Fencing around your yard can elevate curb appeal and the value of your home, but will it have the same effect if your fence is dirty or beaten up? Getting a fence is simple, but upkeep is important for longevity and aesthetic appeal. If you want to get your fence back to the shape it once was, here are a few tips!
Clean Your Fence
Cleaning your fence can seem daunting, especially if you have a large property. However, following these cleaning tips one by one can help eliminate the thought of a big project by breaking it down into smaller steps.
Pressure Washing
Pressure washing is a great option for cleaning your fence. It can help by removing dirt, moss, and any other build-up that could have accumulated. If you own a pressure washer, you can clean your fence in sections to make the process easier. If you do not own a pressure washer, you can rent one from Lowe’s or Home Depot.
Weed Pulling
When walking around a fence line, you might notice unwanted greenery growing on or around your fence. Taking the time to remove weeds and vines will help with its appearance. It can also help with its durability by stopping root growth from going under the fence, which can damage the base.
Checking Gates and Hardware
Once or twice a year, you should check the gates and hardware on your fence to ensure everything is in working order. Getting replacements as soon as possible instead of waiting will stop any further damage that may occur.
Make Minor Fence Repairs
If you use your gate often or spend a lot of time near the fence, small damages might come up. If you can fix the minor damage, it is best to tackle it quickly before it requires a professional. Some damages can be easily fixed, while others can be difficult. Here are a few examples that you may come across.
Post Repair
The most common fence repair is replacing wooden posts. These posts keep the fence standing upright and are the anchor point for the fencing to grab onto. Replacing a wooden fence post is a simple task that can be done with one to two people.
Rot
Wooden fences are susceptible to damage due to the moisture accumulation. When moisture builds up, certain materials, especially wood, can easily lose their strength and rot over time. If you live in a wetter climate, it is important to regularly check your wooden fences to see if they are rotting away due to rain or snow.
Insect & Animal Damage
Not only can the elements damage your fence, but so can wildlife. Bugs may find refuge in the existing cracks of your fence, or they might eat away at it to make themselves a new home. Whatever the case is, wildlife is unpredictable, and anything can happen to your fence at any time.
No matter how your fence got damaged, if caught in time, replacements to posts and small sections of your fence can be fixed on your own accord. If you wait too long, the damage may exceed your capabilities and a professional will need to be called.
Be Proactive
Taking the time and effort to maintain your fence results in not just a good-looking fence, but one that will last you a long time. If you have any questions or concerns about your fence maintenance, give us a call! The team at Rugged Fence is always happy to help.
