The £1.50 hack that removes green algae off fences without scrubbing or washing – just spray and leave
GARDENING fanatics certainly take pride in their gorgeous green spaces, and with good reason.
But some are finding their gardens are being ruined by mouldy and weather-beaten fences - but there is a cheap and easy solution to this dilemma.
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Removing mould can be a huge chore, but don't worry there's a super effective way to get it looking as good as new.
Jennie Trowbridge posting in the Gardening On A Budget Official Facebook group said: "I can't remember where I saw this tip originally so apologies if it's already been shared here.
"Cheap as chips mould and mildew spray to get rid of green algae on fences.
"This fence has bugged me since we moved in. I painted it but within a few weeks it was green again.
"Someone suggested the mould and mildew spray and I was sceptical so thought I'd try just a few slats to see if it made any difference.
"Did it last week and promptly forgot all about it..just been to check and its amazing!
"Much cheaper than any fence treatment I've seen and/or hiring a jet washer!"
Members of the group were quick to respond to the tip and one said: "It's really good much better than more expensive ones .I use it all the time."
Another added: "I did this last year, works well! I used it on the concrete plinths at the bottom of my fences , came up like new!"
"This stuff is amazing x," said another fan.
Garden shed glow-up 101
While another fan added: "My jet wash broke and like you I have reoccurring moss etc on patio, fence pots etc.
"I found this in my garage, OMGOODNESS what a game changer. No more back breaking for me.
"This literally removes it practically overnight. Fabulous, I've just bought and extra 3 while its so cheap."
Astonish Mould and Mildew Blaster Spray is available for £1.49 at The Range and Savers and for £1.50 at Iceland.
How to get algae off fences
ABS Fencing shared a list of do's and don'ts when it comes to cleaning green algae off your fence.
Don't use household mould or mildew remover sprays as these are generally intended for use on hard surfaces indoor.
Don't use bleach in the garden, it kills a lot more than the mould.
Don't try sanding back the top surface of the wood, as algae will just regrow back.
Don't bother with power hosing – that only opens up the timber grain and allows more water inside, making the problem worse down the line.
Do use white vinegar mixed with hot water in a spray bottle and work it in with a brush, leave for 30 mins or more, then hose down.
Do repaint when dry with good quality fence paint.
It is described as a practical cleaner that will rid your home of mould and mildew, making your home safer and cleaner.
It's also said that the spray visibly removes mould in 2 minutes and prevents spore regrowth so that your surfaces stay clean and mould and mildew are kept at bay.
However, other posters came up with alternative suggestions and one member said: "Bleach and water does the same thing!!"
"I've seen ppl use Pool Chlorine tablets in a spay bottle," said another.
"That algae would come off with some hot water and a scrub. Or there are more eco friendly products that would do the same job."
While another explained: "Better of jet washing then using an oil stain like decking on it the green shouldn't come back."
"White vinegar kills mould so that could be an option. X." added another group member.
Amazon also has a £14 privacy buy summer.
Another privacy fence is also available from Amazon, for just £5.
B&Q has an affordable privacy fence currently on sale, and you can put it up yourself.
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