5 Tips For Installing A Long-Lasting Wood Fence

Wood fences are one of the most attractive of the traditional fencing options, but there can be concerns about them having a short lifespan due to weathering. Fortunately, there are ways to prolong the life of a wood fence without drastically increasing the amount of maintenance. 

1. Choose Cedar

There are a lot of wood options for fences. Unfortunately, some options like pine are more likely to rot when exposed to the rigors of weathering. Fortunately, there are wood options that are naturally long-lasting and less rot prone. Cedar is a good option that is readily available and cost-effective. It has a natural reddish hue that makes it an attractive option, as well.

2. Perfect the Posts

If the fence posts have problems, the whole fence will fail. A common issue with wooden fence posts is that they rot beneath the soil, which causes the fence to lean and eventually fall over. Pressure-treated wood posts won't rot and they should last the lifetime of the fence. If you are concerned about leaning, then set the posts in concrete footings to ensure they are secure. 

3. Raise the Bottom

Moisture can soak into the fence pickets when the bottom of a wood fence sits right against the ground. This can lead to splitting fence boards that will eventually rot. Raising the bottom of the fence so it doesn't sit against the ground prevents this issue. If you are concerned about gaps, consider putting in a concrete or gravel threshold underneath the fence line to create a barrier against ground moisture and the pickets.

4. Upgrade the Hardware

It's not just the wood that can be at risk on a fence. The nails, brackets, and gate latches can rust and corrode over time, which will weaken the entire fence. To avoid this issue, opt for galvanized fence hardware. Galvanized screws are preferable over nails, as screws grip into the wood better so they are less likely to come loose or back out due to temperature fluctuations and moisture.

5. Refinish Annually

Although choosing the right wood can reduce issues with rot, to ensure your fence lasts as long as possible, consider finishing it every year or two. If you prefer the look of natural wood, opt for a clear sealer. Otherwise, you can paint the fence any color you desire. Just use an outdoor paint to ensure it protects the wood against weathering.

Contact a fence builder if you are ready to put in a new wood fence, like Anaya And Sons Fence Company.