It’s always a good idea to protect those who protect you. The same is true for your fence. While it protects your family, pets, and even property, your fence takes a beating from different seasons of the year. For this reason, you are advised to clean and maintain your fence regularly.
One excellent technique for bringing your fence to life is pressure washing. However, it requires little know-how and extra caution to avoid damaging the fence.
Below, we have explored everything about pressure washing a fence. As a bonus, you will also learn tips and tricks to avoid damage and achieve a like-new finish.
Is Pressure Washing Suitable for Fence Cleaning?
Pressure washing a fence is not as straightforward as you think. It requires attention to detail. While pressure washing can be intense, that doesn’t mean you can’t use them to clean your fence. You just need to do it the right way. Check out some real-world examples of power wash transformation. These transformations are proof that power washing, when done carefully, brings out amazing results.
But what is the right way? The key to successfully washing your fence is finding the perfect balance between pressure and technique. You won’t effectively remove dirt and grime if the pressure is too low. On the other hand, if the pressure is too high, you risk damaging the fence.
Pre-Pressure Washing Fence To-Do List
Can’t wait to spew water on that dirty, moldy fence of yours? Hold on, just a minute! Preparing beforehand can make all the difference between a sparkling, clean fence and a damaged one.
1. Protect Yourself
Safety is essential, even in the world of pressure washing. Extreme pressure, powerful equipment, and potent chemicals used in the process can cause serious injuries if mishandled. Therefore, make sure to wear protective gear, including eye protection and gloves.
2. Prep the Area
Water, with its great force, threatens almost everything around you. Remove loose debris to avoid tripping. Close doors and windows and cover nearby fixtures, plants, and outlets with a tarp to prevent damage and water flooding. Move lawn furniture and objects away from the fence.
How to Pressure Wash a Fence Safely?
Now that the prep work is done, let’s dive into the fun part. Here’s a step-by-step guide to pressure washing a fence safely.
1. Choose the Right Nozzle and PSI
Too little or too much of anything is never beneficial. Under pressure won’t get rid of the dirt and stains, while over pressure can damage the wood. It’s all about finding that sweet spot. Depending on the fence material, the ideal PSI ranges from 500 for softwoods to 1500 for hardwoods. For safe and effective cleaning, go for a 25-degree nozzle to get the proper coverage.
2. Pick a Proper Cleaner
Fence cleaner choices can vary depending on the fence material and condition. Pick a harsh detergent to clear the mess if you have a woody fence with moss and mold. However, it should not damage the fence itself.
3. Use a Scrub
Letting the detergent sit briefly before rinsing usually does the job. Nonetheless, some caked-dirt stains need extra help. Tackle these stubborn marks with a scrub brush and get your fence looking cleaner than ever.
4. Rinse It Clean
To remove dirt or detergent from the fence, rinse it thoroughly. But first, switch off the detergent tank and flush the lines. Then, using low-to-medium pressure, work in a pattern from left to right and top to bottom, cleaning one section at a time. Rinse along the wood grain, making sure the water runs clear for a sparkling finish.
5. Add the Finishing Touches
The pressure washing is done, and now it’s time to let your fence shine! Give it 24-48 hours to dry completely. If it still needs some TLC, repeat the pressure washing process. Then, apply a sealant or paint to protect it from the elements, and don’t forget those tricky gaps and edges. Regular sealing or painting can also prevent sun, wind, and rain damage. It’s easy to keep your fence looking great and extend its lifespan.
Fence Cleaning Tips and Tricks
Regular cleaning is essential to keeping your fence looking its best. Here are some valuable tips to help you achieve successful results.
-
Keep a Safe Distance
When pressure washing, stand at least two feet away from your fence. It’s a powerful tool that can cause damage if you are too close. Give yourself some space to avoid harming your fence.
-
Pressure Wash Fence Annually
Pressure wash your fence once a year to remove dirt and grime. For extra protection, reapply paint or sealant every few years. This simple upkeep will keep your fence in great shape for years.
-
Hire a Professional Fence Washing Service
Cleaning a fence can be challenging. If you don’t feel like dealing with it, hiring a fence-washing service is beneficial for you. It’s quick, easy, and a lot safer if you’re not comfortable using pressure washers.
FAQs
- What tip is best for a pressure-washing fence?
Make sure to select the proper nozzle and pressure for pressure washing. Opt for a 25-degree nozzle and medium pressure to safely and effectively clean your fence without causing damage.
- How do I pressure wash my fence?
To pressure wash your fence effectively:
- Remove debris and dirt.
- Choose the proper nozzle and pressure setting.
- Use a detergent and scrub brush.
- Clean in sections, working from top to bottom.
- Rinse thoroughly with clean water.
Conclusion
And that’s all about pressure washing a fence. While the technique helps clean even the dirtiest fences, it requires time, effort, and expertise. If you’re too busy or don’t want to do it yourself, we can help. Our team at TN Wash has years of experience cleaning fences. We’ll do the hard work for you so you can relax and enjoy your newly cleaned fence.
