Revitalize Your Fence: Pro Tips for Summer-Ready Fences

As summer approaches, it's time to revitalize your home's exterior for those sunny days ahead. While planning relaxation and outdoor fun, don't overlook the importance of a well-maintained home exterior. Your siding, deck, and landscape may be on your radar, but your fencing deserves equal attention, serving aesthetic and functional purposes in providing a beautiful, safe boundary around your property.

Especially if you have kids or pets, a sturdy fence is crucial for outdoor activities. Annual cleaning is key to maintaining its condition. Here’s how to effectively clean your fence, preparing it for all the summer fun.

Step-by-Step Fence Cleaning Guide

1. Start with a Wire Brush

Outdoor surfaces accumulate dirt, dust, and debris, with winter often leaving a solid layer of grime on your fence. A wire brush is perfect for loosening this buildup, but remember to be gentle to avoid damaging the paint or the surface underneath.

2. Rinse with a Hose

After brushing, rinse your fence with a medium-to-high-pressure garden hose. This prepares it for a more thorough cleaning, potentially with a power washer.

3. Opt for Pressure Washing

Pressure washing is efficient, but improper use can cause damage. For safety and best results, consider professional pressure washing services. If doing it yourself, use the correct settings and maintain a safe distance, ensuring no one is nearby as the stream can cause injury.

4. Try Manual Scrubbing

Manual cleaning is also effective if pressure washing isn’t available or desirable. Please start with the wire brush and hose, then apply a stain-removing solution like oxygenated bleach, scrubbing it in and rinsing thoroughly afterward.

5. Tackle Mold or Mildew

Persistent mold, mildew, or algae might survive the initial cleaning. A pro tip for wooden fences that have grayed over time is to mix 50% pool chlorine with water and apply it to the affected areas, restoring the wood's natural color. For general mold and algae, use a solution of one part chlorine to two parts water. For moss or mildew, mix one gallon of water with a half cup of white vinegar, apply, wait for 15 minutes, then scrub and rinse.

6. Perform Necessary Repairs

After cleaning, inspect your fence for any damage or areas needing repair. Small fixes now can extend your fence’s life significantly.

7. Finish with Fresh Coatings

For long-lasting results, consider applying a wood preservative and a quality stain. These coatings protect against weather and UV rays, enhancing the fence's appearance and durability.

Ready for Summer

Summer is just around the corner, but there’s still time to prepare your fencing and other exteriors. For Nashville, Brentwood, and Franklin, TN, residents, Nash Painting offers professional services to revitalize your outdoor spaces. Contact us at 615-829-6858 to learn more about our services and values and get your home summer-ready!