Your fence serves as a boundary line that defines the property’s limits, both for ownership rights as well as for security, as well as a good fence will enhance the aesthetic value of a house. They are more than just physical barriers that separate properties; rather they add a layer of style, privacy, and security to our homes. Whether you’re lounging in your backyard or hosting a barbecue with your loved ones, your fence is crucial in creating a comfortable and safe environment.
Just like any other material that is exposed to the elements outdoors, your fence will show signs of deterioration eventually, but there are some problems that are avoidable, whilst others are unavoidable or can only be slowed down. In this article, we will go through 5 common problems a residential fence may have as well as ways to avoid them or slow the deterioration down. From wood rot, to leaning posts, these problems can affect your fence’s longevity and compromise its functionality and its aesthetic appeal.
1- Splitting wood:
Splitting timber palings is a common problem that can occur in climates such as Brisbane, especially in areas with fluctuating temperatures or weather conditions. Wood is a natural material that expands and contracts with changes in temperature and moisture levels. Over time, this can cause the wood to split or crack, which can weaken the fence and compromise its structural integrity. The naturally occurring oils in timber allow for the timber to be able to expand and contract (within reason) without splitting, but when the oils dry out as a result of extended exposure to UV, a protective coating drying out or as a result of dry rot, your timber will eventually split.
To avoid splitting wood in residential fences, homeowners should take the following steps:
Choose high-quality, treated timber: Choosing a high-quality, hardwood that is resistant to splitting, such as merbau, blackbutt or jarrah, can help to prevent the problem from occurring in the first place. These types of timber are naturally more oily, making them a popular choice for fencing in our climate.
Seal and protect the wood: Treating your wooden fence with a protective sealant or stain can help to prevent moisture from evaporating from the wood and causing splitting. Homeowners should apply the treatment every few years to maintain its effectiveness, especially in hot climates with strong UV (like Queensland).
2- Rust in metal fencing
Metal fences, such as wrought iron or steel, can rust over time, which can weaken the fence and compromise its appearance as well as its functionality.
Decreased Aesthetics: Rust is unsightly and can significantly reduce the appearance of a fence. It can make a fence look old, worn out, and neglected, which can decrease the curb appeal of a property.
Compromised integrity of the metal: Rust weakens metal and can lead to further corrosion and structural damage over time. This can compromise the integrity of the fence and make it less effective at containing pets or providing security.
One solution to prevent rust on metal fences is to maintain them regularly. This includes cleaning the fence regularly with mild detergent and water to remove dirt and debris that can trap moisture and accelerate rusting, including the removal of nearby vegetation. Applying a rust inhibitor or protective coating to scratches or dings that you notice can also help prevent rust from forming.
Another solution is to use non-corrosive materials such as Colorbond steel or aluminium instead of traditional iron or steel. These materials are less prone to rusting and can provide better durability and longevity for a fence. However, this option may be more expensive upfront.
3- Leaning fences:
Over time, fence posts can become loose and cause the fence to lean or tilt, compromising its stability and safety.
One of the main causes of the leaning of residential fences in Queensland is the natural settling of soil, which can cause the fence posts to shift over time. Another common cause is damage to the fence posts or panels, which can occur due to harsh weather conditions, impact from vehicles or animals, or regular wear and tear.
To address the issue of a leaning fence, one solution is to reinforce the fence posts with concrete footings or bracing, which can provide added stability and support and ensure that the posts are dug deep enough to account for the soil type and the level of reactivity of the soil.
Soil type can play a significant role in causing a fence to lean. Different soil types have varying levels of stability and settling rates, which can affect the integrity of the fence posts over time.
For example, soils that are high in clay content tend to be more prone to reactivity, which can cause the fence posts to shift and lean. Similarly, sandy soils can be less stable and may require additional reinforcement to keep fence posts upright. In this case, having a local Brisbane Southside fencing contractor will enable greater knowledge and understanding of the local conditions and how to prevent issues like an unstable foundation from occurring.
4- Termite damage:
One of the main causes of termite damage in Queensland is the presence of moisture, which can attract termites to the wood and make it easier for them to infest if wood rot is already present. Another common cause is the use of untreated or poorly treated wood, which is more susceptible to termite infestation.
To address the issue of termite damage in timber fences, one solution is to use termite-resistant materials such as treated pine or metal. Additionally, ensuring that the fence is built with proper ventilation and drainage can help reduce moisture levels and discourage termite activity. Regular inspection and maintenance of the fence can also help identify and address any signs of termite damage before it becomes extensive. It may also be helpful to consult with a professional pest control service to implement preventive measures and treat any existing termite infestations.
5- Rotting timber:
Wooden fences are susceptible to rotting, especially in areas with high humidity or frequent rain. Rotting timber can weaken the fence and compromise its structural integrity, increasing the susceptibility to termites.
Homeowners should inspect their wooden fences regularly and replace any rotting or damaged boards immediately. Additionally, they can apply a sealant or stain to their wooden fences to protect against moisture damage and prolong their lifespan.
There are two main types of timber rot, wet and dry rot. Both types of rot are caused by a fungus, however the wet rot requires higher moisture level to thrive, whilst the dry rot requires less moisture and can feed off the timber in more varied conditions. Dry rot is more dangerous because wet rot spreads only in the timber that has the adequate moisture level, dry rot on the other hand spreads to more locations due to less moisture requirement.
To prevent this issue, adequate drainage is important. To treat dry rot, the affected timber needs to be removed and replaced, and a fungicide dry rot treatment applied. In wet rot, the timber is replaced and the surrounding wood is protected with a wood hardener to prevent further damage. This article here explains more about how you can get the most out of your timber fence.
6- Discolouration:
Fences can become discoloured over time due to exposure to sunlight, moisture, and other environmental factors. Discolouration can make the fence look old and unkempt.
Homeowners can prevent discolouration by choosing a high-quality fence material that is resistant to fading, such as Colorbond fences or ones made of vinyl or aluminium. Additionally, they can apply a protective coating or paint to their fences to prevent discolouration and prolong their lifespan. Regular cleaning and maintenance can also help to prevent discolouration and keep the fence looking fresh and new.
In conclusion, residential fences play an important role in ensuring privacy, safety, and aesthetic appeal for our homes. However, they are not immune to various problems that can arise over time. By understanding the causes of these issues and taking appropriate preventive and corrective measures, homeowners can help ensure the longevity and effectiveness of their fences.
