Are you wondering if bird poop can stain composite decking? If so, you’re in the right place! In this article, I’ll discuss how bird poop affects composite decking and what steps you should take to protect your deck.
I’ll also look at some of the best ways to clean up after a messy avian visitor. With a bit of knowledge and the right products, you can keep your composite decking looking like new.
When it comes to composite decking, bird poop is not a good thing. If left on the surface of the deck, it’s likely to stain or discolor the material due to its high acidity level. The acidity in bird droppings can also cause the composite material to become brittle or even flake away.
The good news is that there are a few simple steps you can take to remove and prevent bird poop stains on your composite decking.
Here’s what I’m going to cover in the rest of the article;
- why does bird poop stain composite decking,
- how to quickly clean up bird droppings, and
- some tips on how to prevent future messes from birds.
By the end of this article, you’ll be an expert on keeping your composite decking looking new! So let’s get started.
Why Does Bird Poop Stain Composite Decking?
There are a few contributory factors that cause bird droppings to have an adverse effect on composite decking. Let’s take a look at some of the most common:
1. The Acidity of The Bird Poop
Bird droppings contain uric acid, which is highly acidic. This acid can corrode the surface of composite decking and cause it to become brittle or flake away.
Uric acid is also soluble in water, which means it can spread and be absorbed into the composite decking over time.
This makes it one of the main reasons why bird poop can stain composite decking.
2. Weather Conditions
When bird droppings are exposed to the elements for a long period of time, they can dry out and become more concentrated.
This makes it harder for them to be removed from the surface of the composite decking and increases their staining power.
A typical example is when bird droppings are left on the deck in direct sunlight. The sun’s heat can cause them to dry out quickly and become harder to remove.
On top of that, rain can also cause the droppings to spread and become more difficult to clean up.
3. Composite Decking Is Not Stain-proof
Although some composite decking materials may be advertised as stain-proof, this is rarely the case. The truth is that all composite decking materials are vulnerable to staining from bird droppings, rotten leaves, dirt, and more.
This is why it’s important to take the necessary steps to protect your decking from these elements.
This is because composite decking is made of plastic but has a large portion of wood, making it vulnerable to staining.
How To Clean Up Bird Poop From Composite Decking
It’s such an awesome feeling to enjoy the day outside on your composite deck. But that feeling can quickly turn sour when you notice bird droppings all over it!
Don’t worry, though—cleaning up after a messy avian visitor is not as complicated as it sounds.
Here are some of the best ways to clean up bird poop from composite decking:
1. Using Warm, Soapy Water
Using warm, soapy water is a great way to remove bird droppings from your composite deck quickly.
What’s key is using warm water. The warmth will help to dissolve the uric acid in the bird droppings, making it easier to wash away.
To use this method, here’s what you need;
- Step One: Mix some mild dish soap with warm water in a bucket.
- Step Two: Use a soft-bristled brush to scrub the bird poop off the surface of the decking.
- Step Three: Once the droppings have been removed, rinse the deck with a hose.
- Step Four: Inspect the surface of the deck and repeat steps two and three if necessary.
2. Using Vinegar
For tougher stains, you may need to use vinegar. Not only does it dissolve bird droppings quickly and efficiently, but it’s also safe for composite decking materials.
Here’s how I go about it safely;
- Step One: Mix one part vinegar with four parts warm water.
- Step Two: Dip a soft cloth into the solution and use it to scrub the stained area.
- Step Three: Let it sit for five minutes or so, and then rinse it off with warm water.
- Step Four: For really tough stains, you may need to repeat this process multiple times until the stain is completely gone.
And voila! Your composite decking should now be good as new.
Using vinegar is a relatively simple and straightforward process, but you do need to be careful not to use too much or leave it on for too long – otherwise, you risk damaging your composite decking in the long run. So, don’t forget to rinse off the solution with warm water after each application.
3. Using A Pressure Washer
If the bird droppings have been on your composite decking for a while and there is a large amount of it, you may need to use a pressure washer to get rid of them.
Pressure washers are powerful tools that can effectively remove not only bird droppings but also dirt and other debris.
However, you need to be very careful when using them on composite decking. If the pressure is too high, it can damage the material or cause irreversible damage to its color.
So, if you plan on using a pressure washer, make sure to adjust the pressure to a low setting first and test it in an inconspicuous area to avoid any unwanted issues.
Once you’re done using the pressure washer, rinse off the decking with warm water and let it completely dry before applying a sealant or wax. This will help protect the composite decking from future stains and damage.
So, there you have it – the best ways to get rid of bird droppings on composite decking.
With the right cleaning methods and a bit of patience, you can successfully remove any bird-dropping stains without causing any damage to your decking material.
Just remember to use caution when using harsher products or a pressure washer, and you should be good to go!
How To Prevent Bird Droppings On Your Deck
Bird droppings can be a real pain to clean up, but there are measures you can take to prevent them from occurring in the first place.
Here are some of the most effective ways to ward off birds and keep them away from your composite decking;
1. Install Bird Deterrents
One of the most effective ways to keep birds away from your deck is by installing bird deterrents. These can come in the form of visual or audible deterrents, such as shiny reflectors, plastic owls, and motion-activated water sprays.
2. Trim Back Trees and Bushes
If there are nearby trees or bushes, it’s important to trim them back periodically – especially during the mating season. This will reduce their appeal as a nesting spot for birds.
3. Keep Your Deck Clean
Finally, make sure that you keep your deck clean and free of debris or food scraps. This will help deter birds from making your deck their home.
By following these tips and tricks, you can easily keep birds away from your composite decking – and save yourself the hassle of having to clean up bird droppings!
Final Words
So to conclude, I started off by discussing some of the main reasons why bird poop stains composite decking materials and how to remove them safely.
Then I went over some of the best ways to prevent bird droppings from occurring in the first place.
With that being said, always remember to take necessary precautions when dealing with bird droppings on your composite decking – and you should be good to go!