A wood fence can do a lot more than just outline your yard. It brings character, keeps your space private, and gives kids and pets a safe place to play. At Commence Fence, we know that in a place like Ottawa, where winter hits hard and summers bring the heat, your fence needs some care if you want it to hold up over time. There’s no magic trick to make your fence last forever, but with the right approach, you can keep it looking great and standing strong for years. Here’s how we help homeowners protect their investment and enjoy their wood fence in Ottawa longer.
Pick the Kind of Wood Fence in Ottawa That Works for this Climate
Let’s start with the base of it all: the wood. Some types just aren’t built for our local weather. If you’re installing a new fence or planning to replace an old one, the wood you choose will make a difference down the line.
Here’s what we often suggest:
- Cedar: A solid pick because it naturally resists rot and insects. Plus, it smells great and ages well.
- Pressure-treated pine: A more budget-friendly option. It’s treated to handle moisture and pests, but you’ll want to let it dry fully before staining.
- Redwood: Strong and beautiful, but it comes with a higher price tag.
Protect it Before the Weather Turns
Once your fence is installed and the wood has dried out, don’t wait too long to seal it. A proper wood sealant does a lot more than just keep the colour nice. It blocks moisture, protects against sun damage, and helps your boards stay smooth instead of cracking or warping.
So here’s what we suggest:
- Seal your fence within the first month of installation.
- Choose a weather-resistant sealant made for outdoor wood.
- Reapply every 2–3 years, depending on wear.
Keep the Bottom of the Fence Dry
One of the easiest things you can do is also one of the most overlooked: protect the bottom edge of your fence. When grass, leaves, or snow pile up around the base, they trap moisture, and that can lead to early rot.
Try these small habits:
- Trim grass regularly around the fence line.
- Avoid stacking soil, mulch, or snow against the boards.
- Make sure your yard drains properly so water doesn’t pool around the fence.
Give it a Lookover Now and Then
Wood shifts and changes with the seasons. Screws can come loose, boards might bow, and posts sometimes tilt. If you do a quick walk-around once in a while, you can catch small issues before they become big ones.
Look for:
- Posts that lean or feel wobbly.
- Nails or screws that have popped out.
- Cracks or warped boards.
Wash it Once a Year to Freshen it Up
Ottawa winters can leave fences looking tired. A gentle cleaning in the spring helps your fence look better and last longer. Mold, algae, and dirt wear down wood if you leave them alone.
You don’t need fancy tools. Just try this:
- Mix mild soap with water and scrub using a soft brush.
- For tougher spots, use white vinegar or a fence-safe wood cleaner.
- If using a pressure washer, go low and keep moving to avoid damage.
Once it dries fully, you’ll be able to seal or stain it again if needed.
Keep an Eye Out for Bugs and Mildew
Warmer months bring more than just sunshine. You might notice bugs or fungus trying to make your fence their home. The key is stopping it early.
Do this to help:
- Keep plants trimmed back from the fence.
- Don’t lean anything wooden, such as firewood, against it.
- Treat the wood with a safe, protective product if needed.
Don’t Ignore the Fence Posts
The posts are what keep the whole structure standing. If they start to rot or shift, it doesn’t matter how nice the panels look. The wood fence in Ottawa won’t last.
It helps to:
- Check for soft spots near the ground.
- Make sure they’re upright and secure.
- Reinforce or reset them if they’ve shifted with the freeze-thaw cycles.
According to our expert installers, a single weak post can pull an entire section down, so it’s worth checking them now and then.
Think About Staining for a Polished Look
Stain isn’t just for style; it also gives your fence another layer of protection. It brings out the natural texture of the wood and helps block UV rays.
If you’re ready to stain:
- Pick a product made for outdoor fences.
- Choose a colour that fits your yard and home.
- Apply it on a dry day and let it fully cure.
Prep it Before Winter Hits
Snow, wind, and ice can do real damage, especially if your fence already has some weak spots. A quick check in the fall can save you a lot of hassle in the spring.
What to do:
- Walk along the fence and fix anything loose.
- Clear out leaves or buildup near the base.
- Replace or repair broken sections now, not later.
Winter’s tough, but a little prep goes a long way.
Upgrade the Look Without Rebuilding
If your fence is still strong, small changes can freshen it up and make it feel more like part of your space.
Here are some easy ideas:
- Add solar lights to the posts for evening curb appeal.
- Attach flower boxes or hooks for tools or decorations.
- Hang a few custom signs or panels to give it personality.
These upgrades take just a little time but can completely change the way your yard feels.
Conclusion
Taking care of your wood fence in Ottawa isn’t hard; it just takes a little attention now and then. Keep it clean, check for damage, and seal it right. At Commence Fence, we’re here to help you do exactly that, so your fence stays strong and looks great year after year.
So, want to get the most out of your fence? Reach out to us today!
