Here are a few tips for power washing your fence:
- Absolutely wear protective eyewear. Safety first!
- Add a little bleach to kill mold.
- Just now getting around to staining your year-old fence? ...
- Choose the right tip size. ...
- Don’t use pressure higher than 1800 PSI on a wood fence, as it could splinter or even split the wood.
- While it’s safe to use a higher pressure on a vinyl fence, it’s seldom necessary.
How much pressure should I use to clean a fence?
What PSI should I use for a fence?
What is the PSI of Simpson cleaning?
Why do you need to handle pressure washer detergent?
How long does it take to clean a fence with detergent?
What does it mean when a fence is dirty?
How to release pressure after turning off pressure washer?
See 2 more
How strong is pressure washer for fence?
A PSI between 500 to 800 for softer woods should suffice for cleaning your fence. To determine what PSI works best with the type of wood you have, you can test it out on a small area before pressure washing the entire fence.
Is it OK to pressure wash a fence?
Pressure wash your fence annually to keep it looking new. You shouldn't have to apply fresh paint or sealant every year, but you should reapply it every few years or so to keep it protected.
How much PSI do you need to power wash a deck?
For cleaning a wooden deck, you'll be best served by using the lowest pressure setting that's still effective. For soft woods like cedar or pine, this is usually about 500 to 600 psi. For harder woods, it can go up to 1200 to 1500 psi. Choose the right tip to use as well.
How long does it take to pressure wash a fence?
between two and three hoursThe average cost to pressure wash a 500-square-foot fence is $225. Pros charge an average of $125 to pressure wash a fence. A 500-square-foot fence takes between two and three hours to wash. You can DIY fence cleaning by renting a pressure washer for roughly $90 a day.
What do you use to power wash a fence?
Can I clean a wood fence with a pressure washer?Tip 1: Address any very dirty areas with a wire brush first to remove heavily stuck debris.Tip 2: Cover plants with a plastic sheet to keep from damaging them.Tip 3: It's likely best to use a 25-degree nozzle for fence washing. ... Red: 0 degrees – most pressure.More items...•
Will electric pressure washer clean fence?
Both will work fine on most fences. Because a power washer uses hot water, it will probably be a better choice for fences that need more of a facelift. That's because the hot water can help loosen the real grimey sections. Pressure washing is fine if you're just got a fence with some wear—I'm using a pressure washer.
Will a 1800 PSI pressure washer clean concrete?
What PSI pressure washer do I need to clean concrete? To clean concrete effectively, use a power washer with a pressure rating of at least 3000 psi and a flow rate of at least 4 gallons per minute (gpm).
Will a 1600 PSI pressure washer clean concrete?
Concrete and asphalt require more cleaning power. You'll want to use the turbo nozzle on the 1600 PSI for hard-to-clean driveways, sidewalks, and patios as well as brick paving. For wood decks and painted surfaces, switch to the gentler 40-degree nozzle.
What can you pressure wash with 2000 PSI?
Light-duty pressure washers are rated at 2,000 PSI or less and are suitable for cleaning automobiles, motorcycles, boats, bicycles and all-purpose cleaning.
How do you clean a wood fence with a pressure washer?
How to Clean a Wood FenceWet. Use a 25-degree tip on your pressure washer to rinse a few boards of your fence at a low setting. ... Prepare pressure washer. ... Apply Simple Green. ... Scrub stained areas. ... Let it sit. ... Flush pressure washer. ... Rinse. ... Repeat until clean.
How long should a fence dry after power washing before staining?
How Long After Pressure Washing Can You Stain a Fence? This question is one of those most frequently asked at DPI Pressure Washing. Generally, wait at least 48 hours before staining your fence.
What is soft washing a fence?
Soft washing is the use of water-based, biodegradable chemicals to break down dirt and grime, get rid of bug nests and webs, kill mold, mildew, algae and bacteria – leaving the surface clean and sterilized.
What is the best way to clean a fence?
All you need to do is mix half a cup of oxygen cleaner (they recommend Oxi-Clean powder) with two gallons of warm water in a bucket. Start by wetting your fence with a garden hose to open up the wood grain and to rinse away any clumps of dirt or debris. Then, use a scrub brush to apply the cleaner to the fence.
Can you pressure wash algae off a fence?
Avoid Pressure Washing Using a pressure washer to try and clean green algae from your garden fence can damage the wood and may even make the algae infestation worse due to the wood soaking in the excess water. Not only that, harsh water blasting techniques can cause damage to surrounding plants in the process.
