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How to Clean Composite Decking Ready for Summer

Summer is coming and it’s time to get your deck ready for action!

You’re already one step ahead if you have composite decking as it’s far more durable than wood, and a whole lot less likely to warp, stain, or crack during the colder months. However, this doesn’t mean it won’t benefit from a good clean when summer comes around.

In this guide, we’ll tell you everything there is to know about how to clean composite decking to make it look brand new again.

What do you need to clean composite decking?

You don’t need any special tools and equipment to get your deck clean. In fact, the best composite deck cleaner is probably already sitting under your sink. While you can buy specialised composite wood cleaner, washing up liquid or vinegar does the job just as well. 

Along with either dish soap or vinegar (or both if you plan to do a deep clean) you’ll need a soft bristle broom and brush, a bucket, and a hose. A jet washer is optional and not a requirement.

How to clean composite decking Once you’ve gathered your equipment, you’re ready to give your deck a summer-ready spring clean. Remove all outdoor furniture from your deck. Once the area is clear, prepare your decking by giving it a good sweep and removing any leaves, dirt, or debris. Wash your decking with a solution of warm soapy water that you’ve mixed in your bucket. If you’re cleaning composite decking with vinegar, pre-mix your solution of 240 ml vinegar and 4 litres of water and complete the washing process. Scrub your decking with a soft bristled brush to remove any stubborn dirt or stains and to ensure it looks spic n span. If you have stubborn stains, soak the area a bit in the soapy solution and then scrub it clean. Rinse your decking thoroughly with clean water to remove all the soap or vinegar residue. When the water runs clean, the job is done.

How to clean composite decking

Once you’ve gathered your equipment, you’re ready to give your deck a summer-ready spring clean.

  1. Remove all outdoor furniture from your deck. Once the area is clear, prepare your decking by giving it a good sweep and removing any leaves, dirt, or debris.
  2. Wash your decking with a solution of warm soapy water that you’ve mixed in your bucket. If you’re cleaning composite decking with vinegar, pre-mix your solution of 240 ml vinegar and 4 litres of water and complete the washing process.
  3. Scrub your decking with a soft bristled brush to remove any stubborn dirt or stains and to ensure it looks spic n span. If you have stubborn stains, soak the area a bit in the soapy solution and then scrub it clean.
  4. Rinse your decking thoroughly with clean water to remove all the soap or vinegar residue. When the water runs clean, the job is done.

How to pressure wash composite decking

Using a pressure washer isn’t the best way to clean composite decking unless you do so extremely carefully on capped boards. If you have uncapped boards, it’s best avoided.

Composite decking is very durable, but if the force of the water is too strong it can cause damage. If you do opt for a pressure washer, ensure that the nozzle is at least 30cm away from the decking and the force is no stronger than 3000psi of pressure.

Enjoy a clean composite deck this summer Unlike cleaning natural wood, cleaning composite decking is a quick, easy, and stress-free task. This type of decking is a great low maintenance option, and all you need are a few basic cleaning products and a good soft broom to make it ready for summer. Once you’ve cleaned your deck, you can enjoy long, leisurely hours relaxing on it and soaking up the summer sun. Alternatively, if you’re looking to replace your existing decking or install new decking in your garden, BM Steel provide composite decking in a wide range of colours, including charcoal, graphite and walnut. Shop online today or email websales@bmsteel.co.uk to request a sample.

Enjoy a clean composite deck this summer

Unlike cleaning natural wood, cleaning composite decking is a quick, easy, and stress-free task. This type of decking is a great low maintenance option, and all you need are a few basic cleaning products and a good soft broom to make it ready for summer. Once you’ve cleaned your deck, you can enjoy long, leisurely hours relaxing on it and soaking up the summer sun.

Alternatively, if you’re looking to replace your existing decking or install new decking in your garden, BM Steel provide composite decking in a wide range of colours, including charcoal, graphite and walnut. Shop online today or email websales@bmsteel.co.uk to request a sample.

HomeDeck Graphite Embossed Composite Decking BoardHomeDeck Graphite Embossed Composite Decking Board
HomeDeck Graphite Embossed Composite Decking Board
£28.90 inc VAT
HomeDeck Charcoal Embossed Composite Decking BoardHomeDeck Charcoal Embossed Composite Decking Board
HomeDeck Charcoal Embossed Composite Decking Board
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HomeDeck Walnut Embossed Composite Decking BoardHomeDeck Walnut Embossed Composite Decking Board
HomeDeck Walnut Embossed Composite Decking Board
£28.90 inc VAT
HomeDeck Graphite Embossed Flat Decking TrimHomeDeck Graphite Embossed Flat Decking Trim
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£36.24 inc VAT
HomeDeck Charcoal Embossed Flat Decking TrimHomeDeck Charcoal Embossed Flat Decking Trim
HomeDeck Charcoal Embossed Flat Decking Trim
£36.24 inc VAT
HomeDeck Walnut Embossed Flat Decking TrimHomeDeck Walnut Embossed Flat Decking Trim
HomeDeck Walnut Embossed Flat Decking Trim
£36.24 inc VAT

FAQs

Can you jet wash composite decking?

Cleaning composite decks with a jet washer is only advisable if you do so gently and with a good distance between the deck and the nozzle. It’s not a recommended cleaning option for uncapped decking.

Can you clean composite decking with vinegar?

Yes, distilled white vinegar is great for cleaning composite decking that has any mould, mildew, bird droppings, or other dirt on it.

Can you use bleach to clean composite decking?

No! Bleach is corrosive and can cause damage to your decking.

Can you use washing up liquid to clean composite decking?

Yes, ammonia-free washing up liquid is one of the best composite deck cleaners as its non-corrosive yet powerful.

What should you not use to clean composite decking?

Avoid bleach or ammonia-based products, powerful high pressure jet washers, hard bristle brooms or any sharp scrapers. All of these can damage even the hardest composite if you apply too much force.

Posted by Killian Ward
27th June 2023

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