WOOD CARE AND MAINTENANCE
How to Maintain Your Fence – The Complete Guide
Coastal Fence specializes in installing high-quality fencing with the best materials. It’s a big job that takes significant time and labor. Our fences are built to last, but no fence can last forever. Preserving the life of your fence will require some maintenance. To help you in years to come, we have put together a guide on fence care.
Wood Fence Maintenance
Many homeowners are drawn to wood fencing for its organic, warm feel that will blend into a beautifully landscaped property. A sturdy fence with no cracks, warping, or flaking paint can increase curb appeal and help protect your yard from unwanted intruders.
How Long Should My Wood Fence Last
Most wood fences in our Florida heat will last at least 10 years with proper care and maintenance. However, the actual lifespan of your fence depends on a few factors. With Florida's extreme weather conditions, a fence located in a shady spot will last longer than a wood fence exposed to sun all day. Because the type of wood matters so much, we use high-quality and durable pine.
How do I Keep My Wood Fence Looking New?
Regular maintenance is the most effective way to keep your wooden fence looking new. Quick repairs when needed will also be helpful.
Here are a few common problems that can emerge over time with wooden fences:
Warping or bending due to wind or sun and termites. Because of this, we HIGHLY recommend sealing your fence with a clear or colored stain.
* It is recommended to wait at least six weeks after installation to stain your fence *
Prevent Fence Aging
STAIN OR PAINT
Painting or staining your fence will help keep the moisture out and protect the wood from the elements.
AVOID MOISTURE
Clear the area around the base of your fence, Foliage and debris can trap moisture, causing rot and encouraging mold.
DON'T ADD PRESSURE
Keep items off the fence. The added weight will cause the fence to mean and warp over time.
INSPECT REGULARLY
FOR TERMITES, MOLD, CRACKS, AND OTHER DAMAGE.
VINYL FENCE CARE & MAINTENANCE INSTRUCTIONS HOW DO I CLEAN MY VINYL FENCE?
Most dirt can be washed off with a mild soap and water solution.
Heavier stains can be cleaned with any non-toxic household cleaner.
Occasionally, you may want to spray your fence with a garden hose. This will help remove grass clippings, dirt, and fertilizer chemicals and keep it looking as new as possible.
To remove minor stains, use a non-abrasive liquid cleaner.
For removal of major stains, follow the manufacturer's directions for one of the following cleaning agents:
Simple Green® All Purpose Cleaner • Mr. Clean® Magic Eraser Mineral Spirits
Trichloroethylene
• CLR (Calcium, Lime and Rust) Cleaner • VinegarNote: Goof Off® and Goo Gone® are not recommended to remove stains.
MAINTENANCE TIPS
To maximize the life of your fence, address these areas:
• Adjust the gate every Spring. As a reminder, the homeowner is responsible for gate adjustments, and leveling are standard care and maintenance items.
• Oil the gate hinges and tighten the screws once a year.
• Do not let the gate swing in the wind. Keep it secured.
• Deter children from swinging on the gate. • Re-tamp and realign loose posts.
POLY VINYL MAINTENANCE
DISCLAIMER: THESE PROCEDURES ARE NOT GUARANTEED TO REMOVE STAINS. IF UNSURE OF PROPER PROCEDURES, PLEASE FOLLOW MANUFACTURERS' INSTRUCTIONS.