Fences are usually fairly simple to maintain. In fact, the most complex thing about your fence is actually its surface. Though you may need to occasionally repair a squeaky gate or even nail in a missing slat, the surface of your fence is going to directly impact its longevity. Here's everything that you need to know.
Fence Treatments
Wood fences are generally pre-treated before being installed. A fence treatment helps the fence resist humidity and water, thereby preventing it from shrinking or expanding too significantly. Fences that are not treated will shrink and swell, eventually causing the wood to buckle, pop, or break. Occasionally a fence may be installed before being treated. If this happens, the wood has to be treated as soon as possible. Older fences may also need to be treated again.
Fence Cleaning
Most fences can be cleaned with a power washing tool. You will need to be very careful to use the right pressure and to use the tool properly -- it should be swept slowly from top to bottom and should never remain in the same place for a long period of time.
Fence Painting
Painting a fence will completely alter its appearance in addition to hiding any minor imperfections. Painting is commonly used to dramatically alter the color of a fence, which cannot be achieved through staining. The downside to painting is that it is harder to maintain then staining because it can chip off and become damaged. Painting a fence will also take longer than staining it because the area has to be prepped. There are outdoor spray paints, however, that can be fairly easy to apply.
Fence Staining
Staining is the most common type of surfacing for a fence. A stain will be able to tint a fence a certain shade and may be able to make the fence darker as well. A stain won't protect the wood as much as paint might, but it also won't flake off or chip the way that paint will. Staining may need to be done multiple times to get the desired color, but once it sets it will usually be fairly permanent. Over time, staining may need to be repeated to refresh the color.
A professional like Gatlin Fence Company will be able to give you more information on the treatments and surfacing your fence needs. Most low maintenance fences simply need a regularly cleaning and an occasional staining -- but different types of wood may need additional protection.
Share20 January 2017
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