Keeping Your Fence Looking Sharp Through the Summer: Tips for Business Owners
Keeping Your Fence Looking Sharp Through the Summer: Tips for Business Owners
As a business owner, first impressions matter. Whether you manage a retail location, office, rental property, or a newly constructed home, your fence plays a significant role in enhancing curb appeal. A worn-out or weather-damaged wood fence can send the wrong message before customers even walk through the door.
Summertime can be especially harsh on fences. Between scorching heat, dry air, and intense sunlight, even the toughest fencing materials can warp, fade, or crack if not properly maintained. But don’t worry! With a little know-how and a few strategic moves, you can keep your fence looking sharp all summer long.
At Palisade Fence Company, we’ve installed thousands of fences across the greater Sacramento area. Based on our years of experience, we’re sharing practical fence maintenance tips to help small business owners protect their investment and avoid costly repairs.
1. Choose the Right Fencing Materials for California’s Heat
Not all fencing materials are created equal, especially when it comes to handling Sacramento’s dry, hot summers. Selecting the right material from the start can save you plenty of headaches later.
At Palisade Fence Company, we recommend durable options like redwood or cedar for wood fences. Both types are naturally resistant to insects, moisture, and rot, which makes them ideal for withstanding extreme weather.
- Redwood: Renowned for its stability, redwood is less likely to warp or shrink in intense heat.
- Cedar: Offers a beautiful, natural look and is more affordable than redwood. It ages gracefully when maintained properly.
- Vinyl: Low-maintenance and weather-resistant, vinyl won’t fade, crack, or peel under the sun.
- Metal: Strong and secure with timeless curb appeal, though it may require upkeep to prevent rust.
If you’re opting for a pressure treated wood fence, keep in mind that while this treatment protects against pests, it still needs ongoing care to handle UV rays and fluctuating temperatures.
Expert Tip: Always work with a reputable fence company, such as Palisade Fence Company, to ensure you’re getting top-quality materials that are properly installed for longevity.
Learn more about our fencing materials and installation options on our
Large Projects page!
2. Apply a High-Quality Fence Stain or Sealant
One of the best ways to guard your wood fence against summer damage is by applying a UV-resistant fence stain or sealant. Direct sunlight can cause color fading, cracks, and surface degradation over time.
A good stain not only enhances the natural beauty of your fence but also acts as a protective barrier against heat, moisture, and mildew.
Here’s what to look for in a fence stain:
- UV protection: Blocks damaging rays that cause discoloration and weakening.
- Water-repellent: Keeps summer thunderstorms and sprinklers from soaking into the wood.
- Mold- and mildew-resistant: Crucial for businesses in more humid microclimates around Sacramento.
Pro Tip: Fence staining should ideally happen every 2–3 years, depending on exposure and product quality.
3. Perform Seasonal Fence Maintenance Checks
Just like you tune up your HVAC system in the summer, your fence also needs a seasonal check-up.
Start with a simple visual inspection of your entire fence line:
✔ Look for warping, cracks, or leaning posts
✔ Check for nails, screws, or panels that have come loose
✔ Examine for signs of insect activity or rot, especially on lower boards
✔ Ensure gates and locks are functional and secure
If you spot any problems early, the fix is usually minor. Left unchecked, however, small issues can grow into expensive repairs.
Below, you can find a more comprehensive list of fence maintenance you can perform throughout the year.
4. Keep the Area Around Your Fence Clean and Clear
Surrounding vegetation can actually contribute to fence damage, especially in the summer when weeds and branches grow rapidly.
Here’s what we suggest:
Trim nearby trees and bushes to prevent foliage from resting on your fence.- Avoid lining your fence with vines or heavy plants that trap moisture.
- Use mulch or small rocks instead of grass at the base of your fence to reduce weed growth and minimize your watering impact.
Landscaping Tip: Installing a gravel base around your fence posts can help with drainage and reduce water-related damage.
5. Don’t Ignore a Pressure Treated Wood Fence! It Still Needs Love
While it’s true that pressure treated wood is designed for durability, many business owners assume that means it’s maintenance-free. Unfortunately, that’s not the case.
Over time, pressure treated wood fences can still fade, crack, and deteriorate under extreme UV exposure if not properly sealed and stained. And because the chemicals used in pressure treatment can leave the surface rough and splintered, regular sanding and resealing every couple of years is essential.
Reminder: Use an oil-based stain specifically made for pressure treated wood to ensure optimal absorption and long-lasting results.
6. Consider Painting or Updating Your Fence for a Fresh Look
If your wood fence is looking weathered despite your best efforts, summer might be the ideal time for a visual refresh. A simple coat of paint or new fence stain can transform your fence from faded to fabulous.
Bold, clean lines and a well-maintained wood fence can completely transform the curb appeal of your business, helping you stand out from competitors.
Bonus: A freshly maintained fence is more likely to meet the standards of local commercial property codes, HOA guidelines, or tenant expectations.
7. Hire Professionals for Repairs or Upgrades
While some minor upkeep can be done on your own, larger repairs or upgrades are best left to professionals. Issues like leaning posts, broken panels, or insect damage require expert evaluation to prevent further damage.
Palisade Fence Company has over 20 years of industry experience working with business owners, property managers, and developers throughout Sacramento. We bring friendly, professional service to every job with honest estimates, top-grade materials, and attentive craftsmanship.
Whether you need a new pressure treated wood fence or are planning to upgrade your fencing materials for better summer performance, we’re here to help.
Schedule a Free Consultation Today
Keeping your wood fence in top condition through the summer doesn’t have to be complicated. With a little preparation, regular fence maintenance, and the right fence stain products, you can extend the life of your fence while maintaining your business's curb appeal all season long.
Ready to protect your property and enhance your professional image?
📞 Contact Palisade Fence Company today to learn more about how we can help you with keeping your fence looking sharp over the warmer months!
Or,
schedule a free consultation with one of our expert team members today.
By implementing these proven tips, you’re not just maintaining a fence; you’re sending a message of quality, care, and professionalism to every customer who passes by. At Palisade Fence Company, we’re proud to be your trusted experts in long-lasting fence solutions.
Let’s make your corner of Sacramento shine, starting with the fence!
