Due to the production process, WPC decking is very similar to wooden decking, but the maintenance, care and cleaning is different. They require very little maintenance compared to wooden floorboards. In this article you will find some methods and tips that you can use to clean and effectively maintain your WPC floorboards.
What is WPC flooring?
Although the “W” in WPC stands for wood, this type of flooring does not actually contain wood in the traditional sense. However, it is a composite material made from a combination of wood flour or fibers and heated thermoplastic resins. Together, these materials outperform other traditional flooring options in terms of maintenance, durability and water resistance. WPC usually consists of the following four layers:
- wear layer: Like traditional vinyl flooring, this layer is intended to protect your floor from dents, scuffs, and scratches.
- Printed top layer: Using 3D printing technology, the printed top layer gives the floor depth and authenticity, just like classic hardwood floors.
- core layer: Here you will find a high-density yet strong waterproof core that will not expand, contract, swell or flake when in contact with liquid, standing water or any other form of moisture.
- Back layer: This layer is also known as the backbone of the soil. It provides your floorboards with additional sound insulation and is naturally resistant to mold and mildew.
Clean WPC floorboards – use these methods
Regardless of the type of flooring you choose to install in your home, it is sure to get dirty on a regular basis. Here are some effective ways you can clean WPC floorboards.
- Clean WPC floorboards with household remedies: Use a soft bristle brush and soapy water to clean WPC decking. With this you canremove any surface dirtand prevent dirt deposits. Clean regularly to keep your decking free of bird droppings, pollen and other possible contaminants.Tipp: The best way to remove grease stains is with dishwashing liquid and plenty of water!
- Remove green deposits from WPC with soda: Green deposits form quickly on surfaces where rainwater cannot dry for long, for example because the surface is in the shade. You can carefully remove the verdigris using a scrub brush and commercial baking soda. Simply dissolve a small amount in warm water and use it to clean the WPC flooring.
- How to Remove Hard Water Stains with Vinegar:Hard water consists of a high proportion of mineral deposits such as lime, silica and calcium. When the water dries, it leaves behind deposits that leave unsightly stains on surfaces. This is not a defect in the WPC decking, but a problem with the water itself. In general, you can clean these deposits on decking with white vinegar. Rinsing is required, so you should be careful not to use hard water for this purpose. If you need to use it, dry the surfaces with a cloth or a blower.
- Clean WPC floorboards with a high-pressure cleaner: If you use a pressure washer, make sure you use it at the lowest pressure and at least 25cm from the surface. A garden hose is best suited for regular cleaning.
- Use a patio cleaner: Using the right cleaner is very important to the longevity of your patio. Always pay attention to the label when purchasing.Under no circumstances should you use a cleaner that is based on chlorine bleach!If you find sodium hypochlorite on the label, this is an indication that the cleaner contains bleach. On the other hand, cleaners containing sodium percarbonate are recommended because they produce a special type of bubbles when mixed with water. These bubbles dissolve and ensure that any organic material on the surface is completely removed. All you have to do is apply the water and cleaner mixture to the WPC floorboards and leave it for 15 minutes. Afterwards, use a scrubber to clean the area in a circular motion while the floorboards are still wet. Rinse the area very well with clean water.
- A notice!When using a cleaning product, you should always carefully follow the relevant instructions (use and safety).
Tips on how to optimally clean WPC floorboards
- To ensure proper care of your WPC floorboards, you should clean them in small sections. This allows you to clean the area while it is still wet. Otherwise the dirt would dry out with the water.
- Make sure you scrub between the floorboards so you can remove any hidden dirt. Once you've finished cleaning your decking, let it dry for a few hours before putting your furniture back in place.
- Remove impurities andstainsalways as quickly as possible. Stains are often easy to remove if you don't give them time to dry completely and penetrate the floorboards.
- Regular, low maintenance can save your decking for years to come – even forever.
Instructions on how to properly clean patio boards and slabs,you can find here!
