How Long Does Wood Fencing Last?
Pre-treatment
Wood fencing should be treated to prevent moisture damage and to resist UV rays. Many homeowners apply paint or stain to protect the wood. The stain can last for anywhere from one to eight years, depending on the level of opacity. For the best results, use a high-quality exterior-grade paint. Avoid interior-grade paints, which will not last as long.
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Wood that has been pressure-treated will last longer than untreated wood. It is also more resistant to insects and moisture. You can buy pressure-treated lumber from a home improvement store or hire a fence installation company to install it. To ensure that the lumber has been properly treated, look for a tag on the lumber. You can also check out AWPA’s brochure on proper pressure-treatment.
Staining
Staining wood fencing is a great way to give your fence a fresh new look. However, you must consider a few things before beginning. First, you need to make sure the wood is completely dry. It’s important to test the fence before staining, since if you have a fence that’s still wet, you may not be able to apply the stain properly. Secondly, you need to wait for at least 24 hours after staining.
Ideally, you should use a pressure washer before staining wood fencing. Renting a power washer costs about $45 a day and will remove any debris on the fence. You should also clear the area around the fence of any plant overgrowth. If you’re working on a fence that’s close to a concrete walkway, you should also cover it with a drop cloth.
Maintenance
Wood fencing requires routine maintenance in order to look its best and last longer. It may need to be stained or sealed at regular intervals. As with other home systems, annual inspections are important for wood fencing. A little effort on the part of the owner can help prevent costly repairs. In addition to regular inspections, it is best to clean the wood at least once a year. For dirtier areas, you can use an oxygen bleach solution.
Sealing and cleaning the wood of your fence will help protect it from rotting and other damage caused by weather. If the wood is not painted, consider using a water-repellent or wood-preserved sealant. Sealing will also fix cracks and enhance the appearance of your fence. Lastly, it is important to clean the wood of your fence every two to three years to remove mildew, moss, and dirt. To clean the wood, use a pressure washer and a long-handled brush. Also, do not forget to clean where the fence meets the ground.
Common causes of damage
Water can cause rot and mildew on wood fences, so it is important to regularly inspect and treat your wood fence to prevent further damage. If it appears that the wood is becoming unappealing, you can use a pressure washer to remove the mildew, and use a protective stain to protect the wood. If the damage is already done, you may need to replace the fence boards.
Insects may also cause damage by burrowing into the wood. If you notice any cracks or holes in your fence, repair them immediately. A loose board can pose a safety risk to anyone walking or playing on it. Broken panels should also be replaced as soon as possible, as they can cause additional damage to other parts of the fence. If you can, replace missing or damaged panels with panels made from the same wood that was used to construct the fence.
Cost of replacing fence
If your wood fencing is starting to look a little tired or deteriorate, it may be time to consider replacing it. Cypress fencing is a great choice for its longevity and low cost – about $6 to $12 per linear foot. Cypress is an incredibly hard wood that is naturally resistant to insects, decay, and corrosion. And because it produces a natural preservative called cypressene, cypress fencing tends to last a long time.
There are many factors that will affect the cost of your new fence. The type of wood you select, the style and the material you use will all affect the price. Adding ornaments to your fence will add visual appeal, but will add to the overall cost.
