Trex composite decking has been one of the smartest decisions I’ve made regarding the building material used to construct my deck. It’s naturally sustainable, highly durable, and wonderfully low-maintenance. It’s also environmentally friendly, as it’s made from wood filler and recycled plastic. What more could one want?
You do not need to paint Trex decking. It is already fade-resistant and mildew-resistant and doesn’t scratch or stain easily. Besides, painting or staining it could void the Trex warranty. Unlike wood decks, which benefit from paint or sealant, composite material doesn’t require this type of protection.
I will explain what happens if you unintentionally spill paint on or accidentally stain your Trex deck. I will also discuss ways to quickly and effectively clean up paint and similar spills. Additionally, I’ll show you methods to keep your deck clean and how to be prepared in case of an “accident.”
How to Remove Paint From Trex Decking?
Picture this scenario: it’s a beautiful sunny day outside, and you’ve got an art project you’d like to do. You take all your materials outdoors, then set up. This is a painting project. You start your painting, and all is going well until a couple of drops fall off the canvas – and onto your deck! Yikes. What do you do?
To begin, I’ll say this adage – an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. When starting your endeavor, it’s best to use a drop cloth or an old sheet to cover the deck’s surface under your working area. This not only protects your decking boards but simplifies the cleanup.
Use a Wooden or Plastic Scraper
The first way I would attack any drips or paint spills is to scrape off the excess with a plastic scraper or a putty knife. A wood scraper will also work fine. The object is to get as much spilled paint off the surface boards as possible. This will help mitigate the affected area.
Use Soap and Water
This method is likely the safest way to get paint spills off. Tackle it as soon as possible. If you need a scraper to remove the excess paint, first do so, then make a bucket of warm, soapy water by using dish soap (use one teaspoon to one gallon of water) and grab a soft bristle brush. A DIY mix of mild soap and a bit of baking soda will help make this process easier. Apply even pressure to the paint stain and use a garden hose to rinse it thoroughly.
Apply Paint Remover
Using paint remover is a little riskier, as it contains harsher chemicals, and you want to be sure you don’t damage your deck. Also, perform this when the weather conditions permit. Although you’re outside, you still want to make sure you have proper ventilation and wear gloves. Test on an inconspicuous area of your deck first.
There are some good paint removers to try. One I recommend is Cee-Bee. This trusted brand has been around a long time, and you can use it on many surfaces, including composite decking. Follow all manufacturer’s instructions to ensure the best chance of successful paint removal.
Scrub or Lightly Pressure Wash
This particular option is effective, but I don’t encourage it for Trex decking. When you have a larger spill, try to scrape up the initial paint spilled, then you may power wash the area. It’s important to use a low spray setting (under 1500 p.s.i.) and hold the pressure washer sprayer at least two feet above your deck boards. I recommend testing this method using a fan-tipped nozzle on a hidden part of your deck.
I do not recommend pressure washing for homeowners with composite decks. It could exacerbate issues such as splinters. Additionally, any existing problems with the deck’s surface could be made worse, ultimately voiding Trex’s warranty. It’s best to employ other cleaning methods.
Rust Stain Removal
Do you have rust stains? Scrubbing the stain with a soft bristle brush and a white vinegar mix will help to remove these pesky spots. After the initial scrubbing, let it sit for 10 to 15 minutes. This allows for the mixture to penetrate the surface. Then, once the cleaning solution has been set, agitate it by scrubbing it with a scrub pad or brush.
Clean and Rinse
Not only for the sake of deck maintenance but also to alleviate paint drops (or other other accidental staining), it’s best to keep your deck clean and in good shape. Besides routine cleaning, ensure your deck is safe and in proper condition. Check railings, steps, and fasteners, and don’t forget the joists. Mold can build up under joists – causing rot. Protect your deck joists with Trex Protect joist tape. Don’t forget to inspect for insects like bees or wasps.
Important Considerations
It’s probably going to happen. You’ll inevitably get stains on your deck, likely from acts of nature and unintentional human accidents! Don’t sweat it. There are many methods to remove stains, splotches, and droplets. Primarily, you want to prevent the adhesion of paint to composite surface boards.
- It’s better to use mild or all-natural cleaners to remove spills and droplets from your deck. Dish soap, vinegar, and baking soda are excellent choices. I have also tried using a heat blower or an industrial blow dryer to heat up and soften the stain for ease of removal.
- Chemical agents like paint thinner and paint stripper can mar the surface of your deck, so they should be used with caution. Avoid bleach as well. Reminder: Before using any cleaning method, test the solution on a hidden portion of your deck.
Our customers have reported success with mild soap, lemon juice, and some scrubbing. Trex composite decks are designed to be low-maintenance and low-worry. So, enjoy your outdoor space in the fresh air and sun. Worry less about stain removal, as most spills and stains will come off. With Trex, there are many ways to keep your deck looking gorgeous with ease.
