How to Treat and Maintain Timber Fencing: A Complete Guide
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Timber fencing adds natural charm, privacy, and security to your garden, but to keep it looking great and lasting for years, proper maintenance is essential. Timber is a natural material, and without protection, it can fall victim to moisture damage, UV rays, rot, or insect attack.
Whether you've installed a new fence or want to revive an older one, this guide covers everything you need to know, including microporous timber treatment, the benefits of tanalised timber, and why we stand by Jacksons Fencing with their 25-year guarantee.
Why Timber Fencing Needs Maintenance
Over time, untreated or poorly maintained timber fencing can suffer from:
- Rot and decay
- Mould and mildew
- Warping and splitting
- Discolouration from sun exposure
- Insect damage
By regularly cleaning and treating your timber, you’ll extend its lifespan, improve its appearance, and avoid costly repairs or replacements.
Step 1: Clean Your Fence Thoroughly
Before applying any treatment, your fence must be clean and dry.
How to clean your fence:
- Brush off dirt, cobwebs, and algae with a stiff broom
- Use a timber-safe cleaner to remove moss and mildew
- Rinse with a garden hose or low-pressure washer
- Allow to dry fully (24–48 hours) before applying treatment
Step 2: Use the Right Timber Treatment
What Is Microporous Timber Treatment?
Microporous timber treatments are breathable coatings that let moisture vapour escape from the wood while preventing water from getting in. This reduces cracking, blistering, and peeling... especially important in damp climates like we get here in Chester.
Benefits:
- Breathable and flexible
- Long-lasting UV and water protection
- Eco-friendly (low-VOC, water-based options)
- Available in clear or coloured finishes
Step 3: We Use Tanalised Timber for All Our Fencing
All the fencing and gates we build here in our Chester yard are made using tanalised timber, a pressure-treated wood designed to withstand the British weather.
What Is Tanalised Timber?
Tanalised timber undergoes a vacuum pressure process where preservative is forced deep into the wood grain. This makes it:
- Highly resistant to rot and fungal decay
- More durable in contact with soil or moisture
- Less likely to warp or split
It’s the perfect foundation for any outdoor fencing project and ideal when paired with a quality microporous topcoat.
Step 4: Choose Jacksons Fencing for Peace of Mind
We’re proud to be an approved installer for Jacksons Fencing, known for their superior quality and long-lasting performance.
All Jacksons timber products are pressure-treated using their own unique system and come with an incredible 25-year guarantee against rot and insect damage.
✅ Premium quality
✅ Low-maintenance
✅ Peace of mind for decades
Learn more about Jacksons Fencing →
Step 5: Maintain Your Fence Annually
Even treated wood needs a bit of love. Here's how to keep things in top shape:
- Reapply treatment every 2–3 years
- Inspect for damage or loose fixings yearly
- Keep foliage clear to allow air flow
- Replace damaged boards or posts promptly
Need Help or Advice? Pop in and See Us!
We’ve been building and supplying quality fencing across Chester since 2018. Whether you’re after timber treatments, fencing materials, or just a bit of advice... we’re a friendly bunch and always happy to help.
📍 Visit us at The Timber Supply Centre, Chester
🕒 Open Monday - Saturday
📞 Call us on 01244 726 518