Wood fences are beautiful and provide privacy and protection for your property. Homeowners should inspect their fences regularly to check for signs of trouble. A little bit of routine maintenance goes a long way toward preventing costly repairs in the future. Here are some maintenance tips for each of the four seasons.
Spring
Heavy winds during this time of year can blow debris up against your fence. Leaves accumulating along your fence can lead to mold, mildew and rot. Get out your trusty rake, and remove those leaves, branches and other debris. It’s also a good idea to quickly wash away any dirt and grime that have built up on your fence. After winter’s chill, warmer weather makes it an ideal time to apply a protective stain or sealant.
Summer
The summer heat can cause your wooden fence to dry out and crack. If you’ve skipped staining in the spring, now is the time to do it. Inspect your fence regularly in the summer to look for warping, cracking and peeling paint. When you mow the lawn, ensure no weeds, trees or vines are growing against your fence. The area under your fence is inaccessible for your mower and becomes a safe space for weed trees to sprout.
Fall
Fall maintenance is similar to spring maintenance. Leaves and the moisture they trap will be your fence’s biggest enemies. Keep these away from the fence line, and once again, keep vegetation trimmed and away from the wood. Always be on the lookout for infestations from termites and other pests. You may want to install a gutter system to draw water away from your fence.
Winter
Winter can be a difficult time for fence maintenance. Make sure all tree limbs are trimmed near your fence. The accumulation of ice on tree limbs can cause them to break during winter. Falling branches can easily take out whole sections of your fence. Snow and ice can also cause swelling of the fence due to the extra moisture getting into the wood. Fence lines are common places for snowbanks to form, too. It’s time to trade in your rake for a snow shovel.
Is It Time for a New Wood Fence?
No matter how well you maintain a fence, there will come a day when it needs replacing. Perhaps you’re planning on buying your first fence and are reading this to learn about routine maintenance. Regardless of your situation, it pays to hire a reputable company with expert installers. If you need a new wood fence in Moss Point, MS or a nearby Gulf Coast community, contact Premium Fence Company for residential installation.
