Wood fences give your property privacy and deter trespassing while adding a traditional, natural aesthetic. Outlaw Fence uses high-quality, weather-treated wood to keep fences durable for many years. To further extend the life of wood fences, regular maintenance, such as cleaning and staining, helps reduce decay. Here are four ways to keep your wood fence in great shape:
1. Clean It Regularly
Wood is porous, and many fence boards have natural grooves, knots, and cracks. This makes it easy for a fence to collect dirt from blowing winds or absorb moisture, which can lead to mold growth. If a fence is left uncleaned, these substances may lead to wood discoloration and decay.
To clean your wood fence, use a broom to remove cobwebs and loose dirt. This prevents debris from being ground into the wood when scrubbing. Mix wood cleaner or mild soap with water and scrub the fence with a soft-bristled brush. Abrasive scrubbers and harsh chemicals may damage the fence’s finish. A pressure washer on a low-pressure setting may speed up the cleaning process without etching the wood.
2. Seal the Wood
Your wood fence may be exposed to harsh sunlight, rain, or snow. These environmental factors can hasten the wood’s decay. Wood sealants and waterproof coatings help protect your fence from UV damage and mold growth, keeping the boards strong. Sealants are also known to deter pests, such as termites, carpenter ants, and wasps. Wood sealants often need to be reapplied every few years to maintain protection.
3. Maintain the Fence’s Surroundings
Fence lines can be used as garden boundaries or combined with planting beds for decorative property boundaries. Yet, some plants may damage the fence’s structure:
- Trees or shrubs with large roots can crack or shift a fence’s foundation.
- Dense, bushy plants like ivy or ornamental grass may retain moisture and are home to pests that may move from the garden to the fence.
- Vines can trap moisture against the fence, inviting decay. They can also put pressure on the boards and cause warping or leaning.
Trimming these plants protects the wood from damage caused by their growth. After mowing or in the fall, clearing the fence line of grass clippings and leaves helps keep the wood dry. Installing a weed barrier may also prevent damage to fence panels and posts.
4. Repair Damage Quickly
Well-maintained wood fences should not have loose, cracked, or split boards. Visual imperfections may alert you to insect infestation or mold growth. Regular fence inspections help you detect these issues early and prevent them from worsening.
Address fence damage quickly, replacing broken boards as needed. Outlaw Fence’s team can complete more extensive repairs. We select wood that matches your fence’s style and color so the new addition blends with the old.
Upgrade Your Wood Fence Today
Wooden fences are available in various styles and can be used to improve privacy or serve as a decorative property element. When it is time for repair or replacement, wood is an eco-friendly and sustainable option. Old boards can often be recycled or reused for other projects. Contact Outlaw Fence today for a free estimate.