Removing Stains From Vinyl Fencing

Many homeowners are attracted to vinyl fencing because it requires almost no maintenance compared to a wood fence. However, all fences get dirty, and even a vinyl fence will need to be cleaned from time to time. A good hosing will take care of most surface dirt, but homeowners may occasionally encounter a stain that requires a little more in-depth care.

Regular Cleaning for a vinyl fence

You can avoid most vinyl fence care issues simply by regularly cleaning your fence. When you start to notice dirt or a light layer of chalk forming, give it a good soak using a hose with a pressurized attachment. Homeowners in wet climates such as the Northwest should also keep an eye out for green algae, which can form on the vinyl. It's easiest to remove if caught early.

Removing Tougher Dirt

For dirt that won't rinse off, a simple cleaning solution will usually do the trick:

1. In a bucket, combine two tablespoons of bleach, one tablespoon of dish soap and hot water.
2. Mix the solution well and use a sponge to apply it in a circular motion to the vinyl fence panel. Make sure to wear rubber gloves.
3. Allow the mixture to soak for about 60 seconds, killing any bacteria that live on your fence and breaking down dirt for easier removal.
4. Rinse with a hose. 

Graffiti, Paint, Ink, Oil and other Nasty Stains

If your vinyl fence has more persistent blemishes, such as graffiti, wax, lipstick, paint or marks from the lawn mower wheels, try some of these techniques for removing tougher stains:

Mineral spirits. Using delicate pressure, wipe down the fence panel with a soft cloth moistened with mineral spirits. If you're dealing with graffiti or paint, don't wipe in a circular motion, as this will smear the paint; instead, wipe in one direction. Rinse the fence clean.

Lacquer thinner. For persistent stains, lacquer thinner may help. You can apply it with a clean brush, or you can put the lacquer thinner into a clean spray bottle. Make sure there are no traces of other chemicals in the bottle, which could cause a potentially dangerous chemical reaction. Spray or wipe the lacquer thinner onto the fence, let it sink in for about a minute, then wipe it off with a clean, absorbent cloth. Hose it off, but be careful not to wash the lacquer thinner onto your shrubs or other plants.

Acetone. Acrylic paint is one of the most difficult substances to remove from vinyl fencing material. If all else fails, acetone usually works against these stains. Simply wet a clean rag with acetone and wipe quickly, rinsing with water immediately after. But remember:

--Applying acetone will cause the vinyl to temporarily weaken, so be ready to rinse it off with a hose immediately.
--Acetone will also cause the stained fence panels to appear duller than the rest of the fence for roughly 6-8 months.

Painting a vinyl fence

Homeowners often ask if it's okay to paint their vinyl fencing to achieve a new look. Many professionals strongly recommend against doing so, primarily because:

--Paint will compromise the titanium oxide in your fence, which blocks the sun's harmful rays and keeps the vinyl looking new.
--Paint can void the lifetime manufacturer's warranty on your fence.
--Most retailers carry gray and tan vinyl fencing as well as white, making paint unnecessary.