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How to prevent mould on composite decking?

nickomoffs
Community Newcomer

How to prevent mould on composite decking?

Im not sure what type of composite deck we have as we didn't install it, but black mould seems to grow on it every 2-3 months. It can only be removed by pressure washing which is becoming very annoying and a health hazard...does anyone know if we can apply something to the deck to prevent or slow the mould growth? The deck is next to a pool so it does get wet a lot, but even with direct sunshine daily, it doesn't stop the mould. Thank you for your help! 

 

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EricL
Bunnings Team Member
Bunnings Team Member

Re: How to prevent mould on composite decking?

Hello @nickomoffs 

 

Welcome to the Bunnings Workshop community. It's sensational to have you join us and thanks for sharing your question regarding your composite decking.

 

It appears that your decking panels have a very smooth surface. I suspect that because of its proximity to the pool the evaporation of pool water is causing it to form a film of condensation on the surface of the deck in the late evening. The condensation probably does not last long as it gets evaporated by the morning and afternoon sun, but it is enough to start a chain of events that leads to mould growing on the surface. 

 

I propose trying an experiment, cover your pool in the evenings for the next eight weeks. You should be able to see if mould will start to grow on the surface of your deck. If there is no mould after eight weeks with the pool covered, then you have located the source of the condensation. Another option of course is to wash your deck every six weeks with 30 Seconds 5L Spray And Walk Away Concentrate. You can wash earlier if mould starts to form in a shorter time.

 

Let me call on our experienced members @Dave-1 and @Nailbag for their recommendations.

 

If you need further assistance, please let us know.

 

Eric

 

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