The picket fence may be a symbol of the American dream, but in real life, these wooden barriers still require regular upkeep. If you want to improve your home’s curb appeal and prolong the life span of your investment, you’ll have to know exactly what your wood fencing needs—as well as what it doesn’t. Use the following do’s and don’ts to establish a diligent maintenance schedule. 

Do:

Remove growths and vines.

As moss, algae, cobwebs, and vines grow along your fence, their cumulative weight will put pressure on the posts, potentially shifting them and causing your fence to lean to one side. These natural growths also retain moisture, which if pressed against your wood fence, may eventually lead to rot. This process will weaken the barrier, which will make it easier for pets and small children to escape, as well as create the need for repairs or a replacement. To prevent this domino effect, remove growths and vines as soon as you spot them.

Reinforce fence posts.

Even with the removal of climbing plants, your wood fencing may still shift out of place after harsh storms, high winds, digging pets, or even playing children. To hold it in place, talk to your fence contractor about reinforcing the posts in the ground. They may suggest a PVC sleeve that fits around the base of the wooden post to protect it from further damage or rot. 

Don't:

Use a pressure washer.

While this powerful tool may work on metal or vinyl fences, it’s simply too strong for wood ones. The high-pressure stream can eat away at the sealant and paint, soaking into the wood planks and posts. While your goal may have been cleanliness, it could ultimately lead to rot, causing the wood fence to warp and weaken.

Skip resealing.

While beautiful, wooden fencing is more susceptible to moisture damage from sprinklers, rain showers, and nearby plantings. Therefore, it’s crucial to apply a sealant after the installation and to re-apply this protective coating every three to five years. Going without it could lead to discoloration and rot and warrant a premature fence replacement.

If you’re interested in installing or maintaining your current wood fencing, get in touch with A & B Fence of Newark, OH. They have been installing and repairing fences on residential and commercial properties since 1969. They are proud to have an NAHB and HBA certified team and offer high-quality brands like Ameristar™ and Illusions™. For more information on their inventory and services, visit the website. You can also call (740) 344-7943 to schedule a free estimate.