Those majestic pine trees provide shade and beauty, but their dripping sap can leave your composite deck looking less than ideal. A common concern I hear from homeowners is how to tackle that stubborn sap without damaging their decking.
Sap protects trees against insects and helps to heal wounds. Unfortunately, its sticky nature means it also clings stubbornly to surfaces, including your composite decking.
Fresh sap attracts dirt, while dried sap hardens and becomes increasingly difficult to remove as it loses moisture and adheres more strongly. Additionally, the longer sap sits, the more likely it is to stain your composite deck’s surface.
Here, I’ll share my tried-and-true methods for removing pine sap and keeping your composite deck looking its best. Read on to discover how to handle this sticky situation!
Methods for Removing Pine Sap from Composite Decking
The key to removing pine sap from composite decking is to act quickly: Fresh sap is much easier to remove than dried sap. If you spot a drip, don’t wait! Grab your cleaning supplies and get to work. But, if you have dried sap, don’t worry—I know some ways to banish that stubborn stuff, too.
Here are the most effective methods I’ve used to remove pine sap from composite decks:
Dish Soap and Water
Warm, soapy water is the simplest way to remove fresh sap. Mix a mild dish soap in a bucket of warm water. Using a fine-bristle brush or sponge, gently scrub the area. Rinse thoroughly with water to remove the sap and soap residue.
Deck Cleaner
A compatible composite deck cleaner can also be used to clean up sap. If the sap is fresh, dilute the cleaner and let it sit on the affected area as directed. If the sap is older, let it soak longer. Then, use a gentle scrub brush, hose, or a power washer to rinse the residue.
Ice and Scrape
For slightly hardened sap, I like the freeze-and-scrape method. Fill a sealable plastic bag with ice or place an ice pack on the sap for 15-20 minutes. The intense cold hardens the sap, making it brittle and more easily scrapable. Carefully scrape the sap away with a plastic razor blade, putty knife, or deck scraper.
Mineral Spirits or Rubbing Alcohol
Dampen a clean cloth with mineral spirits or rubbing alcohol and gently dab the sap stain. Both can be harsh on some composite materials, though, so perform a spot test in an inconspicuous area first to ensure no discoloration occurs. If the test goes well, proceed cautiously with the cleaning and rinse thoroughly with water.
Adhesive Remover
A commercial adhesive remover, such as Citra Solv or Goo-Gone, may also work on pine sap, but like other solvents, always test it in a small area first to see how your decking responds. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully and apply the remover only to the sap, not the surrounding composite.
Heat Gun or Hairdryer
If other methods fail, try a heat gun or hairdryer on a low setting to soften the sap for scraping. Excessive heat can damage composite decking, so keep the heat source moving at all times and maintain a safe distance from the deck surface. If the affected area receives direct sunlight, first try scraping the sap when it’s naturally warmed—you may be able to avoid applying additional heat altogether.
Tips and Considerations
Certain cleaning methods can damage your composite deck. Here’s what to avoid:
- Harsh Chemicals: Harsh chemicals, such as acetone, paint thinner, or strong detergents, can damage your composite deck surface and leave permanent stains.
- Abrasive Cleaners: Stay away from abrasive scrub pads or scouring powders, as they can scratch the decking material.
- Vinegar on PVC: Vinegar will eat into PVC decking and make sap stains permanent.
- Metal Tools: Avoid using metal scraping tools that may scratch or gouge your decking.
- Excessive Heat: Don’t use a high setting on your heat gun or hairdryer or leave it in one place for too long. This can warp or damage the composite boards.
The best way to deal with stuck pine sap is to prevent it from happening in the first place. Try these tips to minimize sap stains:
- Trim branches: Consider trimming pine branches that hang above your deck. Pro tip: Spread a tarp below to catch sap released while cutting.
- Keep pines hydrated: Healthy, hydrated pines drip less sap. Water them during dry spells to minimize drips on your deck.
- Seal your deck: Consider applying a compatible sealant designed for composite decking to create a protective barrier that can help repel pine sap and make it easier to clear away. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions and be aware of any potential warranty implications.
- Clean regularly: Clean your deck with a mild soap solution to remove fresh sap before it hardens.
Happy Cleaning!
During my years as a deck professional, I’ve encountered my fair share of sticky situations–literally! I know that pine sap can be a real nuisance for composite deck owners. But armed with the information here, you’ll be ready to take on any sap that comes your way. And remember, a little preventative maintenance goes a long way, so keep those pine trees trimmed and watered…and your decking clean. Enjoy your beautiful, sap-free deck!