Australia is known for its diverse and often harsh climate, from scorching heat in the outback to intense humidity along the coast and even the occasional freezing winter in southern regions. This type of extreme weather can substantially impact the lifespan and soundness of your fence. With appropriate maintenance, you can avoid sun, rain, wind and salt damage, which are all frequent contributors to the climate of Australia. Following are some advice for maintaining your fence properly and keeping it in good condition throughout the year.
Choose the Right Material for Your Fence
An early selection criterion for keeping a fence in the harsh climates of Australia is selection of the appropriate material. Not all fencing materials are created equal, and some are better suited to the diverse Australian weather than others. For example, wood is a desirable material mainly because of its materiality but it demands a comparatively higher maintenance when compared with other materials. If you live in an area with high humidity or proximity to the ocean, a metal fence made from galvanised steel or aluminium might be more resistant to the elements and require less maintenance. To get more information about selecting the right materials for a fence, it is necessary to take account of the local environment and the particular requirements.
Regular Cleaning and Inspection
In Australia, dust, dirt, and pollution are common in many regions, especially in rural areas and cities with a dry climate. Regular housecleaning of your fence can keep away dirt and grime which may build up. Not only is a well-kept fence aesthetically pleasant, it can also act as a barrier against debris build-up. For instance, timber fences, specifically, can grow mould, mildew or algae in the presence of moisture. Maintaining your fence in a good condition requires washing it with a diluted detergent and water mixture or using a pressure cleaner on low settings so as not to damage the surface.
Treating and Protecting Timber Fences
Timber fencing should be treated with protective coatings on a regular basis. Timber fences, however, are susceptible to the extremes of the sun and rain, and the varying amounts of temperature commonly found in much of the Australian climate. The UV rays can cause timber to dry out, crack, and lose its colour, while moisture from rain and humidity can lead to rotting and mould growth. In order to prevent your fence from damage, use an excellent quality wood preservative or timber oil that is formulated for outdoor use. These materials are able of going deep in wood to offer a moisture and UV damage resistance.
Preventing Rust on Metal Fences
Metal fences, particularly iron, steel or wrought iron fenced, are widespread in Australia, but they are susceptible to rust wear over time, particularly in coastal environments where salt in the air speeds up the oxidative degradation reaction. In order not to get rust, maintenance must be done to check on any evidence of wear or damage to the protective coating of your metal fence. If the paint begins to flake/chip off, then moisture can get underneath and lead to rust. In order to prevent this, remove any loose paint, sand the surface and prime with a rust-resistant metal primer prior to repaint.
Regularly Treating for Termites and Pests
Termites are a frequent nuisance in timber fences in Australia, especially in the warmer areas. But if not treated well, these very destructive pests are capable of great damage to your fence. For the purpose of termite prevention, it is necessary to carefully check the perimeter fence for signs of termite attack (e.g., tiny holes or tunnels). Treating the fence with a termite treatment will help to prevent the termites from nesting in the wood. Additionally, other pests such as ants, spiders, and rodents can also cause problems, particularly if they burrow into the structure of the fence.
