7 Smart Ways To Use Baking Soda On Your Deck And Patio

I noticed that after using the chlorine bleach based products that contain sodium hypochlorite to remove the mold, the mold never was completely removed. I noticed black spots only when the deck was still wet. In fact, all I was doing was removing the dead surface layer of the mold and was watering the mold roots. See the links on the Corte Clean web site to OSHA, the EPA and Spore-Tech before using chlorine bleach on a POROUS surface like Trex composite decking.

When the water dries, deposits are left behind, leaving unsightly spots on surfaces. This is not a defect of Trex products but an issue with the water itself. Generally these deposits can be cleaned with white vinegar on decking surfaces or use of Magic Eraser® on railing surfaces.

It’s crucial to make sure that you rinse the deck thoroughly; if any dirty water is left on the surface it will dry and create a film on the composite deck boards. Pressure washers are safe for composite deck boards as long as the pressure is no greater than 3100 psi and features a fan attachment and soap dispenser.

Cleaning Composite And Wood Decking

Removing Mold, Tree Sap And Mildew Stains On Composite Deck Railings

After washing each board, rinse decking thoroughly with fresh water. When completed, rinse the deck off with water, a pressure washer and/or a scrub brush will assist in the cleaning process. Though bleach will not damage the structure of the deck the way it will with wood and vinyl decks, it could lighten the surface of your composite deck. This is true for products that contain acid as well.

Pressure Washing Your Composite Decking

Although the surface looks solid, composite decking is actually quite porous. Therefore, it needs an oxygenated cleaner that can reach deep into the material and clean insidethe deck as well as the surface. When purchasing a cleaner, always check the label and NEVER use a Chlorine Bleach based “deck cleaner”. If the active ingredients read – Sodium Hypochlorite, it contains Bleach. Chlorine Bleach is extremely corrosive and will “eat” any material it’s applied to.

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• The best part of composites is that, with the exception of food stains, you only have to clean your deck for aesthetic reasons.
• Simply scrub the solution into the decking one section at a time and rinse.
• For wood decks, not cleaning often enough can lead to more costly maintenance.
• All you need to make your natural composite deck cleaner is some soap, water, vinegar, and baking soda and a soft bristle brush to remove dirt, debris, and other grime.

Eventually, it will discolor your deck, damage the surface and exacerbate any mold/mildew issues that can occur. Avoid this costly mistake and choose a non-toxic, sodium percarbonate based cleaner. Apply your composite deck cleaner.Your deck cleaner will come with detailed, specific instructions that you should follow carefully. Keeping the pressure washer under 800 psi, wash off the cleaner by going along the grain. Maintain a distance of at least 8 to 10 inches from the surface of your deck, and make sure to keep your spray moving.

Beware of any “waterproofing” deck sealants or chemicals that “encapsulate” the deck. These products can trap moisture insidethe deck causing more issues in the long run. Choosing the right cleaner can literally make or break your deck.

Are Pressure Washers Safe For Composite Deck Railings?

It is best if you can allow your deck to dry for hours before staining and sealing. Additionally, there are a number of safe, homemade cleaning solutions you can use on your deck, regardless of whether you have a natural wood or composite deck. These ingredients can be purchased from your local hardware or general store. Washing your deck consists of scrubbing it with a deck cleaning solution and a stiff bristle brush. You will need a bucket, cleaner, garden hose with a water nozzle or power washer, and a brush with an extension pole – unless you want to be scrubbing on your hands and knees. For natural wood lovers, properly cleaning a wood deck requires annual care.

It’s important that you use a brush with soft bristles in order to not damage the boards’ finish or color. If stains are still apparent, let your deck dry and then consider applying a stain stipper. Stain strippers are tougher than soap and can remove almost any stain, especially tree sap stains. Stain strippers require a firmer bristle brush or broom in order to truly remove the stains. For how to clean composite decking DIY, start by spraying the deck off with a hose and water to remove any surface debris.