In Tampa, Springtime doesn’t really have the same connotations as the northern states, but it does mean that our temperatures are starting to climb. So before it gets too hot out there, now is the perfect time to do some “Spring cleaning” in your yard and prepare your outdoor space for summer.
While you probably have a solid routine for cleaning the inside of your house, you might not have given much thought to how to clean and maintain your fence. Read on for some advice from a Tampa Florida fence company that knows a thing or two about fences.
#1 – Inspect Your Fence
First things first – take a thorough look at your fence and make note of any areas that may need your attention. For example, if you have a chain-link fence you might be looking for rust spots and bent or broken mesh. If you have any deterioration in your chain-link fence, this can be addressed and fixed before it gets worse.
If you have a wood fence, the wet Florida weather can be especially tough on its natural material, so you’ll want to make note of any issues such as damaged boards or posts, peeling or faded paint, or damaged latches.
This is also a good time to make sure that the fence is still sturdy. Make sure nothing is loose, and that your gates still close properly. If you notice any of these issues, it means that you have to do a bit of repair work. Performing regular check-ups is going to help you avoid major problems by getting ahead of a small issue before it becomes a big problem.
#2 – Note Any Fence Repairs That Are Needed
If you’ve found that your gate is a bit askew or the latch isn’t working properly, take note of the issue so you can make a plan to get these minor problems fixed. Individual boards of wood fencing that are cracked or warped can be replaced singly with minimal effort and cost. Rotten posts can be replaced individually, as well. Rusty chain link fences can be cleaned off, scrubbed down, and then sealed with a protective coating.
If your repairs aren’t too extensive, they can be a relatively easy do-it-yourself project, but if you are unsure if you can handle this yourself, or you have questions about how to go about it, the experts at Elite Fence and Outdoor can help! As a local Tampa Florida fence company, we’re always available if you want to give us a call to get the support you need.
#3 – Let’s Get That Fence Squeaky Clean
It’s always a good idea to take care of any dirt, mold, mildew, or stains on your fence early before they get too widespread. The more frequently you check for any buildup on your fence, the easier it will be to keep it from developing into larger, more stubborn stains later on.
If the dirt buildup, grime, or mildew on your fence is minimal, giving it a strong spray from the hose will be enough to clean the majority of the dirt off, especially for a vinyl fence or aluminum fence. If there are areas that need a little more effort, using a soft brush to remove heavy debris like mud or moss before washing with a bucket full of soapy water, will have your fence looking great in no time! Often a pressure washer can do the trick but be sure not to use anything more than 1500-2000 PSI on wood fences, and using an angular tip to fan out the water spray will avoid damaging the surface.
#4 – Clean Up Your Landscaping Surrounding Your Fence in FL
Spring is also the perfect time to do a bit of grooming on your landscaping, especially near your fence. Always leave plenty of space between your fence and any bushes or shrubs as this will ensure plenty of airflow and help to lessen the chance of mold and mildew buildup. It’s also a good idea to trim any tree limbs that hang over the fence to avoid future damage if they happen to break and fall on your fence. Taking preemptive measures to clean up the area around your fence will go a long way to avoid potential issues.
Practicing this habit will also allow you to have the room and access to your fence to clean it the rest of the way.
#5 – Refresh & Protect Your Fence with Stain or Paint
Specifically, wood fences need to be repainted or re-stained every few years to keep them protected and looking new. There’s no better time than the Spring to rejuvenate your fence! Check your wood fence to see the condition of the surface, the vibrancy of the color, and if there are any cracks or breaks in the material. If you’d like to do it yourself, be sure to get more details of the best methods and products to refinish your fence from a knowledgeable Tampa Florida fence company like Elite Fence and Outdoor.
Contact the Best Tampa Florida Fence Company Today!
If after inspecting your fence you determine that it’s really time for a new fence, then let Elite Fence and Outdoor help guide you through the process. Our experts are here to answer your questions about maintenance and to show you what great customer service in Florida looks like! Give us a call at (850) 889-4059 or contact us on our website today!
