A wood fence is a sturdy and attractive way of marking the edge of your property. It can also serve as a barrier for pets or children running around the yard. However, this material is subject to damage from the elements. Repeated exposure to rain, snow, and even the water from sprinklers can cause it to crack and rot over time. The following fence maintenance guide offers advice for staving off wood rot.

How to Protect Your Wood Fence From Wood Rot

1. Choose the Right Wood

When putting up a wood fence, you’ll have your choice of material, including oak, cedar, redwood, cypress, pine, fir, and spruce. If you’re concerned about wet rot, consider going with a harder, more durable wood like cedar or oak. While usually more of an upfront investment, you are less likely to need fence repair in the long term.

2. Have the Fence Stained

A newly-installed fence is often stained to prevent the wood from absorbing moisture. However, this waterproof coating needs to be reapplied every couple of years. This measure will also help protect it from sun damage, pests, and give your fence an attractive gleam.

3. Clean Your Fence Regularly

Since mold and pest infestations can spread, check your fence regularly for signs of damage—so those parts can be removed and replaced.

You should also wash the boards clean at least once every year as part of routine fence maintenance. If you use a pressure washer, keep the pressure below 2,000 psi.

4. Apply Wax

In-between stains, give your fence a facelift with a thorough wax job. This protective layer will repel moisture and dirt and preserve the wood’s color. 

If you have questions about wood fence maintenance, contact Shovelheads Landscaping. They have been providing expert landscaping and lawn care services to homeowners in Aurora, CO, since 2014 with a specialty in fence repair, staining, and installation. Give them a call today at (720) 676-9260 to set an appointment.