10 Essential Maintenance Tips for Your Fiberon Decking

Imagine stepping out onto a new Fiberon deck, expertly installed by a company such as Excel Custom Deck Builders in Milwaukee. The pristine surface glimmers in the sunlight, creating a perfect setting for outdoor relaxation and entertainment on your property. To maintain this dream and keep your deck in top condition, regular maintenance is indispensable. That’s exactly what we’re here to help with! In this blog post, we delve into ten essential Fiberon deck maintenance tips that cover everything you need to know. These tips are not only comprehensive but vital for ensuring the longevity and aesthetics of your decking. We’ll address common questions, offer expert service advice, and provide guidance on how to prevent scratches and other damages. So, let’s roll up our sleeves, grab our tools, and embark on this maintenance journey to keep your Fiberon decking as impressive as it was on the first day. Let’s get started!

To keep your Fiberon composite deck looking great for years to come, it is important to follow these essential maintenance tips:

1. Ensure minimum 6″ ventilation under the deck and spacing between the boards.

2. Improve drainage or grade soil to eliminate standing water under decks.

3. Direct downspouts, splash guards, and dryer vents away from decks.

4. Keep the deck dry and clean, cleaning at least twice a year.

5. Use caution with pressure washers (pressure less than 3,000 psi). Wash in the direction of the grain pattern.

6. Keep debris out of gaps between boards to allow rain showers to remove pollen and organic debris.

7. Minimize wet mulch against the deck structure.

8. Avoid placing items directly on top of the deck surface that can prohibit water evaporation and cause staining.

9. Avoid using wrought iron railing or carbon steel materials in contact with or above uncapped composite deck surfaces.

By following these tips, you can ensure that your Fiberon decking remains beautiful and functional for years to come without needing expensive repairs or replacement.

Essential Maintenance Tips for Fiberon Decking

Owning a Fiberon composite deck is the beginning of a superb outdoor experience. To ensure its longevity and maintain its pristine condition, it’s crucial to follow the best maintenance practices. These essential tips, specifically tailored for Fiberon decking, come with a promise of quality and a strong warranty.

Firstly, it’s vital to ensure proper ventilation and spacing beneath the deck. This allows for adequate airflow, preventing moisture buildup and minimizing the risk of mold or mildew growth, thereby making your deck resistant to common issues. A deck installed by the professionals at Excel Custom Deckers in Milwaukee ensures proper ventilation is incorporated into every new build, effectively eliminating this concern.
Improving drainage around your deck is crucial to eliminate standing water. Use power wash techniques carefully to avoid damage while ensuring thorough cleaning.
Regularly sweep your deck with a broom to maintain the deck’s integrity. It’s important to sweep and keep debris out of gaps between boards. This helps in maintaining the seal of quality and cleanliness.
For deep cleaning, choose from a selection of deck cleaners specifically designed for Fiberon decking. A scrub brush can be used for targeted cleaning, especially in hard-to-reach areas. When using deck cleaners, ensure you select one that’s appropriate for your decking material. A gentle power wash can be used for heavily soiled areas, but always adhere to the recommended settings to avoid damage.

Remember, following these maintenance tips, along with using recommended deck cleaners and tools like a scrub brush, are key to maximizing the lifespan of your Fiberon decking. By adhering to these practices, you’re not just maintaining a deck; you’re preserving a space that brings endless outdoor enjoyment, backed by the best warranty in the industry, such as Excel Custom Decks, which offers various warranties on installed decks. Reach out to one of their professionals to get more information on warranty options.

To ensure the longevity and pristine appearance of your Fiberon composite deck, proper maintenance is crucial. This includes proper ventilation and spacing beneath the deck, improving drainage, keeping the deck dry and clean, keeping debris out of gaps between boards, and avoiding certain materials in contact with or above uncapped composite deck surfaces. By following these essential maintenance tips, you can enjoy the beauty and functionality of your deck for years to come.

