- What is a Composite Fence?<\/a><\/li>
- How to Maintain a Composite Fence<\/a>
- Cleaning Stains from a Composite Fence<\/a>
- Dirt and Mud<\/a><\/li>
- Grease and Oil<\/a><\/li>
- Mold and Mildew<\/a><\/li>
- Tannin<\/a><\/li>
- Salt and Calcium Chloride<\/a><\/li>
- Chalk Marks<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li>
- Removing Scratches from a Composite Fence<\/a>
- Oxalic Acid-Based Deck Brightener\u00a0<\/a><\/li>
- Sandpaper<\/a><\/li>
- Wire Brush<\/a><\/li>
- Heat Gun<\/a><\/li>
- Paint\u00a0\u00a0<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li>
- Repairing Damages on a Composite Fence<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li>
- How Long Will a Composite Fence Last?<\/a><\/li>
- FAQs About Composite Fence Maintenance<\/a><\/li><\/ul> \t\t\t<\/div> \t\t<\/div><\/div>
What is a Composite Fence?<\/h2>
Composite fencing is unique because it\u2019s made of 96% recycled materials, including wood fiber, plastic, and sometimes resin<\/strong>. You can typically buy them in either single panels or boards. You\u2019ve likely seen composite surfaces before without realizing it; many decks are made from the same wood-plastic composite (WPC) products and are made to look like natural wood.<\/p>
Although they require more upfront cost, they\u2019ll save you money long-term by avoiding replacement, treatment, and heavy repairs that come with traditional wooden fences<\/a>. Because they\u2019re so low maintenance, more homeowners are choosing composite over other fencing options<\/a>.<\/p>
How to Maintain a Composite Fence<\/h2>
![\"composite](\"https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/rsz_11untitled_design_2.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Chuckcollier<\/a> \/ Canva Pro \/ License<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div> Cleaning Stains from a Composite Fence<\/h3>
Dirt and Mud<\/h4>
Like any fence, composite fences will accumulate dirt and mud over time. There\u2019s a trick to removing it correctly, though. First, brush the mud off the fence wall with a broom. Next, use a soft bristle brush, soap, and water to scrub any remaining dirt or grime. Be sure to apply pressure along the fencing board grain. Avoid using a coarse brush or working against the grain to avoid unintentional markings. <\/p>
Grease and Oil<\/h4>
Composite fences are less susceptible to grease and oil stains, but when they do happen, they\u2019re typically easy to remove due to their capped surfaces.<\/p>
\u201cCapped\u201d refers to the top layer of plastic that rests on composite fence surfaces. The coating is impervious to water, grease, and oil, preventing most permanent stains. Grease and oil can still stick to the composite surface, however, and in this case, apply soap and water with a soft brush as you would with dirt and mud removal. Most all-purpose cleaners will take care of more stubborn stains.<\/p>
Mold and Mildew<\/h4>
Exposure to mold<\/a> and mildew is unavoidable for most fences. It\u2019s important to know these key facts about them.<\/p>
- Mold is a fungus growing on decaying organic matter such as wood, leaves, and pollen.<\/li>
- Mold spores travel almost unseen through the air, spreading easily in warm, humid conditions. <\/li>
- Spores land on fences, receive moisture, and take root. They need moisture to thrive.<\/li>
- Mold appears green and fuzzy or else black and oily.<\/li>
- Mildew is also a fungus which appears white and powdery and sticks to fence surfaces. <\/li><\/ul>
Be careful: Since recycled wood fibers are a large component of composite materials (and organic matter), mold is sometimes manufactured unintentionally into the composite product itself. Manufacturers often denote their products as being mold-resistant, not mold-proof. <\/p>
Prevent mold by removing the spores before they receive moisture and begin developing. Clean your fence regularly<\/strong>, ideally at least twice a year<\/strong>. Here\u2019s how:<\/p>
- Remove any leaves, debris, and other organic materials on which mold forms. <\/li>
- Coat the fence with a composite commercial cleaner and scrub mold away with a soft bristled brush.<\/li>
- Rinse thoroughly.<\/li><\/ol>
Composite commercial cleaners should remove them, but you can also use a white vinegar and water solution (2 parts vinegar and 1 part water) or a pressure washer on a low pressure setting. <\/p>
