Do you want your beautiful wood fences to last? Proper maintenance is key to getting the most durability and longevity from your investment. According to HGTV, with proper maintenance and care, your wood fence can last up to 20 years without needing a significant replacement. Check out these handy wood fence care tips to keep your boundary looking its best.

1. Inspect for Damage

Make it a habit to regularly walk the perimeter of your wood fence and inspect for any damage. Look for loose or missing pickets, posts that are leaning, rotten or split wood, loose hardware, and sagging or detached gates. Address any issues right away to prevent further deterioration. Replace problematic pickets and posts, so they don’t compromise the integrity of your fence.

2. Seal the Wood

Applying a protective sealant to your wood fence helps repel water while blocking UV rays from the sun. This preserves the wood and prevents cracking, rotting, and graying. Use a high-quality fence sealant meant for exterior wood. Follow the product instructions for proper application and drying time. Reapply the sealant every 1 to 2 years. Sealed wood will stand up better to the elements.

3. Clear Vegetation

Don’t let plants crowd your wood fence. Vines, shrubs, and tree branches near the fence can scrape the wood, dislodge pickets, and even uproot posts. Routinely trim back any vegetation growing on or near your wood fences. Clear some space between plants and your wooden boundary. This allows airflow and gives your fence room.

4. Tighten Hardware

Outdoor vibration from weather and animals can loosen the bolts, screws, nails, and brackets on your wood fence. Check these hardware connections periodically and tighten them as needed. Proper hardware tightness improves stability and prevents safety hazards. Invest in quality galvanized or coated hardware.

With some diligent care and maintenance, your wood fences will keep your yard safely enclosed for years of enjoyment. Repair issues promptly and apply protective treatments. Your wood fence is a big investment. Maintaining it properly will pay off in enhanced longevity, performance, and aesthetics. Follow these tips to get the most from your fence. If you need a new fence installation, let us help you. Give Cedar Fence Supply NW a call now to get started.