Fencing issues may manifest themselves in rot, water damage and even change in color. One visible suspect is when your fence starts to turn gray. There are many reasons why it can happen. This blog will talk about the causes of why fences turn gray and ways to restore their look!
Four Main Reasons Why Your Fence Is Turning Gray?
Let’s look at the top 4 reasons why your fence may change color over time.
- Type Of Wood Fence
A popular material used in residential fences is cedarwood. Cedarwood is a highly durable, weather resistant material which releases natural oils that prevent insects and rot.However, one major downside of cedarwood fences is that it naturally turns gray over time. Which means if your cedarwood has turned gray, it is likely well-aged.Still, there are multiple ways on how you can protect cedar wood fences and make them last longer. - Moisture Caused By Sprinklers
Another major cause of fences turning gray is excess moisture. The culprit for this kind of damage is your sprinkler system. The cyclical moisture and dryness can lead to changes in your fence color. Minerals present in the water can tint your fence into a gray shade.While it can be helpful to check the working order of your sprinkler system, it is inevitable to prevent your fence from moisture keeping in mind external temperatures, rain forecasts and other such events. - Sun Exposure
Fences may turn gray due to prolonged exposure to the sun. While it may seem impossible to manage this cause, professionals can guide you on fence staining options that can help prolong the life of your beautiful fence. - Mold and Mildew Buildup
When your fence is damp and holds moisture, it becomes a perfect breeding ground for mold and mildew. This certainly makes the fence less stable and erodes its color even further – resulting in them to turn gray.
How To Fix Gray Fences?
If your fence is turning gray, it is possible to reverse its effects. You can arrange professional services to pressure wash fences. This helps get rid of any accumulated dirt or debris. After that, it is important to let it dry completely.
Once that is done, you can apply fence stain and sealing products. These products have special properties that act as a protective layer. While a stain helps restore the natural wood’s grain and color which also offers protection from elements. Howevers, sealants are applied on top of stains. They entirely help protect the fence material from harsh weather conditions. It also helps lock the stain in and provide extra resistance against moisture, UV rays and dirt/
How Often Should You Apply Fence Stain and Sealant?
Applying fence stain and sealants is part of fence maintenance. On average, if you have a wood fence, it may benefit from a fresh coat every 2-3 years. This time may vary based on the wood type and climate conditions.
Other tips for long lasting fence protection can include the following:
- Clean your fence with a wood cleaner regularly. Don’t use harsh products or rigorous pressure..
- High quality stains and products last longer and provide better value for money.
- Reapply stain and sealant as recommended
Concluding Remarks
Fences can turn gray, especially wood based. Other reasons might include moisture buildup, sun exposure, and mold. However, you can easily prevent this by applying fence stain and sealant coats and cleaning fences regularly.
Professionals at Southland Fence & Supply offer expert guidance on best fencing material and staining techniques ensuring clients receive a lasting and beautiful fence. Request a site visit at (281) 355-0707.