There are many reasons to choose a TimberTech composite deck, from incredible fade and stain resistance, to attractive hues and realistic grain patterns, to unrivaled protection from mold, mildew, and weathering. But perhaps one of the greatest benefits for those looking for high style, low maintenance decking is this: cleaning composite decking is super simple. TimberTech capped composite and capped polymer boards require only minimal care (think the occasional wash-and-rinse) to stay looking great. We’ll highlight how to clean composite decking, what tools you’ll need, and when to break out the brush.
Because we believe your deck should be enjoyed, not maintained.
What You’ll Need to Clean Composite Decking
TimberTech® DeckCleaner™
Cleaning your TimberTech capped composite or capped polymer deck is straight-forward and doesn’t require the power washing, re-staining, or resealing of traditional wood decks. That said, because all exterior products will encounter exposure to everyday spills, dust, pollen, and foot traffic, it’s a good idea to clean periodically. We recommend TimberTech DeckCleaner™*, our solution for seasonal cleanup, spots, and everyday spills.
Here are the tools you will need to clean your TimberTech composite deck, as compared to the laundry list needed for pressure-treated lumber:
| DECKING MATERIAL | TimberTech® AZEK® | TimberTech PRO® & TimberTech EDGE® | Pressure-Treated Lumber |
| CLEANING AGENT | For spot cleaning: TimberTech® DeckCleaner™.
| For spot cleaning: TimberTech® DeckCleaner™. | For spot cleaning: A heavy-duty dish soap or wood cleaner and scrub brush.
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| For all-purpose cleaning: TimberTech® DeckCleaner™. | For all-purpose cleaning: TimberTech® DeckCleaner™. | For power cleaning: A cleaner containing chlorine bleach (sodium hypochlorite or calcium hypochlorite) to dissolve mold, mildew, and other organic materials. Note that the excessive use of bleach can damage the wood, leaving an unnatural whitewashed appearance. | |
| BRUSH | A stiff, natural-fiber brush with extension handle. | A medium to stiff nylon brush, such as Quickie® Bulldozer Deck Scrub Brush, with extension handle. | A stiff-bristle brush with extension handle. |
| WASHING TOOL | A garden hose. A power washer can be used for rinsing only, with a water pressure not exceeding 1,500 psi. For more information, see the our Care & Cleaning Guide. | A garden hose. A power washer can be used for rinsing only, with a water pressure not exceeding 1,500 psi. For more information, see the our Care & Cleaning Guide. | A garden hose will work for spot cleaning, but regular power-washing will be necessary to cut through accumulated mold, mildew, and staining. You may need to sand your deck after power-washing, which means even more time, labor, and expense. |
*Note: TimberTech DeckCleaner™ is formulated, field tested, and approved for cleaning TimberTech AZEK® decking or porch, TimberTech PRO® decking, TimberTech EDGE® decking, and TimberTech composite railing. On average, one gallon diluted with one part cleaner to three parts water will clean approximately 1,000 square feet of surface area.
Tips for How to Clean Composite Decking
General upkeep for all decks will involve the following:
- Periodically sweeping leaves, dirt, debris, dust, and pollen from your porch.
- Spot cleaning paw prints, mud, or other tracked material, especially near doors and stairs.
- Wiping up any small spills that might come with outdoor entertaining.
Sometimes, though — and certainly as your deck transitions from winter to spring — it’s time to break out the brush. It will be important to know how to clean composite decking after it’s been exposed to any harsh weather (both extreme heat and cold), or after any standing moisture or natural material has sat on the deck (think sand, blown-in dirt, snow, or sleet). You’re ready to reach for TimberTech® DeckCleaner and an appropriate brush (remember: natural-fiber for TimberTech AZEK decking; nylon for TimberTech PRO and EDGE).
Check out on how to clean composite decking below.
Step 1
Shake well. Dilute TimberTech DeckCleaner by mixing one part cleaner to three parts water. One gallon of diluted cleaner will cover approximately 1,000 square feet of surface area.
Step 2
Working in one smaller area at a time, saturate with the diluted cleaner and allow it to stand on the surface for 30-60 seconds. DO NOT allow the cleaner to dry or evaporate before scrubbing.
Step 3
Using the recommended brush and extension handle, scrub using downward pressure; first, in the direction of the grain, and then against the grain. DO NOT allow the treated area to dry before rinsing fully.
Step 4
Rinse the treated area with clean water. For best results, dry or remove standing water with a towel or sponge mop. Then allow the deck to air dry completely.
In addition to general deck cleanliness, it’s also useful to keep seasonal tips and tricks in mind.
Now that you’ve familiarized yourself with deck cleaning best practices, download and save our Care & Cleaning Guide for future use.
Protect Your Deck
Learn how to clean composite decking and keep your deck’s aesthetics beautiful year-round with our Care & Cleaning Guide.
