Southern Comfort Exteriors is your trusted partner for all your decking needs in the Upstate. Our commitment to quality extends beyond installation; we’re here to help you maintain the beauty and longevity of your Trex decking. Trex composite decking is renowned for its durability and low-maintenance requirements, but like all outdoor surfaces, it benefits from regular care. We’re here to walk you through the essential steps to keep your Trex deck looking its best year-round.

Understanding Trex Decking

Trex decking combines recycled wood fibers and plastic, offering a sustainable, high-performance alternative to traditional wood. This composition makes it resistant to rot, mold, and mildew and doesn’t require painting or staining. However, dirt, debris, and spills can still accumulate, making routine cleaning essential.

General Cleaning Guidelines

Use the following tools and materials:

– Garden hose with a spray nozzle – Soft-bristle brush – Mild dish soap or a specialized deck cleaner – Bucket – Warm water

Routine Cleaning

Routine cleaning can help your Trex decking stay pristine. Follow the below steps for regular cleaning and maintenance:

1. Remove Debris Sweep your deck regularly to prevent the accumulation of dirt, leaves, and other debris. This simple step can prevent scratches and staining.
2. Rinse the Surface Use a garden hose to spray the deck, removing loose dirt and debris. Avoid using a pressure washer, which can damage the deck’s surface.
3. Prepare Cleaning Solution Mix mild dish soap with warm water in a bucket. Consider using a deck cleaner specifically designed for composite materials for a more thorough clean.
4. Scrub the Deck Dip a soft-bristle brush into the cleaning solution and scrub the deck boards, paying extra attention to any stained or particularly dirty areas. Scrub in the direction of the grain to avoid damaging the surface.
5. Rinse Thoroughly After scrubbing, rinse the deck thoroughly with a garden hose, ensuring all soap residue is washed away. Leftover soap can attract dirt and leave a residue.

Tackling Common Stains

Let’s face it: stains happen with decking. We’ve listed out some of the most common stains that can happen to your Trex decking, as well as how to clean them:

Oil and Grease Stains

Oil and grease can leave unsightly marks on your deck if not addressed promptly. To remove these stains:

1. Blot the Spill Immediately blot the spill with paper towels or a clean cloth to absorb as much oil or grease as possible.
2. Apply Soap Solution Apply a soap solution directly to the stain and let it sit for 15-20 minutes.
3. Scrub and Rinse Scrub the area with a soft-bristle brush and rinse thoroughly with water.

Mold and Mildew

Although Trex decking is resistant to mold and mildew, spores can still grow on surface dirt and debris. To clean these:

1. Prepare Cleaning Solution Use a mixture of 1 part bleach to 3 parts water.
2. Apply and Scrub Apply the solution to the affected areas and scrub with a soft-bristle brush.
3. Rinse Thoroughly Rinse the area thoroughly with water to remove all bleach residue.

Food and Beverage Stains

For food and beverage stains on your Trex decking, follow these steps:

1. Blot the Spill Blot the spill as soon as it occurs.
2. Apply Soap Solution Use a mild soap solution to scrub the stain.
3. Rinse Well Rinse thoroughly with water to remove all soap residue.

Seasonal Maintenance Tips

As the seasons change, so should your cleaning routine for your decking.

Spring and Summer

During the warmer months, your deck will likely see more foot traffic and entertaining. To keep it looking its best:

• Clean your deck monthly to remove dirt and pollen.
• Regularly inspect your deck for signs of damage or wear, such as loose boards or railings, and address any problems promptly.

Fall

Autumn brings falling leaves and increased moisture, which can lead to mold and mildew growth.

• Sweep leaves and debris frequently to prevent staining and mold growth.
• Perform a deep clean at the beginning and end of the season to prepare for winter.

Winter

Winter care is crucial, especially if you experience freezing temperatures. In the Upstate, we do occasionally experience snow and ice, which should be considered.

• Always try to remove snow and ice. Use a plastic shovel, and avoid metal shovels, which can scratch the surface.
• Avoid chemicals. Do not use ice melt products that contain harsh chemicals or salts, as they can damage the deck.

Additional Tips for Long-Lasting Beauty

Protect from Furniture Scratches Use furniture pads under the legs of chairs and tables to prevent scratches. Avoid rubber-backed mats. Rubber-backed mats can trap moisture and cause discoloration. Opt for vinyl-backed or woven rugs. Touch up your Trex decking’s protective coating. Consider applying a protective coating or sealer annually to enhance the deck’s resistance to stains and weathering.

Trust Southern Comfort Exteriors for Your Decking Needs

At Southern Comfort Exteriors, we pride ourselves on providing top-quality decking solutions and expert advice to our customers in Belton, South Carolina, and the surrounding areas in the Upstate, no matter if you’re in Spartanburg, Duncan, or Greer. Whether installing a new Trex deck or maintaining an existing one, our team is here to help. Contact us today for more information on our products and services, and let us help you create and preserve your outdoor oasis.