|
Installing a cedar fence around your property presents several benefits. Not only will you have privacy, you will also institute a clear boundary around your yard to leave intruders out, and keep children and pets protected. Many people appreciate the appearance of this fence, because it ages attractively. Learn about the maintenance involved so that you know what you will need to do to keep the wood beautiful. Benefits of Cedar Western redcedar comes from trees located in the Pacific Northwest region of the United States. This location gives this material strength and the innate ability to withstand cold, wet, and harsh weather without succumbing to damage. This type of wood has several important advantages when you choose it for fencing. As moisture from the elements comes into contact with the wood, it will naturally resist rotting. The structure will hold its original shape, even under heavy stress. Cedar also resists insect infestation, remaining strong and resilient through the years as a result of a natural oil that insects avoid. Weatherization results in a slow transformation into a shade of gray, which many people find attractive. If you don't like this gray color, you can also stain the wood to help maintain a different shade. Maintenance Tasks At least once per year, inspect the entire cedar fence for areas in need of repair. If you find loose sections or areas with missing or loose hardware, make these repairs immediately. Wash the wood once per year. To pressure wash, set the pressure washer at between 1,500 and 2,000 pounds per square inch to prevent costly damage. Position the nozzle of the pressure washer to about 18 inches from the surface of the fence. Move the nozzle evenly back and forth to emit a steady spray of water. Avoid spraying too long in one area because you may damage the surface. When you finish, you should see most of the gray exterior disappear, leaving fresh wood exposed. Prevent and remove mildew on a cedar fence with a homemade mixture of one quart of oxygen bleach and three quarts of warm water. Spray the mixture onto the fence with a garden sprayer, and allow it to sit on the surface for about 10 minutes. Scrub the fence with a stiff-bristled scrub brush to remove all soiling and mildew. Rinse the surface well with plain water to wash away the bleach. For the best results, apply bleach in sections to avoid having it on the surface for longer than 10 minutes. Reapply stain or sealant over every exposed area once every three years. Wash the surface thoroughly first, and allow the wood to fully dry. After applying the first coat, allow the stain or sealant to dry completely, then apply another coat. Tips for Longevity Homeowners can take steps to stretch the life of a cedar fence. Avoid placing hoses or sprinklers where they will saturate the wood, because this could lead to damage. Do not allow weeds or plants to grow up and around posts, because this can also lead to damage. With proper care and maintenance, you should be able to extend the life of the structure. To learn more about their options for a cedar fence, Portland residents should visit http://www.ricksfencing.com/solid-style-fencing.htm.
Related Articles -
cedar, fence, portland,
|
