General Fence Maintenance – Keep Your Fence Strong and Secure
Introduction
Regular fence maintenance is essential because it keeps your property safe, secure, and looking professional. Although fences are built to last, they still require occasional attention to stay in top condition. Therefore, taking a few simple steps can save you money and extend the lifespan of your fencing system.
1. Regular Visual Inspections
Check for Structural Damage
Firstly, walk along your fence line and look for bent panels, rust spots, or missing bolts. In many cases, you can repair small issues before they become major problems. As a result, you maintain the strength of your entire fence.
Inspect Fence Posts
Secondly, make sure your posts are still straight and firmly in the ground. If posts begin to lean, the rest of the fence will eventually shift as well. Consequently, repairs become more expensive.
2. Cleaning Your Fence
Remove Dirt and Vegetation
Grass, weeds, and sand often build up around fences; however, removing them regularly prevents corrosion. Furthermore, clearing the area improves the overall appearance of your property.
Wash Panels or Wires
Different fences need different cleaning methods.
For steel and palisade fencing, simply wash with soapy water.
Clear-View fencing requires a soft cloth to avoid scratches.
Electric fence wires must remain clean so voltage can flow smoothly.
In addition, cleaning helps you spot damage early.
3. Electric Fence Maintenance
Check Wire Tension
Loose wires reduce voltage; therefore, tighten any strands that start to sag. This ensures the fence continues working at full strength.
Inspect Insulators and Connections
Meanwhile, look for cracked, dirty, or broken insulators. When these fail, the fence may lose power. Consequently, replacing them quickly is important.
Test the Voltage
Always test your fence voltage with a fence tester. This step not only confirms proper operation but also ensures your security remains reliable.
4. Gate and Moving Part Maintenance
Lubricate Moving Components
Gate rollers, hinges, and tracks require lubrication from time to time. As a result, your gate will move smoothly without straining the motor. Furthermore, silicone spray or light oil works best.
Keep Tracks Clean
Even so, lubrication alone is not enough. Sand, stones, and leaves must also be cleared from sliding gate tracks. Otherwise, the gate may jam or damage the motor.
5. Protecting Fence Materials
Repaint or Treat Metal Fences
Steel and palisade fences eventually need repainting. Fresh paint not only improves appearance but also prevents rust. Therefore, repainting every few years is highly recommended.
Treat Wooden Fences
Wooden fences require protection against moisture and sun damage. For example, applying a sealant once a year keeps the wood strong and prevents cracking.
Maintain Aluminium Fencing
Aluminium fences are easier to maintain; however, occasional washing keeps them looking new. In addition, aluminium does not rust, which makes it ideal for coastal areas.
6. Check Fence Alignment
Ensure Panels Stay Straight
Soil movement or impact can push panels out of line. When this happens, the fence becomes weaker. Therefore, straightening affected areas keeps your fence stable.
Maintain Electric Fence Tension
Electric wires must remain tightly aligned. Otherwise, voltage drops and security becomes compromised.
7. Professional Fence Servicing
Annual Maintenance Check
Although DIY maintenance helps, a professional inspection once a year ensures your fence stays in top condition. In addition, technicians can detect issues you may not see.
Expert Services from ProShock Fencing
At ProShock Fencing, we offer:
Full fence inspections
Voltage testing
Gate and motor servicing
Wire replacements
Clear-View, palisade, and electric fence repairs
As a result, your entire system stays reliable and secure.
Conclusion
General fence maintenance is simple; however, it plays a major role in keeping your property protected. With regular cleaning, inspections, and professional servicing, your fence will remain strong for years to come.
👉 Contact ProShock Fencing today for expert maintenance and repairs across South Africa.

