Are Wood Fences Safe Against Insects?
Wood fences are beautiful, durable, and affordable, but they’re also susceptible to insect damage. Is there a way to make a wood fence safe against insects? Choosing the right wood species, along with taking some simple care and maintenance tips, can preserve your fence and repel insects for years to come. Read on to learn how.
Why Cedar Is the Best Insect-Resistant Option
Not only is cedar a beautiful option for a wooden fence, but it’s also an excellent choice when it comes to preventing insect damage. Cedar is more resistant to insects than any other wood species, and many homeowners even use cedar mulch in their flowerbeds as a natural form of pest control. Ants, mosquitoes, cockroaches, and other insects can be deterred with cedar fencing. So, not only will a cedar fence serve you well when it comes to protecting your property, but it also ensures the structural integrity of the fence endures for years to come.
Best of all, cedar is a wood species that’s highly resistant to termites. As long as you provide a minimal level of care and maintenance as the fence ages, you can count on a cedar fence resisting insects and the elements for many years to come.
Preventing Insect Damage on Wood Fences
No matter which species of wood you choose for your fence, there are some simple care and maintenance tasks that can preserve its beauty and durability, helping you make the most of your investment. Here are some tips to make sure your wood fence stays free from pests and the damage they cause:
- Apply Paint or Sealer. You should always seal a wood fence since it repels water. Insects love to hide in rot, so waterproofing your fence with a coat of sealer every year can prevent pests from making your fence their home. You can add a coat of paint as an additional insect deterrent, and a simple way to add color to your fence.
- Clean Often. Insects are naturally drawn to dirt, debris, moisture, and rot. Make sure your fence is inhospitable to insects by cleaning it regularly. Simply use a power washer on a low-to-medium pressure once a year to remove debris, dirt, and mold without harming the protective layer of sealer or paint.
- Minimize Foliage Nearby. Insects love to make their nests in leafy, green foliage. Make sure grass, shrubs, and tree branches are well away from your fence to keep insects at bay.
- Use Insecticide. If you’ve tried the previous methods and your fence is still attracting insects, use an insecticide like boric acid. While it’s lethal for most pests, it won’t harm your wood fence at all. If you’re unsure of how to properly apply this insecticide yourself, reach out to a trusted pest control expert in your community for help.
Make the Most of Your Investment in a Wood Fence
Looking for a high-quality wood fence that resists insects? Cedar is the ultimate choice, and at American Wholesale Fenceworks – Apollo Beach, we carry both Western Red Cedar and Red Diamond Cedar. Call us today at (813) 556-9399 to learn more and find the best option for your wood fence.
