7 Steps to Protecting Your Wood Fencing
Wood fencing is a great addition to any property. It can help add privacy and add beauty to any yard, but it can also deteriorate if not properly taken care of. Fortunately, there are many steps you can take to keep your wood fence in great condition.
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1. Prevent Sun Damage and Graying
The first step to preventing graying is to slow down the process. Just as you would apply sunscreen to your skin to protect it from UV rays, you can apply wood stain or a wood preserver to the wood in your fence to delay graying.
- Choose the Right Wood – The most durable and long-lasting woods for fencing are redwood, spruce, cedar, pine, and fir. These types of woods are naturally resistant to rot and mold, making them the best choices for your fence.
3. Maintain Your Fence Every Two to Three Years
Regardless of the type of wood your fence is made from, it should be cleaned and stained or sealed every two to three years to prevent rotting and other damage. This will also extend the life of your fence by preventing dirt, moss and mildew from growing on it.
4. Make Small Repairs When Needed
Almost all problems with a wood fence can be fixed with simple repairs, like replacing damaged boards, refastening loose boards and countersinking protruding nails. Use waterproof glue to repair any split or broken pieces.
- Minimize Water Intrusion – The most important thing you can do for your wood fence is to minimize its exposure to moisture. This can be achieved by trimming back bushes and vines that hang over your fence or by adjusting sprinklers so they don’t wet the wood.
- Re-Seal Your Fence – Every few years, your fence should be resealed to seal the gaps that can allow water to penetrate it and cause rot and other damage. This will prolong the life of your fence and make it look good as new again!
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Clean and Stain or Seal Your Fence Once a Year
Using a pressure washer and a good fence cleaner, you can remove grime from your fence. This will open up the pores of the wood and leave it ready to receive a coat of stain or a protective coating that will help it last longer.
- Choose the Right Fence Stain – The right wood fence stain can protect your wood and add color to your fence. It can also block UV rays and precipitation that could cause fading and peeling.
If you’re looking for a simple, easy-to-apply, and long-lasting fence stain, try Ready-Seal Natural Cedar Exterior Wood Stain and Sealer (view on Amazon). It has a semi-transparent formula that provides excellent protection against rain and the sun’s harmful rays.
This oil-based formula is available in a variety of shades and is a great choice for both hard and softwoods. It also has excellent resistance to mold, algae, and UV rays.
