Do you have a fence around your yard that’s starting to look a little worn?
Fences are structures in our yards that often go overlooked until it’s too late. Not only does regularly cleaning your fence improves the aesthetics of your yard, but you’ll also be substantially eliminating the threat of rot.
Ready to get started? First, learn all about how to clean your fence in the most effective way possible.
Rent or Purchase a Pressure Washer
While there are a lot of situations where you don’t want to use a pressure washer at all, pressure washing is the most effective way to clean and revitalize your fence. This is because units produce 1,500 to 3,000 PSI (pounds of pressure per square inch). Gas-powered pressure washers usually expel more force than electric pressure washers. While this makes them far more effective, if you’ve never used a pressure washer before, you might find them unwieldy.
Electric power washers are easier to use for people who have never power washed before. However, you’ll need to plug them in so finding an electrical outlet near your fence might be difficult.
Cover the Grass
This is one of the easiest steps to forget. You’ll need to purchase and lay down plastic sheeting near the base of your fence to cover the grass and dirt there. This is because while pressure washing, there’s a chance that you spray dirt onto the fence or yourself.
You’ll also want to protect flowers and plants from the forceful sprays that could damage them.
Use the Right Nozzle Head
Pressure washers come with different nozzles in order to suit the job you’re performing. For all-purpose jobs, it’s usually recommended to use a green-tipped, 25-degree nozzle. Narrower nozzles like the 15-degree one will enable you to tackle tougher areas because the force of the water will be directed together.
Mind Your Technique
Just like washing your car, there’s a technique to pressure washing a fence. First, make sure you’re using cold water if you’re washing a wood fence. Warm water can raise the wood grain.
You’ll want to stand about two to three feet away from your fence when you begin and move up a foot if you feel there’s dirt or grime that needs more pressure. Start at the bottom and work your way up. It’s also recommended to move the nozzle in arcs as you wash your fence in order to effectively wash its surface.
Be Safe
Remember that pressure washing can be dangerous if you don’t heed the safety warnings. Protect your eyes and don’t direct the water towards people, pets, or electrical sources.
Some pressure washers can be loud, so if you’re going to be pressure washing for a long time consider protecting your hearing with ear protection.
How to Clean Your Fence the Right Way
Now that you know how to clean your fence, remember that wooden fences will need stain, or a seal, reapplied every 1-5 years. Stains will add color while a seal will add a water-resistant barrier and UV protection.
Remember that pressure washing takes time and technique. Contact us today if you’d rather have the professionals do it for you.
