There are a number of reasons to put a fence up in your yard. Families with small children, for example, love the security that a fence provides while their little ones are outside playing. A fence is also a great way to keep animals contained, and it offers a bit of privacy if you have neighbors close by. In addition, fences can also help to protect your home from the elements.
There are several different ways to construct a fence. For example, you can purchase pre-made sections of fencing with which to erect your structure. There are also different materials and wood available. Regardless of what you use, it is important to make sure your fence is protected so it lasts for years to come.
In order to protect your fencing, the following advice will come in handy.
1. When the weather turns cold, your fence is vulnerable to the elements. In particular, snow can be problematic and tends to hang around for quite a while. Because it stays chilly for months at a time, it is important to add an oil based stain to the fence. Make sure the gaps in the fence are cleaned out on a regular basis as well. You do not want leaves or snow to stay trapped there, as it harms the surrounding wood.
2. Paint and stain are not just for aesthetic purposes. They can help keep your fence in good condition for years to come. In particular, if you are concerned about the wood turning colors, add several coats of stain. Look for a product that has a sealer in it, as this takes care of several steps at one time and makes the process more efficient for you. Make sure you prepare properly before you stain, however.
3. Temperatures vary significantly in the winter months. Some days it is very cold. On other days, the temperatures seem almost bearable. Because the temperature goes up and down during this time, the wood is likely to both expand and constrict. This often leads to unsightly knotholes. Not only do they affect the appearance of your fence, but they also welcome pests to your yard. Before building, look for wood that can handle the elements.
4. When it snows, the added precipitation makes tree branches very heavy. In some cases, they could fall and harm the fence. Before the weather turns cold, evaluate your property. Cut back any branches that might threaten the safety of your fence. After that is finished, monitor the situation throughout the winter, staying aware of any potential threats.
5. It is not unusual to see frost on a fence post. When this happens, the strength of the fence as a whole is in jeopardy. Therefore, it is important to take certain precautions when building the fence. Make sure the posts go deep into the ground, so that they do not move no matter what. You can also use cement to make sure the posts are secure. If you take these steps, you can be sure that the fence is okay even in the frost.
6. Obviously, wooden fences and water do not necessarily mix. If you have bushes or shrubs close to the fence, you want to make sure they are trimmed back. These plants hold water, so after a good rain, they make it difficult for the fence to dry properly.
7. Stay vigilant. Make sure to inspect your fence often to ensure there are no areas where it is warped or broken. In particular, watch out for broken pickets, as they compromise the strength of the fence. If the fence is weakened, it is not able to deal with harsh weather changes. If you locate a broken picket, make sure to fix it as soon as possible. If you do not have the right materials, simply go to a local store and ask for what you need.