Use and Care Manual

Initial Maintenance:
1. Start by cleaning your fence with a cleaner/brightener that contains a mildewcide. Because your
fence is new, this step is truly preventative.
2. Next, apply a topical sealant for surface protection. Do not use a conventional multi-coat paint
system or varnish. The performance is nearly always disappointing, and repainting often has to be
preceded by scraping and sanding Instead, choose either a pigmented or clear outdoor wood sealer.
Unlike true paints, these sealers allow moisture vapor to leave the wood slowly after the coating
has been applied. For that reason, either can be applied as soon as the surface no longer looks
wet. Your choice of sealer should include not only a water repellent but also a UV stabilizer to slow
the discoloration process. You may want to cover or protect surrounding plants before applying a
sealant. Be sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions.
First Year Maintenance:
1. First year maintenance should be completed by you within 90 days of your fence installation.
2. Reapply cleaner/brightener as described in initial maintenance, as well as another application of
your outdoor wood sealant. The topical water repellent and ultraviolet stabilizer will keep your fence
looking fresh.
Future Periodic Preventative Maintenance:
1. Depending on the location of your fence, with regard to direct sun exposure, foliage coverage, etc., it
may be suf cient to clean/brighten and re-coat every year.
2. If you decide to wait two or more years to perform your next cleaning/brightening, you may want to
use a power washer. Be sure that the cleaner/brightener you use contains a mildewcide.
3. After every cleaning, reapply an outdoor wood sealer that contains both a water repellent and
ultraviolet stabilizer.
Remember:
• Even consistent maintenance will not prevent the natural characteristics of wood from surfacing –
but your efforts can minimize them.
• Your maintenance efforts will give you a fence that will look bright and fresh for years to come!