How to Clean a Wood Fence?
If you have a wood fence, you want to keep it looking its best. Whether you need to remove moss or mildew, or you simply need to repaint your fence, it’s important to have the tools and techniques to clean it. Having a fence that is clean and well maintained will help you identify problems before they become too big to fix.
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The first step to cleaning a wood fence is to start with a good cleaning solution. For mildew and moss, you can use white vinegar. Mix about a half cup of white vinegar with one gallon of water. Spray the mixture on the fence and let it sit for about 15 minutes. It’s also a good idea to scrub the area with a plastic bristle brush to get the most out of the solution.
In addition to vinegar, you can also use a solution of baking soda and water. This combination can get rid of stubborn mildew and moss, as long as you are careful to avoid saturating the surface with too much liquid.
Another trick to scrubbing a fence is to use a stainless steel wire brush. While you are not likely to scrub your fence too thoroughly, it is a good way to get rid of dirt and debris that has stuck to the surface. You can also use a coarse bristled outdoor broom. This is a good option because its long handle makes it easier to maneuver around the fence.
After you have cleaned your fence, it is time to apply a sealant. You can purchase one at your local home improvement store. These products form a protective layer that will prevent the wood from rotting. However, they do wear out over time. When they do, you need to have a fresh layer applied every year.
A pressure washer can be a great tool to clean your fence. However, you need to make sure that it has the right pressure. High pressure can actually rip out the wood. Make sure that the psi isn’t more than 2000. Wear gloves, safety glasses and protective clothing to ensure that you are not hurt during the process.
There are other methods of cleaning a fence, but these are the most effective and the simplest. One method involves using a hose pipe with an adjustable nozzle. Use it to apply the cleaner on a panel by panel basis. Start from the bottom and work your way to the top. Once you have finished, rinse off the hose. Using a pressure washer to clean your fence can be a useful tool, but you should be careful not to damage your fence’s foliage.
The old fashioned way to do this is by scrubbing the area with a fine-toothed comb. If this isn’t possible, try a a soft-bristled scrub brush. Similarly, you can use a metal threaded pole tip to give you access to those hard to reach places.
Lastly, you can spray your fence with a cleaner. Most people use a garden hose, but you can also use a power washer. Just be sure that you have the proper equipment and that the nozzle has the appropriate pressure.
