Here at Welch Fencing, we’ve been helping customers transform their gardens for over 50 years now, so we know how much of a difference the right fencing can make to your outdoor space, adding privacy and character all year round. With autumn bringing leaves and wet, windy days, your fence can benefit from a little extra attention to keep it standing strong and looking good through even the harshest of weather. Let’s look at five fence checks you should keep in mind this autumn!
Check your fence for wobbly posts or damaged panels
With wet and blustery weather here, it’s a good idea to give your fence a proper once-over, looking out for cracked or sagging fence panels that might not be strong enough to survive the season. You might also want to check your timber fence posts for signs of damage – a wobbly post with a spongy or crumbly texture may have rot.
If you need to replace your timber fence post, our concrete fence posts are a strong and stable alternative to see you through many upcoming autumns. Even so, they’ll also benefit from regular checks to spot issues like cracking and shifting. Finding a crack early means you can use a concrete patching compound to protect the post from moisture and prevent the need for replacement. It’s a good demonstration of why it’s always best to act sooner rather than later, as it can save you a lot of time and money in the long run – whether it involves something small like a loose screw or something larger like an overall unstable fence.
Clean your fence and sweep regularly
Bright fallen leaves may be nice to look at, but they can have a surprisingly big impact on your fencing panels. In damp autumn weather, leaves along your fence line can trap moisture, producing acidic compounds called tannins that can sometimes even lead to stains, especially on timber. Take the time to sweep away leaves a couple of times a week to keep your outdoor space tidy and your fence looking its best. For composite fences, use water, mild detergent and a soft-bristled brush to clean away dirt and debris, paying close attention to gaps or corners where moisture can build up and cause problems like mould.
Make sure your fence posts have proper drainage
Good drainage is essential for both wooden and concrete posts to preserve their integrity and stability. One of the best ways to protect your fence posts from the wet autumn weather is by clearing away debris like mulch and adding gravel around the base. This stops water from pooling, preventing wooden posts from rotting and concrete posts from shifting. Another way to optimise drainage is by sloping the ground away from the post, redirecting water and preventing damage. If you find it’s a persistent issue, it might be worthwhile to install a French drain. This is basically a trench filled with gravel and a pipe that can prevent waterlogging. For smaller French drains, it can take two to three days to install, while a larger-scale project may require a week to complete.
Trim back overhanging branches
Windy weather is an inevitable part of autumn, and it comes with its own unique risks. Branches brought down by wind can cause a surprising amount of damage to buildings, power lines and fence panels, so it’s always a good idea to trim them back. Overhanging branches can also create a shaded, damp environment that can cause timber issues like rot, which can ultimately affect the look and strength of your fencing. You can prevent potentially costly repairs by keeping overhanging branches in check with secateurs, loppers or a pruning saw – this will also help to keep your outdoor space looking neat and well-maintained. For hard-to-reach branches, ladders or long-handled tools like a telescopic pruner can be helpful – for larger, inaccessible branches, it’s always a good idea to reach out to a professional.
Reseal timber fences
Does your timber fence look faded or feel rough to the touch? Can you see the old layer of sealant flaking off? Then it’s time for a fresh coat! As timber fencing experts, we recommend that you reseal your timber fence panels every two or three years to keep them strong and protected against issues like splitting and rot. Autumn is an ideal time to get the job done, as the milder weather allows the sealant to dry and cure fully.
As with any autumn fence checks, acting now can make all the difference when the harsher weather hits. Don’t be tempted to put off resealing till winter, as the colder temperatures can ruin the sealant’s finish and affect the longevity and quality of the protective layer. Of course, if you want something a little more low-maintenance, our composite fencing doesn’t require any staining or painting, and is a durable but stylish option for any garden!
Are you hoping to replace your fence panels before winter begins? We can help. Whether you’re looking for a composite fence panel kit, value fencing panels or cement and aggregates, we’ve got supplies for all kinds of jobs.
If you want a quick estimate without the guesswork, our fence calculator is a good place to start.
Give us a call on 01772 336 476 or email [email protected] today, and we’ll help you keep your fencing strong, safe and stylish all year round!
