Cedar Fence Maintainance
Cedar fences are a beautiful addition to any property. They exude a natural charm and rustic elegance that can elevate your home’s curb appeal. But as with anything, cedar fences come with a few pros and cons. The good news is that with the right maintenance routine, you can keep your cedar fence looking as good as new. Continue reading to learn how you can prevent moss, rot, and other issues for a long-lasting cedar fence.
Wood Fence Maintenance
Cedar lasts a lot longer than other wood. In fact, a good cedar fence should last you between 15 and 30 years. Of course, you can’t just set it and forget it. Cedar fences need regular maintenance, and the better you take care of yours, the longer it will last.
Replace Rotting Boards
Over time, cedar may rot. If you notice any amount of rot on your cedar, replace the boards immediately. This simple step can significantly extend the life of your fence.
Keep Away From Water
Keeping water away from your fence will reduce the risk of mold or rot. Even though it’s impossible to keep your fence completely dry, you should do what you can to direct sprinklers away from it.
Stain or Paint
Wear and tear is normal. The beauty of cedar is that you can stain or paint it the color of your liking. Plus, a coat of stain or paint can act as a protective barrier for your cedar.
Wood Treatment
Consider applying a wood treatment to protect your fence from decay and insects. These treatments can help extend its lifespan.
Clean Regularly
Finally, a regular cleaning schedule is important. Cleaning your fence helps remove dirt, mildew, and moss. Read on to learn about how you can clean your cedar fence.
How to Clean Cedar Wood
Fence Cleaning
Cleaning your cedar fence can be a pretty straightforward process. Fences should only be cleaned annually and as needed. Here’s how to wash your cedar fence in five easy steps (it’s less work than you think):
Step 1: Make the Solution
Mix three quarts of warm water with one quart of oxygen bleach, adding ¼ non-ammonia dish soap.
Step 2: Saturate Your Fence
Hose down your cedar with a garden hose or spray nozzle, and prep the fence with your cleaning solution.
Step 3: Let the Solution Sit
Let the solution sit on your cedar fence for about 10 minutes.
Step 4: Scrub Mold and Mildew
Scrub the fence with a gentle brush, paying close attention to any areas where moss or mildew is present.
Step 5: Rinse Your Fence
Rinse thoroughly with your garden hose or spray nozzle.
Quick Tips
Remove dirt and mildew on a sunny day, and don’t use a pressure washer, as the water pressure can damage your fence. Remember to move any furniture or flower pots out of the way.
Cedar Fence Stain Advantages
Staining your cedar fence preserves its beauty for years to come. But how often should you do it? Generally, staining your fence should be done every three to five years. Stain is superior to paint because it soaks into the wood rather than laying on top of it. Staining your fence helps prevent rot by sealing moisture out. It will also prevent issues like drying, cracking, or warping.
Staining your fence is as easy as one, two, three:
Step 1: Inspect
Inspect your fence, and repair any damage before staining it.
Step 2: Remove Mold and Mildew
Once you’ve fixed any broken pieces, get rid of all mold and mildew.
Step 3: Apply Stain
After you’ve cleaned and washed your fence, let it sit for about 24 hours before applying the stain. Let it sit for an additional 48 hours until it’s completely dry.
Why Clean Cedar Wood Matters
Regular maintenance is your ticket to a long-lasting cedar fence. With proper care, your cedar wood can last anywhere between 15 and 30 years—that’s a quarter of a lifetime.
If you’re looking to preserve your cedar fence’s beauty and functionality, follow our simple steps. All it takes is a garden hose and a few extra materials to keep your fence looking as good as it did on day one. Don’t wait until your fence is showing visible signs of wear and tear. Stay one step ahead by planning your maintenance routine with the help of Northwest Cedar Fence Company.
Maintain Your Fence With Help From Northwest Cedar
You worked hard for your fence. Now it’s time to take care of it the way it deserves. Book a maintenance service with Northwest Cedar Fence Company, or get a free estimate from a professional fence installer. Take the extra step to maintain your fence, and reap the benefits of cedar.
