How to Pressure Wash a Wood Fence?
Pressure washing a wood fence is one of the easiest ways to restore a faded, dirty fence and make it look new again. It’s also a great way to prepare your fence for staining or sealing.
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A fence is a decorative feature and a functional one, keeping animals out of your yard and providing privacy from nosy neighbors. However, it’s easy for dirt, mildew, and other debris to build up and tarnish the fence’s appearance. In addition, it can rot and decay quickly, which is why it’s important to keep your fence in good condition.
Using the right tools is the key to success when pressure washing a wood fence. Choosing the right nozzle, water pressure and cleaning solution can help you save time and money while avoiding damage to your fence.
Start by testing the nozzle and PSI on an inconspicuous area of the fence, then move to the next section. This will give you a chance to get comfortable with the equipment and technique before you try it on your actual fence.
Once you’ve established the correct nozzle, PSI, and spray pattern that works best for your fence, you can begin pressure washing in earnest. Be sure to work in sections, alternating between applying detergent and letting it soak for 5-10 minutes, then rinsing the area as you cover each board with the sprayer.
Be careful not to overspray your fence; more is not always better when pressure washing. The water will cause the wood to break down, and you may end up with a streaky surface or uneven wash.
Test the water on a small area of your fence first before spraying it across the entire area, especially if you’re unsure of the type of wood you have. This will ensure that you’re able to find the best setting for your fence and that you don’t accidentally damage it.
Use safety glasses, gloves, and work shoes when using the pressure washer. If the water hits your face or eyes, it could harm them, and the high-pressure spray can cause a lot of debris to fly off the surface.
Before pressure washing, you’ll need to prepare the fence by covering anything that will be soaked in the detergent and sprayer water, including plants, lighting fixtures, and electrical outlets. You can also close doors and windows to prevent leaking into your home.
After you’ve completed the washing, you will need to apply a sealant or stain to your fence to protect it from moisture and water damage. A sealer creates a protective barrier from rainwater and green algae that can make your fence rotten, while a stain colors the wood and highlights its natural grain.
A stain will usually need to be reapplied every few years, depending on the wood’s age and the weather conditions in your area. You can choose from a variety of stain types, but oil-based stains will provide the best results. They also offer the most protection from UV rays and will require less maintenance than other types of stains.
