By being a good steward of your wood fencing, you can ensure that it continues to look elegant and lasts a long time. With diligence, it’s possible to fend off rot and decay with a minimum of attention and effort. Here’s a guide to the best practices for maintaining wood fencing. 

How to Preserve Wood Fencing

1. Give It a Buffer

Because a fence is exposed to the weather 24 hours a day every week of the year, rain and other environmental conditions may affect it. To protect wood from the weather, stain it (do not paint) every couple of years with a semi stain or every 5 years with a solid color stain. Each new coat acts as a buffer to repel the effects of sun, rain, hail, sleet, snow, heat, and humidity. Think of it like sun screen for your skin.

2. Be Strategic With Nearby Plants and Landscaping

Water is one of wood’s worst enemies because it can cause rot. For this reason, be careful about planting leafy shrubs, trees, and vines with expansive root systems too close to your fence. Any greenery that traps water against it may be potentially damaging. In addition, adjust your sprinkler system if it directs water onto wood fencing. Keep items such as firewood away from the fence. Also keep in mind your mulch. Do not have it  it covering the bottom of the fence.

3. Clean Regularly

Clear off accumulations of dirt and debris to restore appearance as needed. If you power-wash a fence, restrict the force being used. Pressure settings above 1,000 psi (pounds per square inch) could prove damaging. Also please use Bio friendly cleaners. This will protect your plants and lawn from damage. Power washing will bring your wood fence to look like “new" again.

For skilled fence installation or advice about maintenance, contact Trudeau's Fence Company in Columbus, OH. In business for over 25 years, this respected fence contractor is accredited by the Better Business Bureau® and a member of the American Fence Association. To schedule a consultation about your fencing needs, call (614) 876-9944, or learn more about the company by visiting their website.