Composite decking is built to handle the outdoors, but that doesn’t mean it’s scratch-proof.
Small scuffs can happen from furniture, pets, or even moving planters around.
If you’re wondering how to prevent scratches on your deck and keep it looking its best, a few simple habits go a long way.
Common Causes of Scratches on Composite Decks
Composite decking's known for durability, but everyday activities and items around the home can leave their mark. If you're clumsy or impatient or think the surface is impervious, think again:
- Moving chairs, tables, or grills without protection can leave marks. Trex deck scratches often happen when heavy furniture is dragged instead of lifted.
- Foot traffic happens. High heels, kids & pets, and even sandy shoes can wear down the surface over time.
- Outdoor chores are good... and bad. Using metal tools, wire brushes, or a steel brush when cleaning can scratch decking. Even snow shovels with sharp edges can cut into capped composite decking.
- Bikes, toys, and garden furniture moved around on the deck add to the risk. Be mindful about what you store on these surfaces.
"One of the main benefits of composite decking is its durability and scratch resistance but it can be marred under certain circumstances," shared Dave Kile, Owner and Deck Expert at Trex Protect.
"It’s a good idea to place mats or furniture pads under grills, planters, and heavy furniture to avoid scuffs. When moving chairs, tables, or storage items, lift them instead of dragging them across the surface."
He highlights cleanliness, too. "Regularly sweeping away dirt, sand, or gravel is also important since abrasive debris can leave marks when walked on."
Easy Does It: How to Prevent Scratches
Avoiding scratches doesn’t require major effort... just a few smart habits.
- Use furniture pads, even if you think it's overkill: Felt sticky pads, rubber pads, or Teflon® glides on chair and table legs help prevent composite deck scratches.
- Add an outdoor rug: Rugs designed for outdoor living spaces protect high-traffic areas, shield UV rays, and cut down on wear.
- Protect your deck during the winter: If you need to clear ice and snow, use a plastic snow shovel instead of metal ones. Avoid hitting the surface with sharp edges.
- Sweep, sweep, sweep: A quick sweep removes sand, gravel, and building debris that can cause surface scratches when walked on.
- Lift, don’t drag: When rearranging garden furniture or outdoor accessories, pick them up instead of sliding.
What to Do if Your Deck Gets Scratched
Even with good care, scratches can happen. The good news is, most are minor and easy to handle.
- Light scratches: Sometimes they blend in naturally as the deck weathers.
- Deeper marks: Heat guns can reduce the look of surface scratches on certain composite decking materials, but it takes handyman skills to avoid damage.
- Cleaning first: Use a composite deck cleaner and mild cleaning agent like Dawn® Dishwashing liquid before trying repairs. Dirt can exaggerate how scratches look.
- When to replace: If scratched decking is severe, replacement boards may be the best solution. Composite deck sealant or epoxy-based filler can sometimes help, but they’re not always a permanent fix.
For more information on repairs, resources like Trex Academy or your decking manufacturer’s support in choosing solutions can guide you.
FAQ
Does composite decking scratch easy?
It's more resistant than wood, but it can still scratch. Factors like the density of the boards, cover technology, and whether it’s capped composite decking make a difference. Higher-end lines like Trex Transcend composite material are designed with better scratch resistance.
Can scratches on a Trex deck be fixed?
Yes, but it depends on the depth. Small scratches often fade as the deck ages. For visible marks, some homeowners use a heat gun carefully, while others choose replacement boards for a cleaner look. It’s always best to check the manufacturer’s care guidelines before attempting a fix.
