Can You Restore Old Wooden Fences in Milwaukee?
Many homeowners install wood fencing around their yards because the material is cost-effective, visually appealing, and easy to customize. Unlike metal or vinyl fencing, wooden fences need more maintenance to stay in excellent condition. If you have a worn-out wood fence, do you need to replace it, or is it possible to restore old wooden fences?
Learn expert tips from Yutka Fence, a trusted fence company in Milwaukee, on how you can make your old fence look brand new. This guide explains the step-by-step process of restoring wood fences.
Wooden Fence Maintenance and Restoration
Wood fencing can last up to 20 years or more with proper maintenance. However, not all homeowners will put the same amount of care into their fences. The maintenance that your fence needs often depends on factors like:
- The type of wood the fence is made of
- Total sun and water exposure
- The climate you live in and weather conditions
Even if you get a good deal on fence installation, your maintenance costs can stack up if you neglect to perform the necessary upkeep. Learn how to make old wooden fences look like new ones by following the steps below.
Gather Supplies
Fence restoration involves a fairly simple process you can do on your own, but you need to have the right equipment. Experts recommend gathering the following items beforehand:
- Power washer
- Sandpaper
- Paint brushes and rollers
- Wood filler
- Wood cleaner
- Putty knife
You may also need to get wood glue, a wrench, drill, and screws if your fence faces some structural damage. These items will help you perform basic repairs so the fence regains its strength and sturdiness.
Wash the Fence
Over time, old wooden fences will accumulate dirt and debris that tarnishes their appearance. Washing the fence is crucial to the restoration process because it removes both loose dirt and debris that seeps into the surface.
Take a power washer and spray down the fence with water first. You can then add special wood cleaner to the fence and scrub it with a brush. Thoroughly rinse off the cleaning solution and let the fence dry completely before moving on to the next step.
Perform Necessary Repairs
One of the drawbacks of wood fencing stems from the fact that the material can warp and crack. If your fence has any damage to the posts, you'll need to address it before working on any more cosmetic changes. Run sandpaper over the boards to make any rough or chipped edges smooth and ready for staining.
Take your wood filler and place it in any gaps that appear in the fence. Smooth it over with the putty knife and let the filler dry. While the filler dries, you can also work on other repairs that the fence needs.
Do you see protruding nails popping out of the posts? Carefully remove them and drill new ones in place. If any boards become loose, you can glue them back in place.
Be sure to wear protective glasses and gloves while performing any repairs. Working with your bare hands puts you at risk for splinters while flying debris could end up in your eyes.
Apply a New Stain or Paint
If you're happy with the current color of your fence, you’ll only need to apply a protective sealant after completing the repairs. However, the trick to making old wooden fences look brand new comes from using a wood stain or paint on the surface. This simple change can transform the structure's entire look.
Choose a wood stain or paint color that complements your home's exterior. Invest in high-quality materials to make the fence look even better. Plan this step around fair weather to ensure that the coat dries evenly.
Keep Up With Regular Maintenance
Repeat this process every two years for the best results. Performing regular maintenance can extend the life of your wooden fence and keep it looking attractive. Safeguard your fence by taking the time to wash, repair, and stain it.
Contact Milwaukee's Wood Fence Experts at Yutka Fence
Restoring old wooden fences can transform your home's exterior and make your yard more desirable. For fences that have extensive wood rot and structural damage, restoration isn't an option. Reach out to the experts at Yutka Fence if you need to install a new fencing system.
Their specialists can inform you about obtaining a permit to replace your fence and provide a quote for your new fence. Contact Yutka Fence today to learn more about their services.