Redwood fences are often used in backyards and front yards to create privacy and block views from the street. They’re strong and durable, making them a good option for homeowners who want to protect their property. But, the question remains, how long do they last?
A redwood fence can last for about 30-50 years with proper care. Redwood is dense and has a high natural resistance to decay, rot, and insect damage. The wood also has a natural ability to repel water, which helps it last longer. Without regular maintenance, the fence will last 20-25 years.
In this article, I’ll look at the factor that affects the average longevity of a redwood fence and how you can ensure that your fence lasts a long time. I’ll be going through every tip in detail on how to preserve your beautiful, luxurious, expensive redwood fences.
Factors Affecting the Lifespan of a Redwood Fence
Redwood fences are known to last for several decades, but this can be affected by improper or irregular maintenance.
The factors that may shorten the lifespan of a redwood fence are:
- Extreme weather conditions like excessive rain and frost.
- Physical damage from heavy vehicles or construction equipment.
- Pest manifestations like termites.
- Lack of proper maintenance.
Hence, we can understand the factors that determine how long a redwood fence lasts as the location where it would be placed, the size of the fence, the climate in which it will be used, and how often people will use it.
Tips to Preserve Your Redwood Fence
Redwood fences are among the most beautiful and long-lasting types of fences.
They can be an excellent addition to your home or garden, but they require some care to maintain their beauty.
Here are some tips and tricks that will help you know how to care for your redwood fence properly so that it can last longer than expected.
1. Use Stains To Protect From Weathering
The best way to preserve a redwood fence is to keep it away from the elements and protect it from fading and cracking with paint or stain.
Redwood stains are used for weathering and protecting wood from the elements.
It can also be used as an interior finish or on furniture pieces that need protection from aging or wear and tear.
Here are some tips on how to care for a redwood fence using stains:
- Apply a coat of redwood stain or sealant every year. This will help the wood weather better.
- Use pressure washing to clean the fence every three years. Use a power washer (1500-2000 psi) if needed.
- Spray down the fence with water every few days to prevent mildew growth. Then dry out (48-72 hours) any moisture that may have accumulated on it from rain or snowfall.
- Use a wood sealant or stain to clean up any spilled sap or sap water that has gotten on your fence. It helps in preserving the inner color and beauty of the woods.
2. Use Sealants To Protect From Moisture and Damage
Redwood fences are a popular option for creating privacy in gardens, but they need special care to help them last longer.
A simple way to extend the life of your redwood fence is by using a sealant that will protect it from moisture and weathering.
For added durability, tinted penetrating sealers with alkyd or oil base offer the best outcome.
Sealants are specially designed to protect the wood from moisture and damage so it will last longer than other materials like paint or stain.
To seal your redwood fence, use a sealant specifically designed for wood. There are many types of wood-specific sealants available that will help preserve your fence.
You can install the fence yourself but to make the installation more manageable, you can also hire a professional to do it for you.
3. Take Regular Care
To preserve the beauty of your redwood fence, you should take care of it regularly.
The first step is to make sure that the fence is kept dry.
If it rains, you should cover the fence with a tarp or plastic sheet.
You can also use a broom to remove dust and dirt from the wood surface.
Scrubbing the wood with soap and water will improve its appearance if the wood is stained.
To paint over stains, prepare an old paintbrush and some white primer paint in advance.
Conclusion
Redwood fences are some of the most durable wood fences, lasting several decades with the proper care and maintenance.
The best way to preserve your redwood fence is by using stains and sealants that protect the fence from weathering and tarp covers over it for heavy rains.
You should also clean your fence regularly to keep it looking as good as new.
Cheers, tools owners!
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