If you’re wondering how to maintain your wooden fence so it serves you well and continues to look great for years to come, this article is for you. Maintaining a wooden fence isn’t always as difficult or as time-consuming as many people think, even when you’re up against the challenging British weather. At RTC Fencing, we are always here for you when you require professional fencing contractors in Nottingham. Read on to discover our top tips for wooden fence maintenance.
Carry out regular cleaning
Clean your wooden fence on a regular basis to remove dirt, moss and mildew. We recommend using a mix of mild detergent and water. Alternatively, you could seek out a specialist wood cleaner. Scrub the fence with a brush and rinse it thoroughly.
Inspect your fence for damage
Every so often, inspect your fence for signs of damage. These may include loose boards, splinters or rot. Repair or replace any damaged sections as quickly as you can to prevent further deterioration.
Apply wood preservative
Another great way to keep your wooden fence in good condition is to treat it with a wood preservative. This will help you to protect the fence from rot, insects and decay. Use a preservative that’s suitable for outdoor use and is compatible with the kind of wood your fence is made from. Make sure you follow the manufacturer’s instructions.
Seal or stain the fence
You could also consider applying a sealant or wood stain to protect your wood from moisture and UV rays. This will boost the appearance of your fence and give it an extra layer of protection. Make sure you are using a product that is specifically designed for exterior wood.
Weatherproof your fence
In countries like the UK where downpours are frequent, it’s vital to weatherproof your wooden fence. You can do this with a waterproof sealant or paint. Again, ensure the product you opt for is a good match for exterior wood.
Trim back vegetation
If there are any plants, vines or overhanging branches near your fence, trim these back. The purpose of this is to prevent the buildup of moisture, reduce the risk of rot and make it easier for you to maintain the fence.
Reapply products when necessary
How often you’ll need to maintain your fence and apply products like sealant can depend on various factors. These factors can include the kind of wood you’re working with, your local weather conditions and the efficiency of the products themselves. Many people find they only need to reapply products like preservatives and sealants every year or two.
Why is it so important to maintain your wooden fence?
Now you know more about how to maintain your wooden fence, you may be wondering why it’s so important to take good care of it in the first place. If you don’t carry out regular maintenance of your fence, its condition could start to deteriorate very quickly. Wooden fences can add to the curb appeal of your property, however, they can look very unsightly if they don’t receive the maintenance that they require.
The UK weather can cause a great deal of damage to wooden fences. These fences can be very vulnerable to damage from moisture, which can cause them to rot and decay quickly if you don’t maintain them well. Temperature fluctuations and high humidity can also have a negative impact on the condition of your fence. Maintaining your fence will prolong its life and ensure you don’t have to replace it just a few years after installation.
Pest prevention
If damaged wood is left untreated, it can attract pests including termites and wood-boring insects. Regular maintenance including the application of preservatives can deter these pests and help you prevent infestations which may compromise the quality and integrity of your wooden fence.
Cost savings
Another reason why it’s so important to maintain your fence well is that it can help you save money. It’s much more cost-effective to carry out proactive maintenance than to replace a fence. Small repairs and treatments over time can prevent the need for major repairs or entire replacements. These can be very expensive.
Maintain the structural integrity of the fence
Carrying out regular maintenance will also protect the structural integrity of the fence. Regular inspections enable you to identify and address issues before they worsen. This ensures that your fence can continue to serve its intended purpose effectively.
Maintain property boundaries and security
Fences are often used to define property boundaries and can make your home or business premises more secure. By maintaining your fence well, you can ensure it continues to act as a barrier. A well-maintained fence can prevent unauthorised access and enhance the security of your property.
Fencing contractors in Nottingham
At RTC, we are widely regarded as the leading fencing contractors in Nottingham. We have been in the business for many years and are able to offer first-class fencing services for both residential and commercial clients. All of our staff have received full training, have CSCS cards and work directly for us. This ensures the work will be completed not only to the highest standard but on time. The closeboard and panel fences that we install are carefully designed to ensure they last for several years, making them a fantastic investment.
Contact us
If you’re unsure how to maintain a wooden fence, talk to our team today. As professional fencing contractors in Nottingham, we can provide you with the expert advice that you need. You can reach us by calling us on 0800 086 2517 or by completing the form on our site. We will get back to you as quickly as we can.
