Fence Cleaning – A Guide
So your fence needs cleaning.
Remember when your fence was first built? It looked absolutely amazing before the weather, lawn care and pesky animals started to wear it down. But don’t worry, you can bring it back to life!
It goes without saying that fences spend a lot of time outside and that can take a toll. Vinyl and wood fences typically last for 50 and 15 years, respectively.
But no matter what type of fence you have, they all go through some rough times. Things like mold, algae, discoloration from the weather, pollen buildup, and animal droppings can make your fence a major headache. Plus, don’t forget those grass stains from all the lawn care work!
Your fence may seem newer longer with regular cleaning.. This can help prevent fading and discoloration brought on by the sun and other environmental factors like in Florida, so it’s not just for show. Regular maintenance also guarantees that your fence is level and straight, improving its overall appearance.
If your fence is in an area with a lot of dust or pollution, it is extremely important to clean it frequently to keep it looking nice. A wooden fence can be cleaned with water and a light detergent before being hosed down. Your fence can be cleaned with a hose and a light detergent if it is made of vinyl or aluminium.
In this article, we will be providing step by step instructions on how to clean a fence. Let’s get started.
Understanding Fence Materials and Cleaning Requirements
Understanding fence materials and cleaning requirements is vital if you plan on keeping your fence in top-top shape. Fences are made from different materials and each of these materials have unique cleaning needs. Your goal is to get great cleaning results without causing any damage to the fence.
Once we know the type of material our fence is made of, we can too what needs to be done to clean it properly. For instance, vinyl fences need gentle care to avoid any scratches or cracks, and they usually do well with a mixture of mild soap and water.
On the other hand, wood fences are tougher to clean since they can be susceptible to water damage. We can utilize homemade cleaning solutions or specialized wood cleaners to bring back their natural beauty.
By understanding our fence’s material and its cleaning requirements, we can ensure that our cleaning efforts are effective and safe. And then and only then, we can start making our neighbors jealous!
Preparing for Fence Cleaning
Okay, it is time to get started. How do I prepare to start cleaning?
What you will need:
- Cleaning Solution – use a gentle detergent.
- Scrub Brush – removes dirt and grime without causing damage.
- Pressure Washer or hose – rinse off cleaning solution
- Bucket – mix up cleaning solution.
- Rag or Clothes – for wiping down the fence after cleaning.
How To Remain Safe:
Any type of cleaner can be an irritant to the eyes and skin. Make sure you:
- Wear eye protection
- Wear gloves
- Wear long sleeves and pants
Choose The Correct Day
- The weather can make a difference in how effective your cleaning efforts are. Keep these things in mind:
- Mild temperatures – extreme heat can dilute your cleaning solution. And heat exhaustion is real!
- Rainy Days – Rain also dilutes the cleaning solution.
- Overcast Days – These are the best days to clean a fence as the cleaning solution has enough time to work without drying out so fast.
Step-by-Step How To Clean A Fence Guide
Cleaning a Wood Fence
The most common type of fence in the U.S is a wooden fence. So, let’s start here with our steps to clean:
- First, remove all debris and dirt. Simply grab a broom and gently sweep the fence surface.
- Secondly, mix your cleaning solution. If you need an eco friendly option, combine white vinegar and water in your bucket. You can also combine baking soda with warm water.
- Finally, scrub and rinse your fence. You can use a soft-bristled brush, dipping it into your cleaning solution. Scrub the fence from bottom to top in small sections. When finished, rinse the fence completely with water.
Cleaning a Vinyl Fence
If you need to clean a vinyl fence, follow these steps:
- Rinse off the dirt. Use a pressure washer or hose to remove the loose dirt and grime.
- Next, mix up your soap solution. you can use dish soap with water for vinyl.
- Lastly, gently scrub the fence with a sponge or soft brush.
Cleaning a Metal Fence:
Although not as common as wood or vinyl, many homeowners enjoy metal fences. Here are the steps to clean your metal fence:
- Examine the surface. Carefully examine the fence for rust or damage. Remember rust can spread and make the fence weaker over time.
- Remove the rust. You can use a commercial rust remover, you can also try the vinegar and water solution mentioned above.
- Finally, polish your metal fence. Use a metal polish product and follow the instructions on the label.
Conclusion
Congratulations, you did it! You’ve successfully cleaned your wood, vinyl, or metal fence and restored its beauty.
By following our step-by-step how to clean a fence guide, you now have a fence that you can be proud of! Remember regular fence cleaning and maintenance will ensure that it lasts longer and continues to look great for years to come!
Need some help?
At Apply The Pressure Pressure Washing, we use the safest and most effective soft wash treatments for your fence wash. Our trained washing professionals know how to safely remove mold, algae, and other organic growths from your fence. For more information on cleaning your fence, call us at 352-470-8298 or contact us via email.