Set the hose nozzle to the “spray” setting so there’s some power behind the spray. This helps remove debris. If you use a power washer instead of a garden hose, the model should be less than 3,100 psi to avoid damaging the deck. [2] X Research source
It’s important to use ammonia-free dish soap so the soap doesn’t stain your deck or react with any other chemicals you may use for cleaning.
You can also get a soft-bristle broom, which will make cleaning the entire deck much easier on your back. Depending on the size of your deck, you may have to mix more soap solution during the cleaning process. Remove all caked-on debris, because this will form stains if left untreated.
Leftover soapy water can form a sticky film on your deck. This could not only stain the deck, but it also attracts even more dust and debris. Save yourself future trouble by doing a thorough rinse.
After picking up all the food, you can follow the same cleaning steps to prevent oil and grease from staining your deck.
Do not use any cleaning products that aren’t approved for Trex, especially wood cleaners. Solvents and corrosive chemicals can stain and damage your deck permanently, and you could also void your warranty if you use unapproved chemicals. If you’re unsure what to use, contact the manufacturer or installer of your deck and ask for a recommendation.
Use a normal broom for this task, no need for specialized bristles. If dust or debris has accumulated in the deck’s grid pattern, use a smaller brush and clean it all out.
A hand pump sprayer is a simple applicator you could use. This tool has a large tank, so you can directly pour water and cleaning fluid into it. Remember to pump it several times before trying to spray. If you’re using a pressure washer, it may have a compartment where liquid cleaner goes. In this case, pour the cleaner in here and connect the pressure washer to a hose. Remember to keep the pressure washer on a low setting.
You should see suds while you apply the cleaner. If you don’t see suds, check to make sure your power washer is working or you’ve used the right mixture. If you’re using a pressure washer, keep the nozzle moving to avoid damaging the deck.
Instructions usually tell you to wait several minutes, ranging from 3 to 15 minutes.
Angle your spray so all the suds flow off your deck. Don’t let this mixture pool in one area, as it could stain your deck if it sits there.
Be careful with how hard you scrub. Composite deck is soft material, and you could wear away the surface with heavy scrubbing.
If you use a power washer instead of a garden hose, the model should be less than 3,100 psi to avoid damaging the deck. [16] X Research source
For example, if you use 1 US quart (0. 95 l) of water, then use 2 US quarts (1. 9 l) of vinegar.
Remember to pour this solution directly onto the mold. Depending on how much mold is on your deck, you may have to mix more of your vinegar-water solution to complete the job.
Don’t be worried when the mixture starts bubbling and foaming when you apply the baking soda. This is a natural and harmless reaction.
20 minutes is all you should wait, or the chemicals in the vinegar and baking soda could stain or damage the deck. Allow enough time for the solution to work, but not so much that you ruin your deck.
Scrub well in the ridges and pattern of the deck. Mold loves hiding in these creases.
A thorough rinse will also remove any food sources for mold like dirt and grime. This prevents more mold from forming in the future.
