Here are some of the reasons why a wood fence could experience rotting.
Rot is a serious problem for wooden fences to experience. If rot isn’t prevented or addressed, it can result in substantial structural damage to your wood fence. It’s important to understand the causes of rotting so that you can take measures to prevent this problem from ever occurring in the first place. Here are some of the reasons why a wood fence could experience rotting.
Moisture and Fungal Growth
It takes more than water alone to cause wood rot; fungi also contribute to the rotting process. The fungi consumes both the lignin and cellulose of the wood fiber and, in order for the fungi to thrive, there are four vital things that they need. These things are warmth, oxygen, moisture, and food.
If weather brings rain, snow, or high humidity, then moisture is already available. The wood itself serves as the food source. If wood remains wet for a prolonged period of time, this is what allows fungal colonies to develop that can start eating away at your wood fence.
Contact With the Ground
The spot where your fence post makes contact with the ground is the spot that is most susceptible to wood rot. Moisture can build up very quickly on the ground, and water can sometimes even pool in small spaces, such as after a rainstorm. Even if you pressure-treat your fence posts, rotting can occur after 8-10 years of your fence posts being in wet soil.
Nearby Vegetation
The ground isn’t the only thing that can accumulate moisture. In fact, plants and other vegetation can also hold plenty of moisture. This means that, if there’s vegetation around your wood fence, the water that’s held in the vegetation can find its way onto your fence. Keeping vegetation trimmed a minimum of 6 inches away from your wood fence can help to combat this issue.
Hercules Fence of Virginia Beach Has Everything You Need!
Call Hercules Fence of Norfolk and Virginia Beach for your fencing needs. We have decades of experience in the fencing industry. We can offer you the best in ornamental steel, chain link, wooden fences, and more. Our dedicated teams of fencing professionals are highly trained, skilled, and experienced in providing quality fence installations of any type. We’ll work with you to find a fence that best suits your needs and budget.
Contact Hercules Fence of Virginia Beach at (757) 321-6700. Contact us on our website to learn more about fence construction! In addition, you can keep up to date with offers and information.
