Western Fence Company – Utah’s Oldest Fence Company, Since 1948
Installing a quality fence is a major investment in your home’s curb appeal, privacy, and security. But once the installation crew drives away, keeping that fence standing strong for decades comes down to regular upkeep.
Here’s how to properly maintain and protect your fence based on its material.
Wood Fences
Wood delivers a classic look, but continuous exposure to moisture and UV rays makes it susceptible to rotting, warping, and splitting.
- Seal or Stain Every 2–3 Years
Apply a high-quality UV-blocking stain or sealant to seal out water penetration and prevent sun fading. - Keep Irrigation Off the Fence
Adjust sprinkler heads so they don’t constantly spray your wood panels. Repeated wetting and drying cycles warp and cup boards. - Trim Back Vegetation
Keep bushes, vines, and tall grass trimmed back at least 6 inches from the pickets. Trapped moisture accelerates fungal decay.
Vinyl Fences
Vinyl is virtually maintenance-free and won’t rot, warp, or rust, but it still requires light care to keep its color clean and bright.
- Wash Away Dirt & Mildew
Power-wash on a low setting or rinse with a garden hose and a mild soap-and-water solution once or twice a year to remove dust, grass clippings, and algae growth. - Remove Stubborn Stains Easily
For stubborn spots, moss, or mildew, clean with a soft sponge using a diluted bleach-and-water mix or a standard vinyl cleaner. Avoid abrasive scrubbing pads that can scratch the finish. - Beware Extreme Cold Impact
Cold weather makes vinyl slightly more brittle. Avoid leaning heavy lawn equipment, snow piles, or heavy objects directly against panels during winter.
Ornamental Iron Fences
Ornamental iron offers unmatched strength and style, but keeping rust at bay is key to lifetime performance.
- Protect the Powder Coating
High-quality iron uses a protective powder coating to seal out moisture. Inspect annually for chips or scratches caused by lawn equipment. - Touch Up Chips Instantly
If bare metal becomes exposed, sand the spot lightly, apply a rust-inhibiting primer, and finish with matching exterior touch-up paint before corrosion spreads beneath the finish.
Chain Link Fences
Chain link is extremely low-maintenance, but simple checks prevent premature wear.
- Spot-Treat Rust
Check for scratched coatings or exposed wire and touch up minor spots with rust-inhibiting spray. - Tighten Hardware
Check gate latches, hinges, and tension bands once a year to ensure everything stays aligned.
3 Universal Rules for Any Fence
- Maintain Ground Clearance
Keep a 2- to 3-inch gap between the bottom of your fence panels and the soil. Direct ground contact wicks moisture and leads to premature rot or corrosion. - Watch the Lawn Mower
String trimmers and mowers frequently gouge wood bases, crack vinyl bottoms, and chip iron powder coatings. Give your fence line a safe buffer when trimming. - Inspect After Severe Weather
Check your fence line after heavy snow, high winds, or torrential rain to spot loose hardware or leaning panels early—before minor issues turn into structural damage.
A little care goes a long way. Protect your investment and enjoy your fence for years to come.