Also, switch out the spray tip to a 25-degree spray tip before turning the pressure washer on. Then you can move on to the next step. While pressure washing, they start with a 0 or 15-degree nozzle, so please dont do it. ), How To Choose A Gutter Color For Your Home (+ Picture Examples! When pressure washing, usually people have two types of machines, whether gas or electric machines. If you don't have to wash your fence before staining, it's more than possible that the fresh stain doesn't reach the wood as it just sits on top of the old finish (es). You can pressure wash your fence with the help of a pressure washer. After some time, you will get the ideal position to pressure wash the fence. The consent submitted will only be used for data processing originating from this website. Water that the fence absorbed will keep leaking out in tiny droplets, and these droplets can ruin the stain coating and make it get a weepy and unattractive appearance. Its also a great way to prep your deck or patio for stains. You will have enough pressure to clean any fence. The best way to accomplish this is to use a pressure washer. Wood fences can be cleaned with a pressure washer or by hand before staining. First, the wood is still wet when its wet so that the stain wont soak into it properly. Some people thought that their fence was covered with dirt and grime, and they were looking to apply a stain on the fence without cleaning it. Are you starting to update the exterior of your home and wondering how to clean a wood fence before staining it? In conclusion, cleaning a fence with a pressure washer is just one of several steps that must be taken in order to prepare a fence for staining. . If you dont follow these steps, you may damage your vinyl fence and ruin its beauty. A scrub brush helps get the most out of a pressure washer, while the stiff bristles of a deck brush are perfect for the toughest stains. So here we will explain some things about pressure washers and why it is essential to clean your fence with a pressure washer. I have heard 30 days, 3 months and even a year. Check whether or not your fence needs extra cleaning. If you decide to pressure wash your wood fence before painting, you should always make sure the area is free of clutter. You may think that adding a stain to a fence is the most important part of staining a fence, but that's not exactly the case. If you have to pressure wash your fence then you'll need to give it some time to dry before you proceed. Contact us today to start your project! The average cost to pressure wash a fence is between $0.35-0.45 per square foot, which comes out to $315-405 for the average perimeter fence surrounding a home (around 150 linear feet). Also, the high speed of power washing may also wash away the softwood along the edges of the fence. First of all, it is important to avoid damaging the surface of your fence with high pressure. Continue with Recommended Cookies, *My posts may contain affiliate links, which means I may receive a small commission, at no cost to you, if you make a purchase through a link! Spray the vinegar mixture onto the fence and scrub it with a soft-bristled scrub brush until all the algae, mildew, and dirt are gone. Its pretty easy to install a fence, but keeping the fence looking good is important. This will allow the detergent to break down any dirt that is on the fence. https://www.houzz.com/discussions/4068205/do-i-have-to-pressure-wash-my-fence-before-painting, https://diy.stackexchange.com/questions/123947/how-long-to-wait-for-re-painting-one-side-of-fence-after-pressure-washing-the-ot, https://www.bobvila.com/articles/how-to-stain-a-fence/, Location: 297 Kinderkamack Rd Oradell, NJ 07649. Keep in mind, this doesn't include stain. Don't use pressure higher than 1800 PSI on a wood fence, as it could splinter or even split the wood. That said, we feel it necessary to mention that you need to wait a couple of days after pressure washing a fence before you can stain it. If you start with a sharp nozzle like 0 or 15 degrees, you can damage your fence. When combining an oxygen bleach powder or other home bleach, always follow the package guidelines to the letter. After pressure-washing, make sure to work with the grain of the wood. Before pressure washing your fence, make sure that you wear protective eyewear and gloves. Pressure washers are popular for many uses, from cleaning decks and roofs to vehicles and house siding. Staining creates a barrier between the fence and prevents moisture from damaging the wood. But it is best to test out all cleaning methods to see which one is best for you. There you have it! The surface must be free of dirt and other contaminants. Clean the fence surface by applying a cleaner a small solution of soapy bleach water may be all you need, but seek out a fence/deck cleaner for tough stains. Old bed sheets can be used to mask off areas and be sure to secure the sheet under the fence to prevent paint from dripping from it. # 5. It will also cause the paint job to peel off sooner than expected and will require you to redo it. These materials are ideal for fences as they protect the wood from dirt buildup and harsh elements while enhancing the look of your home. Choose a spray that uses high pressure for best results and follow the instructions. Before pressure-washing your fence, you should first secure loose pieces and wobbly panels. Then youre all done, and youll have a nice, clean fence thats ready for stain or a sealant! 