How to Fix Scratches on Composite Decking

Composite decking is usually made of plastic wood. Both materials can easily scratch from people walking over it or from debris slowing across it. The scratches can cause more problems such as more cracking, peeling and rotting. Those damages can easily be fixed.

How to Fix Scratches on Composite Decking

Materials Needed

• Broom


• Bucket


• Mild liquid dish detergent


• Scrub brush


• Garden hose


• Chalk


• Chisel


• Air duster


• 40 grit sandpaper


• Putty knife


• Tack cloth


• Filler putty


• Clean cloth

1. Use a broom to thoroughly remove any loose debris and dirt from the surface of the composite decking.


2. Fill a bucket with water and 1 tablespoon of mild liquid dish detergent. Use a scrub brush and the cleaning solution to clean the decking. Make sure you clean the railings as well. Rinse the deck with water from a garden hose. Allow the deck to completely dry.


3. Look over the deck to find any damaged areas. Use chalk to circle those areas so you can easily locate them later.


4. Wet a rag with mineral spirits. Apply the mineral spirits to the damaged area to further remove anything that was not removed from cleaning it. Wipe the area with a cloth and allow it to completely dry.


5. Take a chisel and remove any loose pieces. Spray the area with air duster to blow any loose pieces away.


6. Use 40 grit sandpaper to sand over the areas. This will make the area rough so you can easily repair it. Use a piece of tack cloth to wipe over the area.


7. Take a putty knife and apply filler putty over the area. Spread the putty out as smooth and even as you can. Allow the putty to dry. Lightly sand over the area with the sandpaper. Wipe the area with a damp cloth.