Annual maintenance prolongs the life of your fence and keeps your commercial or industrial property secure and looking its best. Neglecting regular fencing maintenance could cause your perimeter to weaken, sag or rust, leaving your business vulnerable to break-ins and trespassers. Here are five simple fence maintenance tasks you should do every year.
Clean your fence
Keeping your fence clean will not only improve the appearance of your property but will also prevent damage that could result in costly repairs. Dust, dirt and leaves attract mould and mildew, which can make your fence brittle and rot. You can easily wash vinyl, wood and metal fencing with a hose or pressure washer.
Stain and paint your fence
Wood fences require staining and painting to prevent rot and insect damage. Rain, snow, and sunshine can all damage your wood fence over time. Therefore, use products that repel water and offer UV protection. Even if your wood is pressure-treated, applying a suitable sealant will extend its lifespan.
Prevent rust
Ornamental iron fences are prone to rust and require more maintenance than other types of fences, such as aluminum or galvanized steel. Periodically check your iron fencing for any nicks or scratches in the paint. If you notice any damage, sand down the affected areas to remove rust and paint flakes. Then, apply a coat of corrosion-resistant primer followed by two coats of corrosion-resistant paint. Iron fences can last many decades if you deal with the signs of rust quickly.
Trim and prune
Shrub and tree branches can brush up against your fence and damage it. For example, they can scratch the paint off iron fences or allow insects to burrow into wood fences. Every year, prune or trim any foliage that’s touching or getting near your perimeter.
Check for damage
Some fence damage can’t be seen with the naked eye. Therefore, regularly walk the perimeter of your property and gently shake each fence post to ensure they’re secure. You should also go around and place your foot on the fence rails to make sure they haven’t come loose. If you have a chain-link fence, check for sagging and openings in the mesh.
If you notice any damage to your fence, promptly call the professionals at City Fence Inc.
Fencing maintenance in Toronto
For over 35 years, the experts at City Fence Inc. have been your trusted fence builders in Toronto. We provide fast, dependable fence repair services to keep your property safe and secure. We serve commercial and industrial customers throughout the Greater Toronto Area. Contact us today to schedule a free on-site assessment and estimate.