24 to 48 hours What happens if you stain pressure-treated wood too soon? Dont worry about that small problem though, Ill help you easily avoid that in the steps below! Second, use your hose and spray off the bleach mixture. Lets take a look at the pressure washing steps. Staining or sealing the fence will help to protect it from moisture damage, as well as UV rays from the sun. Cleaning your fence with a pressure washer is a quick and easy process. First, wash your fence before painting or staining it. If your fence has extreme soil or mold, or if it faces harsh weather conditions, then it's the right time to use a pressure washer. First, make the requisite preparations before staining the wood. Before you paint your fence, make sure that the surface is smooth and free of debris and mold. There are many reasons to clean your fence before painting it. If youve recently had it stained, pressure washing it first will remove the dirt and dust. Joe Thomas; 03.11.2022; 0; . While pressure washing, use a 25-40 degree nozzle and hold the wand 12-18 inches away from the fence to prevent damage. You can also use a power washer to clean your vinyl fence. Pressure washing is the easiest and fastest way to clean any surface and fences. Also, remember to use the correct nozzle to spray water on your fence. Yes, its that simple! Stain application is best made in one direction and then with another coat in a perpendicular direction. While you may think removing the dirt before painting is necessary, its not actually necessary. If it takes more than 1-2 passes across the wood, then slowly move the nozzle a few inches closer to the wood. If you have bought a new pressure washer,check our guide here onhow you can properly start your gas or electric pressure washer. They may also leave lingering stains. A regular pressure washing procedure uses high-pressure water to remove all types of build-up from the fence surface. However, power washing alone will not do the job. If the algae are still there, then you might have to repeat spraying it with the bleach mixture and scrubbing the dirt and debris off. This can be accomplished with a hose pipe and a spray gun attachment. Be very careful when using a power washer for painting fences. Rosenheim is a city in Bavaria, Germany.It is an independent city located in the centre of the district of Rosenheim (Upper Bavaria), and is also the seat of its administration.It is located on the west bank of the Inn at the confluence of the rivers Inn and Mangfall, in the Bavarian Alpine Foreland.It is the third largest city in Upper Bavaria with over 63,000 inhabitants. You may also want to use a magic eraser. Power washing is a great way to clean a fence because it will remove all the dirt and grime from the fence before applying the stain. Don't use pressure greater than 1800 PSI on any wood fence. Replace missing timber sections if necessary. If a pressure washer is used ONLY use a 40-60 psi. Before you begin painting, cover the area with plastic sheeting. Here are some tips for pressuring. Lastly, if youre not sure how high pressure you need to reach, use a nozzle with a low-pressure setting. The minimum pressure required for the washer is 2500 PSI to remove any dirt particles effectively. So maybe you're still considering not having to wash your fence before staining. To pressure wash your fence before staining, you'll need: A pressure washer (preferably gas powered) The correct tip or nozzle for your pressure washer A water source Getting the Right Pressure Washer to Use on a Fence There are two main types of pressure washers: electric pressure washers and gas pressure washers. Be careful not to move too close because this can damage the wood fence. If youre working with large portions, switch the detergent tank to Off and squeeze the trigger once more to rinse the remaining detergent. Give us a call, fill out our online contact form, or email justin@procleanbham.comto get a free estimate today. So, maybe youre still considering not pressure washing your fence before staining. 304 North Cardinal St.Dorchester Center, MA 02124. Let the detergent settle for 5-10 minutes to give it time to work. Staining a dirty fence can result in the stain not absorbing into the wood evenly through the layer of dirt and algae. Use a pressure washer at 1500-2000 psi with a 25-40 degree angle spray. Rinse well. Going against the grain can more easily cause damage as the water is forced against the surface in a way that causes more resistance. Soft washing is a low-pressure strategy that uses safe, environmentally-friendly chemicals to remove undesired materials. The water wont remove paint, but the higher PSI can. While a stain may appear more attractive, it also attracts moisture, which can make the paint peel off over time. First, in a 5-gallon bucket, mix 1 part bleach: 2 parts water and pour it into an empty spray bottle. Prepare your fence for painting by removing all items around it. You have to wash it a lot with a bucket and a sponge, so do that if you need it. Start by washing the top of your fence from about 12 to 24 inches away, and then work your way down. Afterward, you can apply a fresh coat of paint. It's recommended to let your fence dry for at least 48 hours after pressure washing and before staining. Do not over-pressure the fence, as this could result in streaks. Then, cover any areas you may have missed. You should let the fence dry completely before applying any oil-based stain. Dry times vary depending on the product used, but theyre usually between 8-12 hours per coat applied. The first step in cleaning