What to Do With Fences That Can Shrink and Swell

header-background
< Go Back
Placeholder ImageWhat to Do With Fences That Can Shrink and Swell Here is what you can do when fences start swelling and shrinking.

Have you noticed your wood fence beginning to swell and shrink? Based on your outdoor environment, your fence may begin absorbing or losing water. This is when shrinking and swelling can occur. Afterward, your fence may begin to rot, twist, and warp. You want to prevent as much of this damage as possible. Here is what you can do when fences start swelling and shrinking.

Pick the Best Type of Wood

The wood that you use for your fence will heavily influence how much swelling and shrinking it experiences. Make sure the wood you pick is highly resistant to water damage. This helps keep your fence as aesthetically pleasing and flat as it can be. The type of wood that’s best could depend on where you live, so you should consult a fencing company for guidance on the best wood to use. A local company is preferred because they will know everything about the climate where you live.

Apply Some Paint, Stain, or Sealant

Fencing performs much better if it has sufficient protection against the weather. To provide that added protection, you should apply either some paint, sealant, or staining to the surface. Make sure whatever you apply has water-resistant properties because this will lower how much swelling and shrinking your fence experiences as a result of lower water absorption. Sealant should be applied once per year if you want to extend the lifespan of your fence.

Stay On Top of Maintenance

Fence maintenance is always going to be important, not just to prevent swelling and shrinking but also because fence maintenance is generally good for extending your fence’s lifespan. Monitor your fence to see if it has sustained any damage, and take note of any damage your fence has, such as warping and rotting. If there is damage you notice, you should get the afflicted areas replaced as soon as you can. This will keep the damage from being spread to parts of your fence that have not yet been damaged.

Stay Away From Water

Lastly, keep your fence at a safe distance away from sources of water. While you can’t avoid rain, you can keep fences away from other sources of water, like fountains and ponds that you may have. Also, ensure that your yard has sufficient drainage, and make sure that sprinklers are not pointed towards your fence when using them.

Contact Albaugh & Sons

Since 2003, Albaugh & Sons, LLC has been dedicated to meeting the fencing, decking, and home remodeling needs of homeowners throughout the greater Frederick area. All of our team members are experienced, well-trained, and committed to exceeding the expectations of every customer.

Visit our website here, and follow us on Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, and YouTube.

< Go Back

Customer Testimonials

We could talk all day about the happy homeowners we’ve provided renovations for, but the real measure of merit lies in customer reviews. See what people are saying about Albaugh & Sons.

4.8
Based on 229 reviews
powered by Google
Bonnie
21:41 27 Nov 24
I just want to say this company is the Best.. did my fence and my screened in porch. The guys are professional and just a delight to deal with.. customer service is important.. their prices are reasonable.. I would never use anyone but them.. they do it All too..
Alexander S.
16:32 22 Nov 24
We could not be more pleased with the entire process and outcome of our experience with Albaugh & Sons. From the timely turnaround on coming out to give us an estimate, to the flexibility on adjusting our proposal, and to the quick and professional installation itself. I would highly recommend Albaugh & Sons to anyone in their area of serviceability.
Abby G.
14:50 04 Nov 24
So great to work with. Have had the pleasure of working with both sons who were knowledgeable and courteous. The entire process was easy from estimate to completion of my new deck. Both arrived on time, had my estimate for both deck and basement remodel in a couple of days. Danny, the project manager arrived on time and explained the plans, the work crew were amazing. Old deck demolished and beautiful new composite in its place in less than 2 days. Tiffany, the office manager is prompt in responding to all emails with courteous knowledgeable answers. They make you feel like you are their only customer. Look forward to working with them for my basement remodel. I 100% recommend this company.
James L.
13:49 10 Oct 24
We love our new fence. Thanks Emily and George for everything. Excellent communication, timeliness and excellent workmanship. We highly recommend Albaugh and Sons.
John K.
13:19 31 Aug 24
I had a beautiful deck built almost 2 years ago. I called yesterday about a few items that have come apart such as the pvc outside corners on the rim/ band board etc. The company was very responsive and ready and eager to help. Because of this, they have made a customer for life! Not only will you get an amazing product, but it appears you get a lifetime of amazing customer service!! 100 out of 5 stars!
Van Lavoy J.
17:06 01 Apr 24
We needed a fence as fast as possible for 5 rescue dogs that we took on. Albaugh and Sons was able to provide a great quote and a speedy installation. My wife and I love the new fence. It has literally improved our day to day lives by being able to let the dogs run free in the back. The materials were perfect and high quality. I would definitely recommend them to friends and family.
Bill D.
20:50 24 Mar 24
I hired Albaugh and Sons to tear out our old deck and replace it with a new composite deck/ screened porch. The front office was a pleasure to deal with and kept my wife and I informed on everything. The crew did an amazing job every step of the way. I was especially impressed with their finish work. The attention to detail was impressive! What I also liked Albaugh and Sons is they had a project manager (Danny) who would occasionally pop over and answer questions and would also keep me updated on progress. I would highly recommend hiring Albaugh and Sons for any of your fence/ deck / home improvement needs.
Joseph D.
15:39 04 Oct 23
We are very pleased with the work done by Albaugh and sons. We had them replace our side porch and they did excellent work and built it to our request. Also had them install a three tier rail fence around our property. It is excellent and looks great. We thank Danny and his deck crew and George and his fence crew for their excellent work. I recommend them for any projects you need done. Thank you very much!!