Inspect your fence
Before you do anything, take the time to have a really close look at your fence. Check for any rot or decay, including the fence posts and foundations. Examine the fence panels too, for loose posts or boards. If any posts are leaning, or showing signs of rot, reinforcing wooden fence posts will help to strengthen them if you do not want to replace them.
Damaged panels should be replaced wherever possible, as a compromised panel will be susceptible to high winds. In exposed areas, feather edge panels offer good wind resistance, privacy and security. Where privacy or security are less of an issue, open fencing that allows the wind to pass through is a good option. Consider trellis panels, and post and rail fencing.
Once you have checked your fence and carried out any necessary work or repairs, it’s time to check the area surrounding your fence.
Trees near the fence
Where there are trees that overhang your fencing, look for weak or damaged branches and any that are low hanging. In strong winds or heavy snowfall, these could break off the tree, damaging the fence as they fall. Removing branches like this will reduce the risk of potential damage and will also minimise leaf fall that can gather round the fence, leading to rot.
Clear debris
As mentioned above, a build-up of fallen leaves can quickly lead to damp, and ultimately rot. Be vigilant and always clear debris regularly from around the fence, paying particular attention to the base of fence posts.
Treating a wooden fence
Once you have carried out all necessary repairs and have cleared all debris, it’s time to treat your fence. It is always better to apply treatment in warmer, drier conditions but if that time has passed, it’s not too late. Clean the fence thoroughly and apply a coat of wood preserver such as Protek wood preserver, a water based product that contains mould inhibitors and will safeguard against insect infestation. The wood preserver should be completely dry before you apply any wood stain. The Protek wood stain and protector is weather- and UV-resistant, and should be applied to a completely dry fence. A final coat of varnish can be applied where preferred.
Tips for a long lasting and durable fence
If you find, either before or after the winter, that it is time for a new fence, here are some tips that will help you get the most out of your new fencing.
- Always choose pressure treated fencing – pressure treatment will protect against rotting and prolong the life of your fence.
- Using gravel boards underneath fence panels will put distance between them and the wet ground and harmful debris. At Witham Timber, we supply concrete gravel boards and timber gravel boards.
- Fence post caps and finials will protect the sawn end of a fence post, minimising water penetration which leads to rot. They will also safeguard the exposed post against wind and UV damage which can dry the post out leading to damage from splintering.
Get ready for winter with Witham Timber
Whether you want to repair, replace or simply treat your wooden fencing, at Witham Timber we have everything you need in our wooden fencing and wood stain departments. Our experienced sales team is available to offer help and advice via email at sales@withamtimber.co.uk or over the phone on 01205 359188. Alternatively, check out our fencing blog that is full of helpful guides and ‘how to’ articles.