How Routine Maintenance Keeps Your Wood Fence Looking New
Wood fences are a wonderful investment, adding warmth and charm to your yard. When it comes to getting the most out of your new fence, a little maintenance goes a long way. Some homeowners worry that keeping a wood fence in good condition is difficult, but it requires only some routine inspection and occasional staining .
If you take the time to care for your wood fence, you can extend its life by years and enjoy over a decade of naturally beautiful security.
What Maintenance Does a Wood Fence Need?
Wood fences benefit from regular staining to protect them against rot, and occasional inspections can help you catch any issues before they cause significant damage. Most fences need to be stained every three to five years, depending on weather exposure.
Inspections are as easy as checking hardware for signs of rust, ensuring the posts aren’t leaning, and checking the boards for strength and rot. If you notice any issues, such as knots, bowing or warping, contact a professional ASAP to fix them.
Why Staining Is So Important for Your Fence’s Lifespan
Wood fences are natural elements, and though they’re built to withstand a lot, they aren’t impenetrable. Over time, they will decay, and moisture and sun only accelerate the process. High-quality wood stains preserve the integrity of the wood by conditioning it with special oil-based formulas.
The oil in wood fence stains penetrates the fibers of each board, post and rail, preserving their integrity and giving you a beautiful, long-lasting fence.
If you live in an area with high moisture, or your fence is exposed to more water than usual, staining can make the difference between a decade of protection and early wood rot that requires a tear-out and replacement.
Wood Fence Inspection Tips
Inspecting a wood fence takes only a few minutes, but it can extend your fence’s life by years. First, perform a visual inspection to make sure that the rails and boards are straight and the posts aren’t leaning or shifting. These issues indicate that there is a structural problem that a professional can fix for you.
Next, check the boards. Are they in good condition, or do they seem to be uneven, irregular or damaged? Any abnormalities should be addressed by a fence expert. Replacing one or two boards is always more affordable than ripping out an entire fence.
Finally, check the hardware. Are the screws and fasteners polished, or are they showing signs of rust? Check each post and board by pulling on it. If any are loose, then it’s best to ask a professional to fix them.
Contact Zachary Fence for the best wood fence that’s built to last in Zachary, LA!