Jack Vermeulen, owner of Marin Fence Company in San Rafael, says most fences are virtually maintenance-free after they’re installed. For automatic gate systems, however, he advises to sign a maintenance contract. “The moving parts and various sensors sometimes go wrong, no matter how high quality the installation. You should arrange for regular, professional maintenance to head off problems before the gate stops working.”
Even though fences don’t require a lot of upkeep, there are still preventive measures you can take to ensure they remain in top form for years:
• If you have a wooden fence that’s behind trees and shrubs, trim the vegetation that’s closest to the fence to help it dry quicker when it rains. Inspect the fence boards every year to determine if any are rotten or loose—fix loose boards with nails and a hammer, and immediately replace rotten boards. Wooden fences are susceptible to decomposition, but you can protect them by applying water-resistant sealer every couple of years.
• Regularly washing a vinyl fence with a hose and a large brush will keep it in good condition and make it look fresh. To remove stains, apply a combination of powdered detergent, household cleaner and water to affected areas and scrub.
• Before installing a chain link fence, make sure to select a metal that’s not prone to rusting. Make sure you regularly trim bushes and trees around the fence—water from plants can cause chain link fences to corrode. Use vinegar to remove rust formations.
• Keep electric fences free of vegetation—even a blade of grass can cause a reaction, especially in the early morning when everything is wet. Check once a month during every season except summer, when more leaves fall from plants and trees.
