Outstanding Ways To Protect Your Wooden Fence

You need a wooden fence for privacy, security, and aesthetic value. However, the wooden fences rot away after exposure to harsh weather and other factors. If left unattended, a wooden fence can fall off, so learn some maintenance practices to extend its lifespan.

Keep Debris Off Your Fence

A buildup of debris such as rotten leaves, plants, and other items can enhance wood rot. Debris stores moisture which causes rot at the bottom part of the wood, spreading to the entire part. To prevent the problem, always ensure your fence is clear of foliage and dirt.

Replace Affected Sections

Rotting doesn’t occur at once. It starts in one section and spreads to the other parts. Stop the spread by replacing the affected sections. The commonly affected parts are the fence’s main posts. So, consult fencing company Austin-based and have your poles replaced.

Avoid Placing Items On The Fence

It’s common for homeowners to place sprinklers and hose pipes on the wooden fence. This not only puts the fence at risk of water damage, but the weight can cause breakage. In addition, avoid hanging mats and other wet items to dry on the fence.

Stain Your Fence Regularly

Experts recommend staining your fence yearly to keep rot at bay. However, you can stain more frequently depending on the temperature, type of soil, or rainfall in the region. Check the staining guide on the internet or consult a Northwest fence & iron company.

Choose The Fencing Materials Carefully

When choosing fencing materials, consider using rot-resistant wood. Some woods such as cypress, cedar, and redwood are hardy and do not rot easily. On the other hand, pine and tamarack are prone to rot. To get many years of service, purchase treated wood to prevent rot and termites.

Clean the Fence

Dirt and mildew always get stuck on the wood. Clean the wood with a pressure washer and avoid damaging it by keeping the nozzle 18 inches away from the wood surface. Scrub the surface using a scrub brush to remove dirt and rinse off. Allow the fence to dry for at least two days before painting.

Understanding the Type of the Rot

The best way to combat rot is to understand which type of rot your fence is likely to suffer from. Wet rot occurs when moisture comes into contact with your wood, while dry rot is caused by exposure to harsh climate. Wet rot occurs at the base of the wood, and it’s accompanied by a musty smell or fungi growth. Keep the base of the fence dirt-free and stain your fence to prevent dry rot.

Cut Vines and Branches

Hanging branches and vines keep the fence moist, which leads to rotting. So, ensure to cut the branches near the fence or cut the tree to avoid heavy branches falling on the fence. For bigger trees, consult tree cutters to avoid harming the fence and yourself.

The major problem affecting the wooden fence is rot. It affects the wood’s strength and causes damage to the entire fence. So, ensure your fence is free from debris and replace the rotten parts.

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