Fencing - reducing the risk of moisture damage

Moisture damage can spell trouble for the longevity and durability of your fences, so how can you ensure the risk of damage is minimal? Here are our top tips.

Mind the gap!

Wherever it’s possible, we would recommend that you leave a gap of 50mm between the bottom of your fence and the ground itself. If it’s essential that your fence goes all the way to the ground, then be sure to use a specialist gravel board.

Is the fencing post the right way up?

If you cut your fencing post to size, make sure you don’t fix the end you have trimmed into the ground as cut timber is always more prone to moisture ingress.

Always wear a cap on rainy days

Fence posts wherever possible should always be finished off with a post cap or finial. Not only do they look good and smarten your installation they also help protect your post against the risk of moisture damage.

If you’re having closeboard fencing then in addition to making sure you have a gravel board at the base of your fence make sure you also protect the top edge of your fence boards by fixing a capping rail that will help stop the risk of your fence bowing.

A little and often is always best

Regular low maintenance is the best way to keep your fence in tip-top condition. Make sure you check your fence regularly for signs of damage, replacing fence panels, fence posts and fence boards as you go and regularly protect your timber with an extra coat of timber preservative or treatment. Winter is a great time to do this as vegetation is at its lowest which makes it much easier to gain access to your fence and to inspect it.

Keep on top of the vegetation

Overhanging branches and vegetation can cause a lot of costly damage if not maintained appropriately. Climbing plants need pruning and training to not damage your fence whilst the weight of snow on overhanging branches could cause the branches to bend dangerously close to your fence and may even break under the weight. Tree branches also cause moisture to drip onto your fence increasing the moisture in the wood, resulting in wood rot. Your fencing could also discolour due to the transfer of organic matter during winter.

Our friendly team are experts in the timber industry and are always happy to help with any queries you may have. Drop in today or call us on 01442 866264 for advice.