You installed composite decking because it promised fewer headaches than timber, right? No endless sanding, no oiling every other season, and no splinters ruining your weekend.

But here’s the thing. Many people hear “low-maintenance” and think it means “set and forget.” That assumption could cost you.

Composite decking needs care. Not as much as timber, but skipping basic upkeep can leave you with stained boards, mould patches, and a deck that feels more disappointing than relaxing.

Let’s break down what you should (and shouldn’t) do to keep your deck looking its best for years to come.

Do Clean It Regularly

This one’s easy. 

A quick sweep once a week helps remove dirt, leaves, and whatever else the wind brings in. Left to sit, these things trap moisture and create the perfect conditions for mould.

Every couple of months, give your deck a more thorough clean. Use warm, soapy water and a soft-bristle broom to scrub the surface gently. It doesn’t need to be complicated. Just rinse it off with your garden hose when you’re done.

Got a tough patch of grime? Use a composite deck cleaner approved for your specific boards. Always check the label first.

Don’t Blast It With a Pressure Washer

It’s tempting, especially if you own one. A high-pressure clean feels like a quick fix, but it can cause more harm than good.

Excessive pressure can erode the surface of composite boards or drive moisture deeper into the material, which defeats the whole point of their weather-resistant design. If you do use a pressure washer, keep the setting low and the nozzle at least 30 centimetres away.

Do Protect It From Everyday Stains

Outdoor furniture, pot plants, and barbecues can all leave behind unwanted marks if you are not careful. Metal furniture legs may scratch, and any grease from food or oils can leave stains that are tough to remove later.

Use outdoor mats under barbecues and furniture, and move items occasionally to avoid moisture rings or grime build-up.

Spill something? Clean it straight away. Waiting even a day can make the stain harder to lift, especially under the hot Australian sun.

Don’t Let Debris Build Up in the Gaps

Composite decking boards are built with drainage gaps for a reason. If those gaps get blocked by leaves or dirt, water will sit on the surface and create perfect conditions for mould and mildew.

Use a putty knife or even an old butter knife to gently remove built-up gunk. Doing this just once or twice a year can prevent bigger issues later on.

Do Treat It Like an Extension of Your Home

Your deck is not just a patch of boards outside. It is where you relax with mates, host weekend barbies, or simply enjoy a quiet cuppa in the morning sun.

Taking a bit of care now and then means you will keep it in top condition without the stress or cost of major repairs down the line. A few simple habits go a long way.

What’s the Takeaway?

Composite decking makes life easier, no doubt. But easy does not mean effortless.

Think of it like your car. It might not need as much attention as it once did, but if you never clean it or check the tyres, you are going to have problems eventually. The same applies to your deck.

Keep it clean. Keep an eye on it. Take action when it needs a bit of TLC. In return, it will keep looking great and doing its job season after season.

Looking to Build or Upgrade?

If you are planning a new deck or are just tired of the upkeep that comes with timber, Titan Trade Centre has you covered. We stock a great range of high-quality composite decking options that are built for Aussie conditions and designed to last.

Take the first step toward a better outdoor space.

Visit titantradecentre.com.au to explore our composite decking range and get started today.