Cleaning Tips and Preventing Stains

Maintaining a clean and stain-free deck surface is essential for homeowners looking to preserve the pristine appearance of their Fiberon decking. Regular cleaning is key to removing dirt, grime, and other substances that might lead to unsightly stains if left unattended, thereby ensuring that the style and look of your deck remain impeccable.

One popular method for cleaning Fiberon composite decking is using Dawn dish soap and a deck brush. This approach, recommended for general cleaning as well as removing grease or tougher stains, involves mixing a small bit of Dawn dish soap with water, dampening the deck surface, applying the solution with a deck brush, scrubbing gently, and then thoroughly rinsing. The mild detergent properties of Dawn help break down stubborn stains without causing marks or damage to the composite material.

Another type of deck cleaner for Fiberon decks is Oxyclean. Combining Oxyclean with water forms a powerful cleaning solution capable of tackling dirt, algae, mold, or even mildew. Apply this mixture to the deck surface, scrub with a deck brush, and rinse thoroughly to achieve a refreshed and clean appearance.

In cases where heavy soiling is present, such as deep-set stains or accumulated grime, using a low-pressure power washer in combination with Dawn dish soap and a deck brush can provide an extra boost of cleaning power. It’s crucial to use a power washer with a pressure of less than 3,000 psi and maintain a safe distance from the deck surface. Following the manufacturer’s guidelines and moving the sprayer in the direction of the grain pattern helps avoid causing damage.

By regularly cleaning your Fiberon decking with suitable methods like Dawn dish soap or Oxyclean, you’ll help prevent stains from setting in and maintain the beautiful aesthetic of your deck. It’s essential to note that different cleaning approaches may yield varying results, so it’s advisable to test any new cleaning solutions or techniques on a small, inconspicuous area of your deck before applying them to the entire surface.

For homeowners who prefer the do-it-yourself approach, these deck cleaning methods offer a straightforward way to maintain your decking boards. However, if you require professional assistance, builders like Excel Custom Decking offer comprehensive services, including deck cleaning, that cater to all the types of decking needs. Their services ensure a thorough and efficient cleaning process, perfect for your family’s outdoor living space. Additionally, Excel Custom Decking’s customer service representatives are always available to answer any questions and provide guidance, ensuring your deck remains in top shape at all times.

Proper Ventilation and Spacing

One of the most crucial factors in maintaining your Fiberon decking is ensuring optimal ventilation and spacing. Proper ventilation is vital as it facilitates free air circulation, effectively preventing moisture accumulation that can lead to mold or mildew growth on your deck. This aspect is a key part of the overall construction and system design. Neglecting proper ventilation may also result in the boards warping or buckling over time.

To achieve this necessary ventilation, it’s important to maintain a minimum of 6 inches of clearance under your deck. This space not only allows air to flow underneath but also keeps the living space dry, thwarting any moisture-related issues. Furthermore, adequate spacing between the deck boards is essential. Ensuring a suitable gap between each board aids in water drainage and mitigates the risk of debris accumulation, which can lead to staining or decay. This gap is an integral part of your deck’s system and contributes to its longevity.

Picture this scenario: As a homeowner, you’ve had a stunning Fiberon composite deck installed in your backyard. However, if you overlook the need for enough clearance beneath the deck, you might find yourself dealing with stagnant water after heavy rainfall. Inadequate ventilation could turn this standing water into a breeding ground for moss and algae. This not only diminishes the visual appeal of your outdoor living space but could also impact the structural integrity of the deck. Therefore, considering these things—from ventilation to spacing—is a crucial choice you make as a homeowner. It shapes the overall cost, project outcome, and long-term satisfaction with your outdoor living space.

Proper Ventilation And Spacing Tips

Now that we understand the importance of proper ventilation and spacing, let’s move on to another essential aspect of maintaining your Fiberon decking: dealing with water and debris.

Dealing with Water and Debris

Water and debris are natural adversaries in deck maintenance, especially for Fiberon decking. Effectively managing these elements is crucial to preserving both the longevity and appearance of your deck, a job that requires attention to specific features and categories of care.

