From strong winds to rainstorms to high temps, wooden fences have to face all the weather elements. This can sometimes lead to warping. Continue reading to learn more about why your fence boards are warping and how you can prevent it.
Causes of warped boards
Wood is a material that is naturally susceptible to damage due to moisture and weather elements. Once wood soaks in water, it expands, and once it eventually evaporates, it causes the wood to shrink. This process then leads to the warping of your fence boards.
Warped boards can also cause your fence to start splitting, which can result in an unattractive fence.
How to prevent wood fences from warping
Now onto the second half of why your fence boards are warping and how you can prevent it. Let’s take a look at what you can do to prevent your wooden fence boards from becoming warped.
Use the right wood
When making choices about building your new fence, it is important that you carefully choose the type of wood that is used. Choosing a thicker, higher-quality wood can help decrease the possibility of splitting and warpage.
Attach the fence boards properly
The way your fence boards are attached can affect fence board warping.
If smooth shank nails were used in the construction of your fence, it may lead to more warping and splitting. Using screws or ring shank nails, on the other hand, can reduce the chance of splitting.
Seal the wood
Using a sealant on your wood fence creates a barrier between your fence and the natural elements it has to face. Consider a water-repellent sealant with UV protection in order to provide your fence boards even more protection against warping.
Make note that sealants will need to be reapplied every two to three years.
Summary
Now that you know why your fence boards are warping and how you can prevent it, is it time to take the next step in building your new fence? Contact Turner Fence today!
In addition, continue reading our blogs if you are looking for more fencing tips and information.
