Every fence needs maintenance to some degree even if it’s advertised as “maintenance-free.” Take vinyl, for example. It is extremely easy to care for. But if you don’t address sagging rails or loose pickets, you can still wind up with a damaged fence that needs to be replaced. In commercial settings, there’s no room for compromised fencing. These commercial fence maintenance tips will help you keep your property secure and maintain an attractive landscape.
Clean Your Fence Regularly
Routine cleaning can prevent mold, rot and rust. For metal fences, like chain link and aluminum, a rinse with a hose and some mild cleaning solution is enough to keep your fence in good condition. With wood, gentle scrubbing with dish soap is best. Avoid power washing wood to prevent damaging the boards.
Apply Coatings to Prevent Rust
Annual rustproof coatings can keep your metal fence looking new even in the wet season. Ask a fence professional about what products they recommend. Many metal fences are already galvanized, which means they’ve been coated with a protective layer of zinc to form a seal against the elements. Your fence may also have a powder coating on top, which further reduces the risk of rust, if it’s galvanized metal.
Keep Grass and Foliage Trimmed
Wood fences are more prone to mold and rot when they’re exposed to excess moisture. Grass and shrubbery are the most common reasons, as they cause water to gather at the bases of posts and the bottoms of pickets. Keep your landscape trimmed to avoid this issue, and don’t plant anything within 2 feet of a wood fence.
Always Address Damage Quickly
Minor commercial fence damage may not seem like a pressing issue, but even something as seemingly harmless as a slightly loose hinge can lead to bigger problems later. A gate that doesn’t close properly now could eventually fall off altogether. Fence damage doesn’t just lead to higher costs; it also increases your liability. Make sure to have your maintenance team or a professional fence contractor address any signs of damage ASAP.
Perform Routine Inspections
Check your entire fence line at least once a quarter for signs of looseness, shifting or frost heaving. If part of the fence looks uneven or shows signs of damage, schedule a repair right away. Be mindful of potential issues, such as:
- Missing, loose or damaged hardware
- Cracks or splinters
- Leaning posts or sagging rails
Stain and Seal Commercial Wood Fences Regularly
There’s no denying that a wood fence is beautiful, and it can add immense charm to your commercial property. But wood is considered a high-maintenance material, so you must perform regular staining and sealing to protect it against the elements. You can hire a professional company to treat your fence every few years and preserve its appearance.
Contact us at Pinnacle Fencing to schedule anything from premium commercial fence installation to professional fence repair in Phoenix, AZ.