How Should I Maintain My Wood Fence?

Wood is one of the most commonly used materials to build fences. When you choose to build a wood fence, you benefit from the durability and long-lasting quality that wood provides for exterior structures like fences. As a fencing contractor in Jacksonville, we build many wood fences around both commercial and residential properties. These fences enhance the property, add curb appeal, and create a secure border. While wood fences are beneficial, they also require maintenance to keep them in optimal condition over time. These are a few ways that you can maintain your wood fence to keep it lasting long.

Keep the Posts Clean

Each year, you should clean your wooden fence. By washing, or preferably pressure washing, your wooden fence, you can extend the lifespan by removing any dirt, grime, insects, or debris that may be building up on the surface. It is also important to remove any debris from the bottom of your fence, as leaves and trash can be trapped along the base of your fence and cause rapid deterioration of unprotected wood.

Seal the Fence

Untreated wood will be more susceptible to rapid decay and decomposition over time. Most people do not choose to use pressure-treated wood because it is much more expensive to install. When you have a wooden fence, you will want to routinely seal the wood to protect it from the elements. A waterproof seal, stain, or paint can prevent splitting, knotting, and splintering, which can increase the longevity of your wooden fence.

Inspect and Replace Damage

If you notice any damage boards or posts, you will want to replace these issues before they worsen. Wood is susceptible to damage caused by dirt buildup or insect infestations, which can spread to other boards on the fence. If you let issues persist, you may lose many more boards than you need to, and this can even compromise the structural integrity of your entire fence.

Keep Trees Away

As trees and shrubs grow, both their roots and their limbs will threaten the structural integrity of your wooden fence. Roots grow towards the water, and this can cause them to push fence posts and structures out of the ground and compromise their strength. Tree pruning and cutting is essential in keeping parts of your plants off your fence. When you go to plant trees, keep them far enough from your fence to avoid any fallen limbs that can result in collapsing.

Inspect the Fence Often

Walk the fence to inspect for any issues up-close that you may not notice from afar. Look for insect damage, loose boards, or splintering and knotting. These are all common fence issues that can lead to early decay of your boards, which can cause eyesores. Fixing problems like loose screws or mold growth can keep your fence looking great and staying strong for many years.

These are a few ways that you can maintain your wood fence to keep it lasting for many years. If you are looking to install a fence around your property, trust our fencing contractors in Jacksonville. Contact us to hear about how we can help with your fence needs today!