regular sweeping and washing, but you do not need to oil them every year. Adjust the frequency of cleaning composite decking to the location of the terrace, the presence of trees, the intensity of use of the surface, and weather conditions.
Regular terrace maintenance ensures that you do not have to deal with difficult stains. You can remove current dirt with water and a mild cleaning detergent such as dishwashing liquid. In the case of greasy stains, you can use a special cleaner for composite decking. It handles difficult stains from oil and soot effectively.
Under no circumstances should you use solvents to clean composite decking. Be careful with cleaning foams too. Check if they contain substances that could damage the composite.
How to clean composite terrace boards?
Caring for composite decks is not complicated, but it requires regularity and adherence to a few basic rules. This way, your garden will be beautifully complemented, perfect for relaxation and spending time outdoors. The most important are:
- Vacuum or sweep the board surface every few days or more often if needed.
- Thoroughly clean composite decking several times per season.
- Remove stains as soon as they appear.
- Thoroughly clean composite decking after winter and before autumn season.
Washing with a pressure washer
Composite boards feature a grooved surface. Dirt accumulates between the grooves, often difficult to remove. Regularly remove soil from the surface where moss and lichens could develop. Also, take care to sweep sand and food debris with a long-bristle brush.
Difficult to remove organic residues from the composite terrace can be removed with a pressure washer. Pressurized water will flush dirt out from hard-to-reach areas. When using a pressure washer on a composite terrace, remember to follow a few basic rules:
- Direct the water stream parallel to the boards, along with the grooves. This will remove dirt and not damage the surface.
- The water pressure should not exceed 100 bar.
- Hold the cleaning nozzle 30-40 cm away from the composite board.
- Clean the terrace evenly to maintain uniform water absorption over the entire surface.
Brush for composite terraces
Be careful with the type of composite: In the case of traditional non-coated boards (1st generation), surface scratches or stains can be gently sanded with fine sandpaper or a soft brass brush, making movements only along the grooves. This method should not be used on structural boards (2nd generation with a polymer coating), as damage to the outer shell will lead to permanent discoloration of the profile.
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The importance of regular maintenance and cleaning of composite decking
Composite is not a burdensome material to maintain, but it requires regular care. You must remember to remove dirt regularly, sand off burrs, wash regularly, and maintain it. It's worth using basic surface cleaning products and cleaning the terrace even with plain water. Not much is needed to keep composite decking looking beautiful for years.
Composite terrace boards require special attention both before and after winter. During this critical time, put effort into cleaning the surface:
- Sweep the entire surface of the boards thoroughly.
- Clean gaps where the most difficult dirt accumulates.
- Rinse the entire surface with clean water, preferably using a pressure washer.
- Wash the terrace with a mild detergent.
- Check the condition of the slats and mounting elements. Tighten loose screws to avoid mechanical damage to the surface.
- Ensure that water drains from the terrace without clogs. Although composite is resistant to moisture, standing water deteriorates its properties.
A composite terrace looks beautiful, but only if you regularly take care of it. It will last for many years, allowing you to spend many special moments in front of the house.