Columbia, SC Deck and Fence Cleaning: Expert Wood Restoration Tips

Fences and decks don’t come with maintenance manuals, so we tend to get questions about proper cleaning and treatment methods. Cleaning a fence can be tedious but it is a very simple process. While you do need some information to clean your fence properly, it is not as complex as most companies want you to believe.

Tip #1

We always have customers ask is cleaning necessary before stain and seal. And the answer is always yes. Newer fences and decks may only need a light sweeping, while older wood structures may need deep cleaning for stain and seal application. Our experts will guide you through the entire process from start to finish. Cleaning is necessary to clean off dirt, mold and organic growth that can inhibit the stains penetration ability and effectiveness.

Tip #2

There are multiple ways to clean a fence or deck. Ideally you want a cleaner that will kill all organic growth and remove dirt. One popular choice cleaning fences is using a chlorine solution. Chlorine is effective at killing mold and organic growth. Although this method works well, it is not for everyone.

There are also multiple specialized cleaners on the market that don’t work as fast as bleach but are just as effective. Sodium percarbonate is a great alternative to chlorine that applies to the surface of the wood. It penetrates deep and kills organic growth.

Tip #3

Pressure wash and rinse your fence or deck. The key here is to not get to close to the wood or apply too much pressure causing the wood to felt and become fuzzy.

Tip #4

If you have successfully cleaned your fence and want to apply a lighter stain, apply a wood brightener. Wood brightener is used to restore the wood back to its original color and makes your gray wood look new again.

Tip #5

Last but not least, apply a quality stain to protect and conserve all of your hard work!