How to Clean and Maintain Composite Deck Boards
Learn how to clean and maintain composite deck boards with ease. This guide from Upgryd covers weekly upkeep, seasonal deep cleaning, snow removal, stain treatment, and long-term care strategies to keep your deck beautiful and functional year-round.
How to Clean and Maintain Composite Deck Boards
Keep Your Deck Looking New Year After Year with These Expert Tips
Composite decking has become the gold standard for homeowners who want the beauty of wood without the endless upkeep. At Upgryd, we install top-tier composite decks designed to be low-maintenance, long-lasting, and visually stunning. But even the most durable materials need a little TLC from time to time.
If you’re wondering how to care for your composite deck, this guide covers everything—from seasonal cleanings to long-term maintenance strategies—so your outdoor space stays as beautiful as the day it was built.
Why Composite Decking Is Low-Maintenance (But Not No-Maintenance)
Let’s start with a little myth-busting: while composite boards don’t require the sanding, staining, or sealing that wood does, they still benefit from regular cleaning. Leaves, dirt, pollen, mold, and mildew can accumulate on the surface, especially in shaded or damp areas.
Most of the care involves simple rinsing, spot-cleaning, and basic upkeep—no heavy-duty tools or chemicals required. And the payoff? A deck that keeps its vibrant color, slip-resistant texture, and upscale finish for years to come.
Weekly or Bi-Weekly Spot Checks
Even if you don’t have a dedicated cleaning routine, doing a quick check every week or two helps prevent buildup and surface stains. Here’s what to look for:
- Leaf and Debris Buildup: Sweep or blow off leaves, branches, and organic matter before they stain.
- Standing Water: Check for puddles and clear out clogged gaps to maintain airflow.
- Pollen Dust: Especially during spring, a quick hose-off removes fine particles that can make your deck look dull.
Our Tip: Keep a soft-bristle broom or a handheld leaf blower nearby for fast, tool-free maintenance.
What We Love: These small, regular touches preserve that just-installed look with minimal effort.
Monthly Rinsing Routine
About once a month—or more frequently in high-traffic areas—it’s a good idea to give your deck a simple rinse. Use a garden hose and a soft-bristled brush to gently lift away dirt or residue.
Avoid high-pressure washing unless the composite manufacturer specifically allows it, as excessive pressure can damage the deck’s protective surface layer.
Our Tip: Work in the direction of the boards to prevent water from getting trapped between planks.
What We Love: How a light rinse makes your deck look freshly cleaned with barely 10 minutes of effort.
Deep Cleaning Once Per Season
At the change of each season—especially spring and fall—treat your composite deck to a more thorough cleaning. Use a composite-safe cleaner (free from bleach or harsh solvents) and a soft or medium-bristle deck brush.
Steps:
- Clear all furniture and planters.
- Sweep thoroughly.
- Mix cleaner per label instructions.
- Scrub gently, focusing on spots or high-use areas.
- Rinse thoroughly to prevent residue streaking.
Our Tip: Always check your decking brand’s care guidelines. Upgryd installs materials like Trex, TimberTech, and Deckorators—each has recommended cleaners that won’t void your warranty.
What We Love: That clean-deck smell and shine that makes your entire backyard feel fresh and inviting.
Mold and Mildew Prevention
Even with moisture resistance, mold can grow on dirt or pollen that accumulates on your deck—especially in shaded or damp areas. If you spot black or green patches, don’t panic. A composite-safe mold remover will usually clear it right up.
To prevent future buildup:
- Trim back overhanging trees to reduce moisture and shade.
- Routinely clean planters and outdoor rugs underneath.
- Use furniture with airflow beneath to minimize trapping dampness.
Our Tip: Add rubber feet or risers to planters so they don’t sit directly on deck boards.
What We Love: How a few strategic choices can help keep mold away all season.
Snow and Ice Removal
In the winter, it’s fine to shovel snow off your composite deck—but choose the right tools. Use a plastic shovel with a rounded edge (never metal) to avoid scratching the surface.
For ice:
- Use calcium chloride-based ice melt (not rock salt).
- Rinse thoroughly in spring to remove any residual grit.
Our Tip: Shovel along the grain of the decking boards, not across, to preserve their finish.
What We Love: That your deck stays usable—even beautiful—through winter with just a bit of care.
Stain Removal 101
Spilled wine, dropped food, or grilling grease happens. The key is to act fast:
- Grease & Oil: Use dish soap and warm water to break it down before it sets.
- Rust Stains: Try a composite-safe cleaner with oxalic acid—test on a small area first.
- General Food Spills: A damp cloth and non-abrasive soap usually does the trick.
Our Tip: Keep a composite care kit on hand with a small brush, cleaner, and microfiber cloth.
What We Love: How easy it is to erase life’s little messes without heavy-duty scrubbing.
Long-Term Maintenance Strategy
Composite decking doesn’t just hold up—it shines over time when given the right care. Here’s how to build a simple long-term plan:
- Quarterly deep cleans
- Bi-weekly spot checks
- Annual mold inspection
- Reapply protective topcoat if your brand recommends it
At Upgryd, we walk every homeowner through proper care steps tailored to the material we install. That way, your deck isn’t just a feature—it’s an investment you enjoy for decades.
When to Call a Pro
If your deck has stubborn stains, structural shifting, or you’ve gone a few seasons without cleaning, a professional tune-up may be the best next step. Upgryd offers deck resurfacing services using premium composite materials, ensuring your deck looks brand new—without a full rebuild.
