Having fencing installed at your home can be considered a sizable investment and is something that you shouldn’t have to replace often if you give it the proper care.
Despite your best efforts to maintain it, it can be very frustrating when you find that your fence has suffered damage that makes it necessary to have it repaired, or in some cases, even replaced, especially if it’s Mother Nature that caused the problem. There are things you can do to help prevent some environmental dangers from damaging your fence, though.
Falling Branches
While trees may be beneficial to the environment, they aren’t always so great for your fence. Depending on their location in your yard and their condition, just the news of a possible storm with heavy winds may cause you to be concerned.
A falling limb or toppled dead tree can easily take out a section of your fence. This is not just a danger to your fence, but also a danger to anyone who may be nearby when this occurs or even your home if it’s close enough. The best way to avoid this from happening to your fence is to make sure to keep your trees trimmed and promptly address any broken or diseased limbs.
Dealing with Roots
When it comes to trees, the danger to your fence does not always come from above. Tree roots can also wreak havoc under your fence. Most roots reside within the top 18 – 24 inches of soil, with some being just a few inches below the soil’s surface.
Roots will sometimes grow above ground if poor conditions, including soil compaction or nutritional deficiencies are present or your fence posts may be deep enough to disturb them. If they’re under your fence, they could cause it to buckle. But before rushing to remove the roots or grind them down, it is a good idea to consult with an arborist to determine whether it is safe to do so or if you should have the tree removed.
Handling Sticky Situations
Trees can be such a nuisance to your fencing with one more common problem. If sap has dripped onto your vinyl fence, it can be very difficult to remove once dry.
Some sap drippings can be softened and then removed by general household or citrus cleaners that are safe to be used on the material your fence is made of. Use linseed oil, mineral spirits, or a commercial sap cleaner to remove stubborn sap buildup.
Dealing with Mold, Moss and Algae
Over the winter, mold, moss, and algae can build up on wood and vinyl fences. You can help reduce the possibility of these plants staining your beautiful fencing by cleaning your fenceeach spring. The safest way to do this is to use water and a scrub brush or a pressure washer with a lower PSI.
If water is not enough to remove these smudges, add half a cup of vinegar or baking soda per gallon of water and allow it to soak into the stains before scrubbing further. For stubborn stains, Simple Green or other commercial cleaners may be used, but be sure to consider the age and condition of your fence before using. Be careful of surrounding plants and cover those if needed so that they don’t become damaged in your attempt to clean up your fence.
Obvious and Not So Obvious Insect Issues
Some insect issues are more obvious than others. You may notice insect activity or holes that have been bored into your wooden fence which can mean that you have termites, carpenter ants, or other insects.
A telltale sign that you may not be aware of is if woodpeckers are suddenly interested in your fence. You may not be able to see the insects, but these birds will only peck at wood where insects are present. Consult with an exterminator to determine how to deal with any insect infestations.
These naturally occurring problems can be prevented or managed with just a little bit of effort. Keep your fence looking brand new for as long as possible with these tips. Contact us today for more tips and tricks on everlasting fencing or for any of your fencing needs.
