How to Maintain a Wooden Fence in the Humid Myrtle Beach Climate

Living in Myrtle Beach means enjoying stunning coastal views, warm weather, and plenty of sunshine - but it also means dealing with high humidity and frequent storms. Hurricane season can wreak havoc on a beautiful wooden fence, leaving you with another headache to deal with.

If you have a wooden fence, this climate can take a toll over time, leading to warping, rot, and mold. Proper maintenance is key to keeping your fence strong, beautiful, and long-lasting (and cuts down on repair costs). If you're ever finding yourself needing repair from weather or other damage, you can always contact our team here at Stand Strong Fencing of Myrtle Beach.

While no fence will last forever, here are a few steps to help ensure that you get the most from your fence:

1. Choose Quality Materials from the Start

This might seem obvious, but you would be surprised! The best way to ensure your wooden fence holds up against Myrtle Beach’s humidity and salty air is to start with high-quality wood & fence materials. Pressure-treated wood, cedar, and redwood naturally resist moisture and pests, making them excellent choices for this coastal environment.

If you're unsure of where to start as far as which type of wood is best for your fence, you can read up on the benefits here and always remember to contact our team with any questions. We can show you various types of wood that we offer so you can pick something that's not only visually appealing but also strong against the weather.

2. Apply a Protective Sealant

Humidity and moisture are the biggest threats to wooden fences, and this risk is even higher living in a coastal area like Myrtle Beach. Applying a high-quality sealant or stain helps create a protective barrier that repels water and prevents swelling, cracking, or rotting. For the best results, reseal your fence every 1-2 years, especially after hurricane or rainy seasons.

If you're working with a fencing company like Stand Strong Fencing, we'll be sure to treat your fence with the best stains and sealants available.

3. Keep Up with Regular Cleaning

Dirt, mold, and mildew can build up on your fence due to the high humidity, causing discoloration and potential damage. Not only does this impact the structural integrity and longevity of your fence, it can also make your fence look considerably aged. It's crucial to keep up with maintenance on your fence when you notice any discoloration or changes.

Here's a simple routine for cleaning your fence that you can follow:

• Use a mild soap and water mixture or a wood-friendly fence cleaner.
• Scrub with a soft brush or pressure wash on a low setting to avoid damaging the wood.
• Let the fence dry completely before applying any treatments.

4. Inspect for Damage & Handle Repairs Promptly

Myrtle Beach’s storms and humidity can cause wear and tear over time, that's something we can't avoid. When you're on your property make sure that you're checking for damage on a somewhat frequent basis. This will help you potentially avoid more damage to your fence over time, and cut down on any unnecessary repairs that your fence may need.

Here are a few things to look out for next time you're outside and near your fence:

• Loose or rotting boards. These are easy to spot when they're rotting or if they've popped loose, but physically checking the fence boards can also help you determine this.
• Warping or leaning posts. This is pretty easy to spot! If you're noticing any of your support posts have warped or are leaning, give us a call.
• Rusty nails or hardware. These parts when they rust will deteriorate, causing them to loose their hold on your fence. If you're handy enough to replace the nails or hardware it can greatly increase the longevity of your fence - otherwise our team would be more than happy to repair your fence.

Addressing these issues early can prevent more costly fence repairs down the line. If you notice major damage, it’s best to give our team a call to help. We bring years of experience when it comes to wooden fence repair, and would love to show you what it means for your fence to "stand strong".

5. Trim Nearby Plants & Improve Drainage

While this one isn't as overtly obvious as fence damage, it's important to be aware of what other factors can be contributing to your fence's lifespan. Overgrown plants and standing water can contribute to wood rot and mold growth on your fence supports.

Keep bushes, vines, and grass trimmed back from your fence, and make sure your yard has proper drainage to prevent water from pooling around the fence posts - as this is a surefire way to damage your fence over time.

When to Call an Expert for Help

Even with the best maintenance, there comes a time when professional wood fence repair or replacement is needed. If your fence is showing signs of significant damage, aging, or structural weakness, it’s time to reach out for help!

At Stand Strong Fencing of Myrtle Beach, we specialize in expert wood fence repair and installation, ensuring that your fence stands strong against the coastal climate. Whether you need minor repairs or a full replacement, our team is here to help with top-quality craftsmanship and durable materials.

Need professional fence maintenance or repair? Contact Stand Strong Fencing today for a free consultation and let’s keep your wooden fence looking great for years to come!