Timber fences are not only loved for their aesthetic, but for the durability and the protection they provide for homes and properties across the country. Even with various state construction regulations, timber fences can be modified to be built up to 2.4 metres high for that extra privacy some homeowners opt for. Timber fences are ultimately all about the balance between functionality and aesthetics, timber fencing is a natural aesthetic and functional addition to your property.
Many homeowners forget that timber fences, just like any other parts of the home, also need maintenance to get the best out of their longevity. When you take care of things, they last. Timber fences bear the brunt of various external factors such as harsh summers, cool winters and our tropical rain and humidity. Timber fences usually last around 15 years, but with some TLC and treatment, you can even extend their life to 20 or more years through the following steps.

Dig deep holes for the fence posts
One of the first steps in ensuring the stability of your timber fence is to ensure that the hole dug for each post is deep enough to avoid leaning as a result of soil movement. Fence posts provide the structural support for your fence. If it is compromised, the whole fence will carry the burden. For exact measurements and sizing of the hole right for your timber fences, talk to a trusted professional timber fencing contractor for your peace of mind.
Use treated timber
Using treated timber is an essential for building anything that will be exposed to the elements. Treated timber will reduce the amount of maintenance significantly and will simply enable your fencing materials to last. Its treatment process works well against damage from rot, moss, insect infestations including termites, and water damage. Treated timber is designed to be outdoors. Untreated timber is vulnerable to rotting, insect infestation, and even splitting.
Treated timber is a total package in one because not only is it trusted for its performance, but you can also explore your options because there is a wide range of designs to choose from—enjoy the best of both sturdiness and design when you opt for treated timber.
Treat stumps, sealing from the bottom and below the ground, to avoid rotting
The best option for durability and longevity, timber fence stumps must be painted with a sealant to keep the moisture from the soil out of penetrating the timber. This helps in limiting the weathering of the wood, and prevent wood from rotting. Considering the amount of moisture that the posts get exposed to, sealing the tips of your fence could add more years to your fence. Alternatively, you can have the bottom of the fence cut above the ground so that it doesn’t touch the soil.
Regular Cleaning
Even if timber fences are built to withstand various external factors, that doesn’t mean that you can completely neglect them. Time to bring back your timber fencing to its former glory by regularly cleaning debris and dirt as necessary. Scrubbing mildew, dirt and stains, sweeping, and cutting the grown grass or branches piling up near the timber fence will go a long way in protecting the integrity of the fence. Use tools such as clean cloth, power washers, or cleaning agents for easier and more efficient ways of cleaning. Your timber fence will naturally get exposure to UV rays which will aid in killing bacteria on the fence, on the flip side, UV rays can also speed up the fading of paint which is an inevitable thing. Regular cleaning does not only focus on cleaning, thus it also shows you if there are any minor or delicate areas of concern in regard to the fencing.

Spraying water on your fresh new fence
For newly-installed timber fences with fresh timber, it is advisable to spray water on the timber fence every few days during the first 6 months. In places with hot climates like Brisbane, timber fences, when left unsupervised, are prone to warping and splitting because of the large variation in temperature and humidity in the air.

Conclusion
Timber fencing will add significant value to your property aesthetically and functionally with added privacy, protection, security and more. Treated timber itself is already a high-class material, and when backed up with proper maintenance, it will withstand the elements even better. The lifespan of your timber fence depends on how well you look after it.
The team of Fencing Contractors hopes that this guide will help enhance your fence to its full potential and help you save money on construction costs in the long run by extending the life of your existing timber fence. For any concerns regarding timber fences, scout a professional timber fencing contractor for the best advice to meet your fencing needs.