Owning a wooden fence adds classic charm to any property, but it requires diligent maintenance to withstand the elements and provide lasting value. Effective fence care involves a consistent cycle of cleaning, inspection, repair, and protection to maximize the material’s lifespan.
Here is a guide to help you maintain your wooden fence.
1. Regular Cleaning
Dirt, grime, mold, and mildew can accumulate on wood surfaces, trapping moisture and accelerating decay .
Routine Wash: Annually, or whenever the fence appears dirty, clean it using a garden hose and a soft-bristle brush. For a deeper clean, a solution of mild soap and water is often sufficient.
Tough Stains: For persistent mold or mildew, you can use a specialized commercial cleaner or a diluted bleach solution (one part bleach to four parts water), but be sure to rinse thoroughly afterward to prevent damage to the wood or surrounding plants.
Pressure Washing Caution: While effective, pressure washers can easily damage wood fibers, especially on softer or older fences. If you use one, maintain a low-pressure setting (under 1,500 PSI) and keep the nozzle at least a foot away from the wood surface.
2. Inspection and Repair
Inspecting your fence at least once a year—ideally in the spring—helps catch small problems before they become major issues.
Check Posts and Boards: Look for signs of rot, particularly near the ground where moisture is highest. Probe suspicious areas with a screwdriver; if the wood is soft or crumbles easily, the component needs replacement.
Secure Hardware: Check all fasteners, including nails, screws, and gate latches. Replace any rusted hardware and drive in any popped nails to ensure structural integrity.
Assess the Gate: Gates are the most used part of a fence and often the first to sag or malfunction. Check hinges, latches, and the gate frame, adjusting them as needed so the gate opens and closes smoothly.
3. Protection and Sealing
Once the fence is clean and dry, applying a protective finish is a critical step in preventing moisture damage and UV degradation.
Stain vs. Sealer:
Sealants offer excellent water repellency and protection from moisture but may need to be reapplied more frequently.
Stains penetrate the wood and provide color, which offers UV resistance, helping prevent the wood from graying. Stains come in clear, semi-transparent, and solid options; solid stains offer the most UV protection but obscure the wood grain.
Application: Apply your chosen finish every 2 to 4 years, depending on the product and climate. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions for application and drying times.
4. Weed and Moisture Control
Trim Vegetation: Keep bushes, trees, and vines trimmed away from the fence line. Vegetation traps moisture against the wood, which promotes rot and insect infestation.
Ensure Drainage: Check that sprinklers are not consistently spraying the fence and that the ground around the posts allows for proper water drainage away from the wood foundation.
By following these routine maintenance steps, you can significantly extend the life of your wooden fence, ensuring it remains a beautiful, functional asset to your home for years to come.
If you need repairs, or it’s time for a new fence, drop us a line. We’ve been helping owners by installing and repairing fencing in Southwest Washington and Northwest Oregon since 2007.