Summer’s here, and with the sunshine sticking around, now’s a great time to take a fresh look at your garden, starting with your fence panels. If they’re looking a bit faded, patchy, or just generally worn down, it might be time to reseal or re-treat them.
If you’re unsure what to look for, don’t worry, that’s where we come in. At Sherman & Young Timber, we’ve made it easy to spot the signs and take the right steps to keep your timber fencing in great shape for years to come.
A well-maintained timber fence adds natural character to your garden and, with the right care, it can last for years. Resealing gives your fence the protection it needs against sun, rain, and frost, helping to prevent fading, splitting, or rot. So, how do you know when it’s time to get the sealant out? Here’s what to watch for!
Signs your fence needs resealing
There are a few simple ways to tell if your timber fence panels are ready for a reseal. The most obvious sign is fading. If the timber has lost its colour or looks washed out, the original seal may have worn off. You can also try the water drop test. Sprinkle a bit of water onto the wood. If it sinks in rather than forming droplets on the surface, the seal is no longer doing its job.
You might also notice the timber feels rough or dry. Sometimes, you’ll see peeling patches or flaking where old sealant is starting to lift away. If mould, mildew or algae are forming on the panels, that’s a sign that moisture is seeping into the wood where it shouldn’t.
Even if your fence still looks fine on the surface, resealing every two or three years is a good rule of thumb. This helps maintain its strength and appearance over time, especially if it’s exposed to harsh weather.
How to choose the perfect day to reseal your fence
You can reseal timber fencing in most seasons throughout the year, but it’s best to avoid the extremes. Spring and early autumn are ideal, with milder temperatures and drier weather that help the sealant dry evenly and bond properly. Cold, wet conditions make it harder for the sealant to stick and very hot days can cause it to dry too quickly and unevenly.
For the best results, try to get a day with temperatures between 10 and 25 degrees and no rain forecast for at least 24 to 48 hours after you’ve done the sealing. This gives the sealant time to soak in and cure without being washed away or drying out too fast. It’s also a good idea to apply the sealant earlier in the day, giving it the best chance to dry in stable conditions. Most products will be touch-dry within a day, but always check the instructions in case a longer drying time is needed before exposing the fence to moisture.
Why do some fences need resealing more often?
Every garden is different, and a few things can affect how long your timber fence can go between treatments. Older fences tend to absorb more moisture than newer boards and may need more frequent care. The same goes for fences that are often exposed to strong sunlight or heavy rain, as they’ll naturally wear down faster than those that aren’t.
The type of timber your fence is made from and the sealant your use will also play a part. Some woods are naturally more porous than others, and some finishes are more durable. If your garden tends to stay damper for longer or is particularly shaded, that can also lead to faster build-up of moss and mould, meaning you’ll need to reseal more regularly to protect the wood underneath.
At Sherman & Young Timber, we’ve been helping customers across the North West get the most out of their fencing for over 50 years. All of our timber fence panels are pressure-treated for long-lasting performance, and with the right care, they’ll serve your garden well for years.
So, if after reading this, you’re now planning to reseal your existing fence or you’re thinking about replacing it altogether, we’re here to help. From a range of different styles of panels to expert advice and a variety of fence treatments, our team is always happy to guide you through your project. Just give us a call on 01942 727 314, send us an email to websales@shermanyoung.co.uk, or take a look at our full garden and home range here on our website to get started!