A fence is a significant investment for your home and property, and you want to make it last as long as possible. Although our Toronto fence company installs fences that are built to last, wood is a natural product that will eventually be affected by the elements. Performing regular maintenance routines will help to ensure the longevity of your Toronto wood fence.
The fence experts at Standard Fencing have put together a list of tips on how to maintain your wood fence to extend its lifespan for as long as possible, and to get the most out of your investment.
Inspect Your Toronto Wood Fence Yearly for Damage or Repairs
It’s a good idea to take a walk around your yard at least once a year, thoroughly inspecting your wood fence and noting any damage you see or repairs that need to be done. Look for any deterioration or rot, replacing any boards that are in need. Look for cracks or splits in the wood that may be caused by moisture. Fix these areas using a wood filler or wood glue to seal the damage and prevent any further deterioration.
If there is any chipped or peeling paint or hardware that may be loose or damaged, be sure to note the areas that need repainting and tighten or add lubrication to the hardware as required. Being proactive and addressing these problems throughout the year will help prevent them from becoming bigger issues in the future.
Keep Your Fence Dry and Free of Landscape and Debris
Minimizing your fence’s exposure to moisture will help prolong the life of your Toronto wood fence. Always leave plenty of space between your fence and any bushes or shrubs. This will ensure plenty of airflow which will help lessen the chance of mold and mildew buildup. Keeping leaves from accumulating around the fence is an easy way to prevent moisture build-up. By trimming any low-lying tree limbs that hang over the fence, you will ensure that they won’t fall and cause any damage. Preemptive measures to clean up the area around your fence will go a long way in avoiding potential damage.
Cleaning Your Toronto Wood Fence Can Make it Look New Again
Cleaning your wood fence is simple if you first determine the source of the stain and then use the appropriate cleaning procedure and equipment to remove it.
Before you begin, first identify what you are trying to clean. Some common stains include
- Green algae: you might notice green algae growing in shady areas that don’t get much sun, like behind trees or plants.
- Dirt and debris: This includes everything from soil, mud, and grass clippings.
- Water stains: If your sprinkler water has a high iron or mineral content, it can leave your fence stained.
- Mold and mildew: Wood is a natural product, and therefore is prone to mold or mildew forming on it, especially in wet or humid conditions.
If the dirt buildup, grime, or mildew on your fence is minimal, rinsing it with a strong spray from the hose and a gentle cleanser may be enough. Begin by soaking your fence with a hose to open up the wood grain and rinse away any dirt or debris. The cleanser should then be applied on the fence and allowed to rest for about ten minutes. Use a wire brush to remove any buildup or stubborn stains before rinsing, and your fence should be looking great in no time!
Often a pressure washer can do the trick but be sure not to use anything more than 1500-2000 PSI on wood fences, and using an angular tip to fan out the water spray is a good idea. The more frequently you check for any buildup on your fence, the easier it will be to keep it from developing into larger, more stubborn stains later on.
Protect and Refresh your Fence with Stain or Paint
Wood fences generally need to be restained or repainted every two to three years to keep them protected and looking new. Take a look at your wood fence to evaluate the condition of the surface and decided if it’s time to recoat your wood fence.
Painting a fence can be less expensive than staining, but may require more maintenance in the long run. To protect your fence from UV rays and moisture, painting it with breathable, waterproof exterior paint followed by a water-repellant sealant will keep it looking good as new.
Staining can be more expensive, but over time, may last longer as the stain absorbs into the wood and therefore won’t chip or peel like paint. If you would like more tips or information about painting or staining your fence, reach out to our Toronto fence Company experts. We’re happy to answer any questions you may have!
Contact the Best Toronto Fence Company for Expert Advice
Standard Fencing is a top-rated fence company in the Toronto area and our experts are here to answer your questions about maintaining your fence. Or maybe you’re considering a brand-new fence and would like to use our instant fence quote tool for more information. Whatever your needs, our friendly and knowledgeable staff at Standard Fence would be happy to talk with you, so contact us today! Let us show you what great service in Toronto looks like! Give us a call at (647) 417-4805 or reach out to us on our website today!