How To Maintain a Fence

A fence is more than just a marker for a property line.  A fence can keep people and pets in or out, provide security and increase value and curb appeal. No matter what type of fencing you have, maintaining it is always important.

Wood Fence

Contemporary Landscape design by San Diego Landscape Designer debora carl landscape design

Wood fences can be the most difficult to maintain but for many it is worth the added charm. Inspect your fence for any boards that are in need of repair. Repair could include repainting or replacing an entire panel. If your fence is stained you will need to restain every few years. Climate is a major factor for how often you will need to restain but the general rule is if water no longer beads of your fence when wet, it’s time.

Vinyl Fence

Traditional Exterior design by Chicago General Contractor Martin Bros. Contracting, Inc.

Vinyl fences are one of the easiest to maintain a quick spray with the hose and a scrub with a stiff bristle brush will generally clean off any grime. For tougher stains, a stiff bristled brush combined with a mix of dish soap and vinegar should easily remove any tough stains. Never use caustic chemicals such as bleach or ammonia to clean vinyl products. These chemicals can weaken vinyl’s bonds and combined with sunlight will cause it to become brittle and weak.

Chain Link, Steel, Aluminum and Other Metal Fences

Contemporary Landscape design by San Diego Landscape Designer debora carl landscape design

Generally for most metal and chain link fence a simple wash with a garden hose will do the trick in removing most dirt and debris.  A stiff bristled brush and a bucket of warm soapy water will easily remove any tougher, stuck on dirt. 


If rust is visible, apply a rust-inhibiting agent followed by primer then paint to match the existing colour. Heavily rusted sections, poles and hardware will need to be replaced accordingly. 

Build a Simple Raised Vegetable Garden Box



Raised garden beds are one of the easiest ways to start a vegetable garden. This 7ft x 5ft garden box is made from cedar which is naturally rot resistant and doesn't require staining, sealing or painting. However you can if you would like to match your homes decor.

When you plant the right foods the amount you spent on the materials can be quickly offset by savings at the grocery store, not to mention fresh fruits and vegetables from straight from the garden just taste that much better.

Difficulty       Time            Cost

Easy               20 Minutes       About $40

Shopping List

4 8ft cedar fence boards4 6ft cedar fence boards
1” screws
2” screws

Tools
Safety Glasses
Pencil
Hearing Protection
Drill
Circular Saw or Mitre Saw

Tape Measure

Cut List
4 1x6 cedar fence boards at 60” (end panels)
4 1x8 cedar fence boards at 84” (side panels)
8 12” from cut fence boards

Step 1: Prepare Your Location

Select a flat, level and sunny location where you would like to place your garden box. Most vegetables like between 6 to 8 hours of sunlight so it’s best to pick a location that receives a lot of sun. Measure out the area of your garden box and lay down weed fabric. Secure weed fabric in place.

Step 2: Cut Panels

Cut 1-foot off the end of each fence board so that you have four 7-foot boards, four 5-foot boards and eight 1-foot pieces.

Step 3: Build Side and End Panels

Make sure that you attach the 1-foot sections to the rough side of your fence boards as this will be the inside of your box.

Flip your boards over and using 1” screws attach with two 1-foot pieces at either end of your 7-foot boards, placed about 1-foot from the edge of the boards. 

Repeat this step with the remaining 6 boards, attaching in pairs.

Step 4: Lay Out Your Box

Now that your sides are built, lay each one in place for the garden box. Ensure that you have a slight over lap of weed fabric. 

Step 5: Attach Panels

Butt together the ends of each side up and attach using 2” screws. Add screws to the top, middle and bottom of each end.

Step 6: Finish the Box

Lightly sand any rough edges and corners to smooth away splinters. Fill with soil, either your own mixture or store bought garden soil depending on your preference.