Welding for the Retiree

Many homeowners choose aluminum fencing, whether it be to separate a garden area from the rest of the yard, define a property line, or even keep the family dog from leaving the backyard. After all, aluminum is a very durable material while also being lightweight and more affordable than many other types of fencing. Still, in order to prolong the life of an aluminum fence, there are some maintenance and care steps that all homeowners should take.

DO Clean with Mild Soap and Water

Your fence is going to get dirty. And while a little bit of dirt isn't going to hurt your fence (apart from detracting from its cosmetic appearance), other substances can cause corrosion and damage to aluminum over time. Some of these substances include

• tree sap
• bird dropping
• tree seeds

To avoid damage caused by these materials, it's best to give your fence a thorough cleaning a couple times each year. This can be done using a mixture of warm water and a gentle dish soap. When you're done applying the mixture with a hose sprayer attachment, simply rinse the mixture off with your garden hose.

DO Treat Rust Spots Immediately

One of the drawbacks of using aluminum as the material for your gate is that it's prone to rust over time, which can ultimately lead to corrosion. Fortunately, you can get rid of rust before it becomes a threat to the structural integrity of your fence. Simply take the time to inspect your fence railings and posts every few months. If you spot any orange or brown rust, use a piece of steel wool to sand it away. 

To further protect against rust, you may also consider painting your aluminum fence with a coat of rust-resistant, outdoor spray paint.

DON'T Let Plants Overgrow the Fence

Finally, do your best to keep plants from growing along the poles and crevices of your aluminum fence. Over time, as they grow into the fence, they could begin to cause damage or even block gate openings. And once plants grow to a substantial size, they can be very difficult to get rid of. By keeping your plants and shrubs trimmed and pruned back as part of your regular yard care routine, you can avoid fence damage down the road. As a result, you'll prolong the life of your aluminum fence and save yourself money on repairs and replacement later on. Talk to a professional like Incom Inc for more information.