A picket fence or split rail fence can improve the aesthetics and security of your home. An average wood fence lasts for 15 years. However, you may increase the lifespan of your wood fence to 20 years or more with the proper upkeep.
Factors to Consider Regarding Wood Fences
Wood fences are popular because of their ability to withstand rust and decay. They are available in other wood varieties as well. Due to their continual contact with the ground and exposure to moisture and insects, fence posts should be pressure treated. Since the fence’s boards are above ground, they don’t require pressure treatment. When wood is pressure-treated, chemicals are used to prevent water and insects from harming the wood.
If you have one installed, wait about a year before staining or painting a new fence. This will enable the wood-treating chemicals to dry out. When you paint your fence, you risk sealing in moisture if it isn’t completely dried. Rotting and decay can result from sealing in moisture. Your wood will be protected from termites and fungus by pressure treatment. Your wood, however, may experience swelling, shrinkage, cracking, and warping. Therefore, it’s crucial to remember that your fence will require upkeep.
Conduct Annual Inspections
Walk around your fence and check for rot or damage to maintain its lifetime. Replace any damaged boards, drive nails, or tighten screws as necessary. Verify that each piece of your wood fence is appropriately connected to the one before it. Verify that the posts are firmly embedded in the ground if any portions of the fence are sagging. The posts may need to be repaired if they are in poor shape. Additionally, ensure the hinges and latches on your gates are securely fastened. If necessary, you can use automotive grease.
Not wholly waterproof is pressure-treated wood. Therefore, whatever measures you take to keep moisture out will lengthen the life of your wood. You can also modify your sprinklers to prevent water from getting on your fence, rotting the wood, or causing moss to grow on the wood. Reduce the height of your bushes and vines, so they don’t cling to the fence. Shrubs can retain moisture and increase weight.
Clean Them for Every 3 to 5 Years
Not wholly waterproof is pressure-treated wood. Therefore, whatever measures you take to keep moisture out will lengthen the life of your wood. You can also modify your sprinklers to prevent water from getting on your fence, rotting the wood, or causing moss to grow on the wood. Reduce the height of your bushes and vines, so they don’t cling to the fence. Shrubs can retain moisture and increase weight.
Paint or Reseal After Painting Them
Reapplication of paint or stain is recommended every three to five years. Use latex paint or external oil-based stains to seal out moisture, prevent wood rot, and reduce the amount of weathering of your wood. Choose a stain or sealer with a UV inhibitor to stop the wood from going gray. After that, wait and let the wood cure for about a week before applying paint stain or sealant.
Call the experts one of our experts at Fence Estimator Local Business Directory for a free estimate if your fence does need to be fixed or replaced. Consider vinyl fencing possible if you’re searching for something low-maintenance and long-lasting.
