Do your plans in Northern Virginia include maintaining your fence this fall?
Do your plans in Northern Virginia include maintaining your fence this fall? Completing preemptive measures now can signify less work in the cold winter. When you think of autumn in Northern Virginia, maintaining your fence this fall may not be the first thing that appears to your mind. But there are good reasons why you should add repairing your fence to your fall bucket list. Keep reading our tips for maintaining your fence this fall!
Inspect Your Fence
Wind and moisture are prevalent in Northern Virginia winters, so we recommend you walk around the perimeter of your yard and analyze any areas of concern this autumn. This includes rotting pickets, fence boards that need staining, rusty hinges and posts for iron and chain-link fences, and noting some areas where your fence might be leaning than they were at the start of summer.
Clean Up Debris and Polish Your Landscaping
Part of maintaining your fence this fall is eliminating leaves and debris around the base of the fence. Additionally, foliage and trash can obtain moisture from early snowfall or autumn storms, leading to shifting soil and rot. Also, trim any bushes or trees hanging over your fence because early snowfalls can trigger branches to break and inflict damage.
Make Sure to Stabilize Your Fence Posts
Fences lean for various reasons, but most problems begin at the fence’s post. For instance, wind, snow, rain, and ice can shift the soil and compromise the integrity of your fence posts. So, make sure your posts are dug deep into the ground to maintain stability. Plus, consider replacing or adding concrete or compacted soil around the post’s base for additional support.
Reseal or Restain Wood Fences
We all know moisture can ruin wood fences. Maintain your fence in good repair and prevent mold and rot by supporting it with a waterproof stain or sealant. Maintaining your fence this fall can significantly extend your fence’s life and prevent expensive repairs down the line.
Eliminate Rust from Iron and Chain-Link Fences
While you may enjoy the view of orange leaves on trees, you likely don’t want to see that same color on your iron or chain-link fence. Rust can corrode metal, and you should remove it from your fence. Particularly on the gate posts, hinges, and the base of the fence.
Replace Damaged Fence Boards Right Away
Ultimately, you must make the necessary repairs right away if you want your fence to last between 10-15 years or beyond. Failing to replace damaged, cracked, or broken boards can lead to additional damage and expensive costs later on.
Choose Hercules Fence Northern Virginia for All of Your Fencing Needs!
Hercules Fence Northern Virginia has countless fencing options for your home and commercial property. Whether you are excited about a beautiful vinyl chain link fence or already planning out your custom wood commercial fence, we are ready to help you frame and secure your property. Hercules Fence Northern Virginia has been providing homeowners with quality fences for over 50 years. We are well equipped to meet your needs, whether they are residential or commercial. Contact us to see how a beautiful wood fence can protect your property by giving us a call at 703-551-2609 or visiting us online. To see examples of our work, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, Pinterest, and Flickr.
