6 Simple Steps to Prep a Composite Deck for Outdoor Living Season

1. Sweep off debris: Using a broom, sweep off all the debris that has accumulated on the deck during fall and winter. For stubborn bits of debris stuck between boards, use a putty knife or screwdriver to gently clean out the buildup.

2. Pre-rinse: Use a hose to rinse any remaining loose debris off the deck and prepare the surface for cleaning.

3. Clean: Trex composite decking, available at Keim Home Center, features a high-performance shell that resists fading, staining and mold. In most cases, a simple scrubbing with warm, soapy water and a soft-bristle brush is all that’s needed to retain a like-new appearance. For stubborn stains, use a composite deck cleaning solution.

4. Rinse: Once you’ve finished scrubbing, rinse the decking thoroughly to avoid leaving behind a film or build-up. Hold the hose about 6-12 inches above the deck’s surface and spray a few feet in front of you. The water stream from a standard host should be strong enough to wash away dirt and debris. With high-performance composite decking products, like those from Trex, you can also use a pressure washer. The psi should be no greater than 3100 psi and the fan tip should be kept at least 8 inches from the decking surface to prevent surface damage.

5. Inspect and let dry: Take a look to identify any spots you may have missed, and clean accordingly. Once complete, let your deck fully dry before use.

6. Enjoy!: Trex’s high-performance, low maintenance decking makes it easy to spend more time enjoying your deck – rather than maintaining it. A simple soap and water cleaning twice a year is all it takes to keep your deck looking as good as it did on the day it was installed.

Visit the Deck Project Center to learn more about Keim's selection of decking products.