Once your deck is built you want it to last as long as possible.

Keeping your WPC Decking clean is an important aspect in the after-care of decking, as well as keeping it free from organic matter which could potentially lead to the decay of the structure.

 

Once fitted, we do not recommend:

  • Dragging furniture or plant pots across the decking
  • Dropping heavy items onto the deck (such as large plant pots, trees, BBQs, furniture etc)
  • Items with metal feet should have suitable material between them and the decking to avoid scratching or damaging the deck.
  • Using corrosive or strong chemical treatments such as bleach

 

WPC composite decking is recommended to be cleaned at least twice a year, ideally in warm and dry weather conditions. This will prevent the build-up of dirt and organic matter from causing damage to the decking. Cleaning more frequently than twice a year is suitable for the decking, provided caution is taken to use suitable products such as a stiff brush and hot soapy water.

 

To Clean your WPC Decking:

  • Use a broom to remove any leaves and debris from the surface of the deck. You should ideally use a hard Bristle brush or scraper to remove any moss, algae or leaves. This will then leave the surface clear for cleaning.
  • Grab a bucket and fill with hot soapy water or use a bottle of composite deck cleaner and pour into the hot water.
  • Follow the instructions on the container. Once this has been done, use the brush to scrub the surface of the deck. Any sort of contaminants will then begin to lift off.
  • Leave the hot soapy water or cleaning product on the surface on the deck for several minutes before rinsing the boards off with water. Make sure all cleaning fluid and soapy water is removed and all debris and contaminants have been removed successfully.
  • Finally, leave boards to dry in the sun.

 

Other useful advice

  • Fire pits & unusual heat sources

 

Precautions should be taken when using fire pits & BBQs on composite decking, we advise a surface between the fire pit or BBQ and decking. You should ensure the fire-pit or BBQ is secure and does not wobble or move. Caution should be taken with embers coming into contact with the decking. Southern Timber cannot be held responsible for any fire damage or flames that come into contact with the decking. To use a heat source near the decking is entirely at the risk of the customer.

  • Mould & Mildew

 

Mould and mildew are common environmental conditions, different climates can affect the varying degrees of mould depending on the temperature and moisture conditions. To minimize mould surface on your decking, ensure it is cleaned as often as needed. Removal of leaves, debris and other organic material reduce the risk of mould occurring. If mould is present use hot soapy water or composite decking cleaner to remove.