You just built the perfect fence. To keep that "new" look you'll want to have maintenance done on a regular basis. You may not have known that you need to upkeep your fence before you built it, but in order to make it last you will have to. Our fence expert, Richard Novigrod, who has ten years experience building fences, says without some care your fence won't last as long as it should.
"Trim the back of the trees and shrubs. It helps the fence dry out after a rain. It tends to dry out faster and not decompose as quickly," Novigrod says.
According to the website, Mrsfixit.com, for privacy fences you should annually inspect the boards on the fence. Look for those that are either loose or rotted. If any are loose, fix with nails immediately. Dig around your fence posts to check for possible rotting underneath, as well. Some tools you will need to do the job are nails, trowel, wood sealer, hammer, and a brush.
You will want to protect your wooden privacy fence from Mother Nature by applying a water repellent sealer. Use a brush to cover the entire fence. Make sure you get between the boards. You should seal your fence every few years. Find out the recommended times for your fence from a professional company. This sealant is important because it will keep your fence in tip top shape.
If you have a vinyl fence, the website, Yourfencestore.com, says washing down your fence on a regular basis will keep it looking new and fresh.
You will want to use a large brush and a garden hose to clean your fence. With a garden hose spray the fence and scrub off any dirt or residue. If you have stains that won't nudge you can use this concoction: 1/3 cup powered detergent, 2/3 cup household cleaner, and one gallon of water. Apply to problem areas and scrub.
For chain link fences, you will want to make sure and buy a type of metal that is treated so it won't rust. Make sure you trim bushes and trees around your chain link. Overall, chain link fences are basically maintenance-free.
When unexpected problems show up on your fence, a good idea is to call a professional fence contractor. Novigrod says you can have them inspect it or ask them for some advice so you can fix it. Another tip is to follow the manufacture's guidelines. In most cases you will find wood fences require the most maintenance. Vinyl and chain link require very little maintenance.
Another option is buy a book on "How to build a fence." This will enable you to follow diagrams as you work to maintain your fence. Another idea is to do some research on the internet. Many fencing experts divulge their secrets and guidelines on what best works for them.
When in doubt, never be ashamed to ask for help. Doing so will enable you to avoid making big mistakes later. Those mistakes can cost you big money in the end.