Maintaining your house’s privacy fencing will extend its life span and ensure it looks its best. Homeowners with boundaries made of wood need to take special care, as the material can become damaged by the elements. Here’s what you can do to ensure it stays in good condition for years.

How to Care for Wooden Privacy Fencing

1. Check for Damage

Making small updates and repairs periodically will maximize your fence’s life span. Once or twice a year, inspect the fence for damage, like loose nails and broken or rotting pickets. Look for signs of insect infestations, such as tiny holes or piles of shavings on the ground. You should also make sure the fence posts are stable and firmly in the earth.

2. Clean It

Your wooden privacy fencing should be cleaned annually to remove mildew and prevent it from growing. Use a pressure washer that exerts between 1500 to 2000 pounds per square inch—anything higher will cause damage.

Hold the nozzle about 18 inches from the fence panels and cover the surface evenly without spraying a section for too long. Alternatively, you can use a stiff bristle brush and scrub firmly but not too hard.

3. Keep Moisture Away

Aside from annual cleaning, avoid getting excess moisture on the fence to prevent water damage, discoloration, and rot. Make sure the backyard sprinklers are positioned so that the water doesn’t spray the privacy fencing. You should also trim back nearby bushes and vines, as the greenery will transfer its moisture to the fencing material.

4. Reseal It

Protect your fence from water damage and fading from UV rays by reapplying the seal every three to five years. Use an oil-based stain that’s semi-transparent—this will protect the material but still show the attractiveness of the wood.

Although a solid stain lasts longer, it won’t show the wood’s natural appearance. If you use a pump sprayer to apply the seal, brush or roll the stain immediately after spraying to ensure an even coat.

 

Like many outdoor features, wooden fences don’t last forever, even with diligent maintenance. If you need to replace it, turn to the team at T & L Services in Anchorage. These contractors understand the area’s climate, and they offer special cedar fences that can withstand Alaskan winters. To get more information about their services, visit the website or call (907) 333-0515.