Care & Cleaning
Cleaning Recommendations
Ice and Snow
Mold
Stains
Grime, Ground-in Dirt, Rust
Scratches
Staining and Sealing
Painting
Cleaning Recommendations
Periodic washing with soap and water is necessary to remove surface dirt and chalk, that accumulate on the surface. This will also prevent the buildup of pollen and debris that can cause mold and mildew growth. Pressure washers should be used for wetting and rinsing only. Pressure washers should not be used to “blast off” soiling agents; attempting to do so can drive the dirt deeper into the material. Test on an inconspicuous area before washing the entire deck.
Basic Deck Cleaning Agents:
- Deck wash/cleaners usually contain sodium percarbonate and a detergent, which is effective on normal dirt and grime and bleaches out mold and mildew stains.
- Oxalic acid cleaners are effective on rust stains from metal furniture.
- Commercial degreasers contain propylene glycol, sodium hydroxide, and various detergents for removing grease and oil stains.
- Spot removers/thinners can be used sparingly on particularly stubborn grease or oil stains, but should be washed off quickly with water as they will attack the grain pattern. These normally include petroleum distillates, xylene, methanol, acetone, or other organic solvents.
If you have questions, please call (877) 463-8379.
Ice and Snow
We are not aware of any adverse effects from the temporary use of ice melting products on Latitudes decking; however, we recommend using an ice melt product that has a less harsh effect on the surface. These types of ice melt products may indicate "will not harm concrete" or "will not kill grass." Ensure that after the ice and snow melts, you brush off any residual ice melt product.
Mold
Mold may form on any surface where moisture is prevalent, where there is heavy shading, or where pollen and debris are allowed to collect. To eliminate mold, use conventional deck washers or cleaners that contain sodium percarbonate and detergent. These cleaners can be found at most home centers. Learn more about preventing mold and mildew growth on composite decking.
Stains
Latitudes Decking and Natural Railing resists accidental staining better than regular wood decking, because it is a plastic and wood composite. Many stains can be removed with household cleaners and degreasers. Best results are achieved if you act quickly after staining occurs. Don’t allow stains to penetrate the deck’s surface or to bake on under direct sunlight. If you use a barbecue grill on your deck, keep a splatter guard underneath it; grills are a major source of grease stains and burns. To prevent water from pooling on the deck surface and staining it, make sure the deck boards have gaps between them to allow standing water to drain.
Grime, Ground-in Dirt, Rust
In most cases, soap and water will maintain the appearance of Latitudes products. If grime, ground-in dirt or rust marks become a problem, use a cleaning product with an oxalic acid base. A mild detergent and water will keep Latitudes Luster™ Railing clean. Clean Luster railing with household cleaners and degreasers and soft rags or sponges. Do not use bleach, abrasive cleansers or pads when cleaning.
Scratches
Just as wood decking materials can get marred or gouged, the surface of Latitudes can become scratched. We recommend allowing normal wear marks to fade, as they will blend in with the weathered color. If the brushed side of the deck board gets scratched, you can use a wire brush and brush in the same direction as the original grain. In doing so, you will expose non-weathered decking and will experience a color difference. Replace severely damaged pieces. If Latitudes Luster gets scratched, color matched touch-up paint is available by calling 877-463-8379.
Staining and Sealing
While not recommended, Latitudes can be stained after three months of exposure to various weather conditions. When staining Latitudes, ensure that the stain is intended for use on composite wood products. By choosing to stain Latitudes, a relatively low-maintenance product changes to one that will require more upkeep. Always test a small, hidden portion of the deck before staining the entire deck. Durability of stain products varies by manufacturer. Exposure to ultraviolet light and surface traffic will also affect the stain's performance. Most manufacturers' literature indicates re-staining about every two years. Composite wood products do not accept paint or stain as well as wood; therefore, they will not have the same appearance as painted or stained wood. Both Latitudes Capricorn™ Decking and Latitudes Luster Railing are co-extruded and cannot be stained or painted over.
Latitudes requires only periodic cleaning with soap and water. Deck sealants are not recommended or required.
Painting
Painting Latitudes is not recommended as most paints will not adhere to the surface well and will rapidly begin to peel. Composite wood products do not accept paint or stain as well as wood and it will not have the same appearance as painted or stained wood.
If you have questions, please call (877) 463-8379.
