How to Prevent Fence Rot near Nicholasville, KY
Wood is an attractive, affordable fencing option, but wood fencing care and maintenance are important to keep it looking great for a long time. Since wood is a natural material that can easily succumb to rot if not properly cared for, let the fencing pros at Myers Fencing share what fence rot is and how to prevent it.
What is Fence Rot?
Rot occurs when wood is exposed to the elements, and this condition is common in untreated wood fencing. Untreated wood deteriorates, and, if not kept in check, rot can lead to the collapse of the fence.
Your fence can be affected by dry rot or wet rot.
Wet rot is the most common type of wood rot. This kind of rot sets in when there is too moisture on the wood. Wet rot begins when the wood’s moisture content is 50% or higher. It’s mother nature’s housekeeping method for fallen trees in the wild, but it doesn’t differentiate between your fence and trees in the forest. The ground tends to be a moist area, so the base of your fence is a place to keep an eye on if you believe your fence is beginning to rot. Visual identification is usually easy because the rot is often accompanied by fungal growth and a musty odor.
Dry rot is the opposite of wet rot. Wood succumbs to dry rot when it is located in consistently hot, dry conditions. If the rot becomes severe enough, the wood may even crumble. We’re more familiar with wet rot here in Nicholasville, KY, but if your fence never receives any shade throughout the summer months, dry rot is a possibility.
How to Prevent Fence Rot
- Using a harder wood, like cedar, is one way to help prevent fence rot. Some woods, like pine, are more vulnerable to rotting.
- If your fence is already installed, make sure to stain it annually to protect the wood. We suggest applying a waterproof sealant as well to keep moisture off the wood’s surface.
- You should keep landscaping from touching your fence and not train any climbing vines to grow on your fence as these will both cause excess moisture spots on the wood.
- Ensuring your landscape drains properly is another way to prevent your wood fence from rotting.
- You can treat your wood with borate, a fungicide that’s safe for humans and animals, if you feel it’s especially prone to rotting.
- Keeping your fence clean and inspecting it regularly for damage are also essential. Fixing rot or other damage is easiest when it is taken care of immediately.
Keep Your Fence Beautiful with Myers Fencing
Our fencing professionals are here to help you keep your wood fencing in great shape. Fencing adds privacy, security, and value to your property. We also offer other types of residential and commercial fencing, including vinyl and chain link fences. Do you need temporary fencing? We have that, too. We’re in Nicholasville, KY, and serve the areas of Lexington, Nicholasville, Versailles, Georgetown, Louisville, Richmond, KY. Give us a call today for a free quote.