Aluminum fences do not require much maintenance. Frequent checks of the state of the fence can help maintain the quality through the harsh seasons.
When it comes to the upkeep of an aluminum fence, there is little that needs to be done, but this does not mean that you should neglect the fence altogether. Carrying out checks of your fence twice a year is helpful, especially in preparation for harsh seasons and times of extreme weather. Checking your fence won’t take too much time. The more frequently that you check it, the less time you’ll have to spend on any fixes because it will stay in much better condition. Performing seasonal upkeep is extremely important if you have a DIY aluminum fence. It’s up to you to ensure you have done the proper upkeep to the fence right from the start.
Coating
First and foremost, you are going to want to check the coating and paint on your whole fence. This Includes any locks, hinges and gates. The powder coating that is on most aluminum fences helps keep the metal in the best shape possible by stopping any rust from forming. Without a proper coating on the entire fence, rain or pool water could wreak havoc on most metals. The coating also keeps the metal safe from salt from the air if you’re near the ocean or from salt in the streets during icy conditions.
Going past all areas of your fence to look for any breaks in the coating will help you know what areas may need a touch-up. Ask the company you bought the fence from to suggest a good paint or coating to fix small areas that may have worn through the coating. Touching up should not take too much time and is suggested to keep the fence strong and beautiful for years to come. Semi-annual checks like this help to keep your DIY aluminum fence in the best condition possible.
Gates and locks
Next, you will want to focus on the gates and locks. This will not take much time because the gate is a smaller area, but it is just as important. Think of how frequently the gates are opened and closed. The hinges and locks get used a lot and will therefore have more wear and tear. Make sure the gates, hinges and locks are clean and functioning properly. Freezing temperatures can make them tight and hard to use, so you want them to be ready for winter action. The areas around the hinges in particular may need a touch-up of paint, not only aesthetic reasons but also to prevent rust.
You will want to make sure the gate itself doesn’t drag when it is opened as there will soon be snow around. If any parts drag on the ground, it puts extra weight in the hinges, and when there is snow to drag the fence through, it can be nearly impossible to open or close.
When it comes to any fence, especially a DIY aluminum fence, semi-annual checks and general upkeep are extremely important. A quick once-over of the fence and a few easy fixes before extreme weather sets in are all you need for your fence to hold up well to the elements.
