Customers often tend towards vinyl or aluminum fences because they require less maintenance than wood fences. However, whether you have vinyl, aluminum, or wood, all fences need to be looked after to some extent. To make sure you’re getting the most out of your fence’s lifespan, there are a few simple things you can do- and some things you shouldn’t- to make sure your fence is doing its job year after year.
DON’T plant anything near your fence.
If you want to plant trees, bushes, or other landscaping elements near your fence, you’ll want to make sure they are at least one foot away from the fence. Large trees should be planted even farther away so that their root systems to not disturb your fence. Additionally, if landscaping mulch is allowed to build up against your fence, it can cause an excess of moisture. This will lead to the growth of mold and mildew or even cause rotting. Is it easy to clean mold and mildew off of a vinyl fence, but it is much harder to replace a wooden fence affected by rot.
DO trim low hanging branches and trees.
You may already have plants near your fence. If you do, it is important to keep them in check. Trees need maintenance just like your fence! You can do this by pruning back any branches that may be approaching your fence. If you have large trees in your yard with branches that hang over your fence, they may need trimming as well. Dead or rotten branches could easily come down during a storm and damage your fence.
DON’T paint your wood fence.
If you have a wood fence, you may be tempted to paint it. Chances are, you’ve probably seen hundreds of painted fences in your lifetime. However, paint can often do more harm than good to your wood fence. Because paint doesn’t allow the wood to breathe, moisture can remain trapped inside. This will reduce the lifespan of your fence.
If you notice your vinyl fence looking dull, don’t paint it! Maintenance is easy: just give it a good scrub with warm soapy water and rinse them off when you’re finished.
DO stain your wood fence.
A better alternative to painting your fence is staining it. Typically, wood fences need to be stained every 3 to 5 years. The stain will not only protect your fence from the elements, but also allow it to breathe and not trap moisture. Staining your fence can extend its life and keep it looking great for years to come.
DON’T allow heavy objects to lean on your fence.
No matter how sturdy you think your fence is, it is important that you don’t allow heavy objects to lean against it. A heavy object, such as a downed branch, leaning against your fence can damage it. Over time, the branch can weaken your fence. If you have a vinyl fence, the panels could start to bend or even break. If your fence is wood, then you will be at an increased chance for rot as moisture is trapped by the branch against the surface of your fence.
DO conduct regular checks.
A regular check can be as simple as walking the length of your fence every few weeks. Especially if your area has experienced inclement weather recently, it’s important to check your fence from any damage from winds or debris. During your maintenance inspection, you want to check panels and posts for any cracks, dents, or even the beginnings of rot. If your fence is starting to lean, it could turn out to be a bigger problem than you think.
DON’T wait to do repairs.
The sooner you notice any damages to your fence, the sooner you can get them fixed, and go back to enjoying your yard. If you start to notice your fence panels sagging or your fence posts leaning, this can be a sign of a bigger issue: rot. In this is the case, the longer you wait for fence maintenance, the more the rot can spread. If left unchecked, your fence could even collapse, endangering not only you, but possibly even your neighbors. If damage to your fence is severe enough, it might not be enough to replace just the broken section. You may even need to replace the entire fence.
DO let a professional repair your fence.
When it comes time to do repairs to your fence, you may think it would be easier or more cost efficient to do yourself. However, this isn’t always the case. Professionals have the know-how, experience, and the specialized tools to make sure your fence is repaired correctly the first time. Hiring a professional will save you time and money. Additionally, you’ll also have the peace of mind of a job well done when it’s handled by a professional.
If your fence has been damaged recently and you’re looking to repair or even replace it, you can request a quote from Clarksville Fencing today!
