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Care and Cleaning
CLEANING RECOMMENDATIONS FOR TOUGH STAINS
Problem
- Stain Type - Steps 1-2-3
- Chewing GumD-A-B
- Motor OilB
- Mildew or Wet Leaves*C-A-B
- Yellow MustardA-B-C
- Oil Base Paint (Dried)DAB
- Tar/AsphaltDAB
- Latex PaintA-B-E
- KetchupA-B
- Ballpoint InkA-B-E
- Permanent Marker*B-C-E
- EyeshadowB
- Spray PaintB-E
- Shoe Polish*D-B-E
- Oil Base Paint (Fresh)D-B-E
- Suntan Lotion*A-B-E
- LipstickAB
- CrayonD-B
- GreaseD-B-E
- Household SoilAB
- Coffee, Tea, ChocolateB
- Cedar*B
- Urethane CaulkingD-G-A
- RustF-A
Solution
A
Diluted Duradek Cleaner, soft brush/water rinse/dry
B
Fantastik spray cleaner or Cascade Powdered Dishwasher Detergent (only for a few minutes) water rinse/dry
C
One (1) tablespoon ammonia to one (1) quart water/water rinse/dry
D
Wipe or scrape off excess (chill gum with ice)
E
Follow instructions of staining agent manufacturer
F
Apply Naval Jelly/water rinse
G
Rub on citrus-based hand cleaner, wait 3-5 minutes, water rinse/dry
* Suntan lotions, wet leaves, permanent markers and some other products contain dyes that permanently stain.
Additional Notes
1.
Always clean immediately. Test an unseen area of fabric before cleaning stain.
2.
All cleaning methods must be followed by a thorough rinse with water.
3.
Avoid applying cleaners in direct, hot sunshine
4.
Certain household cleaners, powdered abrasives, steel wool and industrial cleaners can cause damage and discoloration and are not recommended. Dry cleaning fluids and lacquer solvents should not be used as they will remove the printed pattern and gloss. Waxes should be used with caution. Many contain dyes or solvents that can permanently damage the protective coating.
5.
Power washing can remove dirt and debris. It is not intended for removing embedded stains. Set at 1,500 psi (maximum), hold nozzle 12 inches from surface. Do not use at seams, railing attachment, caulking or house trims.
6.
See Facts About Sheet Vinyl on our website.
For more information, see Duradek Care and Cleaning (PDF file).
Duradek is the finest deck waterproofing product available on the market today. It is installed by authorized contractors using the Duradek system of sheet vinyl, adhesives, trims and sealants.
Protection - Protect Duradek vinyl from scuffs, tears or excessive wear by using mats at doorways, stair landings or major traffic thoroughfares. Stair nosings will protect the vinyl for high use stairwells. Dragging heavy objects can cause scuffs or tears and should be avoided or protected against.
Inspection - The only regular maintenance other than cleaning is inspecting the caulking used to seal around posts, pillars, corners, vents and drains. Often the structure to which the vinyl sheeting is sealed will crack, shrink or shift, thereby breaking the seal. Yearly inspection will uncover such a problem. Your Duradek contractor can recommend and supply the proper sealant to correct it.
Railings - If railings are to be installed on the vinyl surface, try to mount them so they do not penetrate the membrane. Wooden rails should be notched out and bolted to the side of the deck. For a proper seal, metal rails should have all screw holes caulked before inserting the screw. Call Duradek or your contractor for more information.
Non-skid versus Cleanability - The more textured the surface, the more effective the non-slip characteristics will be. The smoother the surface, the easier your vinyl surface will be to clean. Therefore, a heavily textured non slip finish will require more cleaning effort and vice versa.
Snow and Ice - Use a plastic shovel to remove ice and snow. 'Rock Salt', 'Kitty Litter' and other snow-melting chemicals can be used, however the surface must be cleaned thoroughly with soap and water prior to letting the spring sun 'bake' any chemicals into the Duradek membrane.
General Cleaning - Your vinyl deck should be cleaned at least four times per year (more often if acid rain or airborne pollution is a problem in your area) using the Duradek vinyl cleaner available from your authorized contractor or Duradek. Follow the directions on the label. This cleaner is designed for vinyl and will NOT leave harmful chemical residue like many household cleaners may. Use warm water and a stiff broom, scrubbing in a circular motion to loosen the dirt. Spray with a garden hose (under pressure) to wash away the loose dirt. Flush thoroughly with clean water.