Proper maintenance can significantly increase how long your fence looks great and functions well. Whether wood, vinyl, aluminum, or composite, a little regular care goes a long way. Below are maintenance tips for different fence types and general strategies to keep your investment in top shape.
Wooden Fences
- Cleaning: Once a year, clean wood with a mild soap and water solution or a specialized wood cleaner to remove mold, mildew, dirt, and pollen.
- Sealing or staining: Every 2-3 years, apply a water repellent or stain to protect wood from moisture and UV damage. Transparent sealants help show grain; stains offer color and protection.
- Inspect for damage: Regularly check for rot, insect damage, or loose boards. Replace compromised sections early to avoid spreading problems.
- Prevent ground contact: Ensure wood posts and panels don’t stay in constant contact with soil; use post-bases or gravel to allow for drainage.
Vinyl Fences
- Cleaning: Wash down with hose or pressure washer on low setting to remove grime, algae, or mildew. Use gentle soap if needed.
- Inspect fasteners and posts: Ensure posts are stable; hinges or gates work properly. Tighten loose screws if required.
- Address staining promptly: If something stains vinyl (grease, paint, mildew), treat with a gentle cleaner quickly to avoid permanent discoloration.
Aluminum / Metal Fences
- Rust protection: Aluminum resists rust, but if you have metal hinges or connectors, make sure coatings are intact. Touch up scratches to prevent corrosion.
- Cleaning: Wash with mild detergent and water periodically. Avoid abrasive cleaners.
- Paint or finish care: Reapply finish or powder coating touchups when worn.
Composite Fences
- Cleaning: Composite typically requires minimal cleaning; use hose, mild detergent. Avoid chlorine bleach or high strength chemical cleaners that could damage protective layers.
- Prevent mold and mildew: Although resistant, poor drainage or damp surroundings may encourage mold—trim vegetation away from fence, allow air circulation.
- Inspect structural integrity: Support posts should stay solid; composite boards may expand or contract slightly with temperature, so have appropriate spacing.
General Tips Regardless of Material
- Maintain proper spacing: Ensure panels aren’t pressed against vegetation or other fences that can rub, trap moisture, or cause damage.
- Manage soil & drainage: Water should flow away from fence posts to prevent moisture damage and rot.
- Seasonal checks: Before winter, ensure your fence is solid (gates latch properly, posts anchored well). After heavy storms, inspect for damage.
- Repaint/re-finish when required: Even low maintenance materials benefit from occasional freshening to protect surfaces from weathering and keep appearance top notch.
Why It Matters
Proper maintenance doesn’t just preserve looks — it saves money. Early detection of issues prevents costly repairs later. A well-maintained fence enhances curb appeal and property value. It also ensures safety and security if your fence is both functional and stable.
At Bergen Fence, we believe maintenance support is as important as installation. We’re here to help you with guidelines specific to your fence type, and provide repair or finish services when needed.