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Cleaning And Care Recommendations
STORAGE
Store Northern Composite Products under cover to maintain a clean surface.
If stored outdoors, they must be covered with a tarp designed for outside
use. Products should be stored in a dry space with bottom supports equally
spread apart. Long term storage product should be banded together.
HANDLING
- Never dump NCP materials when unloading
- When carrying NCP decking, it is easier to carry on edge
- Do not slide planks against each other when moving them. When removing
deck boards from the skids the boards should be lifted and set them down
- Do not slide tools or drag equipment across the top of the planks during
construction
- Keep the surface of the planks free of construction waste to prevent
damage to the planks
FOLLOW ALL the guidelines above when handling these planks to
minimize scratches, nicks and grooves, and preserve the natural colour and
wood grain appearance.
BASIC CLEANING RECOMMENDATIONS
Although NCP products are low-maintenance, NCP recommends periodic cleaning
to help maintain the natural wood grain of the product. For best results
power wash using dish soap detergent. The recommended maximum pressure is
1700 psi for NCP decks. A fan tip nozzle must be used along with the proper
cleaning product. Spray in the direction of the brush/grain pattern to avoid
damaging the product. Use caution not to damage the material and always take
the proper safety precautions when operating a power washer.
ICE AND SNOW
For ice removal; either rock salt or calcium chloride may be used without
damage to the surface. However, either of these products may leave a white
residue, which may be removed by either rinsing with water or a mild soap/
water solution. If shoveling the deck, a plastic shovel or a shovel with a
plastic edge must be used. Ensure you shovel in the same direction the deck
boards are installed in length. Going across the deck boards will leave
scratch marks.
PAINTING/STAINING/SEALING
Although NOT recommended, NCP products may be painted or stained. Once the
product is painted, stained or sealed, subsequent applications will be
necessary to maintain appearance. NCP does not guarantee the performance of
anything applied to the product.
Wait approximately 4 to 6 weeks or until the product has completed its
weathering process before painting or staining. Clean your NCP surface prior
to applying paint or stain. Never paint or stain over surfaces that may
contain dirt, or mildew. Apply paints and sealers in accordance with the
manufacturer’s application instructions.
DIRT, GRIME, MOLD, AND MILDEW STAINS
NCP products are formulated with 95% natural fiber (Rice Hulls), Recycled
bottles glass spheres and other additives. Rice Hulls are highly resistant
to moisture penetration and fungal decomposition. Mold, Mildew and Fungi
will grow on everything; however the Rice Hulls prevent the mold to grow
into the product.
NCP recommends products should be periodically hosed or power wash. Even if
it appears clean, it is important to prevent build-up of pollen/debris.
Mildew stains may occur where moisture, pollens, and/or dirt are present.
Mildew needs a food source to grow, which can be grass, pollens, dirt,
debris, wood and wood resins. Maintaining a clean, dry surface is the best
method for combating mildew.
SPOT STAINS AND SCRATCHES
Many stains can be cleaned with soap and water. If the stains have set NCP
recommends using a wire brush going with the grain to remove the stain.
Areas cleaned may lighten; this will require 6 to 10 weeks exposure to the
sun to match the remaining product.
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“Always wipe up spills immediately to avoid a potential
permanent stain”
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