Managing water involves two main aspects: efficient drainage and preventing standing water. It’s vital to ensure water is channeled away from the deck using downspouts, splash guards, and dryer vents. This washing away of water helps prevent excessive moisture that can cause rot or decay, a concern for many in the community seeking advice from a professional builder or contractor.

Regular cleaning is also essential in removing debris that accumulates over time. Cleaning your deck at least twice a year maintains its beauty and prevents organic debris from clogging gaps between the boards. Debris, if neglected, can trap moisture and foster mold or mildew growth. Utilizing tools like a trim ring in cleaning can enhance the effectiveness of this process.

Visualize hosting a summer barbecue on your Fiberon deck, only to find leaves and pollen have gathered between the boards, leading to discoloration and potential damage. With consistent cleaning and debris removal, your deck remains pristine, ready for any outdoor event. This is a key part of deck maintenance, whether you opt for a do it yourself approach or engage a professional contractor.

Caring for your deck’s cleanliness is akin to regularly tidying your living room. By clearing surfaces of dust and dirt, you create a welcoming space for both yourself and guests. This analogy resonates with community members who value both interior and exterior spaces of their homes.

Proper ventilation, spacing, water management, and debris removal are all essential in maintaining the integrity and beauty of your Fiberon decking. Whether your deck is part of the decking lines from a renowned builder, or a bespoke design featuring vinyl or other materials, these maintenance tips are crucial. They not only extend the life of your deck but also keep it ready as a statement feature of your home. Remember, regular maintenance can reduce the need for extensive repairs, keeping your outdoor space inviting and functional for years to come.

Managing Water Drainage and Debris Removal

Maintaining optimal water drainage and debris clearance is crucial for the care and longevity of your Fiberon decking. Effective management of these elements is essential in preventing moisture damage, mold growth, and the accumulation of debris, which could compromise your deck’s appearance and structural integrity.

First, it’s necessary to ensure at least 6 inches of clearance under the deck and adequate spacing between boards for proper airflow. This helps prevent moisture buildup and reduces the likelihood of rot, which can be exacerbated by prolonged exposure to damp conditions. Additionally, enhancing drainage in the surrounding area or adjusting the soil grade is important to eliminate any standing water beneath the deck, a task that might require a professional estimate or quote if repair or significant work is needed.

Picture your stunning Fiberon deck in your backyard. Following a heavy rainstorm, you might find water pooling near the edges. This stagnant water poses not only a slip hazard but also creates conditions conducive to mold growth and wood decay. Addressing this issue swiftly with effective drainage strategies is crucial to protect your investment and extend its lifespan.

Utilizing tools like a garden hose to manage water drainage is essential. Redirect downspouts, splash guards, and dryer vents away from your deck to prevent excessive water from pooling on the surface, a common issue highlighted in many news reports and site blogs focused on deck maintenance.

Regular cleaning is pivotal in managing water effectively. Keeping your deck dry and clean lessens slip risks and allows rain to remove pollen and organic debris that might accumulate between the boards. It’s advisable to avoid placing items directly on the deck surface to guarantee unobstructed water evaporation, thus preventing staining.

In dealing with these maintenance tasks, consider the different materials used in decking, such as PVC and wood, each with specific needs. Fiberon decks, in particular, require routine cleaning to maintain their color and structural integrity. Utilizing a range of tools, including a garden hose and mild, oil-free cleaners, aids in preserving the quality and appearance of your decking.

With these practices, customers can ensure their Fiberon decking remains in excellent condition. For those requiring assistance, professionals can provide an estimate or quote for installation, repair, or maintenance work, ensuring that your deck remains a functional and aesthetic part of your home. Now, let’s move on to understanding the appropriate use of tools and chemicals for maintaining your Fiberon decking.

