Georgia is well-known for having incredible spring weather, so now is the perfect time to start enjoying the warmer days. For those who have fencing around their property, it is the right season for fence maintenance and care.
A little bit of effort now will go a long way toward making this spring even more enjoyable and stress-free. So, here are some basic do’s and don’ts to follow when inspecting your aluminum or vinyl fence.
Do: Clean Your Vinyl Fence Regularly
Vinyl fencing is a great choice because it resists mold and rot. However, that does not mean it will not get dirty. Mildew will not set in and ruin the fence, but it can make it dingy and unattractive. Winter is not an ideal time for cleaning, but once spring arrives, it will be time to break out the hose.
To clean your vinyl fence, you should really only need water and a rag, or a stream straight from the hose. For any stains, you can simply use a mild detergent or cleaner. No power washing or harsh chemicals needed!
Note: Typically, aluminum fences do not need to be cleaned as much as vinyl fences do. A simple wipe-down of any visibly dirty areas should suffice when it comes to aluminum fencing.
Don’t: Ignore Squeaky Gates
A noisy fence gate may seem like the least of your worries. However, putting off an inspection can lead to more significant problems down the line. Usually, all it takes is some elbow grease, and perhaps a lubricating product like WD-40, and your gate will be working like new again. However, if the fencing is old, it might be time to get some new hinges.
Cold weather can cause metal to contract, while hotter temperatures cause it to expand. This shifting can lead to cracks in the hinge. Sometimes, those cracks may be on the inside, where you cannot see. So, it is crucial to pay close attention when squeaking and creaking sounds happen.
Do: Clear any Debris From Your Fence
Trees that are close to the aluminum or vinyl fence can leave all types of debris and clutter against your fence border. Leaves and branches can become a huge problem if left unchecked, providing shelter for critters and collecting water. Over time, that water can loosen the foundation of your fence posts, which can be an expensive and time-consuming repair job.
Also, if you have any fruit or nut trees on your Georgia property, the seeds can get into the soil, leading to new growth. If you are not careful, you may end up with a brand-new peach tree growing in the middle of your fence! Be aware of what is sprouting and make sure to clear it while it’s small.
Don’t: Forget to Check Fence Posts!
Most of the time, the strength of your aluminum or vinyl fence is never really put to the test. Unless people or animals are leaning against it all the time, chances are you do not know how firm the posts are in the ground. Check them to see if they wiggle at all. If they do, either pound the post down or pack in extra dirt to avoid further erosion.
With aluminum fences, you may have masonry posts where the fence attaches. Inspect those joints for any cracking and crumbling. Overall, the sooner you catch problems, the easier it is to fix them.
Do: Completely Inspect Your Savannah Property
Depending on how much fencing you have, it can be easy to ignore vast sections of it and focus on the areas you use the most. However, damage can occur anywhere, and you do not want these issues to get worse over time. In addition to checking the fence itself, a walk around the whole property can alert you to other problems, like animal burrows or overgrown sections. The longer you wait to address these potential disasters, the more headaches they will cause.
Do: Contact JDH Fencing Today!
At JDH Fencing, we take pride in our products. We are a certified ActiveYards® dealer of aluminum and vinyl fencing in Georgia, and we are here to help this spring. If you need fence repair and maintenance, we can come out and inspect your property to provide an accurate assessment.
We can also install new fencing if necessary. Better yet, we have a vast selection of styles and designs to fit both your budget and your personality. All of our fences are built to last, so you can enjoy the benefits they bring for years and decades to come.
Visit Our Showroom to See Our Line of Aluminum and Vinyl Fences
Do you live in the greater Savannah GA area? Stop by the JDH Fence showroom to see many styles of aluminum and vinyl fences for your home or business property. Our attentive staff will give you the information you need and help you to install an attractive, functional vinyl fence or aluminum fence around your home or place of business.
Get directions and contact our nearby location at 30 Bryce Industrial Dr., Savannah, GA 31405 to plan your visit today! You can reach us by phone at (912) 748-1907 or contact us online. Come experience the difference you’ll find with JDH!
