A faded and mildewing fence can become quite an eyesore. Clever ways to clean, maintain and restore old fencing materials can allow property owners to improve the curb appeal of their home. Proper care and effective maintenance ensures that property owners will be less likely to replace an installation that has worn out prematurely. Power washing old fence boards, bleaching fences that have begun to fade and selecting the right weather-poof staining or coating are all effective methods for improving the appearance and extending the lifespan of an older fence.

Power Washing

Power washing is an effective way to remove the top layer of faded or weather damaged wood cells from a fence. Dealing with installations that have grayed with age and those that have lost the bright glow of fresh wood is often a simpler undertaking than many property owners might imagine. Power washing a fence can remove old stains, improve wood color and ensure that all surfaces have been properly prepared for staining or painting. Attempting to restore old wood by hand often requires far too much time, labor and effort. Renting a power washer provides a quick and easy alternative for owners seeking to restore an older fence.

Bleaching a Wooden Fence

Cleaning an older fence using household bleach can remove mold and mildew stains as well as improving color and appearance. A solution composed of one quart of bleach and one gallon of water applied with a pump sprayer or garden hose can make a real difference. For tough stains, a stiff-bristled cleaning brush may be used in order to ensure the bleach-based cleaning solution is able to be as effective as possible. Bleaching old wood can brighten the color and restore the hue of an older fence, and is a popular option for many homeowners who are working on a tight budget.

Selecting the Right Materials

Simply cleaning or bleaching a fence is not always enough to slow the aging process and ensure that wood materials are able to last as long as possible. Weatherproof staining, paints and sealants are all effective choices for fence owners seeking to prolong the life and improve the appearance of their installation. Stained and sealed wood is far more resistant to the moisture and water damage that may cause rot and splintering. Failing to seal the wood or reapply stains and sealants on older fences may find property owners forced to deal with discoloration, rot and other issues that negatively impact the appearance of their property far sooner than they may have been expecting.