Trex Decking and Rail

TREX SIGNATURE®, TRANSCEND®, ENHANCE® AND SELECT® DECKING–
Care and Cleaning Guide
All exterior building materials require cleaning. Generally, soap and water is all that is required to clean all Trex Decking
products. For Trex Signature decking, some cleaning agents or chemicals such as solvents, acids or plasticizers
can damage the surface of Trex Signature decking. Examples may include insect repellents, sunscreen products, or
degreasing cleaning agents. Always refer to manufacturing labels as well as contact Trex customer care to determine if
a specific product is safe to use. Many products will contain warning information regarding damage to plastic and these
such products should never be used on Trex Signature decking. Refer to Trex.com for cleaning recommendations for
early generation decking products.
Problem Solution
Dirt and Debris The affected area should be sprayed off with a hose to remove surface debris. Use warm
soapy water and a soft bristle brush to remove dirt and debris from the embossing pattern.

Using a Pressure
Washer (General
Cleaning Issues)

A pressure washer with no greater than 3100 psi** that has a fan attachment/adjustment
and soap dispenser may be used to remove dirt or mud. Spray deck with soap, then
follow by gently scrubbing each deck board with a soft bristle brush. Spray/rinse each
individual deck board using a fan tip no closer than 8-in (203 mm) from the decking
surface. RINSE THOROUGHLY. If dirty water from cleaning is left to dry, a film will remain
on the decking surface.

Issues with Concrete,
Cement, Mortar, or
Stucco Dust

When working with cement, concrete, mortar, or stucco, protect the decking as
much as possible in order to not get dust particles on the decking surface. These
particles, once they get hot or wet, can cause a reaction on the decking surface
and are very difficult to remove. If particles get on the decking surface, Trex
recommends using SakreteTM Concrete Dissolver (www.sakrete.com/products/
concrete-dissolver). BE SURE TO FOLLOW MANUFACTURER’S INSTRUCTIONS.

Hard Water Staining

Hard water is water with high amounts of mineral deposits like lime, silica and calcium.
When the water dries, deposits are left behind, leaving unsightly spots on surfaces. This is
not a defect of Trex products but an issue with the water itself. Generally, these deposits
can be cleaned with white vinegar on decking surfaces. Rinsing is required, so care should
be taken to not use hard water for this purpose. If hard water must be used, dry with a
cloth or use a blower to dry surfaces. In some cases a deck brightener product may also be
used to help clean hard water stains.

Chalk Lines

Most colored chalks are permanent and may discolor the surface. Use only Irwin
Strait-Line Dust-Off Marking Chalk (purple), DeWalt® Blue Chalk, or DeWalt® Orange
High Visibility Chalk.

Tannins Due to Debris

Remove all debris from the deck using a hose or broom. Once the deck surface is dry, apply
a deck “brightener”* to the deck as directed by the manufacturer. Deck Brighteners contain
oxalic acid, which will also remove tannins.

Ice and Snow A plastic shovel may be used to remove snow from the deck. Use calcium chloride or rock

salt to melt the snow and ice from the deck surface.

Oil, Grease, and Food

All food spills should be removed as soon as possible. The surface must be cleaned within
seven days to maintain the stain warranty. To remove, spray off with a hose and use warm,
soapy water and a soft bristle brush (do not use a wire brush) to remove spills from the
embossing pattern.

Mold and Mildew

If debris such as pollen and dirt is allowed to remain on the deck surface, mold can feed on
the biofilm. Using a hose and warm, soapy water with a soft bristle brush (do not use a wire
brush) is recommended to remove the food source and mold.

From decking
and railing to
furniture, lighting
and more – all the
ways you want
to live outdoors.

A F E W O F T H E R E A S O N S
TO TRUST THE #1 NAME
IN OUTDOOR LIVING:
Trex® composite decking is
sustainably made in the USA
from up to 95% recycled plastic
film and reclaimed wood.
Low maintenance and high
performance: No sanding,
staining or sealing with
warranties up to 50 years.
Style it your way with a variety
of colors and price points,
all of which pair perfectly
with Trex® railing collections.