Wood Plastic Composite (WPC) decks are known to be low maintenance decks, compared to wood decks, and there are still a few things that are recommended to be done by the homeowners for their decks to last and look as beautiful as possible for years to come. These maintenance tips will make your WPC deck keep its original color and appearance for many ears. Let’s get into it.
What Makes WPC Different
The whole point of WPC decking materials is to make it more resistant than traditional wood. That’s how the idea about combining wood fibers and plastic polymers created the composite type of decks. This new material is a lot more resistant to insects, rot and other things that would destroy wood rapidly. A WPC deck requires a lot less maintenance and its low maintenance requirements are focused on cleaning and detecting issues early on. It doesn’t require sealing or staining.
How Often You Should Clean Your WPC Deck
The most important step in the composite decking is regular cleaning, and here’s how often it should be done.
Weekly or Biweekly
- You should sweep your deck to remove leaves, and other stuff like debris or dirt.
- Check the gaps between the boards because those are usually the spots where dirt and other materials are accumulating.
Seasonal Cleaning
So, 2 to 4 times per year you should wash your deck. Wash it with warm water and mild soap. Or if you want to go even further, you can check the list of approved cleaning soaps the manufacturer recommends for your specific material.
When you wash it, make sure to use a soft brush and to scrab the boards gently following the boards direction. At the end just rinse everything with clean water.
Don’t use harsh chemicals like bleach, ammonia, or solvent-based cleaners. They will damage the surface. Check with the manufacturer to see what chemicals they approve for cleaning.
Managing Mold, Mildew, and Moisture
Although WPC decking resists rot, surface mold or mildew can still form in shaded or damp areas.
- Remove standing water promptly after rain or snowmelt.
- Ensure proper drainage beneath the deck.
- Trim nearby plants to improve airflow and sun exposure.
- Clean affected areas early to prevent staining.
Addressing moisture-related issues quickly prevents long-term discoloration.
Proper Use of Pressure Washers
Pressure washing can be used cautiously if needed.
Best practices include:
- Use a pressure washer rated no higher than 1,500–2,000 PSI.
- Keep the nozzle at least 8–12 inches from the deck surface.
- Use a fan spray pattern, never a concentrated stream.
Improper pressure washing can damage the protective surface layer of WPC boards.
Preventing Scratches and Surface Damage
WPC decking is durable but not immune to cosmetic damage.
- Use furniture pads under chairs, tables, and grills.
- Lift furniture instead of dragging it.
- Avoid metal shovels or sharp tools when removing snow or ice.
- Clean spills promptly, especially grease, oil, or wine.
Taking preventative measures preserves the deck’s finish and uniform appearance.
Dealing With Stains and Spills
Most spills can be removed easily if addressed quickly.
- Blot spills immediately.
- Clean with mild soap and water.
- For tougher stains, consult the manufacturer’s stain removal recommendations.
Never use abrasive pads or sandpaper, as these can permanently damage the surface.
Seasonal Maintenance Tips
Winter Care
- Use plastic shovels instead of metal.
- Avoid calcium chloride or rock salt unless approved by the manufacturer.
- Clear snow evenly to prevent uneven moisture exposure.
Summer Care
- Rinse the deck occasionally to reduce heat buildup.
- Check fasteners and structural components during peak usage months.
Inspecting the Deck Annually
Once per year, perform a basic inspection:
- Check for loose boards or fasteners.
- Inspect railings and stairs for stability.
- Look for signs of shifting, sagging, or drainage issues.
Early detection allows for simple fixes before small issues become costly repairs.
Do You Need to Seal or Stain a WPC Deck?
No. The whole point of a WPC deck is so you don’t have to maintain it like you would do with a traditional wood deck. If you by any means try to stain or paint it, you will lose your warranties too because this will damage your deck. You always follow the manufacturer’s maintenance guide. That’s it.
Final Ideas
Here you have it. A few tips that would save your deck a few years of life. Did you also know that the color you choose for your deck can also impact the maintenance and look of your deck? If you choose a neutral color for example medium browns and grays will look better than bright colors because the scratches and dirt isn’t too visible. Now, this doesn’t mean that you don’t have to wash it once in a while, but the colors can me more or less forgivable.
At Wolf Spirit Deck, your custom deck builder, we believe every homeowner deserves an exceptional outdoor living space. That’s why we have thoughtfully selected materials from top-tier manufacturers to craft decks that align perfectly with your vision. As Elite Deckorators Contractors, TrexPro Platinum Contractors, and TimberTech Gold Pro Contractors, we bring unmatched expertise to homeowners in Naperville, IL, Palatine, IL, Oakbrook Terrace, IL and surrounding communities. Our steadfast dedication to quality is reflected in the hundreds of custom composite decks we’ve completed in these areas, giving you confidence that your deck installation will be handled with precision.
Our focus on beautiful, low-maintenance decks is backed by strong 25 – 50 years warranties directly linked to the deck boards we install. We also draw on our knowledge of Illinois climates to recommend material and feature combinations that are perfectly suited to both your lifestyle and your local environment.
