October 12, 2009
5 Tips For Maintaining Your Wooden Fencing
If you want a decorative barrier around your garden then installing wooden fencing should be considered. However if not cared for properly it will soon look out of condition. So before you do decide to install this kind of fencing take into account how much you will need to spend each year on maintaining it. If you are unwilling to spend the money needed to care for your wooden fencing then in a few years you may have to spend even more on completely replacing it.
You can if you want employ someone to maintain the fence for you but again this will cost and so most homeowners will rather do this work themselves. In this article we offer some tips which you may find helpful in relation to caring for your wooden fencing properly.
Tip 1 ” It is important that every few months you go over the fence and check to see if there is any damage such as the wood splintering or the paint/stain peeling or mould growing on it. Plus look to make sure that no insects or birds have chosen to build nests in or on your fence.
As you inspect the fence look for any signs that termites have taken up residence in the wood. If you do notice any such infestations make sure that you treat the problem as quickly as you can. You have the choice of either doing the work yourself or to employ a professional. Professionals do cost but they have the right sort of equipment that will be able to treat your infestation more quickly and effectively.
Tip 2 – When you are inspecting your wooden fencing make sure that you rectify any problems relating to rough or protruding wood otherwise someone may be injured should they land against it. To get rid of these types of problems take some sandpaper and gently rub it over the area until it has been removed.
Tip 3 – If you intend to paint your fence then make sure that you retouch it every 2 years or so. Just as before you should inspect the fence and where paint has begun to flake or chip remove this and ensure that the surface underneath is smooth. This will help the new layer of paint adhere to the wood better. Also it is a good idea before applying the new coat of paint to apply a protective coating to the wood.
Tip 4 – If you are intending to paint your newly installed fence then choose a colour that complements or matches other colours within your garden design. However, if you don’t like colour then use a natural stain on your fencing instead. It doesn’t matter which you use both offer ample protection to your fence from the elements throughout the year.
Tip 5 – When you apply any type of stain or paint to a wooden fence you must read the instructions provided by the manufacturer of the product and follow them correctly. Also it is a good idea to let the first initial coat of paint or stain to dry completely before apply any more as this will ensure that you apply it evenly over the whole of the fence.
Above we have provided several tips on how to care for wooden fencing properly once is has been installed. If you do use these then the fence you have installed will look good and last for many years to come.
Filed under Garden Furniture by Patrick Rogers