Mildew is a common problem that can occur with various types of wood fences, including plywood fencing. Mildew can cause wood to become discolored and can even cause it to rot if the mildew is not removed promptly. And mildew spreads quickly. As such, if you notice any mildew beginning to form on your plywood fence, you will want to remove the mildew promptly. One of the ways you can do this is with a pressure washer. While effective, a pressure washer can be pricey to buy and can damage your fence if you improperly use it. If you don't want to buy a new fence and don't want to run the risk of damaging your fence, follow these steps to remove mildew with a pressure washer.

Step 1

In a large bucket, add 1/4 cup of OxiClean or your preferred brand of oxygen bleach to four cups of warm water. Mix the water until the powdered bleach has dissolved. It is important to note that you should use an oxygen bleach rather than a chlorine bleach such as Clorox liquid bleach. This is because oxygen bleach will not harm grass or plants that may be along the fence line.

Step 2

Spray a small portion of your fence down with a hose. This wets the boards and removes a small amount of built-up dirt and residue. Use a paint brush to paint a liberal amount of the cleaning product on a few boards at a time. Allow the mixture to sit for about five minutes.

Step 3

After the mixture has sat on your fence for about five minutes, use your hose to rinse the cleaning product off of the boards. If any mildew or stains remain, dip a soft-bristled scrubbing brush into the mixture and scrub it directly into the affected areas. Allow it to sit for a few minutes before rinsing. Repeat this process until the mildew lifts. Do not use a wire or hard-bristled scrubbing brush, as this can damage and scratch your plywood fence.

Step 4

Continue cleaning the fence until it has been completely cleaned. Allow the fence to air dry. If desired, a wood sealer can be painted on the fence once it dries completely. This can help keep your fence looking great and can protect the fence against further mildew infestation.

Mildew can be damaging to wood surfaces, including decks and fences. However, improperly removing the mildew with a pressure washer can also be damaging. Fortunately, there is a way to remove the mildew and restore the appearance of the fence using oxygen bleach. This may be time consuming, but it will help ensure the mildew does not shorten the lifespan of your plywood fence.

For more information about keeping your fence in good shape, talk to a company like Security Fence.