your wooden fence is applying a solution of oxygen bleach. Unless you like totally wasting your $$$. If you intend to pressure wash your fence, the wood must be prepped by rinsing off the dirt or mildew. You can also use one to clean sidewalks and driveways. *, Last updated on October 21st, 2022 at 12:51 pm. Apply a wood cleaner formulated for pressure washers using a low-pressure soap nozzle. Leaving the wood wet for too long will result in uneven color and a chance of mold, moss, or mildew growing. Before you use a garden sprayer, make sure you use a pressure washer detergent that is environmentally friendly and tough enough to tackle the toughest dirt and grime. If youve already applied a coating to the fence, use a brush with a soft bristle to gently scrub away the stain and dirt. Alternatively, use a 1 part bleach: 2 parts water mixture and a scrub brush to hand scrub the fence clean. Don't forget to refer to our post on the proper way to pressure wash your fence. Apply the mixture to a wet fence using a big paintbrush, wait 15 minutes, and then scrub the surface . If washed properly, pressure washing is capable of preparing the fence surfaces for refinishing or staining. However, these methods will require more time and effort. Now pick the best possible nozzle for your pressure washer so that each dirt particle can be removed in a gist and does not cause any harm. And remember to use a high-pressure setting, which is recommended only for removing stubborn stains and rust. Proper wood cleaning will also return the fence to life and make it look newer. To begin, spray along the grain (length) of the wood. But if the fence has any serious problems, such as mold, in-ground soil, power washing would be the most powerful option of choice. When youre finished, rinse it thoroughly. You should also sweep any grass cuttings and debris from the fence. While it's safe to use a higher pressure on a vinyl fence, it's seldom necessary. However, before you begin the pressure washing process, make sure you understand the safety guidelines. While holding the end of the wand 18 inches away from the wood fence, pull the trigger and continuously sweep the spray back and forth across the wood. There are several reasons why pressure washing your fence is important. Alternatively, use a 1 part bleach: 2 parts water mixture and a scrub brush to hand scrub the fence clean. When pressure washing, make sure to remove the dirt and rinse the area well before applying any new paint. My posts are inspired by our renovations on our 1950s ranch. The process is straightforward; starting an electric pressure washer is pretty easy, and it is an excellent investment for any homeowner. Use one part bleach and two parts of water, when making an oxygen bleach powder or any home bleach. You will lose water, and it may take more time to do the job. * Then, use the P/W to hose it off. You can avoid this by using a tip with a wide . If your cleaning unit is less than 3000, you are sage to use a 40-degree nozzle. How Much Does It Cost To Paint Trim And Doors? Should I Pressure Wash My Fence Before Staining? Next, if you had a gas pressure washer with 3000+ PSI and 3.0+ GPM, its recommended to keep at least an 18 to 24 difference between the nozzle and the fence. Let the wood absorb as much sealer as it can. When pressure washing any surface, take a certain distance from the cleaning surface; otherwise, moving too close or holding it to one place can damage your surface. So for pressure washing, here are the tools and equipment you will need. Staining a fence helps in keeping your property looking nice. Now Im inspired to help others create their dream home as well. Warning: Never turn on a pressure washer without the water supply turned on. Coat about 3 ft. of the fence, then proceed to brush out the sealer into the wood. To view the purposes they believe they have legitimate interest for, or to object to this data processing use the vendor list link below. You can even use a bucket of water or a water barrel convenient for every user. I hardly ever pressure wash prior to painting or staining. While testing the pressure, aim it away from anything to see what the spray looks like. Thank you for supporting my website! If you have a wooden fence you should be especially careful to choose only a 25 degree tip. Another important step in pressure-washing your fence before painting is removing the old stain. Also, cover any plants you plan to wash with the water. Once pressure washing is done, disassemble your unit and store it in a cool and dry place; however,the pressure washer will be the best solution if winter is near winterizing. Pressure washing will also preserve the color of the wood, but you must be sure to let it dry completely before you apply it. Make sure you have an easy access point to your fence before you start pressure washing. Using a pressure washer to pressure wash a fence is a great way to remove dirt and grime from wood and protect your eyes and clothing. Sun Joe SPX3000 2030 Max PSI 1.76 GPM 14.5-Amp Electric High Pressure Washer, Cleans Cars/Fences/Patios, 15.6 x 13.5 x 33.9 Review On Sale - 42% off If you use your hand, you should use some chemical detergents and scrub to clean the fence. Dirt and pollution are present as fences are exposed to sunlight. If it's in your backyard chances are we specialize in it! Before you paint, you can also repair other parts of your fence to renew it. You have to wash it a lot with a bucket and a sponge, so do that if you need it. First, make the requisite