You took the time in the fall to prepare your fence, ensuring it would survive the winter and be ready for spring rain and summer fun. But the summer season is not the time to neglect that fence. Regular care and attention will keep your fence in top condition.
Fence experts agree that regular care is the key to getting many years of service from a fence, whether it is wood, vinyl, or aluminum. Any fence can be vulnerable to storm damage, an accident, or extreme heat, so a few tips for avoiding premature failure can be a big help.
Keep your fence clean
A wipe down in the fall prepped your fence for winter. Early spring likely saw you out again scrubbing down your wood or vinyl fence to remove winter dirt and any mildew that may have developed from the damp winter conditions. Summer will inevitably bring pollen build-up and dirt spatters from spring downpours, so schedule regular cleanings throughout the summer to keep your fence at its best and prevent mold growth during those humid days. Mild soap and a gentle scrub brush will work for wood and vinyl fences, or power washing for vinyl and aluminum fencing provides quick cleaning.
Inspect for damage
While heavy snow and snow-removal equipment are top candidates for causing fence damage, issues can arise at any time. Walk the length of your fence frequently during the summer months to catch signs of wear, loose sections, and damage from a fallen limb or blowing debris. Catching problems early and performing timely repairs will keep damage from becoming more extensive and help you avoid expensive fixes later.
Your regular inspections should include checking for rust on metal fencing and metal fixtures, including hinges, gate latches, and fasteners. Keeping hinges, latches, and all metal hardware lubricated is your best protection against rust.
Beat the heat
When it comes to heat you need to protect your fence from summer sun and from the ever-popular summer activity of grilling. For wood fences, a quality sealant applied early in the season is a great choice to protect it from UV rays that can prematurely age and dry the wood.
For those situations where your grill is in close proximity to your wood or vinyl fence, consider purchasing a fireproof heat shield to protect your fence from radiating heat and from stray embers. Keep a close eye on your fence throughout the summer to be sure it is sufficiently protected.
Take care with landscaping
A fence can make a lovely backdrop for a flower bed or a few shrubs but take care that the area drains well and that shrubs are kept well-trimmed. Excess moisture around fencing can encourage mold growth and premature rotting of posts. Meanwhile, shrubs that become overgrown can scratch and even press against the fence, compromising its integrity. If you choose to create a flower bed adjacent to your fence, check it frequently for these potential issues and touch up scratches on painted fences to prevent moisture from seeping into the wood.
Hire an exterminator
Ants, carpenter bees, termites, and burrowing rodents can do a lot of damage to your fence before you notice them. If you even suspect pests in and around your fenced area, professional pest control is your best means of preventing the damage they can cause.
If you need tips for protecting your fence or help with fence repairs for your wood, vinyl, or aluminum fence, contact Thomas Fence today. In the market for a new fence? Call us for an estimate and efficient, professional installation.