Canberra's harsh climate leaves fences covered in lichen, mould, and built-up grime. We remove it all, safely, thoroughly, and with the expertise of a fourth-generation local painting and pressure washing business.
Fences take more punishment than most surfaces around a property. In Canberra, that punishment is significant. Our summers bring intense UV exposure and prolonged dry periods, while our winters deliver regular frosts that accelerate surface deterioration. In between, leaf fall from the many established trees across suburbs like Gungahlin, Belconnen, and Tuggeranong leaves tannin stains and organic matter pressed hard against fence surfaces.
The result? Lichen patches, green algae streaks, mould growth, and a layer of general grime that builds up season after season. Left untreated, this growth doesn't just look poor, it works its way into the surface material, breaking down the integrity of timber, concrete, and Colorbond over time.
Fence pressure washing in Canberra is one of the most effective ways to restore a fence without replacing it. We use the right pressure levels and appropriate cleaning solutions for each surface type, removing what's built up and leaving the fence in the best possible condition, whether it's going to be repainted or simply cleaned and sealed. This same precision and surface-specific approach is essential across all our pressure washing services, from fences to our window pressure washing, where careful technique prevents damage while delivering spotless results.
Because pressure washing is also central to how we prepare surfaces before a paint job, we understand exactly what a fence needs and what results are achievable. That knowledge shapes every fence washing job we take on.


Timber fences are among the most common across Canberra's residential suburbs. They're also among the most vulnerable to the ACT's climate. Moss and lichen take hold quickly in shaded sections, while UV exposure on sunny sides causes surface greying and breakdown of the top layer.
We adjust pressure levels carefully when cleaning timber. Too much pressure strips the wood fibres and causes permanent damage. We use the appropriate combination of low-to-medium pressure and cleaning agents to lift biological growth and surface grime without harming the timber underneath. This approach also prepares the surface properly if painting or oiling is the next step.

Colorbond fencing is popular across Canberra for its durability and low maintenance, but it still accumulates dirt, dust, pollen, and mould, particularly along the lower sections near garden beds and ground level. Bird droppings and leaf staining are also common issues.
We wash Colorbond and metal fencing using pressure levels suited to the material, removing surface contaminants without compromising the factory finish or protective coating. The difference after a clean is immediate and noticeable.

Brick and rendered masonry fences are widespread across established Canberra suburbs. These surfaces are particularly prone to green algae, lichen, and efflorescence, the white salt deposits that push through masonry over time.
We use appropriate pressure and, where needed, targeted cleaning solutions to address biological growth and staining on brick and rendered surfaces. The goal is a clean result that doesn't leave pressure etching or uneven patches across the surface.

Because Sattlers Painting has been preparing surfaces for paint for over 20 years, our fence washing work naturally aligns with pre-paint preparation requirements. If your fence is due for repainting, a thorough pressure wash beforehand removes contaminants that would otherwise prevent paint from bonding properly. We can assess the fence and let you know whether washing alone is sufficient or whether additional surface preparation is needed before painting begins.

Our fence pressure washing service targets:
Lichen and moss growth
Green and black algae
Mould and mildew
Dust, dirt, and general surface grime
Tannin and leaf stains
Spider webs and surface cobwebs
Bird droppings and insect residue
Canberra's position in the ACT, surrounded by bushland reserves and exposed to dry winds carrying dust and pollen, means fences accumulate a specific mix of organic and environmental grime. We understand these local conditions and work accordingly.
Sattlers Painting has been working across Canberra for over 20 years. We are a fourth-generation, family-owned business. That means when we turn up at your property, you get someone who genuinely cares about the result, not a franchise operator sending out a different crew each time.
Our pressure washing in Canberra comes directly from our painting background. Pressure washing is a core part of how we prepare surfaces before any painting job begins. That gives us a level of surface knowledge that most dedicated pressure washing operators simply don't have.
We hold a full contractor's licence (Licence No. 118644C) and are fully insured. We arrive on time, treat your property with care, and clean up before we leave.
We're also locals. We live and work in Canberra. We know how the ACT's climate affects different surfaces and what those surfaces need across the seasons. That practical, on-the-ground knowledge shows in the quality of our work.
Contact us for a detailed,
obligation-free quote tailored to your specific needs.
We work on timber, Colorbond, steel, brick, rendered masonry, and concrete fences. The approach we use depends on the material. Softer surfaces like timber require lower pressure and specific technique to avoid damage. Harder surfaces like brick and concrete can handle more pressure. We assess the fence before we start and adjust our method accordingly.
When done correctly, pressure washing is safe for most fence types. Damage occurs when the wrong pressure is applied to the wrong surface, for example, using high-pressure settings on aged timber or old rendered surfaces. We have been preparing and washing surfaces as part of our painting work for over 20 years, so we understand material tolerances well.
Lichen is one of the more stubborn growths to remove, especially from timber. In many cases, pressure washing combined with an appropriate pre-treatment solution will remove it effectively. Some deep-set lichen on aged timber may leave a residual stain even after cleaning. We'll be upfront about what's achievable before we start.
Yes, it's essential. Paint applied over a contaminated surface won't bond correctly and will fail prematurely. A thorough fence wash before repainting removes biological growth, dust, loose material, and surface contaminants. Because we're a painting business first, we understand exactly what the surface needs to be paint-ready.
Not necessarily. As long as we have safe access to the fence and any gates that need to be opened, we can carry out the work while you're away. We'll confirm access requirements when we provide your quote so there are no surprises on the day.
If your fence is showing signs of lichen, mould, algae, or general grime build-up, we can help. We assess the job, explain what we'll do, and give you a clear, no-obligation quote before any work begins.
We service Canberra and the surrounding ACT region. Call us or visit our contact page to request a free quote.
Our fence pressure washing service is part of a full range of pressure washing services in Canberra, including house washing, driveway cleaning, patio washing, and more.
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We carry out fence pressure washing across Canberra and the wider ACT. From newer developments in the north to established residential areas in the south and east, we regularly work across a broad range of suburbs and property types. Whether your fence borders a quiet suburban backyard or the front of a busy street, we bring the same approach: the right equipment, the right technique, and a clean result.
We regularly service the following suburbs and surrounding areas:
Gungahlin
Belconnen
Queanbeyan
Tuggeranong
Harrison
Ngunnawal
Mitchell
Forde
Amaroo
Casey

Email: [email protected]
Phone: 0408 421 247
Address: 6 Maris Street, Franklin ACT 2913
Sattlers Painting Pty Ltd - ACN: 159 058 778
Licence: 118644C
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