how to repair scratches on composite decking

How to Fix Scratches on Composite Decking

• Check With the Manufacturer. Before you make any modifications or repairs to your composite deck material, check with the manufacturer for recommendations and potential issues with handling repairs yourself.
• Sand the Scratch. ...
• Use a Heat Gun. ...
• Try a Decking Repair Kit. ...

Full Answer

How do you fix a damaged composite deck?

2. Use a composite decking repair kit It’s worth checking who was the original manufacturer of your decking board, as that information can help you find out whether there are specific composite decking repair kits on the market that can help solve the issue.

Does composite decking scratch easily?

Similar to wood decks, composite materials are prone to scratches and dings from moving outdoor furniture. Solutions vary by manufacturer and by product type. Some recommend not working scratches and abrasions as they will blend with the rest of the decking in time.

How to fix scratches on wood decking?

Fill nicks and scratches with an epoxy-based filler and a putty knife. When going this route, make sure you use a product that the manufacturer of your decking material approves. Some kits are available that provide everything you need for this type of repair. Try the heat method.

How do I repair scratches on my uncapped composite material?

Where there is a deep mark or scratch in the surface and sanding would not be sufficient to repair the damage on your uncapped composite material, a heat gun on a 450°C setting can be used.

Can you get scratches out of composite decking?

For small scratches and surface marks, a Composite Decking Repair kit may be the best thing to help you fix your damaged Board. Repair kits often include wax or epoxy fillers to help remove/ cover up any scratched areas of your Deck. For some kits, you may have to find the matching shade of colour for your Decking.

Can you repair composite decking?

Repair the decorative board damage with filler If the boards on your WPC decking have chips or small cracks. You can use a composite deck repair kit to repair them-it depending on the material and manufacturer of your boards. These repair kits usually consist of wax or epoxy-based fillers.

How do you get scratches out of Trex deck?

The most practical way to repair a scratch in your Trex deck is using a heat gun. It takes patience and isn't guaranteed to be a 100% fix, but we've seen success with minor scratches. Start by grabbing your heat gun and a heat-resistant glove.

How do you remove scuff marks from a composite deck?

For minor stains, gently scrubbing it with a soft-bristle brush and some soapy water will often do the job. If the stain persists, you could use stain-removing decking products. You could also try using vinegar and baking soda. However, avoid using abrasive chemicals, such as chlorine-based bleaches and cleaners.

Is there touch up paint for Trex decking?

Trex® Signature™ Aluminum Railing Touch Up Paint - 4.5oz Aerosol Can. Available in White (WH), Black (BK), Platinum (PL) and Bronze (BZ). Bronze color comes in kit of two cans.

How do you repair a composite?

The steps involved in composite repair are:Detect and assess the damage.Identify component.Remove Paint.Design the repair.Obtain materials and tools.Remove the damaged area.Effect the repair.Allow proper curing time.

Does composite decking get scratched by dogs?

Without this vital component, composite decking does not fair much better than cedar decking. A large dog's claws will easily scratch an uncapped composite decking. Without the cap, the wood fibres will readily soak up the dog's urine and emit a terrible odour in the sun.

What should you not use on Trex decking?

Trex does not recommend the use of a pressure washer. The use of a pressure washer on deck surface could damage the decking surface and will void the warranty with respect to any condition caused by the pressure washing. Trex does not recommend sanding.

Does Trex decking scratch?

Newer-generation Trex decking holds strong against potential damage. All of our decking lines are scratch resistant, protecting your space against nicks, cracks and splitting.

How do I get black marks off my composite deck?

You can clean some things with regular liquid dish soap and water. Tougher stains from barbecue grills, tree sap, mold, mildew and algae may need more powerful powdered oxygen bleach you mix with water.

How often do you have to replace composite decking?

That's one of the main advantages of our preferred composite material: the average composite deck lifespan is at least 25 to 30 years, and can span even longer. At Keystone Custom Decks, we build using Trex and TimberTech composite decking, both of which are known for their gorgeous styles and long lifespans.

What are the disadvantages of composite decking?

Cons of Composite DeckingA pricey alternative to wood. Durability comes at a cost, as composite decking is more expensive than wood. ... Composites aren't natural. ... Composite decks aren't completely maintenance free. ... You'll need to comparison shop.

How long do Composite decks last?

between 25 and 30 yearsComposite decking requires minimal upkeep and can last between 25 and 30 years. On average, plastic decking has a similar lifespan to composite decking and can last nearly 30 years.

Why is my composite deck peeling?

0:171:48Common Composite Decking Problems - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipThe most common problems composite deck owners face are algae mold and surface peeling many believeMoreThe most common problems composite deck owners face are algae mold and surface peeling many believe that moisture is the primary.

What do you use to repair composite decking?

Repair kits typically utilise a wax or epoxy-based filler, which you can apply to the damaged board basically like wood putty.

Can you use a heat gun on scratched decking?

The idea is that holding a heat gun close to the scratched surface of your decking can soften it slightly, leaving you free to use a wire brush to blend it. However, this is a prime example of one of those ideas that can make the problem much worse just as easily as it can make it better.

Can you replace a decking board entirely?

