How to Clean a Wooden Fence
From time to time, wooden fences need to be cleaned to keep their original beauty. Mold, grease, dirt, and other outdoor materials cling to fences over time, making them look less than pretty. With the right products, wooden fences are easy to clean and maintain while restoring the original look.
The Easiest Way
A pressure washer is the easiest way to clean a wooden fence. Just set it on the lighter setting and spray the fence down. Pressure washers are available to rent or buy, depending on how much you plan on using it. However, pressure washers are not the only way to clean your wooden fence.
Using a Fence Cleaner
The second option, if you don’t want to use a pressure washer, is to use a fence cleaner. Most large home improvement stores stock a product called 30 Seconds Outdoor Cleaner. This is made to remove mold, moss, mildew, and dirt from wooden fences without destroying the wood. If you cannot find this product or would like to make your own, the third option is your best choice.
Making Your Own Fence Cleaner
The third option when cleaning your is to combine Trisodium Phosphate (TSP) and bleach into a sprayer, then spray the fence down. TSP is commonly used by painters to prep their work areas. It is also the main ingredient in 30 Seconds Outdoor Cleaner. To make, just combine one gallon of warm water, 1 ½ cups of TSP, and 8 cups of bleach. Apply cleaner to dry fence then rinse thoroughly.
Whether you decide to use a pressure washer, 30 Seconds Outdoor Cleaner, or make your own cleaner, make sure to clean your wooden fence often. It will lengthen the life of your fence and keep it looking new.