A fence is a significant investment for your home and property, and you want to make it last as long as possible. Whether you just installed a new wood fence or have owned one for years, proper maintenance is crucial to its long-term performance. Because wood is a natural product, it will require a bit more TLC than other fence types to keep it looking its best and functioning properly.
The fence experts at Veterans Fencing have put together a maintenance list of ways to extend the life of your wood fence. Keep reading for some tips to help ensure the longevity of your Georgia residential fence.
Inspect Your Wood Fence for Damage or Repairs
Regularly walk the fence line of your property (once or twice a year) to inspect your wood fence, and note any damage or repairs that need to be addressed. First, check for any deterioration or rot, replacing any boards or posts that are in need. Next, look for cracks or splits in the wood that may be caused by moisture, and seal the damage to prevent any further deterioration. Additionally, check for any chipped or peeling paint, as well as for loose or damaged hardware, and make sure the latches on gates still work correctly.
Being proactive and addressing these problems throughout the year will help prevent them from becoming bigger issues in the future. If the needed repairs are difficult, or you need some guidance about how to fix your fence, be sure to contact the Georgia fence company experts at Veterans. We are happy to answer any questions you may have!
Cleaning Your Wood Fence to Make it Look New Again
Cleaning your wood fence is simple if you first determine the source of the stain, and then use the appropriate cleaning procedure and equipment to remove it.
If the dirt buildup, grime, or mildew on your fence is minimal, rinsing it with a strong spray from the hose and a gentle cleanser may be enough. Begin by soaking your fence with a hose to open up the wood grain and rinse away any loose dirt or debris. The cleanser should then be applied on the fence and allowed to rest for about ten minutes. Use a wire brush to remove any buildup or stubborn stains before rinsing, and your fence should be looking great in no time!
Often a pressure washer can do the trick but be sure not to use anything more than 1500-2000 PSI on wood fences, and using an angular tip to fan out the water spray is a good idea. The more frequently you check and address any buildup on your fence, the fresher it will look, and it will be easier to keep it from developing into a more stubborn problem later on.
Keep Your Fence Dry and Free of Landscape and Debris
Minimizing your fence’s exposure to moisture will help prolong the life of your Georgia residential wood fence. Always leave plenty of space between your fence and any bushes or shrubs to encourage airflow. This will help lessen the chance of mold and mildew buildup. Trim any low-hanging limbs to ensure that they won’t fall and cause any damage to your fence. Preemptive measures to clean up the area around your fence will go a long way in avoiding potential future damage.
Protect and Refresh your Wood Fence with Stain or Paint
Wood fences generally need to be restained or repainted every two to three years to keep them protected and looking new. Take a look at your wood fence to evaluate the condition of the surface and decided if it’s time for a fresh coat.
Although painting a fence can be less expensive than staining initially, it may require more maintenance in the long run. To protect your fence from UV rays and moisture, painting it with breathable, waterproof exterior paint followed by a water-repellant sealant will keep it looking good as new. Staining can be more expensive, but over time, may last longer, as the stain absorbs into the wood and therefore won’t chip or peel like paint.
If you would like more tips or information about painting or staining your fence, reach out to our expert Savannah, Georgia fence company, Veterans Fence & Supply. Our knowledgeable, friendly staff is ready to answer your questions!
Your Favorite Georgia Fence Company is Here to Help!
You may follow all of these tips and realize that your fence needs more than just some routine maintenance. If it’s time for a new Georgia residential fence, you can turn to us with all your fencing questions and installation needs. For a quick and easy estimate, use our online estimator tool.
Additionally, you can call us at (912) 407-0570 or contact us online today! For friendly service you can trust, contact the pros at Veteran’s Fence & Supply!