Tannin<\/h4>
As you might already know about composite fences, fading happens naturally for the first six months when a new composite fence is exposed to the elements, particularly rain. This fading is due to the loss of tannins, the organic wood oils that combine with wood and plastic to form the composite material. <\/p>
Precipitation drains the tannins from the panels over time, a process called \u201cextractive bleeding,\u201d which causes the color saturation to fade, most noticeably in lighter colors. <\/p>
You can recognize tannin stains by their tan or brownish discoloration on the fence surface. There are several options for getting rid of them:<\/p>
- Commercial tannin stain removers<\/li>
- An oxalic acid-based composite deck<\/a> brightener <\/li>
- One cup of tri-sodium phosphate (TSP), one cup of bleach, and one gallon of warm water <\/li><\/ul>
Use the same steps as removing mold and mildew, including clearing any dead leaves and debris from the fence before cleaning with a soft bristle brush.<\/p>
Salt and Calcium Chloride<\/h4>
![\"Salt\"](\"https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/11\/Salt-powder-in-a-spoon-401747-pixahive-1024x827-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Pixahive<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div> You can clear away any build-up of salt and calcium chloride with water and a soft brush or a garden hose. Only use a pressure washer at low pressure and from a distance to avoid damage. <\/p>
Chalk Marks<\/h4>
Wash away any chalk marks with water and a soft brush, or simply leave them to fade over time. Avoid using colored or construction chalk if possible since it leaves permanent marks and will require a special cleaner. Instead, use regular chalk, baby powder, or temporary marking chalk. <\/p>
Removing Scratches from a Composite Fence<\/h3>
As many advantages composite fences bring, they\u2019re still vulnerable to scratches and abrasions. Such markings often fade over time, while others might require a little attention to remedy. <\/p>
Oxalic Acid-Based Deck Brightener <\/h4>
If you don\u2019t want to wait on the weather to work its magic, you can apply WD-40 with a rag or soft brush to the scratch to reduce, if not remove it. You can also speed up the process using the same oxalic acid-based deck brightener that takes care of tannin and mold stains.<\/p>
Sandpaper<\/h4>
If your composite fence is capped, you can sometimes avoid using chemical cleaners altogether with some simple 60-80 grit sandpaper. Gently brush over the abrasion, but always be sure to do so in the direction of the grain lengthways to avoid creating additional markings or color changes. You\u2019ll likely only need sandpaper to address deeper scratches. <\/p>
Wire Brush<\/h4>
You can use a wire brush as an alternative to sandpaper if you prefer. The same methodology applies: brush lightly along the grain of the boards. Scrubbing might make the composite panel a touch lighter, but this will disappear within a few weeks.<\/p>
Heat Gun<\/h4>
![\"heat](\"https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/11\/2983453188_91d43073ec_h-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Joe Loong<\/a> \/ Flickr \/ CC BY-SA 2.0<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div> A deeper scratch on an uncapped composite fence might require a heat gun. Set it to 450\u00b0C and lightly pass over the abrasion, keeping the nozzle ten to fifteen centimeters away from the board surface to prevent overheating and damaging the material. You can then brush over the area gently with sandpaper if necessary. <\/p>
Suppose you\u2019re inexperienced with a heat gun. In that case, you may decide to practice with a heat gun on scrap composite material or an inconspicuous part of the fence so as not to cause permanent burn marks unintentionally. If you notice a darker spot after use, it doesn\u2019t mean you\u2019ve burned the surface; however, some darkening can be natural and fade over time. <\/p>
Paint<\/strong> <\/h4>
If done properly, painting can be a reliable way to restore or modify the color or cover scratches and abrasions. The most appropriate approach depends on the type of composite materials, and it\u2019s always best to check to see if the manufacturer offers any painting recommendations. The following step-by-step guide also will walk you through the process.<\/p>
