Finally, the deck of your dreams is a reality. You meticulously designed your deck with Integrous’ team. Then you watched our crew carefully craft your outdoor living space. And now is the time to soak in the fresh air, crank up the grill, and invite friends over to share in the excitement.
But now is also an important time to make a plan for how you will maintain your deck, so that it continues to serve your needs and add to the aesthetic appeal of your property for decades to come.
You’ve already made life easier for yourself by selecting composite or PVC decking, as these materials require far less maintenance than traditional wood decks. While these durable decking options don’t require sanding, sealing, or staining, they do benefit from periodic cleaning and upkeep.
Here are some tips from Integrous Fences and Decks’ deck division on how you can maintain your composite or PVC deck.
Clean Regularly
Sweep your deck often to remove dirt, leaves, and debris. Rinse with a hose or use a gentle pressure washer (under 1500 psi) with a wide, fan tip nozzle (40 degrees) to keep the surface clean. Spray in the direction of the deck board grain pattern, and dry with cotton towels, a sponge mop, or a leaf blower.
Use Mild Soap & Water
Transitions between seasons–from winter to spring or summer to fall–are good times for a deeper clean. Warm water and a mild dish soap are often all you need to remove dirt and pollen.
Be sure to use the appropriate brush for your specific decking to effectively scrub your deck without leaving scratches. TimberTech recommends using a stiff, natural fiber brush for their PVC decking and a medium to stiff nylon brush for their composite decking. After scrubbing, take time to rinse and dry to remove any residual soap or debris.
Tackle Stains Promptly
Clean food spills, grease, or tree sap as soon as possible to prevent staining. Try to wipe the area with a dry paper towel, and then transition to a deck cleaner for tough-to-remove stains. Use a deck cleaner or degreaser recommended by your decking manufacturer with the appropriate brush for composite or PVC material. Rinse and dry your deck after using the cleaner to avoid a white film from forming.
Avoid Harsh Chemicals
Never use bleach, ammonia, or harsh cleaners that contain acetone or solvents. These can discolor or damage the deck surface.
Prevent Mold & Mildew
Although composite and PVC materials are resistant to mold, they’re not immune. Pay careful attention to areas that stay shaded or damp to avoid buildup. If you spot mold or mildew, wet and scrub the area with deck cleaner and water.
Check Gaps & Fasteners
Inspect the gaps between boards and the condition of screws or hidden fasteners. Use a shop vacuum with a brush attachment to remove debris stuck in between.
Avoid Rubber Mats or Rugs
Only use mats labeled “safe for composite decking.” Rubber-backed mats, tarps, and pool toys can trap moisture or discolor the surface if left on your deck for an extended period of time.
Shovel Carefully in Winter
Use a plastic shovel to remove snow. Metal shovels and ice scrapers can scratch or gouge the surface. While rock salt and other gritty materials aren’t recommended for ice removal, most products containing calcium chloride can be used on a deck. These products may leave a white film which will need to be cleaned once temperatures rise.
Inspect for Drainage Issues
Make sure water flows off the deck properly. Keep downspouts and drains clear to prevent pooling, which can cause mold or fading over time.
Protect from Furniture Scratches
Use furniture pads or glides on the bottom of chairs and tables to avoid scuffing the surface, especially with heavier outdoor furniture.
Follow Manufacturer Guidelines
Each composite or PVC brand may have slightly different care instructions. Check your deck proposal from Integrous to confirm your decking manufacturer, and then consult their website for specific information (many of our decks use TimberTech products).
If you have any concerns about your deck that can’t be resolved with routine cleaning and maintenance, give us a call at (610) 430-0743. Our comprehensive 5-year warranty applies to all of our decks, so if your deck isn’t functioning as it should or is structurally unsound, we’ll fix it free of charge for up to five years after installation.