The installation of a wood fence is not a small affair, both in terms of money and in terms of the impact it will have on the looks and feel of your home. A wood fence is a great way to build your own backyard retreat, protect your pool, or just make your property appear old-fashioned. But wood is a natural material, and it only takes a bit of love to keep it looking beautiful and to stand well. When you leave it, you may find your fence cracked, twisted, rotten, or even infested with bugs, especially out here in Pennsylvania, where the weather keeps us very much on our guard.
That’s why learning how to maintain your fence after wood fences installation is as crucial as having it installed correctly. At Montco Fence & Superior Structures, we’re a family-owned company that’s been servicing Pennsylvania since 1971, and we’ve experienced firsthand what makes a fence last. We assembled this handy guide with useful tips and maintenance secrets to make your fence remain gorgeous and long-lasting for years to come.
And, we’ll show you why hiring local fence installers such as ourselves actually matters.
Why Wood Fences Must Have Special Care?
Prior to diving into how to care for your fence, it’s useful to know what wood fences go through.
Wood absorbs water; that’s what it naturally does. But that can lead to issues such as swelling, warping, and rot if water becomes sealed. Pennsylvania’s snowy, rainy, and humid climate doesn’t make this any easier.
In addition to moisture, wood fences also must contend with:
- Sun damage: The sun’s UV rays tend to dry out the wood, fade it, and eventually cause it to become brittle.
- Insects: Carpenter ants and termites can burrow into the wood and compromise it.
- Physical wear: Storms, falling branches, or plain ol’ bumps can crack or release the boards.
- Soil contact: Posts that are in contact with the ground can rot if the soil isn’t draining properly.
If you neglect these, your fence won’t last as long as it would have otherwise. So the key is to be proactive about maintenance.
1. Check Your Fence Twice a Year
The simplest thing you can do to have your fence in top condition is to have regular inspections. You don’t need to know what you’re doing to identify issues.
Walk around your fence in the spring and fall and inspect for:
- Cracked or splitting boards
- Loose or missing nails or screws
- Soft or rotten areas, particularly on or below the ground
- Warping or bending boards
- Infestation by bugs, such as holes or sawdust
Discovering these early remedies will make repairing easier and less expensive. Waiting too long can mean larger, more expensive repairs.
2. Clean Your Fence Once a Year
Dirty fences retain moisture and accelerate rotting. Dirt, pollen, algae, and mildew will all accumulate on the wood.
Try this easy method of cleaning:
- Spray off loose dirt with a hose or a low-pressure washer.
- Combine a little mild soap with water, or use a wood fence cleaner.
- Scrub with a soft brush or sponge, particularly on areas that appear green or stained.
- Rinse thoroughly with water.
- Allow it to dry thoroughly before staining or sealing it.
Avoid using harsh chemicals and wire brushes; they can damage the wood.
3. Stain or Seal Every Few Years
This is one of the best things you can do to look after your fence.
A quality stain or seal inhibits moisture and sun damage. What you should remember:
- Choose a stain that is designed for exterior wood fences.
- Semi-transparent stains allow for visibility of the grain of wood and yet continue to protect.
- Solid stains provide more color at the expense of covering up the wood’s appearance.
- Apply every two to three years, or sooner if the finish starts to thin.
Ensure the fence is dry and clean prior to painting, and use a brush, roller, or sprayer to apply evenly.
This prevents cracking and water damage, and your fence stays looking new.
4. Catch Problems Early
Stuff happens; that’s just life. But catching it early prevents tiny problems from turning into major headaches.
When you see missing boards, loose nails, or tilting posts, address them immediately. Common repairs involve:
- Replacing withiled or splintered boards
- Tightening or replacing loose screws and nails
- Resetting leaning posts
- Treating or removing insect-damaged wood
Some repairs are a DIY project, but for larger projects, it’s wise to bring in local fence installers such as Montco Fence & Superior Structures. We do it right.
5. Keep Plants and Vines in Check
Although plants growing on a fence are attractive, they tend to get in the way by holding in moisture and providing insects with a hiding spot.
To make your fence a happy fence:
- Cut back vines and shrubs so they don’t stick to the wood.
- Cut grass and weeds short close to the fence base.
- Sweep leaves and debris away regularly.
Proper airflow and sunshine will dry out your fence and prevent rot.
6. Ensure Fence Posts Drain Well
Posts keep everything standing up, so it is really important to keep them dry.
Water can seep into the posts and rot them, and your fence will collapse.
Here’s how to prevent that:
- Ensure the earth is sloping away from the posts.
- Posts should be surrounded with gravel or crushed stone to drain better.
- Don’t water plants too much around posts.
- Treated wood or metal anchors can be used to minimize soil contact where possible.
Good drainage makes your posts sturdy, and your fence stays upright.
7. Prepare Your Fence for Winter
Pennsylvania winters can be hard on wood fences, with ice, snow, and freezing weather.
Before winter arrives:
- Inspect and repair loose boards or nails during the fall.
- If your fence requires it, apply a fresh coat of sealant.
- Remove leaves and debris that are moist.
- After snowfalls, lightly brush snow off your fence to prevent unnecessary weight and moisture accumulation.
The above easy steps enable your fence to withstand the freeze-thaw action and extreme weather conditions.
Why Choose Local Fence Installers?
Hiring local fence installers, such as Montco Fence & Superior Structures, has several advantages:
- We know Pennsylvania’s weather and what materials are best used here.
- We are familiar with the local codes and regulations to make sure your fence is legal and secure.
- Local is faster service and convenient communication.
- At Montco Fence & Superior Structures, we are a family-owned company and are invested in your community and your happiness.
- Our workmanship translates to your fence lasting longer.
Protect Your Wood Fence Investment with Montco Fence
Montco Fence & Superior Structures is a local business owned and operated since 1971, with a reputation for honesty, excellence, and excellent service. By hiring local talent, you are making a good bet on the life of your fence.
A wood fence is personal, rustic, and worth the money if you keep it up.
Montco Fence & Superior Structures can help you whether you are starting a brand new fence project or just need to take good care of your existing fence.
With over 50 years of experience as reputable local fence installers, we specialize in quality, craftsmanship, and customer satisfaction. For installation of wood fences, repairs, and maintenance, we offer service specifically for you.
Don’t let small problems turn into expensive issues. Contact Montco Fence & Superior Structures today to arrange your consultation and safeguard your investment for years to come.
FAQs
How frequently should I inspect my wood fence?
At least every other month, spring and fall are excellent times to identify problems early on.
When is the ideal time to stain or seal?
Spring or early fall, when it’s not too hot or humid, so the finish can dry correctly.
Can I pressure wash my fence?
Yes, but do not use high pressure to harm the wood. Follow with a mild cleaner for optimal results.
Why should I hire local fence installers?”
Local pros are familiar with the weather and codes around here, act fast, and provide personal service you just won’t receive from large chains.
