Your fence is a key part of your business. Keeping it in top shape requires occasional maintenance, even if your fence is a “set-it-and-forget-it” material like vinyl or aluminum. Taking the time to give your commercial fence some additional care can prolong its life, prevent winter damage, and ensure your business stays secure year-round.
What Type of Maintenance Do Commercial Fences Need in the Fall?
Depending on the climate, fall brings lower temperatures, and certain landscapes may have grass and shrubbery that need trimming. Falling leaves can quickly accumulate around fence posts, which can retain moisture and attract pests to wood fences.
Early to mid-fall is also a good time to clean your fence if it’s been a while, as there will still be enough warmth to ensure it dries. When it’s too cold, you don’t want to spray your fence with water and have it freeze since ice can cause the fence to contract and possibly warp or can cause damage to hardware.
Inspect Your Fence Line
Walk along your fence line and test the posts by tugging on them. Make sure they aren’t loose. Do the same with your top railings. Keep an eye out for signs of wear or damage, including loose hinges or screws. Check your gates to ensure they’re operating smoothly, locking properly, and functioning as they should.
If you notice problems, such as cracked boards, leaning posts, or rust, contact a local fence professional to help. Your fence warranty may even cover some damage.
Stain and Seal Wood Fences
It isn’t just summer heat that damages a wood fence. Fall and winter bring more rain and moisture, which can damage your boards and cause rot or mildew. Fall is your last chance to take action and ensure your wood fence is properly sealed against the elements. Plus, staining gives you the opportunity to touch up your fence, so it looks nice and boosts curb appeal for years to come.
Replace Any Broken Parts
If your fence is over 10 years old, you may notice signs of damage or broken pieces. Damage increases your fence’s risk of collapse and failure over time, so it’s always best to make replacements as needed. Many modern fences, even those built a decade ago, are a lot easier to fix than you may think. The modular construction of panels and posts means you can patch up, swap out, and restore parts of a commercial fence without halting business or removing the entire system.
Get expert advice for all your commercial fence needs from the pros at Reagan Fence in Kansas City, MO!
