How to Preserve Wood Fencing

Fences are one of the first things people see when they visit a property — so it’s important to keep them looking nice! We take pride in installing the best fences in the DFW metroplex at Fence Fanatics, but even the best wood fences will deteriorate if not cared for properly. Outdoor wood fencing in Texas is up against the sun, humidity, rain, and wind. After years of exposure to the elements, it makes sense that wood would begin to deteriorate. We don’t want your wood fence to rot, either! Here’s how you can preserve your wood fencing: 

Regular Upkeep is Key

It’s worth noting that you shouldn’t neglect your wood fence for years and then finally decide to do something about preserving it only after noticing signs of deterioration. It might be too late to save the wood! The key to preserving wood fencing is taking care of it regularly. You should plan on thoroughly washing your wood fence at least once yearly; it would be best to re-stain it once every three to five years. If you follow this schedule, your wood fence can last over twenty years! 

Washing Your Wood Fencing

So, how do you properly wash a wood fence? When it comes time to annually clean your wooden fence, you want to remove any organic material on the fence.  

You should rent (or purchase) a pressure washer for the best results. It’s crucial to remember that pressure washers can be pretty powerful — the water can damage the wood fence if it comes out too intense. You should use a low setting, place the pressure washer at a 25-degree tip, and begin slowly washing your fence with cold water. You should stand a few feet away from your fence when washing it! If you notice any stains the pressure washer isn’t getting, you can use a scrub brush to remove them manually. For extra tough growth you can use an outdoor bleach to help remove it. 

Stain or Seal Your Wood Fencing

After washing your fence, you should wait approximately 24 hours before applying anything else to it. Many experts argue that staining or sealing your wood fence is just as important as washing it. Some people prefer to seal their wood fences because it should be done at least once every five years.  

Oil-based stains are the best option for those living in Texas because these stains last in our humid climate for three to five years. These stains complement the natural color of the wood — making the fence look like new!

If you’d like to get your wood fence professionally stained in the DFW metroplex, please schedule online here.