Depending what type of fence you have you may be able to handle this do it your self project on your own. A vinyl fence is one of the easier materials to clean with a pressure washer. Wood fences, on the other hand, are a different story. If you get too close while powerwashing, you could damage the wood. If you are too far while powerwashing, you may not take enough layers off to apply a stain. And yes, you will (or at least should) have to apply a stain or a sealant after. Depending on the size of your fence you may want to hire a professional pressure washing contractor anyway.
If you choose to make it a DIY project, there are a few things you need to know before starting. With a vinyl or composite fence you can simply spray on a cleaning agent, let it sit there for several minutes, and then rinse clean. Unfortunately, wood is not as simple. You have to spray on a cleaning agent, let it sit for several minutes and then pressure wash each part of the fence from the same distance to guarantee consistency. Also, when pressure washing vertically, make certain you follow through above the top of the fence and through the bottom of the fence before starting the next piece of wood. To set up a free estimate call us 609-431-0853 or fill out our online form. Click on the images below to enlarge them or visit our portfolio page for additional before and after pictures.
Tips for Cleaning Vinyl & Wood Fences
- make sure all windows are shut and all doors are closed
- if possible turn off the power to all electrical fixtures including lights and fixtures
- remove everything that can be damaged by a cleaning agent including furniture
- cover all plants, shrubs and flowers
Items you will Need to Wash Vinyl & Wood Fences
- water
- cleaning agent
- soft brush
- ladder
- hose
- pressure washer
- bucket
Process of Power Washing Vinyl & Wood Fences
While you can clean any way you want it makes the most sense to start at the lowest elevation of your property. You do not want to start at the highest point because water may pool at the lowest point and when you go to clean the fence above the lowest point of your property, it will cause dirty water to splash everywhere. Time is of the essence so you do not want to have to rinse or clean the same areas more than one time. The professionals at J&J Power Wash will mix cleaning agents into a five gallon bucket and apply to one side of your fence with our spray applicator. Let the cleaning agent work its magic on the siding for several minutes before you start hand brushing or rinsing the fence. It also helps to keep an additional 5 gallon bucket filled with a cleaning agent that you can periodically dip your soft brush into during the brushing process.