A wood fence can enhance your Springfield, VA home’s curb appeal and provide security. However, a wood fence can soon become an eyesore without the proper maintenance. With a little TLC every year, you can extend the life of your wood fence on your property in Springfield, VA.
If you are just now considering building a wood fence, now is the time to think about what is involved in keeping your fence in the best shape. Cedar and redwood are great choices because they resist rot and decay. Pressure–treated wood is an excellent choice because it is pretreated to last. Pressure–treated lumber is infused with certain chemicals that help keep bugs and water from damaging the wood.
Once your wood fence is installed, you should wait at least a year before staining or painting so that the wood and chemicals are allowed to dry out. If you don’t let it completely dry, you will end up sealing in moisture, leading to decay and rot. Pressure–treated wood is also protected from termites and fungal decay. With that said, it is still subject to shrinking, swelling, warping, and cracking, so essential maintenance for your wood fence at your home in Springfield, VA, every two to three years is critical for extending the life of your wood fence.
Take a walk around the perimeter of your wood fence once a year to check for signs of rot or other damage. Replace any broken boards and hammer loose nails or tighten any loose screws. Ensure each section of your wood fence in Springfield, VA, is securely attached to the next section. If your fence is leaning, check to see if the posts are seated firmly in the ground. Any posts in bad condition should be replaced as soon as possible or could cause more damage to your fence.
Remember to check the locks and hinges on any gates to ensure they are secure and line up correctly. Any cracks or splits can be fixed with waterproof wood glue to seal the damage. This prevents moisture from worsening any further.
After a thorough cleaning, generally with a power washer, reseal or repaint your fence every couple of years to maintain its beauty and extend the life of your wood fence on your property in Springfield, VA.
If you are looking for a fence company to maintain your fence for you, call the team at Hal Co Fence, and they will be glad to give you an estimate for any damages and upkeep to keep your wood fence in Springfield, VA, functional and appealing to the eye.