Protect your wooden fence from rot.
Two of the biggest threats to wooden fencing are wood rot and insect infestation. Rotting and insect infestations won’t just damage the way that your wooden fence looks, they will also damage the structure of the fence. While almost every wooden fence will rot relatively quickly if left alone, there are many things you can to prevent your wooden fence from rotting. Here are some of our most effective tips to prevent your wooden fence from having a problem with rot.
Wet Rot vs. Dry Rot
The first thing you should know about your wooden fence is that it can suffer from wet rot or dry rot. Wet rot occurs when your wooden fence is regularly exposed to moisture. This typically starts at the bottom of the fence, where posts are in the ground. Wet rot typically appears as cracking and softening. You might be able to smell a musty smell or see fungus growing as well. Dry rot is caused by the opposite—a wooden fence that is frequently exposed to dry and harsh environments. The sun and heat can actually dry out your wooden fence and zap the protective oils from within. Dry rot shows up as dry, brittle, or crumbling portions of a wooden fence.
Choose the Right Material
One of the best ways to prevent your wooden fence from rot is by properly planning ahead. Choose the right wooden fencing material with the lowest chances of rot. Some of the hardiest types of wood include cedar, juniper, redwood, and cypress. Some of the most popular types of wooden fences are actually not very rot-resistant at all (pine, Douglas fir, and tamarack).
Stain Your Wooden Fence
Staining and painting are two of the best ways to combat wooden fence rot. Stain your wooden fence at least once a year to keep it protected from excess moisture and seal good oils in. Not sure if your wooden fence is due for a new stain? Spray it with water and see if it beads on the surface. If it does, you don’t need new stain.
Choose Hercules Fence Richmond!
Whether you want a charming picket fence or a colorful vinyl fence to protect your pool and keep your property and family safe, Hercules Fence has the expertise and equipment to repair or construct your dream fence. Whether it’s a minor repair or major replacement, we would love to help your vinyl coated chain link fencing better serve your family. Our experienced team can help meet your fencing needs, whether they’re residential or commercial, for the right price. Give us a call at 804-752-7992 or visit us online. To see examples of our work and keep in touch, don’t forget to follow us on Facebook, Twitter, Google+, LinkedIn, Flickr, and Pinterest.
