Composite decks are a great way to beautify your home and provide a nice atmosphere for hanging out with friends and family members. However, in order for the deck to look nice and serve its purpose for a long time, it is necessary to maintain it regularly. Many owners of composite decks are wondering how best to clean it and make it look flawless. Although there are a number of cleaning products on the market, there are also DIY products that can do a great job. One of the most frequently mentioned cleaning ingredients is vinegar. And if you’ve been wondering if it’s safe to clean your composite deck with vinegar, you’re in the right place, so keep reading.
Why is vinegar often used for cleaning?
Source: parenting.firstcry.com
If you google how to clean different materials or remove stains from clothes or different surfaces, you will surely read the recommendation to use vinegar on many different websites. Why is this the case?
Vinegar is a really powerful cleansing agent because of the acetic acid it contains. It is very effective in removing stains and polishing surfaces. Vinegar is often combined with baking soda, to achieve an even more powerful effect. It is not an overly aggressive ingredient, but it is strong enough to clean the surface on which it is applied. Another good thing about vinegar is that it is a relatively cheap and affordable ingredient that most people have in their home.
However, vinegar is not compatible with all materials and substrates, so it is always necessary to inform yourself before applying it to a surface. Make sure you find out whether it is recommended to use it on a particular material, as well as which method of use is the most optimal.
Is it safe to use vinegar on composite decks?
If you are wondering if it is safe to use vinegar as a cleaning agent on your composite deck we have good news for you: you can use this ingredient without worries. However, it is necessary to apply it in the right way so as not to damage the composite substrate. It is not recommended to use undiluted vinegar, because it can be too aggressive and corrode the surface, especially if it stays on it for too long. People sometimes use this ingredient to purposefully change the look of their composite decking and fade it in certain places. That is why it is always recommended to dilute it enough to clean the composite deck without damaging it.
It is necessary to be careful enough and carry out the whole cleaning process in the right way. The last thing you want is to destroy your beloved composite deck that you have been looking for and looking forward to for a long time. If you are currently in the process of searching for the perfect composite deck for your home, check this for more ideas.
How to clean your composite deck with vinegar in the right way?
The process of cleaning a composite deck with vinegar can look complex when you do it for the first time. However, once you become skilled, it will only take you a few minutes to bring your deck to perfection. It is important to follow a few basic steps to get everything done in the most optimal way:
1. Collect and mix all ingredients
Source: ilandscape.com.au
For the process of cleaning the composite deck, you will need vinegar, baking soda (which we mentioned before), as well as water to dilute the whole mixture. Take a larger bowl and add half a cup of vinegar, a quarter cup of baking soda and around a gallon of water. Stir well and get into the action.
2. Prepare the deck
Before you start cleaning the deck with vinegar, it is necessary to prepare it for the process in advance. Take a garden hose and rinse your composite deck well to remove all dirt and dust. In addition to removing impurities, washing the deck with water will ensure that it softens, which will provide much better cleaning with a mixture of vinegar, baking soda and water.
3. Start cleaning
Source: pbcpressurecleaning.com
If you want to clean your composite deck properly, we suggest that you go over each individual board very precisely, to ensure that you have captured all the parts. It is best to use a brush for this process, which you will dip into the mixture, but we advise it to be a brush that has soft bristles, so as not to damage the surface.
4. Rinse with water
The next step is to rinse the composite deck with water. When you have finished wiping with vinegar, it is time to remove all the remnants of this mixture so that it does not stay on the deck and damage it. You can use a garden hose and pressurized water for this process, but make sure to double check how much pressure your composite deck can withstand. Rinse all parts thoroughly and allow the deck to dry.
What if some stains remain?
Source: neotimber.com
At the end of the cleaning process, it is necessary to check if any stains are left. Sometimes some persistent stains remain on the deck, so they need additional treatment in order to be completely removed. If you notice such stains, make a mixture of one cup of vinegar and half a cup of water, then apply directly to the stains. You can also add a little baking soda and leave the mixture to act for a few minutes, but do not leave it longer than that. Then rinse the composite deck with water and allow it to dry completely. After that, it is ready to use and enjoy the beautiful weather.
Conclusion:
Composite deck is a nice addition to any home. However, in order to serve its purpose for a long time and look flawless, it is necessary to maintain it in the right way. If you are not a fan of the products available on the market, you can always make your own composite deck cleaner based on vinegar, baking soda and water. Mix these ingredients and go through the steps we mentioned. Within just a few minutes, you will have a clean, beautiful composite deck that you will be able to enjoy with your friends and family members.
