How Long Will a Timber Fence Last?
Wooden fences typically last for about 15 years. However, with proper care and maintenance, homeowners can extend their lifespan to 20 years.
While timber fences are generally long-lasting, they are not home infrastructures you can set up and forget about.
Wood is more susceptible to moisture, pests, and other environmental factors than metal. Without the necessary upkeep, a timber fence can prematurely deteriorate. Also, wood type, installation, and location affect how long a wooden fence will last.
This article provides insight into these contributing factors to help you maintain the appearance and quality of your fence for many years.
Factors That Affect Timber Fence Longevity
Building a long-lasting wooden fence starts with the type of wood, installation method, and location. That only means making the right decisions from the start is crucial.
Here are some important considerations to keep in mind.
1. Type and Treatment of Wood
Instead of using softwood, consider using hardwood for fencing for increased durability and longevity. Hardwood types are more resistant to outdoor elements but are also heavy, tricky to install, and expensive.
On the other hand, you can still go for softwood fencing options with the proper treatment. Timber treatment uses chemicals to reinforce the wood’s natural resistance to decay, insects, and moisture, making it longer lasting.
There are different timber treatment methods, though. Some use the dip method, where the wood exterior gets protection. The more effective technique is vacuum pressure treatment, where the chemical penetrates the wood’s interior, keeping even its core protected.
2. Timber Fence Design and Installation
The quality of your fixings (e.g. screws, panels, posts, gravel boards) is also a crucial indicator of how long your wooden fence will last.
For example, a well-made fence panel with sufficient timber rails and framing will naturally withstand weather elements better and last longer.
The use of stainless-steel screws also ensures longevity as these are less prone to rusting. Similarly, if you set up your fence with a reputable installer, you’ll be more confident of your fence quality.
A good installer will use the right size of timber posts to make sure the fence has enough support. They would also know how to prepare the base according to the weight of your fence, soil type, and location.
If they use gravel boards, they’ll ensure they go through proper treatment for ground contact protection.
Investing in reliable fencing services certainly affects how your wooden fence will stand over time.
3. Location and Environmental Factors
Do you live by the beach or in a coastal town? Do you often experience strong winds? Are you building a fence next to your garden or plants?
All these could affect the lifespan of your wooden fence. It’s because stress, moisture, and temperature can damage timber.
If your climate is wet and humid, your wooden fence can rot and develop moulds. Similarly, dry and sunny weather can cause wood to crack and break.
To make your fence last, choose the right type of wood and installation technique for your location.
If you plan to surround your fence with vegetation, ensure proper drainage. Also, avoid building fences near trees, as their roots can push them out of alignment.
Then, consider a fence with gaps if you are in a windy region to reduce strain on the fence posts and panels.
How to Maintain Your Timber Fence for Long Life
After installing your wooden fence, commit to proper maintenance and care. Here’s a checklist to help you stay on top of things:
- Do fence inspections every few months. Look for signs of damage and repair them promptly. Check the fence fixings and see which ones need replacement.
- Trim overgrown plants and vines. Remove those in direct contact with your fence, as they can trap moisture and promote rotting.
- Clean your fence to avoid grime build-up. You can use a hose, scrub it with a brush, or hire cleaning services.
- Reseal or repaint your fence every few years. After cleaning, allow your fence to dry for a week before applying paint or waterproof sealant. Consider treating the wood as well if necessary.
- Have a professional or seasonal maintenance schedule. If your fence is old and needs extensive repairs, hire a professional to assess and fix it. Also, time your maintenance based on season to avoid further fence damage.
Preserve Your Timber Fence with Proper Installation and Care
A wooden fence can last 15 to 20 years. But without proper wood selection, installation, and maintenance, your fence is at risk of damage and a shorter life expectancy.
If you need the best timber fencing installation service for your Melbourne home, contact us on 0452 280 559. Our That’s Fencing experts can assist in choosing the timber and installation technique that suits your location and requirements.