Wooden privacy fences make it possible for you to enjoy your property without the interference of people passing by or your neighbors and add value to your extended living area. You may value that wooden privacy fence you have on your property more so than just about any other feature, but if you are like a lot of homeowners, you have no idea how to properly care for a wooden fence. It is all too easy to make a mistake that will compromise the life span of a wooden fence, so it is a good idea to get to know some of the biggest mistakes to avoid. 

Mistake: Using a pressure washer to clean a wooden privacy fence. 

Why? The high pressure of a pressure washer is not good on the wooden surface of the fence panels. Even though it may look like the pressure washer is not causing any damage, the pressurized water can blast away tiny fragments of the wood, leaving it more vulnerable to mildew and decay over time. It is best to clean the fence with just your water house and a soft scrub brush. 

Mistake: Planting vining plants near your privacy fence. 

Why? The tall stature of a privacy fence makes it seemingly ideal for climbing or vining plants, but it is best to not allow plants to climb your privacy fence if you want it to last as long as possible. Some plants are dense and heavy, which means they will harbor moisture and encourage mold growth on the fence beneath the leave and vines. Furthermore, the growing plant could sprout vines between fence panels and push them apart, causing damage over time. 

Mistake: Using abrasive methods to remove chipping paint. 

Why? If the wooden privacy fence you have on your property is painted, there will come a time when the paint starts to fade and chip away. While removing the chipping paint is best before you repaint the fence panels, make sure you take care when you do. Using metal scrapers steel-bristled brushes, and other paint chipping tools to remove the paint could easily compromise the integrity of the wood. 

From the day you have your wooden privacy fence installed, it is best to talk at length with the contractor about the appropriate maintenance measures you should take to prolong the fence's  life span. If you would like to know more about caring for your wooden fencing, get in touch with a fencing contractor for more information.