The Best Way To Clean A Wood Fence Without A Pressure Washer

Wooden fences, just like your car or clothes, get dirty with time. Remember, they are always out and exposed and, hence, prone to accumulating dirt and debris. Chances are, you don't want your wooden fence to look dirty, unkempt, or neglected. And it's not just for aesthetics, though that's often enough motivation to get scrubbing. The build-up of dirt and grime can lead to discoloration and, worse, trap moisture. Before you know it, you could find yourself frantically searching for ways to fix rotted wood. It could be tempting to reach for your pressure washer, pour in some detergent, set the pressure, and start spraying the dirt away. While this will do a solid job and is sure to leave your fence looking clean, it might not be the best approach. A power washer's pressure can splinter wood fibers, especially if you're dealing with wood fence boards. Bear in mind that we're dealing with something that can etch brick.

Granted, you can fiddle with the psi to avoid damaging the wood. Alternatively, you can go for other effective wooden fence maintenance tips. So, what's the best way to clean a wood fence without a pressure washer? Stick with good old soap and water, along with a garden hose.

You'll need a bucket, a broom, a handheld soft bristle brush, dish soap (or laundry detergent), and, of course, a garden hose. Mix the your soap of choice with warm water in a bucket, then mop the soapy water onto the boards. With your handheld soft bristle brush, brush the pickets, preferably in the direction of the grain, to minimize damage. After this, rinse the wood thoroughly with a garden hose and leave to dry. Follow this with a careful inspection, and if you notice there are still some dingy spots, consider doing a repeat job.

Vinegar can be a fantastic add-on if you're dealing with algae or other more stubborn stains. Vinegar might be too powerful when cleaning hardwood floors, but experts give it the nod on a wooden fence, especially one with algae. Create a solution containing 1/2 cup white vinegar and 1 gallon of warm water, spray it on the wooden boards or poles, then scrub with a brush. For other stubborn stains, a baking soda paste — applied onto the stain and scrubbed — can work like a charm. After you're done cleaning, give your fence some time to dry, then finish off with stain or apply a layer of sealant for some additional protection.