Composite decking is a durable and low-maintenance option for outdoor spaces, but like any surface, it can be susceptible to damage, including furniture marks. Whether it’s from heavy chairs, tables, or items left in one spot for too long, furniture marks can detract from the overall appearance of your deck. If you’re dealing with these marks, don’t worry – there are several ways to tackle the problem and restore your composite decking to its original condition.
Assess the Type of Mark
Before you begin trying to remove furniture marks, it’s important to understand the type of mark you’re dealing with. Furniture marks typically fall into two categories:
- Indentations: Caused by heavy furniture pressing into the surface of the deck, leaving an impression.
- Stains: Caused by moisture trapped under furniture or from pigments from cushions or furniture materials bleeding into the decking.
Once you’ve identified the mark type, you can choose the best approach to deal with it.
Removing Stains from Furniture Marks
Stains caused by furniture can result from trapped moisture, rust marks from metal furniture, or dye transfer from cushions. Here are steps to remove them:
Soap and Water Solution
Start with the simplest solution – mix mild soap with warm water and scrub the stained area using a soft-bristled brush or sponge. This decking store has quality materials that respond well to mild cleaners. This works well for light surface stains caused by dirt or moisture. Be sure to avoid abrasive scrubbing, as this can scratch the surface.
Use a Deck Cleaner
For more stubborn stains, a composite deck cleaner designed specifically for your decking material can help. These cleaners are often formulated to remove tougher stains without damaging the decking. Follow the product instructions carefully and rinse the area thoroughly after cleaning.
Baking Soda Paste for Rust Stains
If the stain is caused by rust from metal furniture, make a paste from baking soda and water. Apply the paste to the rust stain and let it sit for 10-15 minutes before gently scrubbing with a soft brush. Baking soda is mildly abrasive but safe for composite surfaces, making it an effective solution for rust stains.
Preventing Future Furniture Marks
Once you’ve dealt with the current furniture marks, it’s important to take steps to prevent them from happening again. Here are a few preventative measures:
Use Furniture Pads or Coasters
The simplest way to prevent furniture marks on your composite deck is by placing furniture pads or coasters under the legs of your furniture. These pads will help distribute the weight of your furniture more evenly and prevent direct contact with the deck surface, reducing the risk of indentations and scratches.
Regularly Rearrange Your Furniture
To avoid pressure from furniture remaining in the same spot, move your outdoor furniture around periodically. This will allow the decking to “breathe” and prevent long-term marks from forming in one location. Additionally, rearranging your furniture can help freshen up the look of your outdoor space!
Consider Lighter Furniture
Heavy furniture can cause more noticeable indentations on your composite decking. Consider opting for lighter furniture made from materials like resin, wicker, or aluminium. These types of furniture are less likely to leave permanent marks.
Will Composite Decking be Slippery?
If you’re trying to create a family-friendly space in your garden, you’re going to wonder whether you can trust composite decking. In other words, is it going to be a slippery or secure place for playing and hanging out? The good news is that due to the material, this is a fantastic choice if you want to make your garden safe. While any decking has the ability to be slippery, composite is a better choice than others. There are still a few things you’ll have to do with maintenance to ensure this is the case. So, let’s take a look at some good habits you want to have from the beginning.
Get Rid of Loose Debris
During the year, make sure that you’re sweeping up debris on your composite decking. For example, this is something that you should definitely do in the autumn and winter. When you allow leaves and other debris to gather, they can become a slipping hazard. What’s more, they can allow dampness underneath, which can lead to mould and algae growth. So, sweep up regularly, and it won’t be a lot of hard work.
Clean After Winter
We all know that winter can take a toll on the garden. Well, this includes your composite decking. You’re going to need to clean it up after winter if you want to ensure it’s as safe as it can be. This includes scrubbing off mould and algae, which are slippery underfoot. This isn’t something that has to be complicated. Often, some warm, soapy water and a soft-bristle brush will be enough. You can also choose to use a special decking cleaner. This might prevent it from returning quickly. Just ensure that you choose one that doesn’t contain bleach and strong chemicals and that it’s safe for composite materials. If you’re in doubt, buy from the decking company.
Conclusion
Furniture marks on composite decking don’t have to be a permanent issue. Whether you’re dealing with indentations or stains, there are simple ways to restore the look of your deck. By using heat, gentle sanding, or effective cleaning methods, you can minimise the appearance of marks. Preventative steps, such as using furniture pads and moving furniture regularly, can also help keep your deck looking pristine for years to come. With a little care and attention, your composite decking can remain beautiful and functional, even with heavy outdoor furniture.