Homemade Deck Cleaner

Step 2: Spray With Soapy Water & Scrub

I blame myself for being so ignorant, but I really have a big issue with our Contractor and Trex for selling crap like this to consumers. I sincerely hope that people looking to use this product will visit this forum. If you don't own a pressure washer or can't borrow one from a friend or neighbor, they can be rented from a local hardware store, usually by the day. Once you've read the instruction manual, start at the center of the deck and direct the spray to both ends, hitting all areas.

Premixed Vs Concentrated Deck Cleaners

Keep this guide in mind as you begin prepping to clean your composite deck. A power washer can be used for RINSING ONLY with TimberTech Deck or Porch. Spray in the direction of the grain pattern, never across the grain, to avoid damaging the product. Baking soda as a soft scrub is also very good for cleaning your barbecue grill. Again, simply use it as a scrubbing powder with the coarse bristled brush or steel wool to remove tough, cooked on grit and grime. In this article, we’ll look at 7 smart ways you can use the safe, simple, all-purpose cleaner – baking soda to get your deck or patio area fresh and clean and keep it that way. Letting damp organic debris build up on your deck can also leave stains and create the perfect environment for mold to grow.

Can I Seal Composite Decking?

It's better to maintain the deck more often, including sweeping, rather than leaving it so that it has to be treated with something strong like trisodium phosphate. Mix vinegar, soap, and water in a bucket, apply to one section of mildew-infested decking, and scrub with a brush until you see results. This method may have to be repeated for a thorough job. When beginning a DIY composite patio cleaning, start off by spattering the ground with a hose and water to get free of the current residue on the surface. Composite decking in recent years has been the best choice of material for outdoor decks. This is because outdoor decks and patios are exposed to constant elements and cleaning it daily can make your environment look great.

• Address stains as soon as possible, and make sure your deck continues to maintain adequate drainage to prevent mold and mildew from growing.
• If this is the first time you have cleaned your deck it’s possible that there are deep set mold stains that the solution didn’t reach.
• They may rise to the surface at some point and need cleaning again.
• Once that phase is over, keep your composite decking looking good with a necessary routine cleaning.
• Scrub it by hand or with a pressure washer at least twice a year.

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.

Use a deck brightener than contains oxalic acid on tannin stains. Water spots, also known as tannin stains, are normal occurrences on wood. Over time, you will likely start to notice some on your deck. Make sure the surface is completely dry and then apply a deck brightener product that contains oxalic acid on the surface of your deck.

Next you can begin to scrub the deck with the grain using your stiff bristle brush to remove dirt, mildew, mold, stains etc. Vinegar is powerful and safe for both composite and wood decking, mix a half-cup of white vinegar or apple cider vinegar to ¼ a cup of baking soda with 1 gallon of water. Warm water can be used on its own to wash a wood or composite deck. Designing and building a deck suited to your wants and needs can be fun and exciting. But when it comes time for care and maintenance, it’s important to know what you’re getting yourself into beforehand. Examine the pros and cons of composite or wood decking -- specifically when it comes to how to clean your decking. And in addition to routine cleaning, you should also be aware of other maintenance work you may need to do from time to time on your deck.

How To Avoid Mold And Mildew Growth

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.

Also sweeping and keeping the surface of the deck as dry as possible frequently can keep the life of the material which was used in making it. You probably love your Trex decking because it’s durable and low-maintenance. But you still have to clean it occasionally to keep it looking great. Semi-annual cleanings in the spring and fall will also help prevent mold growth.