Your fence weathers a lot, from rain and snow to wind and sun to mud and debris. Because of this, it will need cleaning every once in a while. A garden hose may not be powerful enough, but nobody wants to manually scrub such a large surface, which is why many people turn to power washing. 

If you’re wondering whether you can safely power wash your fence, it’s important to understand that the answer depends on what material it’s made out of and what condition it’s in. At Bronco Fence, we want homeowners to know how to maintain their fences, preserving their lifespans and ensuring they remain in top condition for years to come. That’s why we’re presenting this guide, helping you decide if, when, and how to power wash your fence. 

Why Cleaning Your Fence Matters

Most homeowners don’t think about their fence very often, instead focusing on all the other responsibilities that come with owning a home. However, regularly cleaning your fence is an important part of maintaining your home. It improves curb appeal, removes mold and mildew before it can cause major issues, and prevents stains and tough buildup. Plus, keeping your fence clean goes a long way in extending its lifespan. 

Power Washing Each Fence Type

So, in your efforts to keep your fence clean, can you power wash it? It depends on what it’s made of. Let’s take a look at cleaning techniques for different types of fence:

• Wood fences: Yes, you can power wash a wood fence, but only with care. High pressure can splinter the wood. Instead, use a lower PSI and a fan nozzle or opt for alternative cleaning methods. Aim to wash it every 6–12 months. 
• Vinyl fences: Power washing can be safe and effective on vinyl fences as long as you use a lower PSI and a farther distance. Depending on buildup, it’s a good idea to wash it every 6–12 months. 
• Trex/composite fences: It’s generally safe to power wash Trex/composite fences with moderate pressure once or twice a year. 
• Metal/aluminum fences: Metal fences can be power washed; however, it’s not usually necessary unless there’s heavy grime. Gentler washing methods are often sufficient. Wash them annually or as needed. 

When to Avoid Power Washing

While power washing can be a quick and effective way to get your fence clean, there are situations where it should be avoided. If your wood fence is very old or deteriorating, power washing may do more harm than good, causing even further damage. The same applies to fences with loose boards or structural issues. Power washing can also strip paint or stain, so if your fence is already flaking, it’s best to stick with gentler cleaning methods. 

In these cases, hand washing with a garden hose and brush is a better alternative. You can also opt for soft washing — similar to power washing, but with a lower pressure — with appropriate cleaners to remove buildup without causing damage. 

Step-by-Step Power Washing Guide

Before power washing your fence, inspect it for damage like loose nails and cracks. If you spot any damage, it’s best to opt for alternative cleaning methods. If there are any objects nearby, move them away from the area to protect them. 

After that, put on your personal protective equipment, which should include eye protection and gloves. Then choose an appropriate PSI for the material (typically around 500 for wood and up to 800 for vinyl). Start with a 40- or 25-degree nozzle and maintain a safe distance of at least three feet from your fence. Work in sections to ensure you get every part of the fence clean. If mold or mildew are present, consider using a specialized, fence-safe cleaning solution. 

For wood fences, consider staining or resealing after drying to protect it from the weather. 

Quality Fences from Bronco Fence

If you’re in the market for a new wood, vinyl, Trex, or aluminum fence, trust Bronco Fence to provide the quality products and installation you deserve. Our expert team is committed to enhancing your property’s curb appeal and functionality with the power of cutting-edge fences. 

Contact us today to receive personalized advice on how to maintain your fence, an estimate, and more information about our range of industry-leading fences.