Can I pressure wash my stained fence?
Power washers can force the mold and mildew (the greying color of the fence) deeper into the wood pickets. This causes the wood to deteriorate quicker. Power washing a stained fence can create divots on the surface of the wood.
Can you powerwash stain off a fence?
Use a powerwasher to wash the fence, starting on a gentle setting first so you gauge what setting is safe for your fence. You don't want to start on a high setting and cause damage.
How do I power wash a fence?
Here are a few tips for power washing your fence: 1 Absolutely wear protective eyewear. Safety first! 2 Add a little bleach to kill mold. 3 Just now getting around to staining your year-old fence? Washing it first will prep it for staining. But let it dry thoroughly between power washing and staining. 4 Choose the right tip size. Wider tips mean lower pressure. For wooden fences, don’t go any lower than a 25 degree tip or you risk cutting marks into your fence. A 40 degree tip is safer. 5 Don’t use pressure higher than 1800 PSI on a wood fence, as it could splinter or even split the wood. 6 While it’s safe to use a higher pressure on a vinyl fence, it’s seldom necessary. 7 Test the power washer on a small corner of the fence to make sure you have it set on a non-damaging PSI. 8 Hold the sprayer three to four feet away from the fence. Slowly swing the nozzle back and forth like a pendulum. 9 Rinse off any cleaning solution residue with fresh water. Don’t let solution sit for more than 10 minutes. 10 A power washer is not a magic wand. It’s hard work and is physically tiring. 11 Watch out for pets, joggers, texting teens, blind neighbors, or anyone else who might get in your way. Remember, this water is hot and coming out at a very high pressure. 12 When in doubt, read the manual!
How to clean a fence with a power washer?
Hold the sprayer three to four feet away from the fence. Slowly swing the nozzle back and forth like a pendulum. Rinse off any cleaning solution residue with fresh water. Don’t let solution sit for more than 10 minutes. A power washer is not a magic wand. It’s hard work and is physically tiring.
What is the difference between a power washer and a pressure washer?
The two cleaning methods are very similar except for one minor distinction. Power washers uses hot water, while pressure washers can use water of any temperature. So which do you use on your fence? Pressure washing works well for cleaning off surface dirt.
What is the best tip for a wood fence?
Choose the right tip size. Wider tips mean lower pressure. For wooden fences, don’t go any lower than a 25 degree tip or you risk cutting marks into your fence. A 40 degree tip is safer. Don’t use pressure higher than 1800 PSI on a wood fence, as it could splinter or even split the wood.
Is a power washer a magic wand?
A power washer is not a magic wand. It’s hard work and is physically tiring. Watch out for pets, joggers, texting teens, blind neighbors, or anyone else who might get in your way. Remember, this water is hot and coming out at a very high pressure. When in doubt, read the manual!
Can you wash a fence by hand?
All three of these are good reasons to wash your fence. And while it’s perfectly possible to wash your fence by hand – all you need are cleaning fluid, soft cloth, brushes and time – many people prefer the speed and excitement of tools like power washers. Courtesy: Wikimedia Commons/US Navy.
Tools and materials
Besides a pressure washer, you’ll need a few other tools and materials to clean your fence. You may need everything on the list below, or you may just need some things depending on the condition of your fence, whether it’s wood or vinyl and more.
Instructions
If this is your first time using a pressure washer, read our guide on how to use a pressure washer to learn the basics. Then, follow the instructions below to pressure wash your fence (each step explains what to do for wood or vinyl, when necessary).
Frequently asked questions
The most common questions about pressure washing a fence are answered below. For other questions, you can reach out to us at any time. If you have a question about a specific product, you may need to contact the manufacturer.
How much PSI should I use for a fence?
A good strategy to use is to start between 500 to 800 PSI. Try spraying an inconspicuous area and see the effect on your fence. If it’s not cleaning it properly you can increase the PSI. If it’s damaging your fence then you need to lower your PSI. After you find the right PSI, you can start cleaning the rest of your fence.
What is the best PSI for a fence?
Since fences are made of different materials there is no one PSI that is good for all of them. A good strategy to use is to start between 500 to 800 PSI.
Why is it important to pressure wash a fence?
So, why is it so important to pressure wash and clean a fence before staining it? Before applying any type of finish to a fence , including stains, you need to remove any old finish (es) and remove any built up dirt, dust, grime or other substances from the fence. If you don’t, there’s a high chance your new stain might not work at all.
