How to Clean a Cedar Fence

Water extracts the resins from cedar, which leave brown and black patches.

Is your cedar fence ugly and gray? When a cedar fence is exposed to the elements, it can quickly turn gray and ruin the look of your yard. Use these tips to remove the gray and restore the beautiful look of cedar. Make sure you seal your fence after cleaning to protect the wood and prevent future graying.

Things You'll Need

• Plastic sheeting
• Protective eyewear and gloves
• Commercial deck brightener or bleach
• Garden sprayer
• Power washer

Instructions

1. Spread plastic sheeting under the fence to protect the grass.

2. Put on protective eyewear, gloves and old clothes.

3. Mix commercial deck brightener with water, as directed on the container, in a garden sprayer. Deck brightener is available at most home improvement stores. For tough jobs, or to save some money, mix one part bleach with two parts water.

4. Spray on the cedar fence according to the deck brightener's instructions. If using bleach water, spray liberally on the fence.

5. Wait several minutes -- watch the gray to start to disappear and the wood to begin to brighten.

6. Rinse away the brightener with a power washer. To prevent damage to the fence, set the nozzle to the widest fan spray and start at least 12 inches from the wood, working your way closer until the power washer is effective but not marring the wood.

7. Allow the fence to dry and repeat the process on any areas you may have missed.

Tips & Warnings

• If you do not own a power washer, rent one at your local home improvement store.

• Power washers can be dangerous if used improperly, and can quickly cut through skin. Use with caution.

References

• U.S. Dept. of Agriculture, Forest Service: Cleaners and Restorers for Wood Decks