Close your eyes and think of your backyard as your own personal kingdom. Your wooden fence is its protector. This fence provides privacy, is great for pets, and increases the beauty of your home. But like any loyal guard, it needs a little care. Wood fences have a lot of enemies, including the sun’s ultraviolet rays, water in all forms, and insects that never seem to tire of turning the wood into their next meal. Left unchecked, these threats can cause that beautiful fence of yours to age and start to look dilapidated, sag, or even fall apart. The good news is that you don’t need an architectural degree to be able to keep your fence looking good and standing strong for years to come. There are some habits you can implement to make a huge difference.

Water Damage

Water is one of the greatest enemies of any wood fence. Rain, snow, and even sprinklers that spray too close can lead to rot, warping, and mildew on wood from an excess of moisture. Imagine a sponge that remains wet all the time. Pretty soon, it falls apart.

To prevent this, consider where water pools around your fence, and then work to improve drainage there. Also, make sure to point the sprinklers at the lawn and not give the fence posts a good morning soaking.

A second key action you can take is to be sure you have good protection on your fence. When you add a fresh coat of waterproof stain or sealant every few years, you provide protection from water damage. This shield is critical because after wood begins to decay, the rot tends to spread fast.

Pests and Plant Problems

In addition to water, little critters and plants can also do their own damage to your fence. For instance, termites are especially known for liking to chew up wood. If they make their way into your fence, they can bring on some serious structural damage before you even realize that they’re there. Inspect your fence periodically for small holes or crumbling wood, which may be signs of unwanted visitors.

Another common problem is plants that are too close. While it may seem interesting to see ivy climbing up a fence, it can actually damage the wood with its roots. The leaves hold moisture against the wood and can cause it to rot. Trim bushes and trees a couple of feet away from the fence line. Taking this measure maximizes airflow, which makes it easier for the wood to dry out after it rains.

Sun and Dirt Can Bring About Wear and Tear

Strong UV rays from the sun can cause the color of your fence to fade over time. Extreme heat can also split wood. Clean your fence on a regular basis to remove dirt and grime to maintain its appearance and ensure the protective coating can adequately do its job.

In addition to following these tips, you should have your fence professionally inspected. A professional can spot problems quickly and efficiently and fix them before they become monumental. To preserve and protect the wood fence around your Commerce City, CO property, contact the pros at R O Fence Services today.