Your fence isn’t just a way to show where your property ends; it’s a statement that defines the building it surrounds. It frames your landscape, provides privacy, and plays a critical role in your property’s curb appeal. But over time, even the sturdiest of fences can succumb to the elements, mischievous pets and wildlife, or the wear and tear of daily use. But, with a little bit of TLC, you can extend the life of your fence and ensure it remains a beautiful part of your home or business for decades to come.
Understanding the Enemy of Your Fence’s Life Span
Before we jump into specific maintenance tips, it’s crucial to understand what threatens the longevity of your fence. There’s a number of factors that can take a toll on your fancy fence, especially if it’s made of wood, including:
UV Rays: Prolonged sun exposure can cause discoloration and deteriorate the structure of the wood, weakening it over time. This is especially true in our high alpine climate here in Colorado.
Water: The arch-nemesis of most materials, water in the form of rain, snow, or morning dew invites rot, mold, and mildew can cause your fence to age prematurely.
Outside Damage: Beyond the normal wear and tear from the elements, fences can start to show their age after years of taking beatings from lawnmowers, weed whackers, pets, and, occasionally, vehicles.
The Right Tools for the Job
Maintaining your fence is a labor of love, but it’s significantly easier when you have the right tools. By having the following tools on-hand when starting your fence maintenance, you’ll certainly find it a relatively easy task to take care of your fence.
Pressure Washer
For most types of fencing, a pressure washer is a great tool to have. It easily blasts away dirt, grime, and some of the most stubborn stains, giving your fence a fresh lease on life.
Soft Brush
For the more delicate or ornate elements of your fence, a soft brush can do the cleaning job without risking damage.
Protective Stains and Paints
Quality sealants, stains, and paints are the superheroes of the fence maintenance world. Once you apply them, they’ll take the hits from water, sun, and dirt so your fence doesn’t have to.
Regular Maintenance
Now that you know the tools you should have at your disposal, it’s time to look at your new fence cleaning routine. By building up a regular maintenance schedule, you’ll have a fence that can weather any storm, literally or figuratively.
Regular Cleaning
A good power wash once or twice a year will keep your fence looking its best and prevent the buildup of materials that can lead to decay and staining.
Inspections
A monthly walk-around should become part of your routine. Look for loose boards, signs of water damage, or areas of compromised structure.
Apply a Protective Seal
Ensuring your fence is properly sealed with a protective coat will fortify it against weather and exposure, significantly extending its life span.
When to Call in Reinforcements
Despite your best efforts, there will be tasks beyond your expertise. A professional fence company can handle repairs and refinishing, ensuring the job is done right. Here are the situations where it’s better to call in the pros rather than trying to DIY it:
Restoration: When the damage to your fence is more than cosmetic, it’s time to take action. Loose or leaning posts, extensive rot, or termite damage are all signs it’s time for a restoration.
Painting and Staining: If you’re tackling a full staining or painting job, professionals will have the right equipment and expertise to do it efficiently and effectively.
Customization Care: For those with custom fences, intricate designs, or specific materials, specialized maintenance may be necessary. A professional can do wonders in preserving the unique aspects of your fence.
Maintain Your Fence’s Aesthetics and Value
A fence with peeling paint, moldy spots, or structural issues can detract significantly from your property’s curb appeal and the first impression it makes. Meanwhile, a well-cared-for fence is an asset that increases the value of your home. It communicates to potential buyers that you’ve taken care of your entire property, signaling that they can expect the same level of care across the board.
Your fence is a silent sentinel, and maintaining it is more than just keeping up appearances; it’s about preserving an important part of your property’s integrity. By following these tips and being proactive in your approach, you can enjoy the benefits of a beautiful, long-lasting fence for many years to come. And if you ever need a little more help in keeping your fence in tip-top shape, give Strategic Fence a call to help with all your fencing needs.