Why do you stain a fence?
Fences of course require maintenance, and staining your fence will help maintain its quality, protect it from the elements, and of course alter and better its appearance. Staining a fence can get it looking good as new.
What type of pressure washer should I use for a fence?
Getting the Right Pressure Washer to Use on a Fence. There are two main types of pressure washers: electric pressure washers and gas pressure washers. When it comes to either type of pressure washer, the higher the pressure per square inch (psi) means the tougher the job they can take on.
How long are fences outside?
Fences can be especially prone to collecting dirt and grime and weathering the elements. They’re outside 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. Cleaning them can be really tough, and making sure fences are clean is important – especially before staining.
How much pressure does an electric pressure washer use?
They deliver a pressure per square inch of about 1,300 to 1,400 and about 1 to 1.5 gallons per minute.
What PSI cleaner should I use for a patio?
Sidewalks and Driveways. Concrete and asphalt require more cleaning power. You’ll want to use the turbo nozzle on the 1600 PSI for hard-to-clean driveways, sidewalks, and patios as well as brick paving. For wood decks and painted surfaces, switch to the gentler 40-degree nozzle.
What pressure washer should I use for painting wood?
Be careful when pressure washing buildings and fences, as some materials are more delicate than others (like windows!). Reach for the 1500 PSI Pressure Washer and use the 40-degree nozzle to clean painted soft-wood surfaces, aluminum siding, and windows. Brick, stone, and vinyl can handle the higher pressure of the 1600 PSI model. For stucco, stick to the gentler cleaning power of the WORX Hydroshot described below.
What is the difference between a washer and a washer with a higher GPM?
The larger the PSI value, the more powerful the washer, while washers with higher GPM deliver more water at a time , making the job go faster. Some jobs require more power than others. On the other hand, delicate surfaces can be damaged by too much pressure.
What is a Worx power washer?
The WORX family of power washers can handle most household tasks with ease. They provide plenty of power to get the job done quickly, so you can get back to enjoying the weekend. When it comes to power washers, understanding the pressure output will help you in selecting the washer you need for the job at hand.
Can you use a hydroshot to clean paint off of wood?
Use caution with painted wood furniture as too much pressure can remove paint, especially if it is already peeling. When in doubt, the Hydroshot is a good alternative. You can also use the pressure washer to clean wheelbarrows, garbage cans, kid’s pools, and yard tools.
Can you use a hydroponic pressure washer on patio furniture?
Use caution with painted wood furniture as too much pressure can remove paint, especially if it is already peeling. When in doubt, the Hydroshot is a good alternative. You can also use the pressure washer to clean wheelbarrows, garbage cans, kid’s pools, and yard tools.
How much pressure do I need for a pressure washer?
It would need somewhere around 4,000 and 7,000 PSI. Usually, gas pressure washers will have a higher value of PSI, and is recommended for users to get the gas type if you want to use it for heavy-duty cleaning tasks.
What is PSI in power washer?
PSI is the unit that allows measuring pressure that a power washer delivers for cleansing. The amount of PSI required tends to differ according to what is to be cleaned. For instance, the PSI value for car cleaning should be less than the PSI or pressure needed for cleaning those stubborn floor stains. The exact or a range of PSI required is ...
What is the best pressure washer for heavy duty cleaning?
Usually, gas pressure washers will have a higher value of PSI, and is recommended for users to get the gas type if you want to use it for heavy-duty cleaning tasks.
What is GPM in cleaning?
As a tip, do also consider some of the terminology such as Gallons Per Minute (GPM) measurement to compute Cleaning Units (CU), the cleaning efficiency. The higher the product of GPM and PSI, the higher the cleaning efficiency.
Is 5,000 PSI bad for car?
Keeping this in mind, it is futile to invest in a 5,000 PSI unit for just cleaning the car or furniture. Even worse is the fact that such a high-pressure gadget can end up damaging the vehicle’s polish or the wall’s paint.
Is a gas pressure washer the same as an electric pressure washer?
The users need to know the amount of pressure is required for an electric pressure washer, a multi-duty pressure washer, or a gas pressure washer respectively, as each type of pressure washer may not be the same.
Can a 5,000 PSI cleaner be used on a car?
Pressure tends to affect the cleaning capability to a large extent . Keeping this in mind, it is futile to invest in a 5,000 PSI unit for just cleaning the car or furniture. Even worse is the fact that such a high-pressure gadget can end up damaging the vehicle’s polish or the wall’s paint.
