<p></p> <img src="https://dcr-apis.s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/wp_contents/uploads/DCR-ADMIN/Article_Webp/AdobeStock_80030088.webp" alt="undefined" style="height: ;width: "/> <p></p> <p><em>Originally written by Jesse Frank of Novato Lumber &amp; Fence </em></p> <p>While quality materials and workmanship are both vital to a wood fence’s longevity, an equally important factor is preventive maintenance. By taking proactive measures to protect your fence from the outdoor elements, you can prolong its life span and get the most for your investment.</p> <p>One crucial step is to keep fence posts clear of soil, as prolonged contact can result in premature rot. Properly crowned post concrete should protect against this, but additional measures may be necessary in some cases. One such expedient is to install a pressure-treated retaining board, which provides a barrier between the posts and the soil. </p> <p>Another important preventive step is to alter the trajectory of irrigation sprinklers. When a fence is continuously subjected to a sprinkler’s water stream, its lifespan can be reduced by as much as half, so be sure to make any necessary adjustments. </p> <p>Another way to boost fence longevity is to apply a stain or sealer, which will protect the wood from moisture penetration and color fading. While painting is often considered an equivalent measure, paint’s susceptibility to cracking can compromise its ability to seal out moisture, as cracks often serve as water penetration points.&nbsp;</p> <p><a href="https://www.diamondcertified.org/" target="_self">Use Diamond Certified Resource to find top rated companies.</a></p> <p><strong>Local, Top Rated Diamond Certified Companies Related to Your Topic</strong><br><a href="https://www.diamondcertified.org/santa-clara-county-fences/" target="_self">Santa Clara County Fence Contractors</a><br><a href="https://www.diamondcertified.org/san-mateo-county-fences/" target="_self">San Mateo County Fence Contractors</a> <br><a href="https://www.diamondcertified.org/alameda-fences/" target="_self">Alameda County Fence Contractors</a><br><a href="https://www.diamondcertified.org/santa-cruz-county-fences/" target="_self">Santa Cruz County Fence Contractors</a><br><a href="https://www.diamondcertified.org/napa-fences/" target="_self">Napa County Fence Contractors</a></p> <p><strong>Related Articles</strong><br><a href="https://www.diamondcertified.org/Guide/Fencing/" target="_self">The Homeowner's Guide to Fences &amp; Gates</a><br><a href="https://www.diamondcertified.org/find-expert-advice/" target="_self">Get Expert Advice From Owners of Top Rated Local Companies</a><br><a href="https://www.diamondcertified.org/membership/" target="_self">Become a Diamond Certified Preferred Member (Always Free)</a>&nbsp;</p>