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Cleaning Vinyl Surfaces
Protect 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.
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,
aluminum rails should have all screw holes caulked before inserting the
screw.
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)
use a standard vinyl cleaner available from the big box store (Orange Awnings...) called Shell Busey's Home-Check Cleaner. Follow the directions on the label. Remember to flush thoroughly with clean water. IF any salt or chem melt substance is used to remove ice - snowpack, then the residue may build-up with dirt and if not washed as soon as weather permit's.... their may be staining.
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.
Cleaning Recommendations For Tough Stains
Stain 1-2-3 Steps
Chewing Gum D-A-B
Motor Oil B
Mildew or Wet Leaves* C-A-B
Yellow Mustard A-B-C
Oil Base Paint (Dried) DAB
Tar/Asphalt DAB
Latex Paint A-B-E
Ketchup A-B
Ballpoint Ink A-B-E
Permanent Marker* B-C-E
Eyeshadow B
Spray Paint B-E
Shoe Polish* D-B-E
Oil Base Paint (Fresh) D-B-E
Suntan Lotion* A-B-E
Lipstick A-B
Crayon D-B
Grease D-B-E
Household Soil A-B
Coffee, Tea, Chocolate B
A:
Medium Soft brush - warm soapy water/water rinse/dry
B:
Fantastik spray cleaner (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
* Suntan lotions, wet leaves, permanent markers and some other products
contain dyes that permanently stain.
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. 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.
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