5 Common PVC Decking Problems and How to Fix Them

PVC is a low-maintenance, durable decking material, but that doesn’t mean it’s damage-proof. If you notice your boards are broken or looking a little beat up, don’t panic. There’s a good chance you can spruce up your decking without having to call out a pro to make repairs or carry out a costly full replacement. 

We’ve outlined five common PVC decking problems and how to fix them to help you determine if the damage is DIY-repairable.

1. Fading

Most PVC decking is UV-resistant—more so than plastic and wood-mix composite decking—but the boards still fade over time, especially when situated in a sunny spot. Harsh cleaning products, debris buildup, high temperatures, and humidity can also cause premature fading. 

Solution

Fading PVC boards can’t always be fixed, but cleaning your deck with hot, soapy water or a vinegar and water solution can help add some luster. Applying a composite restorer may refresh the color and provide renewed UV resistance. However, these solutions are not suitable for all PVC boards, so check with the manufacturer. 

2. Stains

PVC decking has strong stain-resistant properties, but it’s not immune to being marked or discolored by things like grease, red wine, or a dollop of ketchup. 

Solution

Cleaning up the spill quickly is your best defense against unsightly staining, and you get a longer grace period with PVC decking than you would with wood. However, if tough, greasy stains or tannins have already sunk into the board, a degreasing agent can help to lift them out. If the stain still doesn’t lift, try a deck restorer suitable for your boards.

3. Mold and Mildew Buildup

PVC decking is highly mold-resistant, so it won’t seep into the boards. However, if you aren’t so hot on cleaning, debris can lead to mold and mildew buildup on the deck surface, contributing to board fading and making your decking slippery underfoot. 

Solution

Regular cleaning helps keep mold at bay, but if there is already a buildup on your boards, scrubbing with warm, soapy water or a vinegar solution before rinsing it off with a hose should be enough to remove it. Avoid undiluted vinegar. While vinegar can kill mold spores, letting this acidic substance sit on the decking could lead to premature fading or surface damage.

4. Scratches

PVC decking is scratch-resistant but not scratch-proof. Dragging heavy deck furniture across the surface or dropping a heavy grill tool on the boards can cause unsightly damage. 

Solution

It’s not possible to sand down scratches on PVC boards like you can with wood decking. However, it’s possible to fix minor scratches using a PVC decking repair kit or an epoxy-based filler and putty knife. For deep, unsightly gouges, consider replacing the affected boards.

5. Cracks

Extreme temperature fluctuations cause PVC boards to expand and contract rapidly, which leads to cracks. Poor installation is another common cause of cracked boards. 

Solution

You can use PVC fillers to repair small cracks, but when the crack is large or spans multiple boards, replacing the boards is a better long-term solution. 

When to Call a Pro

Most of these PVC decking problems have doable DIY fixes—even if you wouldn’t class yourself as a handy homeowner. However, if you're not confident about replacing stained, scratched, or cracked boards, hiring a deck builder near you to complete the job will save you time and the stress of wondering if you have left the right space between your deck boards.

If all your boards are fully faded and they aren’t a candidate for using a deck restoring product, it might be time to shell out for the cost of deck replacement, and hiring an expert ensures speedy and structurally sound construction. A professional can also assess your decking if you are concerned that bthe oards have cracked due to poor installation.