Finally, if it all goes pear shaped, or if the board is particularly badly damaged, then there is at least one option you’ve always got left in your back pocket – and that’s simply to replace the decking board entirely. Ideally it shouldn’t come down to that, but if it does, just know that we’ve got you covered right here at Savoy Timber. We have a huge range of composite decking boards in a variety of shades and styles – and all at the very best prices.

Can you use putty knife to smooth out a board?

If you’re going down that route though, you’ll first need to make sure that the damaged board is properly clean before you crack on with the kit’s first instructions. When you’re applying the filler itself, you can use a putty knife to smooth it out for a cleaner finish.

Can you leave a scratch on a deck?

Believe it or not, sometimes the best course of action is simply to do nothing, especially if the scratch off to one side, or in a corner, or some other relatively unobtrusive place. You might find that if it’s left alone for a bit, it can fade into the decking to the point where it’s barely noticeable, especially as composite decking exhibits a slight weathering effect under the elements.

Can you replace a board if it has scratches?

Replace boards if the scratches are deep gouges and cannot be brushed or faded out.

Can composite decking be repainted?

Splitting, cracking and rotting boards are never a problem for composite decks. Composite decks never need to be sealed or repainted. However, due to normal wear and tear, scratches can happen on the composite decking.

How to repair scratches on composite board?

For deeper marks and scratches on uncapped composite materials, use 60-80 grit sandpaper to brush over the mark , always moving in the direction of the grain, lengthways down the board. If required, you can finish the repairing process by using a steel scourer to darken the sanded area which may initially appear lighter until weathering improves colour consistency; this may take a month or so to stabilise.

What is a capped composite deck?

Capped composite materials, such as Hyperion Frontier decking, have an exterior plastic coating which protects the board against fading and staining. As this coating is more durable, the repair process for light scratches is slightly different.

Is composite flooring good for a wood floor?

With anti-splinter technology and protection against rot and fungal decay, composite materials are a great alternative to more traditional products, such as timber. Aside from a little cleaning to help preserve their fresh appearance, the low-maintenance traits of composite materials mean that they will require far less attention across their lifespan. However, as with any flooring surface, scrapes, scratches and stains are still possible due to the tactile nature of the material.

Can composite flooring be scratched?

However, as with any flooring surface, scrapes, scratches and stains are still possible due to the tactile nature of the material. In many cases, marks and scratches on composite materials will naturally blend with the rest of the surface through weathering over time, but can otherwise be easily treated when they occur as detailed below.

What is composite decking made of?

Composite decking is typically made of wood fibers combined with plastic. The term is fluid, however, in that some manufacturers sell composites that are entirely made of plastic or are plastic wrapped around a wood core. Because of this, composite deck scratch repair can take a little bit of preliminary research before you tackle ...

Can you contact the manufacturer of composite decking?

Whenever possible, contact the manufacturer of your composite decking for solutions to problems with your deck. The company can offer advice based on the type of composite decking material you own.

Can you sand composite decks?

Composite planks exposed to sunlight eventually lose their luster and become discolored. Sanding is not an option for composites. The plastic burns and melts with heavy friction, and the discoloration problem could worsen instead of improve. Paints are also not recommended because they tend not to adhere well to composite material. Stains, however, will recolor a composite deck, although the color may vary from what’s shown on the can. Always try a sample of stain in an inconspicuous portion of the deck before investing time and money in staining the entire deck.

Can composite decking be scratched?

Similar to wood decks, composite materials are prone to scratches and dings from moving outdoor furniture. Solutions vary by manufacturer and by product type. Some recommend not working scratches and abrasions as they will blend with the rest of the decking in time.

Light scratches and scuffs

In the majority of cases, marks and scratches will blend in with the rest of the surface through weathering over time, and we therefore advise to leave the composite decking alone for a few months until they become unnoticeable.

Deep scratches and scuffs

If the scratches or scuffs are a little deeper, but not fully through the top surface, a walnut can be used to help blend the marks until weathering has taken place. Please note, we only advise that a natural, raw walnut should be used, and do not advise the use of extracted walnut oil or any other oil for scratch removal.

Gouges

If the boards have serious gouges in them, please contact us for a possible replacement.

Regular Cleaning

Regular cleaning of your composite deck around once per year will help to maintain its bright and new appearance and minimise the risk of damage.

Discoloured Planks

Without adequate protection, composite decking boards that are continually exposed to the sunlight might become discoloured over time. However, when this happens, it is not always as easy to repair compared to wooden planks. Because of the plastics in composite decking, sanding is not an option.

Scratch Repair

Composite materials can be prone to scratches and scuffs from moving outdoor furniture or items falling on the decking. The solution for a scratched composite deck board will vary depending on the product type and the manufacturer.

Filling Chips and Cracks

Chips or small cracks can be caused in composite decking by moving outdoor furniture, items falling on the deck, or extreme weather. If you have noticed any small cracks or chips in your composite deck, you can often use a specially designed composite deck repair kit to fix them.

Heavier Damage

Heavy damage to your composite decking such as deep scratches, cracks and broken boards, may often require a replacement plank. To replace a composite decking plank, first find the fasteners, which may be concealed below the decking to avoid showing the screw heads.