Having Trouble Cleaning Your Fence? Here Are Some Tips for Cleaning Your Fencing.
A fence is not just a way to mark your land, it is a crucial part of both the aesthetic look of the property and the security of it. Ensuring that your fence does not fall victim to damage, whether that be rusting, rotting or warping, is crucial to maintaining its aesthetic value and security capabilities. The main way to prevent this damage is through regular fence cleaning. This does vary between metal, wood and vinyl fences, but is incredibly straightforward once you know what to use on each type of fencing. So, to help you clean your fence, this guide will go over simple and effective ways you can clean your type of fence to ensure it stays strong and stylish for years to come.
How to Clean Metal Fencing and Ward Off The Rust
When looking for strength and durability for your fence, metal fencing is usually one of the go-to options and for good reason. However, this strength and durability can be easily diminished when the metal starts to rust. To stave off the rust here are just a few cleaning techniques you can use:
- Remove Rust Spots:
Firstly, inspect your metal fence for any bits of rust or signs of rust. Once done you can use a wide brush or fine sandpaper to gently scrub away any rust spots you could find. When doing this try to focus on the affected areas without damaging the surrounding paint or finish just to ensure that no further damage is done. - Clean Dirt and Grime:
Next, you can mix water with a mild cleaning solution, like dish soap. Then use a sponge or soft brush to take the mix and spread it across the fence and spread it all over the fence thoroughly. After letting it sit for a little bit, use clean water to rinse your fence to get rid of any soap residue, getting rid of any dirt or grime. - Reapply a Protective Coating:
Once you have left the fence to dry, you can apply an anti-rust primer or protective paint to protect the metal from moisture in the future, preventing rusting. Regularly reapplying is key to long-lasting protection for your fencing.
How to Clean Wooden Fencing and Stop The Rot
A classic when it comes to fencing, wooden fences are ideal for offering you that rustic and natural look to your property. However, they are incredibly susceptible to damage, especially from rotting. To counteract this here are some tips for cleaning your wooden fence:
- Sweep Away Dirt and Debris:
Firstly, sweep away any large bits of dirt or debris that build up. This can be done through the use of a soft brush or broom that can remove them from the fencing and stop that debris from trapping moisture against the wood. - Wash the Fence:
Once the large bits of debris are gone, similar to the metal fencing, mix some water with a cleaning solution like dishwasher liquid, then use a sponge or brush to gently scrub the fence with the mixture. Then wash it down with some water. If a tougher stain does stay you can use a pressure washer on a low setting to help remove but be careful as this can still damage your fencing if not controlled correctly. - Reapply a Protective Coating:
Once it has dried from the earlier washing, check your fence and see where you think some extra protective coating needs to be applied. Then use your wood sealant or stain of choice to cover those areas with a new protective coat, this helps ensure that the fence is protected from future moisture and UV damage warding off the rot for longer.
How to Clean Vinyl Fencing and Avoid Warping
Known as the low-maintenance and weather-resistant option when it comes to fencing. However, even with vinyl fencing issues can occur like warping or scratches if regular cleaning isn’t done or it isn’t done properly. So, here are our tips to make sure you are cleaning your vinyl fence effectively.
- Use Soapy Water or Specialised Cleaners:
Once again warm water and dish soap (or a vinyl-specific cleaner) come to help with your fence cleaning. Use this mixture alongside a sponge or soft cloth and wash over your fence to gently remove any dirt or debris on your vinyl fence. - Avoid Abrasive Cleaners:
When cleaning your vinyl fence it is vital however to avoid harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaning tools. While vinyl fences are more resistant to various chemicals, too harsh a chemical can scratch or dull the surface so choosing the correct cleaners is crucial to its long-term health. - Inspect and Protect:
Even though vinyl fences don’t often require sealing, you must inspect your fencing for any cracks or damage and take the steps required to prevent these issues from developing further. For these issues do get in touch with our expert team for more advice.
Rounding It All Up
With all this in mind let’s just sum up what to do for each of the types of fencing when it comes to cleaning fences.
- Metal Fences: Clean up any rust, clean the fence with mild soap and water, then reapply protective coatings on necessary areas.
- Wooden Fences: Sweep off any large bits of debris, wash the fence with soapy water or use a low-pressure pressure washer, and reseal your fence where needed.
- Vinyl Fences: Use gentle cleaners for your fence, avoid harsh chemicals and abrasives, and address any damage that has occurred promptly.
A combination of using the right products and techniques will always help you prevent damage to your fencing, whether that be rust, rot or warping. Make sure you make fence cleaning a regular part of your home care routine, and you will make sure your fence stays healthy and keeps its aesthetic and security value.
So if you are looking for any additional help with cleaning your fencing check out our range of fence care products, from wood care to sealants. Alongside getting in touch with our experts for any advice you may need for more unusual fence problems.
