Your wood fence has been standing strong for years. It’s weathered harsh Missouri winters and sunny summers, proving its durability. But now, as you admire your trusty privacy or picket fence, you notice a greenish tint creeping in. Uh-oh! That green tinge isn’t just dirt – it’s algae.
Algae thrives in moist, shaded areas and can turn a once-beautiful fence into an eyesore. Worse, it accelerates the deterioration of your wood fence. But don’t worry—removing green algae is easier than you think. With a little time and effort, you can have your fence looking as good as new. Here’s a simple guide from a trusted fence builder Affton MO, to help you tackle this common problem.
Step 1: Prep Your Cleaning Area
Before you dive in, take a look around your fence. Got flower beds, shrubs, or a garden nearby? Protect them! To protect your plants from the cleaning solution, cover them with plastic sheeting. After all, the goal is to clean your fence, not accidentally harm your favorite perennials.
Step 2: Mix a Simple Cleaning Solution
To banish that algae, you’ll need an effective cleaning solution. Mix one part bleach with two parts warm water in a bucket. (Pro tip: Wear rubber gloves to protect your hands.) This simple solution will break down the algae and make it easy to scrub away.
Step 3: Time to Scrub!
Here’s where the real action happens. Dip a sturdy brush into your cleaning solution and scrub your wood fence. Work in sections, focusing on areas where the algae is most noticeable. As you scrub, you’ll see the green patches start to disappear. It’s satisfying to see that clean wood emerge again!
Step 4: Let It Soak
After scrubbing, give the bleach solution time to do its thing. Allow it to rest for approximately 30 to 60 minutes. This allows the solution to penetrate the wood and thoroughly target the algae.
Step 5: Pressure Wash for the Win
For a finishing touch, grab a pressure washer to rinse your fence. A pressure washer is perfect for removing any stubborn algae that survived the scrubbing process. Keep the power on a lower setting to avoid damaging the wood, and stand about 2 feet away as you spray. Move in long, even strokes for the best results.
Step 6: Let It Dry
After rinsing the fence, it’s important to allow it to dry thoroughly. This process may take 24 to 48 hours, depending on the weather conditions. Be patient! The wood needs to dry out fully before you move on to the next step.
Step 7: Stain and Seal Your Fence
Want to keep algae from coming back? Apply a waterproof stain and sealant. This protects your wood fence from moisture and extends its lifespan. Select a day with temperatures ranging from 50° to 80° and no expected rain in the forecast.
Before staining, inspect your fence for any imperfections. Fill in cracks or gaps with wood filler, and make necessary repairs. Then, grab a brush (for detailed areas) or a roller/sprayer for larger sections. Make sure to apply the stain evenly and cover all surfaces. Apply a coat of sealer at the end for extra protection.
Call Your Local Fence Builder in Affton, MO
If maintaining your current fence feels like too much work, or you’re dreaming of a brand-new one, why not contact a professional? As a reliable fencing company in Affton, MO, we specialize in custom wood fences, decks, and pergolas. Whether you’re sprucing up an existing structure or starting from scratch, we’re here to help.
Don’t let green algae take over your wood fence. With these tips and a little elbow grease, you’ll have a fence that’s clean, strong, and ready to weather whatever comes next.
