One of the biggest advantages of a Fiberon composite deck is how easy it is to maintain. With composite decking, you don’t have to worry about cracking, splinters or refinishing every few years. With some minimal maintenance, a Fiberon composite deck will look beautiful for many years.
If you’re considering adding a new deck to expand your outdoor living space, contact your nearest Spahn & Rose deck expert for a free estimate.
Spring is an ideal time for a little deck maintenance. Just follow these four easy steps to keep your Fiberon composite deck looking good for the next time you invite family and friends over.
- Clean with gentle soap, water and a garden hose.
To remove dirt, pollen and other organic debris, use soap and water with a non-metal scrub brush. Give your deck this kind of thorough cleaning twice a year—in the spring before your first barbecue and in the fall when you’re buttoning up your backyard for winter are ideal times. For tougher stains like oil and grease, use an all-purpose cleaner such as Fantastik or De-Solv-It Citrus Solution. But before you use these cleaners, test them on an out-of-the-way, little-seen part of the deck. Avoid using pressure washers to clean your Fiberon composite deck.
- Keep the deck free of debris.
Regularly sweep your deck with a broom or blow it clean with a leaf blower. This quick step keeps organic material from accumulating and potentially doing damage. However, if your deck has been stained by mold or other organic debris, Fiberon recommends 30 Seconds Outdoor Cleaner and 30 Seconds Spray & Walk Away from Collier Manufacturing. These heavy-duty mold and mildew removers are biodegradable and can be rinsed into the soil.
- Clear the gaps between boards.
Sometimes organic debris can clog the gaps between a deck’s boards, allowing water to pool. When the organic material stews in the water, it creates a tannin that can stain the deck. Clogs also promote mold growth. Keep the gaps clean with a garden hose, and gently use a putty knife to remove tougher, stuck debris.
- Look under flower pots and mats.
Be sure there are no latex, rubber or vinyl mats on your deck; they can leave marks. While such blemishes can usually be removed, avoiding these mat materials in the first place is better for your deck. A stronger option is colorfast woven rugs or mats made from polypropylene. Flower pots, meanwhile, can keep water from evaporating and may cause staining. Be sure to check under them regularly.