Proper care and maintenance are essential for preserving the appearance and longevity of your Triton Composite Decking. Here's a guide to dealing with water stains and maintaining your deck:
Water Stains
Types of Water Stains:
Wood Tannin Stains: Occur early in the decking’s life as natural tannins from the wood fibers leach out. These stains are typically more visible in the first few weeks and may be more prominent if the deck is exposed to direct sunlight.
Water Pooling Stains: Form when water pools or drips on the deck surface, leaving a "shoreline" effect. The visibility of these stains depends on factors such as the cleanliness of the decking and how quickly the water evaporates. Hotter weather can exacerbate the appearance of these stains.
How to Handle Stains:
General Weathering: Both types of water stains usually disappear over time as the deck naturally weathers.
Recurring Stains: If the staining is caused by a recurring issue, such as water dripping from a gutter, these marks may reappear. In this case, it's best to address the source of the water to prevent continuous staining.
Stains from Other Sources:
Oil, Cigarette Stains, etc.: These types of stains can be very difficult to remove. To avoid these stains, it's best to prevent contact with substances like oils or cigarettes.
Cleaning and Maintenance
Letting Your Deck Weather Naturally:
Cleaning Procedure:
Step 1: Pour clean, hot water onto the deck and allow it to sit for 5-10 minutes.
Step 2: Use a soft bristle brush to work the water into the surface.
Step 3: You can either pressure wash the deck at low pressure with a wide fan setting or simply rinse it with hot water (the preferred method).
Step 4: Squeegee the water off the deck to remove excess water.
Step 5: Mop up any remaining wet areas with a clean sponge mop.
Long-Standing Watermarks:
Important Reminders:
Avoid Strong Chemicals: Never use harsh detergents or bleach-based products, as they can damage the decking material.
Don’t Clean When Hot: Ensure the deck is not still hot from exposure to the sun before cleaning, as this may affect the cleaning results.
By following these maintenance steps and allowing your deck to weather naturally, you can keep your Triton Composite Decking looking great and extending its lifespan for years to come.
