If you’re considering a new wood fence for your property, you’re making an excellent choice that combines traditional aesthetics with modern materials. And just like any other fencing material or major exterior addition to your home or building, the proper care for a wood fence will go a long way toward its long-term lifespan — in fact, because of the nature of wood itself, care for these fences might be even more important than some other common materials.
At Utah Fence Warehouse, we offer not only a wide range of wood fence materials and installation services, but also tips and expertise on how to care for your wooden fence for years into the future. This two-part blog series will go over a number of specific recommendations we make to clients in this area.
Fence Quality and Regulations
First and foremost, proper care of your fence begins when it’s installed. This begins with utilizing high-quality fence materials, such as cedar and redwood, which are resistant to rot and insects, as well as easy to work with for wood fences.
In addition, it’s vital to ensure you’re following state or local regulations regarding your property area. For example, some communities might require fencing to be a certain height or located away from specific property lines. And any wood fence needs to meet safety standards for heights and railings, especially if you’re putting up supports around pools or decks. Not doing so might force you to make major changes later on, and can make your entire maintenance plan a hassle.
No Direct Soil Contact
If you’re installing the fence yourself, one important tip is to use concrete or another filler material in the soil. Wood fence posts should never touch the soil directly, as this will allow for water intake and make your fence more likely to warp or rot. While you might assume that putting in a 4-inch post all the way into the ground is sufficient, it’s even better to place two posts together in one hole, using some type of filler material between them.
Sealing or Staining
Sealing helps extend the life of any wood fence, while also protecting it from rot and insects. Sealants will help prevent water damage and can even make the color of your fence last longer. In many cases, mixing sealant with stain will also provide great color. This should be done every two to three years depending on the precise location of your fence.
Cleaning and Plant Removal
The fence should be cleaned regularly, typically using a strong hose or power washer that’s held about 12-24 inches from the fence. Allow panels to dry for 24 hours before applying sealants or stains.
It’s also recommended to remove any trees or bushes that are growing too close to the fence, with exception of evergreens — due to their resistant nature, these can be trimmed and maintained safely near fences. If you’re unsure about how certain plants or trees might affect your fence, leaving it up to a professional is always best.
At Utah Fence Warehouse, we specialize in both fencing materials and installation services. Contact us today for assistance with a wood fence or any other variety.