- Remove or cover plants and surrounding structures to avoid unwanted paint splatter.<\/li>
- Clear away leaves, dirt, and debris to ensure the paint reaches the entirety of the fence. If you use a garden hose or pressure washer, allow time for the composite material to dry completely. <\/li>
- Sanding is necessary when painting a WPC fence to achieve an optimally smooth surface. Use 240-grit sandpaper along the grain of the fencing panel. Afterward, wipe the dust away with a broom or soft brush and rinse with water. <\/li>
- Coat composite walls with acrylic latex exterior primer using a roller or paintbrush. Allow two or more hours for drying. <\/li>
- Apply acrylic latex enamel paint to the entirety of the fence in the same manner. Only paint along the wood grain. Repeat as necessary and allow four hours for drying.<\/li><\/ol>
Repairing Damages on a Composite Fence<\/h3>
Part of what\u2019s so wonderful about composite fences is that you\u2019ll likely never need to make any significant repairs. Composite materials are rot-resistant, but extreme weather conditions can get the best of even the most durable of barriers. That\u2019s when you\u2019ll likely require a warranty-based repair. Contact a professional<\/a> to make an appointment. <\/p>
If you don\u2019t have a warranty or you\u2019d like to make the composite fence repairs yourself, you should be able to pick up individual composite boards and panels at your local home improvement store. You can cut, drill, and nail composite wood just as easily as traditional wood. <\/p>
Whenever you replace a single board or an entire section, you may find that the new composite material\u2019s color doesn\u2019t match the more weathered and faded existing fencing. Keep in mind that new composite fences fade naturally over the course of six months. You may decide to stain or paint your composite surfaces to create consistent coloration once again. <\/p>
How Long Will a Composite Fence Last?<\/h2>
Composite fences last twenty to thirty years, sometimes even longer. This huge lifespan is due to their wood-plastic component, which allows them to resist much of the wear and tear that traditional wooden fences endure. By comparison, wooden fences typically only last fifteen years with periodic maintenance. <\/p>
FAQs About Composite Fence Maintenance<\/h2>
Can I use bleach on my composite fence?<\/strong>We don\u2019t recommend using bleach, as it can damage or break down the composite materials in your fence panels. You can always test its effect out on a hidden part of the fence. In general, you shouldn\u2019t need to use such a potent cleaning agent.\u00a0<\/p> <\/div>
Are there any safe homemade cleaning solutions I can make to treat my composite fence?<\/strong>Yes, create a vinegar solution by mixing \u00bd cup of white vinegar or apple cider vinegar with \u00bc cup of baking soda and 1 gallon of water. This will be effective in removing mold and mildew, too.<\/p> <\/div>
Is there a particular way I should care for my composite fence during the winter?<\/strong>Clear debris like leaves and dirt from the fence, including between any boards or small spaces. This will prevent mold from growing between the boards.\u00a0
Is it safe to pressure wash my composite fence?<\/strong>Pressure washers are not ideal for cleaning composite materials, but they can be safe if used cautiously, and the pressure is no greater than 3100 psi. Pressure washers<\/a> are great for removing dirt and dust but not for stains.\u00a0
Maximize the Lifespan of Your Composite Fence<\/h2>
Your composite fence is not only a primary source of privacy, but it\u2019s also often the first impression the outside world gets of your home. It\u2019s important to take pride in the wellness and appearance of your fence walls.<\/p>
If you don\u2019t have the time to clean and maintain them or don\u2019t want the hassle, don\u2019t let that stop you from making sure it stands the test of time. Instead, contact a local fence contractor<\/a> if you want help with composite fence maintenance. <\/p>
- One cup of tri-sodium phosphate (TSP), one cup of bleach, and one gallon of warm water <\/li><\/ul>
- Sandpaper<\/a><\/li>
- Grease and Oil<\/a><\/li>
- Dirt and Mud<\/a><\/li>
- How to Maintain a Composite Fence<\/a>