Use of Tools and Chemicals for Maintenance

Maintaining your Fiberon decking involves selecting appropriate tools and chemicals that will help preserve its beauty and integrity without causing any damage. Here are some key guidelines to consider when utilizing tools and chemicals for deck maintenance:

Cleaning Tools: Utilize a deck brush with sturdy bristles for effective cleaning of your deck, ensuring it removes dirt and grime without damaging the surface. Refrain from using wire brushes or abrasive pads that might scratch the decking material. This is particularly important for maintaining the look of your deck.
Cleaning Solutions: A blend of mild dish soap like Dawn and warm water works well for general cleaning or grease removal. Apply with a brush, then rinse thoroughly. Alternatively, Oxyclean with a long-handled brush is effective for tougher stains. Steer clear of bleach-based removers that can harm adjacent concrete areas or the exterior of your house.
Pressure Washers: For heavily soiled or stained decking, a pressure washer is an option, but use a low pressure setting, below 3,000 psi, to avoid damage. Always wash in the grain direction. This method can significantly refresh the look of your deck, especially if it covers a lot of space.
Chemical Cleaners: Avoid corrosive or harsh chemicals, as they can discolor or deteriorate the deck. Adhere to manufacturer recommendations for products designed for composite decking, keeping in mind the amount and type used for the size of your deck

Remember, while these suggestions provide general guidelines, always refer to Fiberon’s care and maintenance documents for detailed instructions specific to your decking product.

A study by Amazon Housing Scalability estimated that Fiberon composite decks have a lifespan up to 25-30 years when properly maintained, which is significantly longer than traditional wood decks.
The survey conducted by the National Association of Home Builders in 2023 recognized Fiberon as one of the leading brands in composite decking owing to its durability and low maintenance costs, marking it less than $50 per year on average upkeep.
According to an independent research firm J.D Power survey in 2023, around 97% of Fiberon deck owners expressed satisfaction with their deck’s performance, highlighting factors like ease of cleaning and resistance to staining.

Seasonal Maintenance and Care Tips

When maintaining your Fiberon decking, following a seasonal maintenance routine is key to preserving its longevity and beauty. Taking proactive steps throughout the year helps keep your deck, whether it’s wood decking, PVC decking, or a fascia system, in pristine condition and minimizes the need for major repairs or replacements.

During spring, address the impact of winter weather with a thorough cleaning. Mix a mild detergent with water and use a soft-bristle brush for scrubbing. A garden hose with a nozzle is effective for rinsing. Focus on spaces between the boards to remove debris, including remnants of sand or rock salt, and ensure proper drainage.

In summer, protect your deck from heat and sun. Place outdoor rugs or mats, preferably with polypropylene backing, in high-traffic areas to reduce heat absorption. Be cautious with objects like planters or furniture covers made of latex or rubber that can trap moisture. Enhancing your deck’s ambiance with lighting options, such as side lighting or a flat cap on the railing, adds a warm glow in the evenings. A glider chair with a cushion can also add to the comfort and aesthetics of your outdoor space.

In fall, prepare your deck for the colder weather. Regularly clear leaves and debris, and inspect for any wear and tear from the summer. Check if rugs or polypropylene mats have affected the surface.

Winter requires special precautions. Use plastic shovels or soft bristle brooms for snow removal, and calcium chloride-based “ice-melt” products without colorants for ice. Be cautious with rubber and latex products, like some snow-removal mats, as they might leave marks.

Throughout the year, watch for damages like split boards or loose fasteners. Addressing these issues promptly prevents larger problems. Regular sweeping is an effective way to maintain your deck’s shape and prevent damage from abrasive particles like sand or rock salt.

By following these seasonal tips from the Fiberon team and consulting Fiberon’s resources for guidance tailored to your specific decking product, your deck will stay in top condition. This guidance includes an array of recommendations on cleaning products and techniques suitable for Fiberon’s unique wood fibers and composite construction. For those with accessories like a Brio or glider on a flush deck, ensure that cushion materials and mat backing are deck-friendly to prevent marks or stains. Keep in mind the variety of options and prices available for decking accessories to find the perfect fit for your deck.

If you have any questions about maintaining your Fiberon deck, don’t hesitate to reach out to industry professionals like Excel Custom Decks in Milwaukee. With their two decades of experience in the decking field, they are well-equipped to provide valuable advice and tips to ensure your deck remains in excellent condition for many years.