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At this wet, cool time of year, you may have noticed a film or soft, plant-like growth on your PVC fence. This growth is likely either moss or algae. Either way, you'll want to remove this from your fence quickly to prevent the growth from spreading. Once this is done, you'll also want to do what you can to prevent the growth from returning. This will help reduce your upkeep of the fence and keep it looking its best.

Remove Moss and Algae from the Fence

To remove moss and algae, use oxygen bleach mixed with warm water. Spray the mixture onto the fence using a hose spray attachment, like the kind you would use to fertilize your lawn. Oxygen bleach is safe for use around landscaping and won't kill your grass, so you can use it without fear of wreaking havoc on your lawn.

Once you've sprayed the areas of your fence that have been affected, scrub the fence with a long-handled brush to remove the algae and moss. Scrub the fence until it looks like its original color again.

Prevent the Moss and Algae from Returning

Moss and algae grow best in shady, cool, wet locations. They feed on organic debris and sugars broadcast onto your fence from nearby trees. You can prevent the growth of moss and algae on your PVC fencing by doing the following things:

• Wash your fence regularly. You don't have to use oxygen bleach every time, but you should definitely wash your fence with mild detergent mixed with warm water on a regular basis. Use a long-handled brush to scrub away any dirt on the fence. Be sure to wash the fence after mowing the lawn to remove lawn clippings from the base of the fence.
• Increase the fence's exposure to fresh air and the sun. Increasing your fence's exposure to the sun and fresh, dry air will make the environment less favorable for moss and algae. Cut down tall weeds or overgrown shrubs to increase air circulation and encourage the surface of the fence to dry after it becomes wet. Doing this will also increase the amount of sunlight that reaches the fence.
• Treat the fence with moss-killing products. There are many products on the market that are designed to prevent moss from growing on the surface of your house, roof or fence. You can find these products in home improvement centers.

For more information about how you can maintain your PVC fence and prevent moss from growing on it, contact a reputable PVC fence installer such as Family Fence Company.