What Cleaner Is Used on Trex Decks?

Cleaning Trex Composite and PVC Decks

• Soap and hot water will remove ordinary grime from Trex decking. OIl and grease stains should be removed as soon as possible with hot water and a biodegradable product formulated for composite decking, such as Pour 'n' Restore. For rust stains, ground-in dirt, and stains from grime and pigments, use products with an oxalic or phosphoric acid base. Look for products marketed as deck brighteners. This will also work for tannin stains from leaching from the wood, leaf stains and water spots.

Trex Transcend

• Trex Transcend is Trex's premium deck system. It has a range of earthy wood tones and is fade and scratch-resistant. The cleaning routine is similar to Trex composite and PVC, but a bristle brush is needed for embossed patterns, along with soap and hot water. Another difference is that a power washer can be used on Trex Transcend but not the Trex composite/PVC decking systems. No acetone or solvent can be used on the Transcend system but acetone can be applied to Trex to remove manufacturers' stamps.

Mold and Mildew

• Mold and mildew feed on the biofilm created by pollen and dirt. Trex decks should be cleaned periodically with soap and water to prevent mold. If mold does colonize, bleach will remove it from Trex composite and PVC decks, but will also lighten the color. The manufacturer recommends brand name deck cleaners, specifically Olympic Premium Deck Cleaner and Expert Chemical Composite Deck Cleaner & Enhancer. Cleaning products shouldn't be used on Trex Transcend for mold; only diligent regular cleaning with a bristle brush and soap and hot water. A hose can be used on Transcend.

Additional Information

• Only a plastic shovel should be used on Trex decking to remove snow. Calcium chloride or rock salt may be used for de-icing. Sanding isn't recommended for Trex products; it changes the surface finish and voids the warranty. Scuffs and abrasions disappear after 12 to 16 weeks of weathering, but deck brighteners will speed up the process. Colored chalk lines are permanent on Trex surfaces; use Irwin Straitline or baby powder in a snap line.