Top Causes Of Fence Rot

Many Florida residents love the look of wood fencing for their yards. Its clean, natural look has been a staple for residential areas for centuries, and modern advancements in technology allow for wood fencing to last longer and withstand the harshest weather conditions. 

However, wood fence owners must still face the threat of wood rot. Unlike other fence materials, wood is susceptible to rain and heat damage. This damage can lead to mold and rot if property owners do not take the proper precautions for their fence.

There are two different kinds of wood rot common in fencing: wet rot and dry rot. Wet rot occurs when your fence is exposed to water and does not dry properly. Instead of evaporating, the water soaks in and bacteria are invited to start decomposing the wood. 

Below are the most common causes of wood rot, and how you can avoid them with your fence: 

Your fence doesn’t have a protective coating. 

A protective stain, sealant, or paint will prevent both wet and dry rot by adding a barrier between your wood fence and the elements. If you leave your fence bare, you are much more likely to experience rot and reduce your fence’s service life. 

You don’t have the right wood type for your area. 

Florida homes are exposed to greater amounts of rain and intense heat than many other states, so choosing a wood type that is naturally resistant to such damage is essential. Cedar, pressure-treated pine, cypress, and other high-quality woods are best for Florida’s climate. 

Your fence posts aren’t set right. 

Wet rot can happen when fence posts are sitting directly in the soil. As rain and water soak into the soil, it transfers to the wood and rot can begin within weeks. You can avoid this by setting your fence posts in concrete or another solid material to ensure water does not soak through the wood.