Installing a wood fence on your property can help add privacy and security while enhancing curb appeal. Wood fences may need regular maintenance to keep them in peak condition. Maintaining your wood fence can also help protect it from the harsh Texas climate and extend its lifespan. Here are some tips for maintaining your wood fence and how a fence company can help:
Clear Debris
Grass, rubble, weeds, plants, and tree limbs can create a moist environment around fences, promoting wood rot and mold growth. They can also rub against the fence as they grow or during storms, causing scratches.
Clearing debris around the fence can help avoid mold growth and prevent blemishes. Trim weeds and grass growing around your fence using a lawnmower. You can also remove or cut loose any low-hanging tree branches that touch the fence to avoid damage.
Clean the Fence
Dirt, grime, and debris can accumulate on the surface of your wood fence and tarnish its finish. This can result in discoloration, mold growth, and wood rot, affecting your fence’s appearance or structural solidity. Cleaning the fence can help eliminate dirt and grime, protecting your wood fence’s surface.
Use a bristle brush to deal with loose cobwebs and dirt on the fence’s surface. You can also use a pressure washer to blast off any stubborn stains. Avoid using harsh chemical cleaners when washing off stains since they can increase wear and tear or discolor the wood fence’s surface.
Repair Any Damage
Wood fences can deteriorate over time, so they need regular repairs to keep them in the best condition. Check for any loose nails, warping, holes, and splits along your fence that need fixing. Fence repair jobs can require expert skills to handle various tasks, so you may need to hire the services of a fence company.
Depending on the extent of the damage, you can fill in holes and gaps on the fence using putty or wood filler. Experts can use drills or a hammer to fix loose nails and secure any hanging boards to keep your fence intact. If the wood panels are extensively damaged, fencing experts can help you replace sections of the fence.
Check for Weathering
The harsh Texas climate, like the summer heat and humidity or winter frost and thaw cycles, can be tough on wood fences. Such conditions can cause the wood to expand, contract, crack, rot, or fade. Regularly inspecting your wood fence to check for weathering and deteriorating signs can help identify and deal with potential issues before they worsen.
When inspecting for signs of weathering and rotting, check for potential texture, color, or shape changes to the wood fence. Use a knife or screwdriver to poke the wood and check if it is soft and spongy. If you notice signs of rotting or weathering, treat the affected areas as soon as possible to avoid further damage.
Re-stain for Added Protection
Elements like ultraviolet (UV) rays and acid rain can tarnish the wood fence’s surface, affecting its appearance. Staining your fence can help protect the wood by sealing its pores and preventing moisture absorption. Regularly re-staining your wood fence can help add color, block harmful UV rays, and resist fading.
Fencing experts use a brush, sprayer, or roller to apply the stain evenly. Depending on the quality of the stain, they can opt to apply more than one coat for added protection. This can help your wood fence withstand harsh elements in the Texas climate and remain strong and durable.
Protect Against Pests
Pests like carpenter bees, ants, and wood-boring beetles are common in Texas and can damage your wood fence. They can tunnel through the wood and create nests to lay eggs, weakening the wood and causing it to crack or collapse.
Fencing experts can help inspect the fence for such pests and apply appropriate treatment products to eliminate them. Treating your fence regularly can help avoid pest infestation and protect the fence’s structural integrity.
Work With a Fence Company
A wood fence can enhance curb appeal while improving privacy and security around your property. Wood needs regular maintenance to keep it in the best condition, so you may need expert help with inspections and repairs. Working with a fence company can help protect your fence from the harsh Texas climate and expand its lifespan.
