Water can be both a friend and foe to your cedar fence. While cedar’s natural oils help it repel moisture, standing water can still cause damage over time. If you live in an area with heavy rainfall, be mindful of water pooling around the base of the posts, which can lead to rotting.
How to prevent water damage:
Ensure proper drainage: Make sure water flows freely around the fence and doesn’t pool around the posts. If you notice standing water, consider improving the drainage around your fence line.
Add gravel around the posts: For added protection against water, add a layer of gravel around the base of the fence posts to promote drainage and keep the posts from sitting in moisture.
Fleetwood Fence Tip: If your fence is located in a low-lying area prone to pooling water, consider adding a French drain or improving the grading of the land to prevent water from accumulating near the fence.
6. Seasonal Maintenance
Cedar fences, like any outdoor structure, are exposed to the elements year-round. In areas with harsh winters or hot summers, it’s important to prepare your fence for the changing seasons to ensure its longevity.
How to care for your cedar fence seasonally:
Before winter: Inspect your fence for any damage, especially if heavy snow or ice is common in your area. If your fence is prone to sagging, reinforce it before the weather worsens.
Before summer: Apply a fresh coat of sealant or stain to protect the wood from UV rays and harsh sun exposure. Clean the fence to remove dirt and debris that could affect its appearance.
Fleetwood Fence Tip: Regularly checking your fence before the extreme seasons hit will ensure it’s in good shape and prepared to handle whatever weather comes its way.
Final Thoughts on Cedar Wood Fence Maintenance
Proper maintenance is the key to keeping your cedar fence looking beautiful and lasting for years to come. By cleaning it regularly, staining or sealing it every few years, and performing routine inspections and repairs, you can protect your investment and enjoy the natural beauty of cedar for decades.
At Fleetwood Fence, we specialize in cedar fence installation and maintenance. If you ever need assistance with your cedar fence—whether it’s routine maintenance, repairs, or a complete replacement—we’re here to help.
Why It’s Crucial to Hire an Expert for Your Home Fence – Fleetwood Fence Explains
When it comes to installing or repairing a fence around your home, many homeowners consider taking the DIY route. While the idea of saving money might be tempting, fencing is one of those projects where hiring an expert can make all the difference. Whether you’re installing a new fence for privacy, security, or aesthetic purposes, there are numerous benefits to trusting the professionals at Fleetwood Fence.
In this blog, we’ll explain why it’s crucial to hire a fence expert to ensure your project is done right, on time, and within budget. Here’s why working with the pros is always the best choice when it comes to your home fence.
1. Expertise and Experience
Fencing is more than just placing posts in the ground and attaching boards. Professional fence installers have years of experience and specialized knowledge to ensure the job is done correctly. At Fleetwood Fence, we’ve installed fences of all kinds—whether it’s wood, aluminum, vinyl, or wrought iron.
Why it matters:
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Proper measurements: Experts know how to measure your yard properly and ensure that the fence lines are straight and perfectly aligned.
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Knowledge of materials: Fence experts understand the nuances of different materials and how each behaves in various weather conditions. They’ll advise you on the best choice for your location, whether it's high moisture areas, areas with strong winds, or places that get lots of sun.
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Skill in installation: We know how to install each fence style to stand the test of time, ensuring that everything is secure, stable, and level.
2. Time-Saving
Installing a fence might seem like a straightforward weekend project, but in reality, it takes time—especially if you’re not familiar with the process. DIYers often find themselves running into issues such as improperly mixed concrete, misaligned posts, or even the wrong tools for the job. What starts as a weekend project can easily extend into several days or even weeks.
Why it matters:
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Faster results: Experts like Fleetwood Fence can typically complete your fence installation in a fraction of the time it would take an inexperienced homeowner.
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Less disruption: A quick, professional installation minimizes the disruption to your daily life, allowing you to enjoy your new fence without the ongoing headaches.
3. Proper Permits and Regulations
Did you know that in many areas, installing a fence requires permits or compliance with local zoning laws? Professional fence installers are familiar with the necessary regulations and can handle all the paperwork for you, ensuring your fence complies with local building codes.
Why it matters:
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Avoid fines: Installing a fence without proper permits or violating property line regulations can lead to costly fines or having to remove the fence entirely. Hiring an expert ensures you don’t run into legal troubles.
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Peace of mind: We handle the details so you can relax knowing everything is up to code. At Fleetwood Fence, we make sure your installation meets all local requirements, so you don’t have to worry about a thing.
4. High-Quality Materials and Craftsmanship
When you hire a professional, you gain access to high-quality materials and superior craftsmanship. Experts work with trusted suppliers and ensure that the materials used for your fence are durable, long-lasting, and suited for your specific needs. They also have access to advanced tools that ensure a more precise and better-built fence.
Why it matters:
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Durability: When you invest in a high-quality fence, it will last longer, saving you money on potential repairs or replacements.
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Aesthetics: Professionals can help you choose materials and styles that complement your home and enhance your curb appeal.
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Better construction: Skilled craftsmen understand the importance of every detail, from post spacing to how the fence is anchored into the ground.
5. Preventing Future Problems
Installing a fence may seem simple, but many homeowners don’t realize the potential problems that can arise from a DIY job. From improperly set posts that lean over time to poor drainage that causes rotting, there are a number of issues that can arise if the installation isn’t done correctly.
Why it matters:
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Long-term stability: Professionals ensure that your fence is built to last, with posts set deep enough to withstand harsh weather and a secure structure that won’t sag or warp over time.
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Prevention of costly repairs: A fence installed incorrectly may require frequent repairs, which will cost you more in the long run. Experts take the necessary steps to avoid future problems.
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Quality warranty: Many professional fence companies offer warranties on their work, giving you additional peace of mind that you won’t have to pay for costly repairs later on.
6. Customized Solutions
People looking for a unique, eye-catching fence design
Advantages:
Sleek, modern appearance that stands out.
Provides privacy while still allowing some airflow.
Easy to maintain with fewer seams to clean.
Fleetwood Fence Tip: Horizontal slat fences work well with both natural wood finishes and painted designs to give your fence a distinct, modern look.
8. Bamboo Fence: Eco-Friendly & Unique
For a more eco-friendly option, a bamboo fence can be a great alternative to traditional wood fences. While technically not made of wood, bamboo is a strong, sustainable material that can give your yard a unique, exotic look. Bamboo fences can be installed as panels or woven into a frame.
Best for:
People seeking a natural, tropical aesthetic.
Environmentally-conscious homeowners.
Areas with mild climates.
Advantages:
Sustainable and eco-friendly material.
Provides a unique, exotic look that stands out.
Requires little maintenance.
Fleetwood Fence Tip: Bamboo fences are often used for privacy in tropical-themed or Zen gardens and can be combined with other wood fence styles for a custom look.