How to Maintain your Wooden Fence

You’ve invested a lot of time and money into your yard, now it’s time to maintain it. With the correct care and precautions, you can help your fence last for decades. Here are some easy things you can do to maintain your wooden fence:

Avoid Dry and Wet Rot

The most common type of rot, dry rot, is when water makes the wood loose and the protective oils within it escape. This causes the wood to dry out, become brittle, and break down.

Wet rot occurs when the wood is in constant contact with moisture, typically at the base of the fence post where it meets the ground. 

Both of these types of rots can be extremely problematic for the life of your fence. Luckily, there are some things you can do to prevent them. 

Stain Your Fence 

The most important step to fence maintenance is staining it immediately after installation. Without the bark to protect the surface of the wood, it is extremely vulnerable to the elements and needs a protective layer to last long term. The oils found within a stain replace the stripped protective oils of the wood and seal them in. For the most long-lasting fence, consider staining once every year. 

Keep it Clean 

Another important step in fence maintenance is to clear away debris from the fence, especially along the bottom. When leaves build up, they trap moisture, which leads to wet rot and a perfect new home for the local termites. 

In need of a fence upgrade? Texas Fence and Iron aims to deliver our clients with durable fencing for years to come. Give us a call today to explore our product options!