Need fence maintenance advice? Want to keep your fence in tip top shape? Then you’ve come to the right place. With over 20 years’ experience in the fencing industry, Everlast Services has all the advice you need to ensure your fence looks as good as new for as long as possible.
Good quality fences are often an expensive investment, which is why it makes sense to want to look after it so that it can last you a lifetime. Don’t let your hard earned money go to waste by neglecting to look after your fence and gate.
Different kinds of fences and gates require different kinds maintenance and upkeep. Moreover, some need careful and regular attention while others can basically be left completely alone and stay pristine. Here’s a comprehensive guide of everything you need to know about maintaining your fence and gate.
Timber Fences
While timber fences are extremely popular for their affordability, one of their biggest downsides is the need for fence maintenance. Even with the most careful care, wooden fences will often deteriorate within a matter of years due to their inability to resist rotting. So, while a timber fence may fulfil your dream of an idyllic picket fence, it’s unlikely that it will last forever.
However, there are ways to extend the lifespan of your timber fence. First, apply some wood or fence cleaner with a brush, ensuring you get into all the cracks and crevices of the fence. Once you’ve allowed it to dry for 15 to 20 minutes, rinse the cleaner off with a hose or pressure cleaner. After allowing it to dry again for at least 24 hours, you can then apply a sealant, which will help to protect your fence from sun damage.
For minor damage, use glue to fill in cracks and replace or tighten any loose or rusty screws and nails. If you live in a particularly humid or damp area, apply wood preservative to the base of the wooden posts.
Glass Fences
Glass fences are extremely popular for pool areas and for good reason; they’re extremely stylish and sophisticated while also showing off your beautiful pool. However, while the kind of glass used for fencing is extremely sturdy, it’s very easy to see any imperfections or blemishes on glass.
The best way to clean your glass fence and keep it sparkling and crystal clear is to regularly hose it in order to stop dust and grime from building up. For any stubborn bits of dirt that refuse to move with the hose alone, try scrunching up a bit of newspaper and wiping it away. The newspaper is abrasive enough to get rid of dirt without scratching the glass. Hot and soapy water with regular detergent will also help to make sure your glass fence is gleaming in no time. Just make sure you don’t forget to wipe down the railings and fittings.
The key with glass fences is to clean them regularly. The more often you clean, the easier it is and the less time it will take.
Automated Gates
Automated and motorised gates are a fantastic investment when it comes to protecting your family and your assets. However, to ensure that it remains functional and continues to protect your home, it’s important that you regularly maintain it. Because of its motor feature, it requires a little extra attention and support to ensure that it continues to run smoothly for as long as possible.
A visual inspection of your automated gate can go a long way. Look out to ensure everything’s in its correct place and that there are no missing or loose bolts and screws. Pay careful attention to important areas for signs of damage, like bearings and pivot points. Take note of any rusting or general signs of wear and tear. Also, listen out for any unhealthy or screeching sounds next time it opens. For any rust or corrosion that you detect, just scrub it off with some warm soapy water or sandpaper.
Every six months or so you oil your motor and all the moving parts of your automated gate. Just ensure that you choose a lubrication that fits the specification of the manufacturer’s guidelines.
Steel Fences
By far the easiest kind of fence to maintain is a steel one. Thanks to its unrivalled durability and resistance to any sort of rust or general wear and tear, essentially the only thing you need to do to maintain a steel fence is hose it down to get rid of dust or built-up grime. After a bit of a wash and scrub, your steel fence will look practically as good as new. Basically, with very little fence maintenance, you can rest assured that your steel fencing will last several lifetimes.
