Protecting your wooden fence from rain and sun is essential. A wall benefits the family; it provides a safe space for children and pets and increases curb appeal. Protecting and maintaining your wall can add up to 15 years to the fence’s life.
Many things can damage your wood fence, especially if you don’t notice it. The wind can throw dirt and objects, and fungi and microorganisms can infiltrate and cause problems by rotting the wood. However, the most common are sun and rain.
Sun
The sun is most damaging in hot, sunny areas. Like your skin, the sun finds a way through the clouds and cold to cause trouble on your fence.
• UV Rays: Ultraviolet light causes discoloration and aging of your wood fence.
• Overheating: Heat from the sun causes wood to expand and contract.
• Cracks: When the sun causes the wood to expand, splinters and cracks form. Cracks expose the internal fibers to problems such as dry rot.
Rain
Rain is responsible for the most common problems with wooden fences. The water from the sky is essential for us; however, it can be very insidious for walls.
• Fungi: Fungi that grow in damp environments cause rot and damage the fence.
• Mold: Mold and mildew flourish in damp areas. Mold is harmless, but it is unsightly and will trigger allergies. Mold can affect the health of nearby plants, animals, and humans.
• Bacteria: Various species of bacteria feed on the wood or act as decomposers. They break down wood for other microorganisms to consume.
How Do I Maintain My Wooden Fence?
Maintaining your fence is essential to protecting your fence investment. To keep your wall looking its best, clean, repair, paint, and preserve paint and stain.
Clean Your Fence
Cleaning your fence removes dirt, buildup, and microorganisms before they can cause damage. Here is how to do it.
Repair Your Fence
Reproducing cracks and damage as soon as you see it is essential. Damage to your fence exposes the inner fibers.
Keep Stain And Paint
Professionals recommend repainting every two to three years and repainting every one to three years. Aspects such as the quality of the wood, the weather, the color, and regular cleaning will all contribute to the longevity of the paint and stain.