Composite decking is a popular material used for outdoor living spaces. Follow these steps to care for composite decking.

Step 1: Use a soft bristle broom or a leaf blower to keep decking free of dirt and debris on a regular basis. Take care to remove leaves and twigs from the gaps between the planks. These gaps are integral for proper drainage and overall maintenance of the deck.

Step 2: Wash the deck several times a year with a simple soap and water solution. Dish soap or a mild household cleaner works best. Deck washes labeled for composite decking are great for stubborn stains or problematic areas. Apply the cleaner and scrub the deck with a soft bristle brush. Rinse clean with a regular garden hose. Avoid using pressure washers on composite decks. Water pressure greater than 1500 PSI will damage composite materials.

Step 3: Composite decking products are often formulated with a mildew inhibitor, but mold and mildew will grow on decks when moisture along with dirt, pollen or other organic matter is present. Keep decks clean of debris and place a mat under outdoor grills. Remove food spills as soon as they happen. When mold or mildew is present, use a mold and mildew remover made specifically for composite decking, such as Spray and Forget. Never use bleach or other harsh chemicals on composite decking.

Step 4: Good ventilation beneath the deck is imperative to the longevity of composite decking. Make sure the deck is at least 4 inches above the ground. Slope the ground beneath the deck away from the house for proper drainage. Keep shrubs and other landscaping at least a foot from the deck edges to allow for proper air flow. Direct dryer vents and gutters away from the deck.

Step 5: Oxalic acid or pre-formulated deck brighteners, labeled for composite decking, can be used to remove tannin or oil stains that appear when organic matter is left too long on the decking surface. Test the product on a small area first to avoid unwanted discoloration. Rinse thoroughly once the stain has been removed.

Step 6: Use a plastic snow shovel or broom to remove snow and ice from the deck. Avoid metal shovels and shovels with metal wear strips. Calcium chloride and potassium chloride ice-melt products can be used on composite decking. Avoid sand or other aggregates, as they can damage composite materials.

— Have a home improvement question for Fix-It Chick? Email it to Linda Cottin at hardware@sunflower.com.