How To Keep Horizontal Fence Boards From Warping on Your Lakeland, FL, Property

Wood fences add an excellent aesthetic and functional addition to any property. However, they can warp over time, degrading their structural integrity and look. Knowing how to keep horizontal fence boards from warping prevents early replacements, additional maintenance, and a dilapidated appearance.

Are you looking for “reliable fencing contractors in my area“? Professionals from My Fence Company provide residential and commercial properties in Lakeland with top-rated fencing services. Call to install a high-quality fence in any material.

What Causes Fence Boards To Warp

Most warping has to do with the moisture retention properties of the wood. With exposure to the elements, wood absorbs and releases water based on changing humidity levels.

Depending on the wood size, grain, coatings, and installation practices, moisture fluctuations could start to change the shape of the fence boards. Bowing, twisting, curving, or cupping all indicate a warping fence. 

Fortunately, there are ways to find the equilibrium moisture content (EMC) of your wooden fence boards. At this point, the relative moisture of the wood matches that of the surrounding area and prevents warping. 

Ways To Prevent Fence Boards From Warping

For Lakeland property owners wondering how to keep horizontal fence boards from warping, these six techniques offer simple solutions for this problem. Use these methods during installation to avoid issues that lead to warping.

Use Moisture-Resistant Wood

The many different types of wood available for fence construction have differing moisture resistance levels. Thus, choosing more moisture-resistant fencing helps avoid a warped fence. The three best species are cedar, redwood, and fir.

Beyond offering incredible moisture resistance, cedar is also incredibly thick, smells great, and naturally repels pests. Redwood features a natural chemical and straight grain pattern that each resists moisture. 

Finally, the least resistant option, fir, thrives in environments where the relative humidity matches its equilibrium moisture content (EMC). In Lakeland’s humid climate, fir might not be the best option.

Pressure Treat the Wood

Regardless of which type of wood you choose, fence professionals can pressure treat the material to increase its moisture resistance and prevent warping. During this process, experts add chemicals that stave off rot and strengthen the material. These treatments also fend off pests that weaken the fence structure.

Season the Wood

Seasoning the wood is a process that dries out natural moisture remaining in the wood to improve its equilibrium moisture content. While this process usually takes about six months, kiln-dried and pressure-treated wood achieves the same effects much more quickly.

After seasoning your wood, allow the material to acclimate to the outdoor environment before building your fence. Lay the fence boards out with heavy objects on top to apply pressure. Keep them outside for two to three days to dry out the wood and remove moisture.

Seal Your Fence

Sealants provide many benefits for new fences. Beyond increasing moisture resistance and preventing warping, seals also add UV resistance that helps your fence age evenly.

Wait four to eight weeks after your fence installation to add these protective coatings. After applying the seal, your fence will better resist the Florida weather and humidity.

Use Sturdy Attachments During Construction

The hardware and construction techniques used when installing your fencing play a huge role in its wrapping potential. For example, using pointed nails increases the chances of wood splitting and warping.

Screws and blunted nails offer the best structural support and protection for new fences. Since these attachments integrate more seamlessly into wood grains, they provide more natural, sturdier support that prevents warping.

Store Additional Fence Boards Properly

Regardless of whether you build your fence or not, you might keep additional fence boards on hand when maintenance issues arise. Storing these materials properly is essential to reduce their moisture content and retention.

Some excellent wood board storage tips include:

• Stack boards
• Put the heaviest boards on top
• Cover stacks with moisture-resistant plastic or tarps
• Pressure treat the wood before using it, especially on the ends

Enlist Top-Rated Fence Contractors From My Fence Company

When choosing a fence contractor, it’s essential to hire qualified, licensed professionals with the tools for proper installation. Experts from My Fence Company offer Lakeland top-rated services for fence installation, repair, replacement, and maintenance for residential and commercial properties.

Fences are an essential protective feature for any property. My Fence Company offers financing options so that every client can receive the best perimeter fence for their property at an affordable rate.

For more information on how to keep horizontal fence boards from warping in Lakeland, Florida, consult top-rated fence professionals from My Fence Company.

Contact Information:

My Fence Company

2810 MAINE AVE
LAKELAND, FL 33801
United States

Mo Zaban
https://myfenceco.com/