What Goes into Maintaining a Wood Fence? Insights from a Fencing Company in Lake Bluff, Illinois

All fencing materials require some level of maintenance. However, the material that requires the most maintenance is wood. As a property owner, it’s important to know what you’re getting yourself into before installing a wood fence.

To help you make an informed decision, this fencing company in Lake Bluff, Illinois is going to discuss some of the things you should know about maintaining a wood fence.

Cleaning the Fence

As with all fencing materials, the primary step to maintaining a wood fence is cleaning it. This should be done every six months or so if you want to keep the fence in pristine condition. If you fail to clean your fence regularly, it will eventually start to stain and take on a worn-down and weather-beaten appearance.

What does wood fence cleaning entail? In most cases, it just involves wiping the fence down with a soapy rag. You could substitute the soapy rag with a pressure washer if you have one.

That said, if there’s algae growing on your wood fence, you should also be sure to apply some sort of anti-algae solution. For instance, you might apply a white vinegar solution, as it’s known to eliminate even the smallest traces of algae.

You might also have to use a brush on certain areas, as residual buildup can be difficult to remove otherwise. If you do use a brush, be mindful of how hard you’re scrubbing. Applying too much pressure with too rough a brush could cause the wood to become rough, which could alter its look and functionality.

Painting the Fence

Not only should you clean the fence, but you should also paint the fence. Painting needs to be done every five years or so to prevent the color from fading. The good news is that you can decide on a new color during every painting session. This means you can get a lot of different looks out of your wood fence.

When applying paint, your fencing company in Lake Bluff, Illinois will recommend using an acrylic latex paint. This offers a bit of a moisture barrier and will keep your fence safe from water damage. In addition, be sure to apply at least two coats of paint. If you don’t, the fence will not possess a uniform color.

Sealing the Fence

In addition to painting the fence, you should also seal the fence. A sealer is a liquid substance that you spread over a fence. Once it dries, it protects the fence from water damage.

If you don’t regularly apply a sealer to your fence, it will wear down before its time. This is because excess water damage causes wood to warp. Once it’s warped, it can’t be returned to its prime state.

Make Minor Repairs

Every so often, your fence is going to encounter damage. Maybe one of its posts will become cracked? Perhaps panels will start to loosen from their nails? Regardless, when this damage arises, it’s important to tend to it quickly.

If you don’t, it will spread and affect other parts of the fence. Once it starts to do this, you’ll have to pay a fencing company in Lake Bluff, Illinois to have it fixed. It’s best to inspect your fence every six months or so, and make repairs as needed.

Looking for a Fencing Company in Lake Bluff, Illinois?

Do you need help maintaining your wood fence? Looking to partner with the top-rated fencing company in Lake Bluff, Illinois? If so, look no further than the team at Action Fence.

Our crew has installed and maintained countless wood fences in the Lake Bluff area and beyond. Regardless of your fencing needs, we have you covered. Contact us today at (847) 949-6690 to learn how we can help.