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Every WPC decking has a cleaning method.
The Safest Way To Wash WPC Decking: Soap-And-Water
The safest method to clean WPC decking each day (without damaging great looks) is:
- Sweep with a soft bristle broom
- Use a 1:10 ratio of warm water and mild detergent to make a soap mixture
- Clean with a sponge
- Rinse with a garden hose
- Dry to avoid water spots
This method safely removes debris and stains. Avoid cleaners containing abrasives. They will slowly damage the polymer-wood that comprises WPC and degrade WPC’s integrity.
Pressure Washing WPC Decking: Safe PSI Limits and Best Practices
When closest spots to impossible to reach to clean, pressure washing is a great solution. Be sure to follow some rules of thumb.
- PSI Limits: Never exceed 1,200 PSI
- Nozzle Distance: Never get closer than 12-18 inches
- 45 Degree Angles
- Overlapping Passes
Drying all surfaces pressure washed prevents mold and wood decking swelling. A safer method of pressure washing is to do a test of all the above practices on a hidden area.
Managing Stains, Mold, and Mildew on WPC Decking
How to Remove Grease, Rust, and Tannin Stains from WPC Decking Without Damage
Time is of the essence with grease and oil stains. For these stains, use a solution of mild dish detergent in warm water. Apply the solution with a soft cloth and rinse thoroughly. Because of the potential for damage to the decking, do not use steel wool. A manufacturer approved composite deck cleaner can be used for rust stains. Tannin stains from soil and leaves can be removed with an oxygen bleach solution. Avoid chlorine bleach unless specifically approved, as this can discolor the decking. Any cleaning solutions should be tested in an inconspicuous area prior to full application.
Environmentally Friendly WPC Decking Surface Mold and Mildew Removal
Many shady and damp areas are conducive for the growth of mold and mildew. For areas with mold and mildew, mixing white vinegar and water in equal parts is an eco-friendly solution. This mixture can be applied with a soft brush. Mold and mildew can be scrubbed off, the area should be rinsed with water and allowed to dry fully. This solution is safe around pets and plants. A 3% hydrogen peroxide solution can also be used for more stubborn mold and mildew. Improving landscaping around the decking to allow for proper deck ventilation can also help prevent trapped mold and mildew.
Best Practices For Maintaining Your WPC Decking
WPC decking boards can last well beyond their expected lifespan of 25-30 years with some preventative maintenance. Accumulated debris scratches board surfaces. Seasonal sweeping and brushing help with cleaning. WPC decking can hold debris and moisture. Organic debris can be removed using a soft bristle brush or a plastic gap tool. Standing debris can also be cleared from beneath the decking. Standing debris and standing water can accelerate the deterioration of the decking and the supporting structure.
Mistakes That Shorten WPC Decking Lifespan
Poor choice of cleaning equipment and techniques can shorten the lifespan of WPC decking. WPC decking boards can be scratched using wire brushes and abrasive pads. Exposed decking surfaces can lose the protective layer from UV radiation. Deck sealing products and stains are unnecessary and damaging as they inhibit the natural contraction and expansion of the decking. A gap of 1/4 inch between decking boards must be left to avoid bowing and warping. Maintaining a distance of 12 inches or more and a maximum pressure of 1200 PSI while cleaning with a pressure washer must be observed. Leaving debris to accumulate in the cleaning gaps is also a way to ensure quick deterioration and the development of mold.
FAQ
How do I care for WPC decking?
Use soap or water and a broom for daily cleaning. For a deeper clean, use a pressure washer once a season or if there are heavy stains.
Will bleach remove stains on WPC decking?
Bleaching WPC decking without the decking manufacturer’s express approval is not recommended. Bleach has the potential to discolor and harm the decking. Instead, think about using Oxygen bleach or a mixture of water and vinegar.
What is the safe PSI when pressure washing WPC decking?
No more than 1200 PSI is a safe PSI and the pressure washer should be at least twelve inches away while being operated at a forty-five degree angle.
What is the best way to keep WPC decking free of mildew and mold?
The best way to make sure that mold does not accumulate is to clear the area of overgrown vegetation and keep the drainage system of the deck in good working order. For mold that has already started to show, a mixture of water and white vinegar or a three percent solution of Hydrogen peroxide is a good option.
Is it necessary to use deck sealers or stains on WPC decking?
WPC decking does not need any deck sealers or stains and will actually be harmed by it. It will trap moisture and then disrupt the normal expanding and contracting of the decking.