AS you prepare your garden for winter, it’s important not to overlook your fences.
The wooden panels bordering your space need some TLC to survive the harsh weather ahead.
An expert has revealed the three steps to follow to ensure your garden fence survives winter (stock image)[/caption]
Jack Reading, from Emperor Paint, spoke exclusively to Fabulous about the best steps to take to protect your fences this winter.
First, he recommended removing any larger dirt or debris from the fence.
Initial clean
“Outdoor timber often harbours dirt, moss, and organic growth, which must be removed before applying any treatment,” he explained.
The expert pointed out that a power washer can be used to remove this large-scale dirt and grime.
And if you notice any organic growth on the timber, he recommends applying a fungicidal cleaner to the wood to kill the growth before you treat it.
“For less weathered fencing, such as removing cobwebs, hot soapy water and a soft brush will suffice,” he explained.
“On weathered wood, light sanding with 180-grit sandpaper helps expose the timber’s natural surface, so that you are ready to apply the treatment.”
Check panels
And the expert also advised homeowners to keep an eye out for any broken fence panels before applying clear treatment.
“Applying treatment to broken fence panels will cause the treatment to absorb unevenly, leading to inadequate protection,” he explained.
“It’s better to apply your treatment to fence panels that have durability, rather than using it on fence panels that will need replacing soon.”
General maintenance
And he also emphasised the importance of general maintenance when it comes to fencing.
“Check to ensure that your fence is not leaning to prevent any further damage to it in harsh weather conditions, and to prevent any safety hazards,” the pro advised.
A simple visual test or a spirit level held vertically against your fence post can confirm this.
“In order to straighten a leaning fence, brace it upright, and secure the base with a repair spur or fresh concrete,” he said.
“It helps to keep the surrounding area of your fence as clear as possible.”
Warning signs your fence is under stress
DALE Smith, Founder of Fence Guru, recommends checking your fence monthly for these telltale signs of decoration-related damage:
- Leaning or tilting posts – particularly noticeable after windy weather
- Loose or rattling fence boards – look for gaps appearing between panels
- Sagging sections – fence lines that no longer appear straight
- Visible moisture damage – dark staining or soft spots around hanging items
- Loose fixings – screws or nails that appear to be pulling away from the wood
He also recommended regularly sweeping away wet leaves to prevent them from causing unsightly discolouration to your fence.
When it comes to treatment, the Emperor Exterior Wood Waterproofer is available in a five litre tub for £80.
“Upon first glance, clear wood treatments can look similar to one another, but in reality they can perform very differently,” he explained.
“Check how long the clear wood treatment lasts to ensure that your fence is both winter-ready and stays protected in the long-term.”
He also recommended avoiding clear treatments which are oil-based, explaining they are not breathable.
“These types of clear waterproofers form a seal on the surface of the wood, trapping the moisture, which can be weathered off, leaving your fence unprotected after only a few months,” the pro said.
“Instead, opt for a waterproofer which is highly breathable and will last much longer.
This type of product absorbs and chemically bonds to the wood itself, giving the wood “super hydrophobic properties” which will protect the fence from rainfall.
You can choosing a waterproofer that lasts up to 25 years, rather than having to reapply every two to three years.
“Over the course of 25 years, opting to treat your fence with Emperor Exterior Wood Waterproofer will work out at £3.20 a year,” he explained.
“In comparison, opting for a waterproofer that only lasts 2-3 years but is priced at £40 will lead to four times the spend, at around £13.30 per year.”
More on winter garden jobs
Plus, five more flowers to plant now for a colourful bloom later in winter.
And the 13 red flags that could be ruining your garden during the winter.
Right now is also the best time to take hydrangea cuttings.
Plus, the five speedy plants to sow now to fill the gaps in your garden until winter.
And the top vegetables you should be sowing to harvest later this year.
The expert recommended applying for a weatherproofer that is designed to last long-term (stock image)[/caption]