Learn how to safeguard your wooden gates and fences from moisture damage common in humid areas. You may increase your fence’s lifespan and avoid frequent fence replacements that can be costly when you protect and maintain your fence. Here are some of the approaches you can use to safeguard your fence from moisture damage in humid weather conditions:
1. Using Moisture Resistant Wood Material
Consider using wood that is resistant to moisture when constructing your wooden gates and fences. You can use materials such as cedar and cypress that may offer resistance to moisture in humid regions. Woods such as cedar may contain oils repelling moisture, leading to increased longevity of your wooden fence. Reputable fencing companies may use cedar with a grade of 2 or higher to enhance the durability of your wooden fence.
2. Staining Your Wooden Fence
Staining your wooden fence shields it from moisture to help maintain the color and appearance of the fence. Quality stains have water-repelling components acting as a moisture barrier that keeps your wooden fence dry. This approach can help you save money because you can avoid replacing your fence every few years. Consider cleaning your fence using a bucket and a brush or a pressure washer before staining. The wooden fence can take a few weeks to be completely dry and ready for staining. You can re-stain your fence every few years to make sure your wooden fence is well protected. Experienced fence installation companies may offer quality wood fence staining services.
3. Sealing Your Wooden Fence
Using a sealant can protect your wooden fence from moisture build-up. It does this by preventing the penetration of water and other liquids into the wood fibers. You can use oil-based sealants that may be more suitable for wooden fences than water-based ones. Consider applying a sealant coat after you stain your fence. Cover the sealant to protect it from water as it dries to make sure it effectively protects your fence.
4. Painting Your Wooden Fence
Painting your fence can shield it from precipitation and moisture that can cause swelling and splitting. Blocking out moisture protects your fence from mold and rot. Make sure your fence is completely dry before painting to avoid sealing moisture inside when you paint. Repaint your fence every few years to make sure the paint efficiently protects your fence.
5. Raising Your Fence
You can raise your fence at least two inches off the ground to prevent damage caused by moisture. The wooden fence may absorb moisture when it touches the ground, causing it to swell and rot. You can cover the gap beneath the fence by planting thick vegetation or small shrubs along your fence line. Consider using chicken wire or a horizontal board at the bottom of your fencing panels to prevent animals from crawling beneath the fence. Having your fence raised slightly off the ground can help prevent long-term moisture damage.
Protect Wooden Gates and Fences From Humidity
You can safeguard your wooden gates and fences from moisture accumulation in humid areas by using a wood material that is moisture resistant. Staining materials have water-repelling elements shielding your fence from moisture. Consider using an oil-based sealant to prevent the penetration of water or liquids into your fence’s wood fibers.
You can paint your fence when it’s completely dry to block out moisture. Raising your fence several inches off the ground can also help prevent it from absorbing moisture from the ground. Excess moisture surrounding your fence can accelerate rotting. Work with an expert fence installation company today for quality, long-lasting wooden fences suitable for humid areas.