Maintaining a Wooden Fence in Pensacola

Wooden fences are a timeless, versatile, and popular fencing choice with homeowners everywhere, and Pensacola is no exception. However, with the Gulf Coast's humid climate, salt air, and frequent storms, wooden fences here need regular care to stay in top shape.

The need for hands-on maintenance for wooden fencing may intimidate some homeowners who (understandably) don't want to spend too much time and effort on fence upkeep. The good news is that it doesn't take too much work to keep a wooden fence in great shape, even with that hot 'n' humid Pensacola weather beating down on it. Whether your fence is brand-new or a few years old, just a bit of proper maintenance go a long way towards extending its lifespan.

Regular Fence Cleaning and Inspection

The first step to maintaining a wood fence is keeping it clean. Any fence can build up a layer of dirt and debris, but wooden fences are especially susceptible to decay from exposure to organisms like mold, algae, and mildew - common nuisances in Pensacola's warm, damp environment.

As far as fence cleaning goes, you (or a pressure washing professional) should clean your fence at least once a year, using a garden hose or a pressure washer set to a low/soft wash setting. We recommend using a mix of mild all-purpose detergent and water to kill off algae, mildew, and other decay-promoting organisms. If needed, you can also use a soft scrub brush to take care of any particularly stubborn spots.

An annual (or twice-annual) fence cleaning is also a good time to do a basic fence inspection. Take the time to closely look over your wooden fence for:

• Rot or soft spots
• Warped or cracked boards
• Loose nails or screws
• Insect damage (especially termites)

Catching and fixing these issues early can prevent more expensive repairs down the line. Pay special attention to posts near the ground -that's where water exposure is often the highest.

Sealing, Staining, and Weather Protection

Due to the high humidity and salt air exposure in Pensacola, wooden fences should be sealed or stained every 2-3 years. This adds a protective barrier that helps keep moisture out, prevents UV damage from the sun, and reduces warping or splitting.

You have three main options:

• Stain with sealer: Creates a transparent protective coating that can help with waterproofing and UV protection. Helps enhance and protect the natural wood grain.
• Transparent/Semi-transparent wood stain: Penetrates the wood instead of sitting on top. Enhances water resistance and adds pigmentation that can help with UV protection.
• Solid-color stain or paint: Offers even more UV protection but hides the wood's texture. Paint may require additional upkeep to prevent cracking or bubbling, and is more difficult to clean and remove than stain - we definitely recommend stain over paint if you're looking for a low-maintenance option.

Regardless of which option you choose, make sure that you're using a product rated for exterior use in coastal climates. Apply it when the forecast calls for dry weather - you'll want at least 48 hours to ensure proper curing.

If your fence was installed without a protective finish, it's not too late. Just make sure to perform a thorough fence cleaning before sealing or staining so the product adheres properly - don't forget to let the wood dry first for at least 24-48 hours.

Final Tips for Long-Term Durability

• Trim back any bushes or vines growing against the fence. These can trap moisture and cause rot.
• Keep soil and mulch from piling up against the bottom rails. Constant moisture exposure will shorten the fence's life.
• After heavy storms or hurricanes, walk the fence line and check for damage or leaning posts.

Need A Helping Hand?

Need help with fence maintenance or repairs? You're in good hands with Gulf Built Fence & Solutions. As seasoned Pensacola fencing professionals, we know the types of weather conditions that wooden fences here have to endure. That's why, in addition to our other fencing services, we also offer professional fence cleaning and fence staining services to save our customers some of the effort that comes with upkeep. If your wooden fence is overdue for a cleaning or a restaining, get in touch with Gulf Built today -we're here to help.

If you need professional wooden fence cleaning or fence staining in Pensacola, give Gulf Built Fence & Solutions a call today at 850-982-6898.