preparations before staining the wood. So when you pressure wash your fence, you're instantly doing away with all this accumulated dirt and mildew. When you are planning to paint your vinyl fence, it is important to follow the proper steps to ensure a professional-looking finish. When you call FCR you will be working with a licensed, insured, honest and reliable contractor with years of experience and thousands of satisfied customers. You will want to check the current weather and the upcoming . Before you paint your wood fence, its a good idea to pressure wash it. The pressure used in cleaning will only cause minor damage to the wood. Pressure washers and some chemical solutions make it easier for people to remove dirt and debris from the fence. Avoid holding the spray in one spot for too long. When buying a pressure washer, you should check its features, performance, and power. Typically, a wood fence takes 24 to 48 hours to dry thoroughly. Check out the washer's manual option to fix a proper spray pattern for your wooden deck. Choose nozzles with different degrees of pressure. Staining or sealing a damp fence can result in a splotchy or uneven stain job, or the sealant taking longer to dry or not adhering to the fence properly. Yes, it's that simple! And don't let it sit on your wood fence for too long. So why is it so important to wash the pressure and clean the fence before staining it? Otherwise, you can damage the wood fence. Before you paint your wood fence, make sure to cover plants and other areas you might want to protect. The PSI of the machine is the pressure of the water that the machine can produce. You should also be careful about the area you are cleaning. In addition, the pressure wash before staining eliminates any debris collected between the wood that prevents mold and fungus from developing. Ezekiel is a longtime garden and power tools enthusiast. Find the travel option that best suits you. After applying the cleaner, you must check for any remaining stains or mold and spot treat these areas. Is It Good To Paint Or Stain The Wooden Fence? (A 15-degree or 40-degree spray tip works also. The first step to cleaning a wood fence before staining without a pressure washer is to spray a bleach-water mixture on the fence. Experts suggest staining your fence every two to three years. Once the engine is running, wait a couple of minutes for the pressure to build before spraying. Continually add water to any areas that start to dry. After removing all debris, you can prep the fence by mowing the lawn and trimming the fence edges. All algae and dirt must be removed before staining. You can adjust this pressure level according to the type of wood on your fence. Make sure to rinse off all cleaning solutions, as it may remain on the fence. In a one gallon garden sprayer, mix a pint of bleach, one cup of Simple Green, half cup of trisodium phosphate, fill with water. We'll get in touch with you quickly. As most of the electric pressure washers come with dual water suction technology, you can attach yap water and use any kind of water barrel or water bucket. After washing your fence, you should apply a coat of wood paint or stain. Over time, dirt, mold, moss, grease and other materials can adhere to . After the cleaning, rinse the wall thoroughly with fresh water and allow it to dry before applying oil-based paint or stain. What Type Of Paint Is Best For Interior Walls? Next, replace any protruding nails with corrosion-resistant screws or countersunk them with a turnbuckle support. The TSP and Bleach combination shouldn't run you more than about $20 and ought to last you much longer than the large $30 bottle of 30 Second Cleaner concentrate. This will make the fence look brand new again! As we can clean fence with and without pressure washer. Pressure washing a fence before staining it will also ensure blemishes are removed that could show through the surface of the stain. The only disadvantage to using a pressure washer to clean your fence is if you use too high of pressure on the wood. Suppose you own an electric pressure washer orlooking to buy an electric pressure washer. Pressure washing your fence is a great way to wash away all of the dirt, grime, and mildew, and it prepares the wood surface for a new coat of stain or sealer. . Using a garden sprayer to pressure wash a fence is easy and convenient, and the stain inside the tank adds a little weight. These remaining, harder fibers wont accept stain uniformly, leaving your fence looking like a toothpick. This will help you remove any loose wood that may have accumulated over time. Family Handymans got some good tips for this here. 5 Questions to Ask Your Pressure Washing Company, Is It Safe to Clean Your Driveway With a Pressure Washer? Now that we know how to clean a fence, let us find the best pressure washer for a wood fence. Pressure washing your fenceis one of the best ways to clean and rejuvenate a wood fence; however, some people dont have a pressure washer so that we will provide a manual method in this guide. Absolutely. In order to effectively clean a fence, you must thoroughly remove any dirt, grime, or other buildup. You must tighten the connection tightly because if you dont, the water will leak, which results in low water pressure. If you dont see any option, our recommendation would be to use a wide nozzle like the 40 or the 25 degrees. Depending on your washer, the wash time varies from 30 to 40 minutes. Hold the nozzle at least 18 inches away from the fence and spray the soapy water at the fence.