If you’ve noticed green stains appearing on your garden fence, you likely have an algae problem.
The green film can appear on the surface of the timber and can have a powdery texture. While it does thrive in damp areas, its growth can also be aided by sunlight.
With summer drawing to a close and temperatures cooling, autumn will likely bring colder and wetter temperatures which can make it more difficult to maintain gardens.
One method which is tried and tested by the experts at Hotsy Equipment Company is to use a simple pressure washing hack to remove green algae.
However, rather than just using a pressure washer, the experts suggested using a pressure washer with white vinegar or tea tree oil.
Simply dilute white vinegar or tea tree oil in water before using it with your pressure washer. According to the experts, this tip will wash away the green algae on your fence in no time at all.
Hotsy Equipment Company has shared five key tips on how to use a pressure washer this autumn while ensuring the wood remains undamaged:
- Protect your eyes with goggles before pressure washing
- Stand at least two metres away from the fence.
- Dilute white vinegar or tea tree oil
- Set a spray nozzle and evenly spray in long strokes
- Increase the pressure gradually.
The experts at Hotsy Equipment Company said: “Pressure washer works so smoothly on these surfaces simply because what algae dislike is pressure to remove and a watery, cleaning agent.
“Pressure washers, even when used just with water, are two solutions in one.
“Of course, there are chemical products out there that you can also make use of, but vinegar and tea tree oil are known to be natural antibacterial products, so I personally prefer them.”
If you’re looking to prevent algae from growing back, Hotsy Equipment Company have shared five further steps to follow:
- Protect your fence with oil wood treatment for external use
- Trim trees that may provide shade on the fence
- Increase the airflow and sun exposure on your fence if possible
- Apply a sealant to prevent water retention and moisture on your fence
- Inspect your fence regularly to spot it early and tackle it before it spreads.
