Spring is fast approaching, and it is time to refresh the exterior of your home so that you can make the most of the glorious summer months.
While there is always plenty of work to carry out in the garden, from planting new shrubs to clearing the paths, many people neglect the proper care of their property fence.
Your fence marks the boundary of your property. Able to withstand the elements and keep your home secure, taking proper care of your garden fence can make all the difference to your home’s aesthetic.
Join us as run through some of the best ways to give your tired fencing a refresh this spring.
Assess The Damage
Whether you have garden fencing that is wooden, wire mesh or constructed using a stronger, mould-resistant composite material, the first step in proper maintenance is assessing the damage.
Are there any severely damaged areas? Is the fence wobbling on its foundations? Is there a build-up of dirt, mould, or mildew? Does the fence need re-painting?
Sometimes, if the damage is substantial, you might need to reinstall your fence altogether. Other times, you may need to take a few steps to get your fence in working order again.
Whatever the outcome, the first step in transforming your garden fence this spring is assessing the damage.
Wobbly & Unstable Fencing
Over time, fences can become wobbly and unstable. So, if you notice that your fence has started wobbling on its foundation over the winter months, it may be dangerously unstable.
Unstable fences are cause for injury, reduced home security, and property damage if they fall. Therefore, you need to call in a professional to carry out the repairs or full replacement as soon as possible.
Remove Dirt & Mud
Many garden fences attract all sorts of dirt, mould, and algae over the winter months. From the stormy weather to the rainy days, it doesn’t take long for dirt to build-up.
One of the easiest ways to clean dirt and mud off your fence is to use a soft brush before gently hosing the fence down. By spending just an hour or two cleaning your fence of dirt, can help give it a whole new lease of life!
Look Out For Mould & Mildew
Common in shady, damp gardens, mould and mildew are frequently seen on all types of garden fences – and particularly during the winter months.
If you spot mould and mildew on the surface of your fence, don’t ignore it. Mould and mildew spread quickly when left unattended, so it is important to tackle this problem as soon as you can.
Use a damp cloth or a wet brush to gently wipe the fence clean. If stains are very stubborn, try brushing on a mixture of water and vinegar before hosing down the surface. Then, apply an anti-condensation paint to keep the problem away.
Removal of mould and mildew will help your fence look brand new again and ensure it lasts for many more years to come.
Avoid Splinters
If you have a wooden garden fence, it is easy to snag your clothes or your hands on splinters sticking out from the panels. This can be especially dangerous for children or pets playing in the backyard – particularly during the summer months when the weather is nice, and more time is spent outside.
To get your fence ready for spring and avoid any splinter-related accidents, check your fence regularly for imperfections and sand down any rough patches.
Taking care of splinters and other imperfections in this way will not only keep your fence looking great but will protect your family from nasty snags and splinters, allowing you to enjoy the summer months worry-free.
Apply A Fresh Coat Of Paint
You will be amazed at how quickly applying a fresh coat of paint can revive a tired old fence.
Paint makes your fence look great, provides much-needed protection against the elements, and helps your fence last longer – reducing the need for replacement.
If you want a quick and easy way to refresh your fence in time for spring, a fresh coat of paint may be the answer you need. Just make sure you know what paint will work on your fencing. You don’t want to apply something that won’t take well or drip down because you didn’t prepare the surface accordingly.
Also, try to avoid any intense colours.
You want to err on the side of caution and go for muted tones. Something like a simple teal or pewter will work fantastically. Just look at some of these lovely light teal paints to get an idea of what colours can work.
Final Thoughts…
Your garden is an important part of your property and when it looks great, you feel a lot better for it.
Many people don’t realise how important a well-maintained fence is for their property until their fence fails. But, by following our maintenance advice, you will have a garden fence that looks good, stays secure, and remains weather-proof for many years to come.
