Part of my garden overhaul is rejuvenating the fence I built 11 years ago. I used pressure treated wood but I never sealed or painted it, and over the years it has went silvery grey (which I quite like) but also quite green with algae.
I've taken a pressure washer to it this weekend and it's come up nearly new! I'm not really a fan of the fence paint colours you get so what I'm wondering is, if I left it bare again is it going to be ok for another 10 years or have I washed the protection out of it? It does look good as it is and it would be a shame to have to paint it. It will naturally age again but I could keep on top of any algae with future power washes.
Before:
https://i.imgur.com/ZjRQs33.jpgDuring:
https://i.imgur.com/nHCTP9z.jpgAfter:
https://i.imgur.com/5T0Rp4f.jpg
Comments
If I remember, I give it a coat of decking oil once a year.
e.g. https://www.wood-finishes-direct.com/product/cuprinol-wood-preserver-clear?gclid=EAIaIQobChMItpe8nOX_2wIVwbDtCh3llwLVEAQYBSABEgL0m_D_BwE
I would guess from my experience that you have damaged the surface of the wood a little, pressure washers tear wood up a little, so it's probably currently more vulnerable than before
I'm in two minds today!
You should be good for a few more years yet, then one morning after a windy night you might have a floppy....post.
I'd be tempted to leave as is and expect to replace some posts in a few years.