Wood fence rot is one of the major dangers to the longevity of your yard’s beautiful fence and the threat shouldn’t be taken lightly. A wooden fence that isn’t protected against rot will rot, it’s just a matter of time. Many fence owners aren’t aware of the causes of fence rot, and so they unknowingly contribute to it or don’t adequately protect against it.
Knowing the causes of wood fence rot will help you protect your wood fence for years to come.
Staining your fence to prevent “Dry Rot”
Many people assume the only cause of wood fence rot to be too much moisture interacting with the fence – but this isn’t always the case. While wet rot is definitely a problem for wooden fences, there’s also the issue of “dry rot” or the continuous loss of the protective oils that prevent your fence from becoming brittle or falling apart.
Dry rot is caused by exposure to sun and the wind – things your fence will encounter far more often than heavy rain. The main preventative action to take against dry rot is Fence Staining. By staining your fence at least once a year, you’re replenishing its protective oils and preventing dry rot from setting in.
Investing in rot resistant materials
Certain types of wood like cedar and redwood are more resistant to the elements than more common materials like pine. Although pine is distinctly cheaper, it’s often the better option to invest in a more quality material for your fence early on. This way your fence lasts longer and you save on repair or replacement costs down the line.
Additionally, going for a treated wood will add even more years onto the lifespan of your wood fence by addressing the rot issue head-on with preventative chemicals and building methods.
Regular cleaning and replacing rot affected areas
Lastly, the most direct thing you can do to prevent rot on your wood fence is to clean it on a regular schedule. We realize that fence cleaning isn’t high on anyone’s to-do list, but it should have a place somewhere near the bottom if rot is to be held at bay and your fence is to last.
Replacing rotted out areas of your fence can further prevent the spread of rot as well – and identifying these spots is that much easier if you’re cleaning your fence on a regular basis. Regular cleaning can also help keep insects from invading your fence and causing a bigger headache.
All in all, taking the time to properly care for your fence is what’s required to keep the rot off. The most important advice for dealing with rot is to invest personal time into your fence’s health.
