In an effort to go green and save time, many homeowners today are opting for composite decks made of wood flour and plastic. Composite decks generally last longer and require far less maintenance than traditional wooden decks. Less, however, is the key word. Composite decks are not indestructible. They do require some maintenance. Here are some tips to keeping yours looking like new.

Care for your deck as you would any wooden kitchen floor. Sweep it regularly, taking extra care to remove debris between boards and in gaps. Clean up spills right away to prevent stains. Place a vinyl-backed splatter guard beneath your grill to catch grill spills.

Keep water away from the deck. Grade the soil underneath to prevent standing water. Use the downspouts and splashguards to direct water away from the deck. Ensure adequate ventilation below and between the decking boards to prevent mold. Should you ever come across mold, take steps to eradicate it right away.

Clean your composite deck, at least twice a year, preferably in the spring and the fall. Use a soft-bristled brush and a multi-purpose cleaner for everyday grime. For serious grime, you may need additional products. Whatever you do, do not use a power washer on your composite deck. This could result in serious damage.

Even with the best of care, composite decks will fade over time. You can live with the change in color or apply a coat of stain to revive the color. Just make sure you use the right product for your deck.

Composite decks do require some care, but far less than traditional wood decks. Don’t have a composite deck installed and leave it be. Take the time to care for it to ensure it lasts and looks lovely for years.