So, you fancy sprucing up your tired winter garden before the warm weather arrives? Better start with that worn out garden fence! If you’re not sure where to start, fear not, we have got you covered!
In this step-by-step guide, we’ll tell you exactly how to treat wood fences, as well as the benefits. We’ll even point you in the right direction of where to get your hands on some of the best external wood treatments, so you can keep it looking fresh and in tip top condition.
Why Should You Treat Wood for Outdoor Use?
You’re either here wanting to know how to apply external wood treatments (because you’ve already done your homework & know the benefits of doing so) or you’re considering it, but still need some convincing. Read below to find out why treating wood fences will benefit you in the long term. Plus, we also have those tips on how to apply the treatment too.
Protects against damage from creepy crawlies
Most of us Brits love spending a Summers day out in the garden, but we aren’t the only ones the heat attracts. Six and eight legged creepy crawlies also love making the most of the sunshine & will use your outdoor wooden surfaces to feast on, causing damage & decay. But fear not, external wood treatments help to protect your wooden surfaces against hungry, pesky insects and bugs, keeping your fences looking fresh throughout the seasons.
Protection against the elements
British weather isn’t all sunshine unfortunately (which, you’ll be able to vouch for if you live here!). Thankfully, external wood treatment doesn’t just help to protect against sun damage, but it also shields your wood fences from wind & rain, stopping rot, warping, & cracking. So, you can protect your fence even when the temperature is being temperamental.
Longevity
Treating wood fences can extend their lifespan by years. Regular maintenance and treatment can help to prevent decay, insect damage, and other problems that can lead to deterioration. Protect your wood fence, it wants to live to see another summer!
Aesthetics
Over time, wood fences can become faded, discoloured, and worn. Treating wood fences can help to restore their natural beauty and enhance appearance – so they go from a to-do into a ta-da!
Cost savings
By investing in external wood treatment for your wood fence, you can avoid forking out on repairs and replacements in the future, saving you a couple of extra bob for BBQ bits and garden party essentials.
Gather the Essentials
All the supplies & equipment you’ll need are listed below:
- Wood Treatment
- Water
- Paint tray or container
- Protective gloves
- Stir stick
- Paintbrush, roller, or sprayer
- Pressure washer or garden hose for cleaning the fence
- Sandpaper or sanding machine (optional)
- Stain or sealant for finishing coat (optional)
Straightforward Steps for Treating Wood Fences
Now that you’ve got your supplies and equipment handy, follow the steps below:
Weather check
Without stating the obvious, you’ll probably not want to apply wood treatment to your fence in the pouring rain or blistering heat, so it’s best to check the forecast before you get to work.
Clean the fence
Now that you know you aren’t going to get caught in the rain, you might be eager to slap on the treatment so you can soak up the sun, but before you do, you’ll need to make sure your fence is clean and free of dirt, debris and loose wood fibres. Use a pressure washer or a garden hose to wash the fence and allow it to dry completely.
Prepare the treatment solution
This is where your protective gloves come in handy. When they are on, fill a clean container with the ratio of 1 part treatment and 4 parts water. Finally, mix the solution thoroughly using a stir stick until it is well-blended.
Apply the treatment solution
Next, use a paintbrush and apply the treatment solution to the wood fence, making sure to cover all surfaces evenly. Avoid applying the treatment in direct sunlight or on a hot day, as this may cause the solution to evaporate too quickly (aren’t you glad you checked the weather forecast).
Allow the treatment to penetrate
Let the treatment solution penetrate the wood for at least 24 hours, then voila! You now have yourself a fully protected wood fence that can sustain the attack of rot, decay, and insects.
Top Tips
Apply a finishing coat
After the treatment has fully penetrated the wood, you can apply a finishing coat of stain or sealant to further protect the wood and enhance its appearance. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for application and drying time.
Perform regular maintenance
To keep your wood fence protected and looking its best, perform regular maintenance such as cleaning, inspecting for damage, and reapplying treatment or finishing coats as needed.
Have you seen our product bundles?
Buy our wood treatment and preservative bundles for everything you need to get your home Summer ready! View our selection of wood treatment bundles here.
