Wood fence cleaning in Mary Esther, Florida

I recently completed a fence cleaning job for a client in Mary Esther, Florida. The client had a large wooden fence that had accumulated dirt and grime over the years. They wanted the fence to look as good as new, so they hired me to clean it. Here’s how I did it.

First I set up my equipment and wood cleaning detergents.

There are several different options of cleaners that can be used for fence cleaning but depending on the customers preference and final appearance of the fence I can narrow down the specific detergent that will be applied.

After speaking with Miss Jackie and figuring out exactly what her expectations were, I decided that sodium percarbonate would be our best option, as this brings the natural golden brown color back from the weathered gray look the fence has displayed. Followed by oxalic acid to further brighten and remove the rust stains that the metal nails began to put off.

First, diluting both detergents in two separate pump up sprayers, I began by thoroughly soaking the first small section of the fence with clean water.

Then once the water had a few minutes to soak into the wood, I begin to apply the sodium percarbonate. Within a few minutes after applying I started to see the first detergent go to work on the nasty green and gray algae that had build up over the years.

From the little white soapy suds dripping down from the fence I could see it was successfully pulling all the dirt and grime off with it.

After letting this sit for about 10 minutes I then took my pressure washer and used a low pressure rinsing approach.

Rinsing from top to bottom.

I used a soft bristle brush on the areas where the algae had built up the most to further break down and push the detergent through the thick layer

of growth.

One last thorough rinse with fresh water, and I began to prep for the next step. Lastly, applying the oxalic acid, almost immediately, you could see the wood become brighter, and the rust stains slowly disappear.

It was quite satisfying to watch.

After another 10 minutes of dwell time for the second detergent, I proceeded to do another low pressure rinse with fresh water.

I ensured to use minimal pressure when rinsing, for too much high water pressure could potentially damage the wood surface.

Working in about 5 foot long sections at a time, I continued this process until the entire fence looked new again.

Miss Jackie was pleased with the results. And we made plans to have her driveway cleaned at a later date.

Location: Mary Esther, FL