How to Remove Oil Stains from Trex Decking : Only 8 Steps

Composite materials such as Trex are made from recycled plastic and wood fibers. It’s a popular choice for decks because it requires little maintenance and is durable. Oil stains can still occur, especially if you have a cooking area on your deck. If you do get an oil stain on your Trex decking, don’t worry it’s not difficult to remove.

How to remove oil stains from Trex decking is a comprehensive guide that will show you how to quickly and easily clean any oil stain. The best way to treat oil stains on Trex decking is by using any stain remover.

Steps on How to Remove Oil Stains from Trex Decking

If you have a Trex deck, oil stains are very common. The good news is that you can remove those stains with a few simple steps. The first step is to identify the type of stain and then begin to treat it following our instructed steps.

Step 01: Identify the Type of Oil That Has Stained Your Decking

It’s important to know how to identify the substance that has stained it. The most common oils that can stain Trex decking are hot cooking oil, suntan oil, petroleum jelly, and motor oil. 

Each of these oils has a different chemical composition, which means they will require different removal methods. For example, hot cooking oil can be removed with soap and water, while petroleum jelly will require a more potent solvent.

Step 02: Apply a Degreaser to the Stain and Let It Sit for 5-10 Minutes

When it comes to removing tough stains, there are a few options that you can try. The most effective way to get rid of stains is to apply a degreaser and let it sit for 5-10 minutes. This will help to break down the stain and make it easier to remove.

Use a toothbrush or other brush to scrub the stain. This may take some elbow grease, but it can effectively remove the stain. You can also try using a cleaner that contains bleach.

You should be careful with bleach as it can damage some fabrics. If you’re unsure which cleaner to use, you can always test it on a small area first.

Step 03: Choose an Appropriate Cleaning Solution Based on the Type of Oil

You should pick the right cleaning solution to remove the stain without damaging the deck. For example, if you have a light oil stain, you can use a mild detergent and water to clean it. For a more stubborn stain, you can mix equal vinegar and water.

Step 04: Apply the Cleaning Solution to the Decking

Applying a cleaning solution to your Trex decking regularly is vital for several reasons. First, it helps remove dirt such as rotten leaves from the simple green tree and bird droppings that can accumulate on the deck’s surface. 

Second, it helps to prevent the growth of unwanted mold, which can cause the deck to become slippery and unsightly. Finally, it helps to keep the deck looking its best by restoring its original color and preventing fading.

Step 05: Scrub the Stain with A Stiff Brush Until It Is Removed

Use a stiff brush to scrub off the stain from the Trex decking. This is because the stain makes the decking become discolored and faded.

The stain can also attract dirt and grime, which can make the decking challenging to clean. Thus, by scrubbing the stain, you will be able to remove it entirely and keep your decking looking new.

Step 06: Rinse the Area with Water and Allow it to Dry

Rinsing the Trex decking area with water and allowing it to dry will help to remove any grime that may have accumulated on the top of the decking. The decking with water will also help prevent mold or mildew from growing there. Allowing the area to dry will also help prevent further staining or dirt from being tracked onto the deck.

Step 07: Seal the Decking with a Wood Sealant to Protect it from Future Staining

Wood sealants are important for protecting wood from weathering, staining, and other damage. They also extend the life of the wood by preventing rot and decay. Trex decking is made from recycled wood and plastic, so it is especially important to use a sealant that is safe for the environment. 

There are many different types of wood sealants on the market, so it is crucial to choose one specifically designed for Trex decking. Sealants can be applied with a brush or roller, and they typically need to be reapplied every two to three years.

Step 08: Let the Deck Dry Completely Before Walking on It

It is crucial to ensure that the decking is completely dry before walking on it. To ensure that the decking is dry, it is recommended that you wait at least 24 hours after rain or snowfall before walking on it. 

The reason for this is that the decking can become slippery when wet, which can lead to accidents. Wet decking can also stain your clothes. Therefore, it is important to be patient and allow the decking to dry thoroughly before using it.

What to Do If The Stain Doesn’t Come off from Trex Decking

• Try using a pressure washer. 
• Try a different cleaner.
• Soak the decking with a degreaser. 
• Use a paint scraper to remove the stain.
• Apply turpentine to the stain. 
• Sand down the deck and start from scratch.

FAQs

There are some frequently asked questions about treating Trex decks with oil. Though the questions may seem basic, they are often important for users. Therefore, we kept a list of (FAQs) on hand:

1. What type of oil does Trex decking absorb?

Yes, Trex composite decking boards will absorb oil. All types of oil can cause staining on decks and other surfaces. The amount of oil that the decking will absorb will vary according to the oil type and how long it is left in place. Over time, Trex decking can absorb oil from cooking, sun exposure, and other sources. This can cause the decking to become stained and difficult to clean.

2. What kind of oil stains are the worst to get on Trex decking?

Three types of oil stains can be particularly troublesome on Trex decking: cooking oil, sun-tan oil, and motor oil. Cooking oil, in particular, can be tough to remove because it can seep into the decking material and cause long-term staining. 

Suntan oil can also be difficult to remove, as it is designed to resist water and can quickly penetrate the decking. Motor oil is perhaps the most challenging type of oil to remove, as it not only penetrates the decking material but also repels water, making it difficult to rinse away.

All 3 types of oil spills can be frustrating to deal with, but cooking oil stains tend to be the most challenging.

3. How often should you clean your Trex decking?

You should clean your Trex decking at least once a month to prevent the build-up of dirt and debris. You can use a hose or power washer to remove loose dirt, leaves, and other debris. You may also need strong brushing to get rid of stubborn stains. 

For best results, you should wash your deck in the morning or evening when the sun is not as intense. You should also avoid using harsh chemicals or cleaners, as they can damage the decking material.

4. What kind of cleaners should be used on Trex decking?

For general cleaning, mix equal parts of water and vinegar in a bucket and use a soft bristle brush to scrub the deck. Alternatively, you can use a pressure washer on a low setting. Be sure to test any cleaners in an inconspicuous area before using them on the entire deck.

To remove mildew or algae, mix one cup of bleach with three cups of water and apply it to the affected areas with a sponge or brush. Rinse the area afterward with clean water. For tougher stains, you may need to use a more robust bleach solution or a commercial deck cleaner.

5. Are there other ways to protect your Trex decking from getting stained?

In addition to regular cleaning and sealing, there are a few other things you can do to guard your Trex decking against staining. Prevent stains by sweeping or hosing off your deck regularly. Use a mild soap and water solution to remove any stains.

Regularly seal and stain your deck to fill in any cracks or crevices where dirt could accumulate and provide an extra layer of protection against stains.

Conclusion

Thanks for reading. We hope this article about how to remove oil stains from Trex decking helped explain.

Oil stains can be a headache to remove from Trex decking, but with the right techniques and products, they can be eliminated relatively easily. Many ways exist to accomplish this. The method described in this article has been tried to keep it simple and most effective.

As you can see, it’s not a laborious process, but it requires some care and attention to detail. With a bit of time and effort, anyone can remove oil spots from Trex decking.