Your cedar fence looked stunning when it was first installed, but now you’re wondering how to keep it that way through another soggy Pacific Northwest winter. Here’s the thing – cedar fences in Lewis County face unique challenges that most maintenance guides just don’t address. An local fence company in Chehalis knows these challenges intimately, and the right care approach can mean the difference between a fence that lasts decades versus one that needs replacement in just a few years.
Cedar’s natural beauty comes with a price tag: regular maintenance. But don’t worry – it’s not as overwhelming as it sounds when you break it down by season.
Why Cedar Struggles (And Thrives) in Our Climate
Cedar contains natural oils and tannins that resist decay, making it perfect for our wet climate. However, Lewis County’s 40+ inches of annual rainfall creates specific problems. The wood absorbs moisture during our long wet season, then contracts during dry spells. This cycle causes splitting, warping, and creates perfect conditions for mold growth.
The coastal influence means high humidity year-round, even during summer months. Your fence never gets that bone-dry period that helps wood recover from winter moisture damage.
Fall: Your Fence’s Insurance Policy
September through November is prep time. Start with a thorough inspection – walk your entire fence line looking for loose boards, protruding nails, and sagging gates. Pay special attention to areas where vegetation touches the fence; these spots trap moisture and accelerate decay.
Power washing works wonders, but keep pressure between 1,500-2,000 PSI. Higher pressure damages cedar’s soft grain. Mix oxygen bleach with water for stubborn stains – it’s gentler than chlorine bleach and won’t harm surrounding plants.
Staining every two years isn’t optional in our climate – it’s survival. Semi-transparent stains work best because they penetrate deeply while still showing cedar’s natural grain. Apply only when you have 48+ hours of dry weather forecasted and temperatures between 50-80°F.
Winter: Damage Control Mode
December through February requires monthly visual inspections. You’re not doing major work in the rain, but you need to catch problems early. Clear debris from the fence base regularly – leaves and branches create moisture traps that promote rot.
Trim back any vegetation that’s grown against your fence during the growing season. Blackberry vines are particularly aggressive and hold moisture against the wood long after rain stops.
Ice damage happens fast. If you notice boards pulling away from posts after a freeze, address it immediately. Waiting until spring often means replacing entire sections instead of just tightening hardware.
Spring: Assessment and Action
March brings the moment of truth. Winter damage in Lewis County typically includes warped boards, loose hardware, and mold growth on north-facing sections. Document everything with photos before starting repairs.
Spring cleaning goes deeper than fall maintenance. You’re dealing with months of accumulated moss, algae, and mildew. The oxygen bleach solution works here too, but you might need multiple applications on stubborn spots.
Gate problems are common after winter. Moisture causes wood to swell, making gates stick or sag. Most alignment issues can be fixed by adjusting hinges, but severely warped gates need replacement.
Summer: The Sweet Spot
June through August offers perfect conditions for major maintenance. This is staining season – the wood is dry, temperatures are stable, and you have long daylight hours.
Even in summer, cedar needs protection from UV rays. Our intense summer sun can cause rapid drying and cracking. A good stain provides UV protection while maintaining the wood’s natural moisture balance.
Your Monthly Action Plan
Winter months: Visual inspections and debris removal only. Safety first on wet, slippery terrain.
Spring: Deep cleaning, damage assessment, and urgent repairs. This is when you’ll spend the most time on maintenance.
Summer: Major projects like staining and non-urgent repairs. Take advantage of dry conditions.
Fall: Pre-winter preparation and final inspections. Think of this as winterizing your fence.
Common Problems and Quick Fixes
Mold appears as black or green spots, usually on north-facing boards. Catch it early with regular cleaning – established mold requires professional treatment.
Loose posts often indicate drainage problems. Check that water flows away from post bases. Standing water around posts leads to rot and structural failure.
Board replacement becomes necessary when wood splits completely or shows extensive rot. Match existing boards as closely as possible – cedar weathers differently based on exposure and age.
When to Call for Help
PNW Fence and Gate handles complex repairs that go beyond typical homeowner skills. Structural issues, extensive rot damage, and major gate problems require professional expertise. They understand Lewis County’s specific climate challenges and can spot problems before they become expensive disasters.
DIY maintenance works for cleaning, minor repairs, and regular staining. Professional help makes sense for post replacement, major structural work, and when you’re dealing with extensive damage.
The Bottom Line
Cedar fence maintenance in the Pacific Northwest isn’t difficult – it’s just different from what you’d do in drier climates. The key is staying ahead of moisture problems and working with our seasonal patterns instead of against them.
Your fence represents a significant investment in your property. Regular maintenance protects that investment and keeps your fence looking great for decades. The alternative – neglect followed by premature replacement – costs far more in the long run.
Start with fall preparation, stay vigilant through winter, assess honestly in spring, and take action during summer’s ideal conditions. Your cedar fence will reward consistent care with years of natural beauty and reliable performance.
Remember, every fence is different based on exposure, drainage, and surrounding vegetation. What works for your neighbor might need adjustment for your specific situation. When in doubt, consult with local professionals who understand our unique climate challenges.
The best way to prevent damage to your cedar fence this winter is to seal it against moisture, clear the snow buildup, and inspect it for early signs of damage. Regular maintenance keeps it strong, beautiful, and weather-resistant.
Clean debris from your cedar fence, seal wood, and inspect it for moisture damage during winter in the PNW. It is important to maintain a fence regularly in order to prevent rot, preserve the appearance, and extend its life.