Trex decks are known for escaping the rotting phase but once it gets mold-infested, you will surely need to learn how to clean mold in trex decking. However, you do not have to worry as the process will be as easy as a pie.
What To Do Before Cleaning
Before anything else, you have to know that all molds can pose danger to your health. However, there is a specific type of mold that homeowners definitely dread.
This article discusses what is the most dangerous mold, as well as a safety guide you might need.
There are safety precautions you have to take into consideration whether you are a rookie in mold cleaning or not. This is highly recommended especially to people who have an immunocompromised system or a history of mold allergies.
Make sure to clad yourself with safety gear such as gloves, goggles, and N-95 masks or P-100 respirator masks. If you are dealing with a large amount of mold, you may want to wear your old clothes for the entire cleaning process.
However, if you think the amount of mold is too overwhelming for your health, leave the task to a mold remediation expert. Remember that you do not need to risk your physical well-being for such a cleaning task.
If you currently happen to suffer from a mold illness, here’s an article on how to find doctors who treat mold illness near you so you would not have to fret anymore.
How To Remove Mold From Trex Decking
When cleaning composite deckings such as trex decking, one may need more than just a household broom and garden hose. Suggestions for cleaning involve using materials such as a soft-bristled scrub brush.
Make sure to pair it with an adequate amount of the right cleaner. Choosing the right cleaner is an essential part of cleaning composite decking.
One wrong choice and would literally affect the entire process. This is because of its porous material that requires an oxygenated cleaner which could get into the hard-to-reach areas.
If you are skeptical about what cleaner to choose, just remind yourself to avoid cleaners with Sodium Hypochlorite or bleach as one of its active ingredients. This chemical is known for being corrosive and will eventually lead to major issues such as discoloration, surface damage, and exacerbation of mold and mildew.
Pressure washing is also not recommended when it comes to trex decking. This is because decking has a material softer than natural wood.
Many complications can develop once the material has been opened up, such as chipping, UV damage, and mold staining the plastics inside the opening.
Mold can be exceedingly difficult to eradicate once it has taken hold. A garden hose will usually suffice for routine cleaning.
If you must pressure wash your composite deck, maintain the pressure as low as practicable and no closer than eight inches from the deck surface.
Step #1. Do a pre-cleaning
To remove any surface debris, start by spraying the deck with a hose and water. After that, spray the deck planks with soap and clean them lightly with a soft-bristled brush.
After you’ve spent some time scrubbing and sanitizing the deck with your brush, give it a thorough rinse. This is essential because if unclean water from the washing is allowed to dry on the composite surface, a thin coating may form.
Step #2. Remove mold with vinegar
Eliminate as much surface dust and mold as possible with your hose. In a bucket, combine two parts vinegar and one part water and apply the solution straight on the mold.
Sprinkle baking soda on the surface once the solution has been poured.
Allow this compound to soak for 20 minutes before scrubbing the area with your soft-bristled brush to rid any remaining mold and mildew. Lastly, carefully cleanse the area to remove any remaining coating.
Step #3. Using deck cleaners
You can also opt to use deck cleaners. In fact, employing deck cleaning tools intended to eliminate mold from your deck is one of the simplest ways.
Sodium percarbonate-based oxygenated deck cleaning chemicals are the most efficient. To know more about the uses of sodium percarbonate-based oxygenated deck cleaning chemicals, this guide on everything you need to know about this oxygen bleach might help.
You only have to saturate the deck with numerous commercial mold-removing cleansers and leave it for a few minutes for the chemicals to take effect. Finally, give the deck a good rinsing with water.
A power washer on the minimum setting can also be used. There are numerous products that may be applied to the deck and then let dry.
Of course, instructions differ depending on the product.
Step #4. Using hydrogen peroxide
Hydrogen peroxide is another efficient approach for eradicating mold from a deck. It raises the mold off the surface, making it easier to remove.
Apply it to the troublesome regions until it foams up. After that, scrub away any algae or moss with a soft bristle brush.
Conclusion
There is no way for one to escape searching the steps on how to clean mold in trex decking. Molds will grow eventually, but you can control the speed of growth.
You can use a water-resistant seal to keep your deck dry if you’re having trouble keeping it dry. Most composite decks, on the other hand, will not require it.
Mold can also be avoided by maintaining a regular cleaning regimen. A thorough cleaning is required at least twice a year to keep the dust, debris, and other potential breeding grounds in check.