Friends for Life: Maintaining Your Cedar or Composite Decking

What you will learn: Options for cleaning cedar and composite decks; when to use a pressure washer and when not to use one; the importance of good drainage when cleaning your cedar deck or composite deck; things to consider when deciding on cleaning agents.

Like any part of your property, your choice in decking materials is going to need your attention every once and a while. Cedar and composite decks contribute to the enjoyment of your outdoor life; here are some points on how to make the relationship a long lasting one.

When you selected your decking material, you did your research and chose according to your sense of style as well as for practical considerations. You know that your deck has added good value to your property, and you also know that maintaining your deck is a continuing sound investment. It’s therefore a good idea to review some basic points on keeping your deck clean. Just as specific features of each kind of decking material guided your original choice of material, there are specific characteristics of cedar decking and composite decking that can guide you in how to clean them.

One of the main features of composite decking is how low-maintenance it is. Basically, you will need little more than your garden hose for cleaning a composite deck. This is one of the main reasons why composite decking is becoming more and more popular. Several deck-cleaning products are available on the market to give your composite decking an additional level of protection against staining and mildew build up. Just remember to rinse well and make sure that you have adequate drainage – trapped moisture is bad news for any structure!

Pressure washing is also a great way to clear any material that has adhered to the surface of your composite decking. When it comes to composite decking cleaning agents, always take care to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for the cleaning products you decide to use. Just to make sure that the products are appropriate for the application you make. It’s a good idea to test any cleaning agents on a small part of your deck to make sure there isn’t any resulting discoloration or deterioration of the surface before using it on the whole surface. Remember also to consult any manufacturer’s instructions concerning disposal of your composite decking cleaning products. You’ve already made an environmentally responsible decision in purchasing composite decking, so it makes sense to remain environmentally sensitive when disposing of cleaning products.

The required maintenance and care of cedar decking involves regular cleaning, much like composite decking, although use of a pressure washer is not recommended on your cedar deck. Cedar is a durable wood against natural elements, but it’s still a soft wood and can be damaged with a pressure washer. A good option to consider is the use of a cedar decking cleaning product or restorer, ranging from paint-stripping products which will remove oil and latex based stains (remember to rinse the cedar decking thoroughly afterwards), to bleach-based products designed to control mildew growth, to products which are specifically designed to remove rust stains. In all cases, it is important to pay close attention to the manufacturer’s instructions in order to ensure that you’re using your cedar cleaning or restoring product appropriately. Seek advice from your local retailer or decking subcontractor for recommendations on the most suitable cleaning product.

Be sure also that there is adequate drainage when rinsing your cedar decking. This will reduce the possibility of further mildew or fungus growth from excessive moisture. Keep your cedar deck clear of leaves that can trap moisture on the surface of the wood. A dry deck will last longer than a wet one! Seek advice from your local retailer or decking subcontractor for recommendations on the most suitable cleaning product.

Now that you have a guide on how to maintain your cedar or composite decking, your "friendship" with it last a very long time!

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