What is the pressure of a power washer?
The pressure put out by a power washer is measured in PSI (pounds per square inch), and the PSI requirements can vary based on what you're aiming to clean. For example, it'll take a lot less pressure to clean dust and salt from your vehicle than it will take to clean oil stains from your garage floor. Another factor that's equally as important, but ...
What is the GPM rating on a pressure washer?
Another factor that's equally as important, but not often considered, is the gallons per minute rating (GPM). This measures how much water your pressure washer puts out per minute, and more water equals faster cleaning.
What is the difference between water pressure and water volume?
While water pressure provides the power to break up stains and settled in the dirt, water volume is what flushes that broken up filth away. Essentially, the more water that moves through your nozzle in a minute, the faster you'll be able to clean.
Do pressure washers have GPM?
Pressure washers allow you to do just that, combine high pressure with high volume to clean surfaces in record time. So don't forget the GPM, because it plays a role that's equally as important to that of PSI. NEXT: How to Pick the Perfect Pressure Washer. By Jim O. Pressure Washer Expert.
How Much Psi Do You Need to Clean or Wash a House?
For cleaning your house’s driveway, you need a pressure washer set to 2,500 to 3,000 psi. For other areas, like the vinyl sidings, decks, or glass, the pressure should not exceed 1,500 psi. For soft materials, like softwood, you should use even lower pressure, around 500 to 600 psi.
How much pressure do I need to clean a deck?
Proper cleaning softwoods, such as pine and cedar, need a psi pressure of 500 to 600 psi. For harder wood, use a pressure of around 1,200 to 1,500 psi.
How much pressure should I use to clean vinyl siding?
You should use a pressure washer set to 1,300 to 1,600 psi setting for cleaning vinyl siding. Use some soap for improved cleaning. Start with a low psi setting and some distance, and slowly increase the pressure. When you find a good pressure setting, keep it there. Use a green 45 or white 60-degree nozzle and a brush for really dirty areas.
What does it mean when a pressure washer is too high?
If too high, it can damage the material. But if set too low, it can mean that the material is not cleaned sufficiently. If you want to choose a pressure washer for home use, you should look at the various materials and surfaces you wish to clean. In the following section, we will look at how much psi you need to clean different parts ...
How much does a pressure washer cost?
There are two main types of pressure washers, electric and gas-powered models. Electric machines are generally cheaper and start from around $150. They are less powerful than gas models but require way less maintenance. This means that electric models are less suited to clean some tough stains on hard surfaces like concrete. Most electric models can produce pressure from around 1300 to 2000 psi and a water flow of around 1.5 GPM. Recently there are more potent electric models.
How to clean a deck with a pressure washer?
Other than the psi value, the pressure washer’s nozzle plays an important role in an effective deck cleaning. Use a green 45 or white 60-degree nozzle or a rotating tip. Always check the water pressure in a safe place and not directly point at people or glass windows. Apply pressure 18 inches from the deck. Do not get closer than 12 inches to the deck if you are washing it at higher pressures.
What pressure should I use to clean windows?
For window glass, the recommended pressure is around 1500 psi. Never use more than 2,000 psi. Also, use a green 45 or white 60-degree nozzle when cleaning windows. Always start from a bigger distance and slowly come closer if needed for a really dirty area.
How much pressure should I use to clean a fence?
A PSI between 500 to 800 for soft er woods should suffice for cleaning your fence. To determine what PSI works best with the type of wood you have, you can test it out on a small area before pressure washing the entire fence.
What PSI should I use for a fence?
If you have a fence made of harder wood, you may need to use a PSI of 1200 to 1500 to clean your fence correctly.
What is the PSI of Simpson cleaning?
We recommend the Simpson Cleaning MSH3125 MegaShot. It features a Honda engine, 10” large wheels for optimal movability, and a PSI of 3200 and GPM of 2.5.
Why do you need to handle pressure washer detergent?
Handle pressure washer detergent carefully and follow manufacturer’s specifications because the detergent contains chemicals that could damage your skin.
How long does it take to clean a fence with detergent?
Once the detergent has soaked on the fence for 5-10 minutes, use a 25-degree nozzle to spray off the detergent.
What does it mean when a fence is dirty?
That means your fence has likely accumulated years of dirt and grime. It’s time to blast that grime away and bring your fence back to life.
How to release pressure after turning off pressure washer?
Release any remaining pressure after turning your pressure washer off by squeezing the wand trigger before disconnecting your hoses or nozzles
