Wooden fences can make a garden look welcoming and warm, but unfortunately, it can be difficult to keep wood looking great as algae can become a big problem in winter.
Algae is a slimy plant-like substance which grows in damp areas and traps moisture on surfaces, so it not only looks unsightly but will destroy wood if left to linger.
Some people recommend buying a pressure washer to get rid of algae but they can be expensive, and using bleach can strip the wood of its natural oils which can lead to a fence becoming brittle or cracked.
Instead, the experts at East Coast Fencing have shared that the best way to completely remove algae without damaging a fence is to use one item you likely already have in your kitchen.
They said: “Pouring boiling water directly onto the algae can effectively kill it. This method is simple and does not involve chemicals, making it safe for the environment.
“However, care should be taken to avoid burns and to ensure the hot water does not damage plant roots or beneficial insects in the vicinity.”
It may seem too easy, but boiling water from the kettle is one the most effective ways to kill algae as the high heat will break down the proteins within the substance so it will quickly die.
Algae can also only survive in cold or cool temperatures, so will not be able to tolerate the sudden high heat and will go into thermal shock.
Not only is using boiling water an eco-friendly way to get rid of algae but costs nothing except the electricity needed to boil the kettle.
Method
All you need to do is simply fill the kettle, boil it and then carefully carry the appliance outside.
If you have grass or plants underneath your fence then make sure to cover them up using a tarp before removing the algae to prevent the water running into the soil.
Pour the boiling water directly onto the algae on your fence and make sure it is fully submerged.
Once the algae is wet, use a stiff brush to scrub at it in a circular motion and it should instantly wipe away.
Rinse the area with clean warm water, and remove the algae on a clear day so it has time to dry.
If you can, paint the fence to stop algae from growing in the future or install copper wiring along the top of the fence to also prevent it from coming back.
The expert said: “When rainwater hits the copper, it releases ions that are toxic to algae, stopping it from growing. This method offers a long-term solution but requires some initial setup and expense.
“When rainwater hits the copper, it releases ions that are toxic to algae, stopping it from growing. This method offers a long-term solution but requires some initial setup and expense.”
