Your fence creates a definitive border between your home and the outside world. As a barrier, it effectively keeps stray dogs and sneaky intruders at bay. But just like any other structure, your fence needs proper care and maintenance for it to remain fully functional and beautiful. If you’re having a hard time juggling between your work and maintaining your fence, here are pretty simple tips that can help you keep your fence in good shape.
Go for Pressure-Treated Posts
According to Lone Star Fence and Construction, a provider of designer fencing services, very time you install a new fence or replace damaged poles, it’s advisable that you go for pressure-treated posts over untreated ones. Chemically-treated posts and poles are relatively inexpensive, and most importantly, they are resistant to termites and water damage. When properly installed, they can hold up well for up to 15 years. The chemicals used to preserve them are not potent, so the possibility of harm is negligible. Treated posts are available in wood yards for as little as ten dollars.
Apply Wood Preservatives
Wood fences tend to warp or split within the first year of installation. When they’re exposed to moisture, they tend to rot quickly. To prevent your wooden fence from rotting, apply a singe coat of wood-repellent preservative or sealant every 2-5 years. The preservative will protect the wood from the elements, notably water. Alternatively, you can use exterior stains if you want your fence to blend well with the exterior of your home. Both are available for a few dollars at hardware stores or home-improvement shops.
Keep Sprinklers Away from the Fence
Do you usually water or irrigate your lawn with sprinklers? It’s advisable that you keep them away from wetting the fence. Water and moisture can cause rot or decay if they come into contact with wood. Within a short time, the affected section of the fence will start falling apart and create holes which can leave your home exposed. Additionally, you should keep bushes off the fence and the earth near the fence as both tend to hold moisture which can trigger wood rot.
Repair Damaged Fence Promptly
Wooden fences tend to wear out or get damaged with time. Whatever the cause, damaged fences leave your home exposed and dents the looks of your exterior. If your fence wears out or becomes accidentally damaged, you should repair it quickly before its condition deteriorates. Just one damaged pole can weaken the fence and cause the fence to be ripped apart during strong winds. Once you undertake repairs, you can stabilize your fence by adding wood deck screws to reinforce the rails on the posts.
Bottom Line
Taking good care of your fence is the key to enhance its strength and visual appeal. Simple things such as repairing damaged fences on time, applying wood preservatives, and using treated poles will go a long way toward prolonging the life of your fence. When installing a fence, it’s advisable that you use pressure-treated wood for posts as they’re less susceptible to rot and termites. Avoid using sprinklers near the fence as they wet the poles and cause them to rot. By embracing these simple measures, you can enhance the look and strength of your fence and keep nuisance pets and intruders at bay.
This article was contributed on behalf of Lone Star Fence and Construction, a provider of wrought metal construction for gates. Check out their website today and see how they can help you!
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