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Composite is a durable material known for its longevity and is the superior alternative to traditional timber. Homeowners seek out composite fencing for the freedom it provides—it is far less demanding and labour-intensive than wood.
However, does this mean composite fencing is maintenance-free?
The Honest Answer: No. It is low maintenance, but not zero maintenance.
Most people believe that because manufacturers advertise “little maintenance,” they can ignore the fence entirely. In reality, wood plastic composite fencing requires a minimal level of upkeep to preserve its structural integrity and “just-installed” beauty.
Table of Contents
| Feature | Timber Fencing | Ultra Composite Fencing |
|---|---|---|
| Annual Labour | Sanding, staining, painting, and oiling. | Simple wash and rinse. |
| Cost Over Time | High (brushes, stains, oils every year). | Near zero (soap and water). |
| Time Investment | Full weekends of "mundane chores." | 30–60 minutes. |
| Colour Retention | Fades quickly without chemical help. | Built-in UV resistance. |
How to Clean Your Composite Fencing: The 4-Step Method
Like all outdoor materials, cleaning is a must. If you have uncapped fence boards, our recommendation is a monthly clean. Why? After nearly a decade of selling composite and enhanced composite fencing, we have learned that uncapped boards need regular maintenance to retain their beauty and structural strength. Capped boards, however, only require a quarterly clean to ensure algae and stains don’t have time to settle.
What You Will Need:
- A bucket of warm water.
- Mild dish soap (avoid bleach-based cleaners).
- A soft-bristle sweeping brush or hand brush.
- A standard garden hose or a power washer on a low spray setting.
Step 1: Dry Sweep, Debris & Area Removal
Before adding water, use your soft-bristle brush to sweep away loose leaves, cobwebs, and dried mud. Don’t forget to clear the surrounding area so you have full access to the base of your fence.
TOP TIP: Why no water? Adding water to dry dirt creates a “sludge” that can get pushed deeper into the woodgrain texture. Always clear the surface dry first.
Step 2: The Initial Rinse
Use your garden hose on a medium-pressure setting to rinse the entire fence, working from the top to the bottom.
- The Goal: This loosens stubborn surface grime and prepares the composite material for the soapy solution.
Step 3: The Soapy Scrub
Dip your soft brush into the warm, soapy water and apply it to your fence.
- The Technique: Scrub in the direction of the grain or grooves (horizontal or vertical, depending on your board orientation).
- Focus on areas with visible marks, such as BBQ grease or bird droppings. Let the soap sit for 3–5 minutes, but do not let it dry on the surface.
Top Tip: If grease marks aren’t moving after 5 minutes, try adding vinegar and baking soda directly to the spot. Wait for the “fizz” during the reaction and scrub at that point for the best results.
Step 4: The Final Rinse & Air Dry
Rinse the fence thoroughly with clean water. Ensure all soap suds are gone, as dried soap can leave a white, “filmy” residue that dulls the color of your boards. Finally, allow the fence to air dry naturally.
Specific Care: Dealing with the Elements
- Mud, Dirt, and Debris
If mud builds up, simply brush it away with a soft bristle brush. For a deeper clean, a water-soaked cloth or a gentle hose-down will suffice.
- Mould & Mildrew
Mould and mildew are fungi. While mildew sits on the surface, Black Mould is the real enemy of wood, eating deep into the layers.
-
- The Composite Advantage: Our boards are resistant to deep infiltration.
- The Fix: If you see spots, use warm soapy water. For persistent marks, Tea Tree Oil or White Vinegar are effective, low-cost DIY methods to kill spores on contact.
- Tannin Stains (The 6-Month Cycle)
Natural wood oils (tannins) may leach out of the material in the first 6 months, appearing as tea-coloured stains. This is a natural, expected part of your fence’s life cycle.
- Pro Tip: If soapy water doesn’t work, Oxalic Acid is the engineer’s choice for removing tannins with ease.
- Snow and Ice
When clearing snow, always use a plastic-headed shovel. Metal shovels will scratch the composite surface. Even with plastic, avoid being too abrasive to protect the finish.
- Grease and Oil Stains
Unlike wood, composite is resistant to absorbing fats, making them easier to remove.
- Action: Apply warm soapy water and gently work a soft brush across the grain. If the marks are stubborn, use a dedicated degreaser like Owatrol Compo-Cleaner.
Conclusion: Beyond the Marketing Fluff
Maintenance is the key to the lifespan and durability of any outdoor product. Don’t fall into the trap of the “sales fluff” claiming composite fencing never needs attention—it simply isn’t true. To get the most out of your investment, you must pay attention to the specific type of composite you choose:
- Uncapped Boards (Standard): Without that protective outer layer, these boards require simple but regular cleaning once a month to retain their look and structural performance.
- Capped Boards (Enhanced): These feature a thick, protective plastic layer that is more resistant to Mother Nature’s elements. While they are more durable, they still require TLC. Quarterly cleaning ensures they stay stain-resistant and beautiful for decades.
The Golden Rule: Even though capped boards are highly resistant to stains, never leave organic material or chemicals on the surface for long periods. A little effort once a month or once a quarter will ensure your Ultra Decking fence looks as good in ten years as it does today.
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