Underdeck Ceiling Maintenance.

Easy Care. Long-Term Confidence.

One of the greatest benefits of choosing Undercover Systems is the low-maintenance design. Our galvanized steel ceiling panels, patented drainage system, and thoughtful installation process mean your underdeck system will stay clean and functional with very little upkeep especially in Colorado’s four-season climate.

Still, a bit of regular attention goes a long way toward protecting your investment and keeping everything looking its best.

Caring for the Inside of Your Underdeck Ceiling

Your underdeck system is built to naturally shed water and debris. In most cases, rain is enough to rinse out dirt and dust that may collect on the interior surfaces of your ceiling.

However, it’s still a good idea to do a quick inspection a couple of times a year—especially after heavy storms, wind, or leaf fall. Look for any areas where twigs, leaves, or debris may have collected, and gently clear them away if needed.

Tip: Spring and fall are ideal times to check your ceiling panels and gutters.

Cleaning the Exterior Ceiling Surface

The visible metal ceiling panels are rolled-coated and designed to resist staining, rust, and weathering. They rarely need attention—but if you do notice dust, pollen, or dirt buildup, cleaning is simple and safe.


Here’s how to clean the exterior surface of your underdeck ceiling:


  1. Rinse with a Hose or Low-Pressure Washer
    Use a garden hose or a pressure washer on the low setting to dampen the ceiling and remove light surface debris.

  2. Use Mild Soap if Needed
    For areas that need deeper cleaning, use a soft sponge mop and a mix of warm water with mild dish detergent. Gently wipe the panels and rinse thoroughly with water.

  3. Dry with a Towel or Leaf Blower
    To prevent streaks or spots, you can hand-dry the ceiling with a soft towel or use a leaf blower for quick and easy drying.

Avoid: Harsh chemicals, abrasives, and high-pressure washers that could damage the finish or coatings.

Deck Cleaning: What’s Safe for the Undercover System?

We often get asked:

 “What can I clean my deck with that’s safe for my Undercover System ceiling?”


This is an important question because many common cleaning products—especially those containing chlorinated bleach—can cause long-term damage to fasteners, painted metal, and the surrounding environment.


Here’s our expert recommendation, based on deck material:

For Natural Wood Decks

Avoid bleach-based products. Instead, use a sodium percarbonate-based deck cleaner. These are oxygen-powered cleaners that are safe for plants, pets, metal finishes, and the environment.

Checkbox, with a black and white split and a checkmark inside.

OxiClean is a mild option, but commercial-grade sodium percarbonate deck cleaners are more effective.

Checkmark inside a divided box, black on the left, white on the right.

Look for these products online or at commercial paint suppliers.

Check mark in a square, half black and half white.

Most big box stores carry bleach-based cleaners, so read labels carefully.

Why avoid bleach?
Chlorinated bleach is corrosive, damaging to metal finishes (including those in your Undercover System), and harmful to the fasteners that hold your deck together.

Covered patio with outdoor furniture, including sofa, chairs, ottomans, and rug. Features TV, ceiling fan, and stone accents.
Ceiling fan with five blades, mounted on a gray, slatted ceiling. String lights are visible.
Sauna interior with a bucket, scoop, water droplet and broom.

For Composite or Synthetic Decks

We recommend Corte Clean, a trusted composite deck cleaner that is:

  • Non-toxic and biodegradable

  • Safe for metal surfaces and fasteners

  • Proven effective without harsh chemicals

It’s also been tested on the materials we use, so you can clean confidently without compromising your underdeck ceiling.

Pressure washer with hose and nozzle.

Pressure Washing Tips

If you use a pressure washer:

  • Always use low pressure to avoid damaging wood grain or stripping finishes.

  • Keep the spray tip at a safe distance from the surface.

  • Avoid spraying upward toward the underdeck ceiling from close range.
Gear icon with two orbiting dots.

Seasonal Maintenance Reminders

A little seasonal awareness goes a long way. Here are a few best practices to keep your system in great shape:

  • Spring: Rinse the ceiling, clear gutters, and inspect for debris after winter snowmelt.

  • Fall: Remove leaves and check for buildup before winter storms roll in.

  • After storms: Check for twigs, seed pods, or debris lodged between panels.

Because our panels are removable, future deck inspections or repairs can be done without tearing down the ceiling saving time and preventing unnecessary damage.

Why Proper Care Matters

While your underdeck system is extremely durable, regular light cleaning and smart product use will help:

Checkmark in a divided box: black on the left, white on the right, checkmark across the divide.

Preserve the appearance of your ceiling finish

Checkmark in a divided box: black on the left, white on the right, checkmark across the divide.

Protect the structural integrity of your deck

Checkmark in a divided box: black on the left, white on the right, checkmark across the divide.

Ensure optimal water drainage

Checkmark in a divided box: black on the left, white on the right, checkmark across the divide.

Extend the life of your investment

Checkmark in a divided box: black on the left, white on the right, checkmark across the divide.

Maintain your warranty coverage

 Still Have Questions?

If you're unsure about which product to use, need help with maintenance, or want a professional inspection, our team is here to help.


We’ve installed systems all across Colorado from Ft. Collins to Colorado Springs, Vail to Grand Junction and we know how to keep them looking great in every season.


Contact us at (303) 481-1967 or email us for personalized guidance.