Can you Pressure Wash Trex Decking?
Everything You Need to Know for Cleaning Your Trex Deck.
Trex decks are beautiful and comfortable for front porch living and worth every penny. The last thing you would want to do is damage your Trex in the process of trying to clean it effectively. I am going to give you some do’s and don’ts that should satisfy any questions you may have about the process.
To Use or Not to Use?
Should the pressure washer be used on your Trex? It is important to know what Trex you have. The Early Generation Trex is not ok to be cleaned with a pressure washer. While the Transcend, Enhanced and Select can be pressured washed ONLY on a specific PSI setting.
Why Not Pressure Wash Early Generation Trex?
The first reason is that it could damage the decking surface. If that’s not enough reason not to, please take note on the second reason. It will void any warranty you have with Trex. In the long run, it is not worth it. I have some tips on how to clean it properly without the pressure washer, making the job just as simple.
Cleaning Your Trex Deck.
Cleaning your Trex deck helps maintain the life of it. It keeps the color and overall appearance in good condition. It is recommended to clean your Trex deck at least twice a year. More if stains become present. The sooner you pay attention to a stain, the easier it will be to remove.
Purchase a Composite Deck Cleaner.
There are several great cleaners for composite decks that leave them sparkling clean.
- Wash Safe Industries comes in a gallon size yet goes a long way. If you check out their link you can see the before and after pictures with the use of this product.
- Chomp Composite Deck Algae and Mildew Barrier protects against stains. It is eco-friendly and safe to use around plants and the such. It keeps water from beading on the deck.
- Duckback Composite Deck Cleaner is a nontoxic deck wash that protects against UV rays that cause fading over time. Not only will you be cleaning your Trex Deck but will be protecting it against elements.
Start Your Washing Process.
The cleaners above all have a direction label that should be followed. Apply the product and get started. The process should not harm your Trex deck in the least. Do always test a small area first to be sure though.
Pressure Washing
A pressure washer should only be used on Transcend, Select or Enhance Decks. You should pressure wash the deck from a distance of at least 36 inches. This is for your safety and the quality of your deck. Use the pressure washer at a 45-degree angle and never exceed 3,000 PSI.
This will remove the following:
- Oil Grease and Food. (Should be removed within 7 days or Trex voids warranty)
- Mold and Mildew. (These can leave a nasty stain. The quicker attended to, the better.)
- Dirt from traffic as well as any debris from the weather or overhanging trees.
When Washing Your Early Generation Trex... Do NOT Pressure Wash.
You can use the soaps above to wash your deck using a brush designed for the such. A broom works as well too. Don’t risk ruining your deck or warranty. All the things listed above can be removed just as well without a pressure washer.
Follow the directions on the soap for the use without a pressure washer and if a pre-soak is available always try that first. It makes the stains wash away easier.
A Few Things to Note.
- Scuffs and abrasions are usually permeant. Cleaning the area well can tone the appearance but never make them fully go away.
- Never use bleach on your Trex deck. This can eat away at the surface and cause the color to become faded. Using bleach will not brighten your deck, just harm it.
- Never use ammonia products. The ammonia strips the deck making it prone to damage and staining. Liquid dishwashing detergents have been known to have ammonia in them. Always be diligent before using a product.
- Always make sure you follow directions on every product label.
- Never sand your Trex deck. This voids the warranty and will do nothing to improve your deck. It can weaken the deck in some areas.
Here Are Some More Great Resources.
Trex.com has a full list of how to clean your deck according to the type of Trex deck you have. You can find it all here in the link.
WikiHow.com gives step by step instructions for cleaning a composite deck.
I believe that this video may offer some help in the process too. Please check it out when you have the time. They say knowledge is power. Thanks for reading and I hope I answered all the questions floating in your head when it comes to Trex Deck cleaning.
