Fence Maintenance Checklist for South Carolina Homeowners

Protect Your Investment with Regular Fence Maintenance

A well-maintained fence can last decades, while a neglected one may deteriorate in just a few years. South Carolina's hot, humid summers, occasional hurricanes, and mild but wet winters create unique challenges for every type of fencing material. At Dubya Fence Company, we have installed and repaired thousands of feet of fencing across Orangeburg County, and we know what it takes to keep your fence looking great and functioning properly year after year.

This seasonal maintenance checklist covers the four most popular fence types: wood, vinyl, aluminum, and chain link.

Spring Maintenance (March – May)

Spring is ideal for a thorough fence inspection after winter weather. The Orangeburg area sees heavy rain in late winter and early spring, which can saturate soil and shift fence posts.

All Fence Types

• Walk the entire fence line and check for leaning posts, loose boards or panels, and damaged hardware
• Clear vegetation, vines, and debris from the fence base — overgrowth traps moisture and accelerates deterioration
• Check that gate hinges swing freely and latches engage properly
• Ensure fence posts are still plumb — soil saturation during winter rains can cause post shifting
• Trim tree branches that overhang or contact the fence to prevent storm damage

Wood Fence Spring Tasks

• Inspect for signs of rot, especially at the base of posts where they contact the ground
• Check for insect damage — termites and carpenter ants are active in SC from early spring
• Power wash the fence (low pressure, 1,500–2,000 PSI) to remove mold, mildew, and algae
• Apply wood stain or sealant after washing and allowing 48 hours of drying time
• Replace any warped, cracked, or rotted pickets before they compromise adjacent boards

Vinyl Fence Spring Tasks

• Wash with a garden hose and mild soap to remove winter grime — vinyl does not require staining
• Inspect for cracks from winter temperature swings (vinyl can become brittle below 20°F)
• Check rail connections — thermal expansion can loosen vinyl rail-to-post fittings

Aluminum and Chain Link Spring Tasks

• Inspect aluminum for bent pickets and powder coating chips; touch up with matched paint
• Check chain link tension — winter storms can stretch the mesh; re-tension or re-tie loose fabric
• Inspect chain link for rust spots, especially at the bottom rail and post bases

Summer Maintenance (June – August)

South Carolina summers bring intense heat, UV radiation, and afternoon thunderstorms. Orangeburg regularly sees temperatures above 95°F with high humidity.

• Wood fences: Monitor stain condition — SC's UV exposure degrades protective coatings faster than northern states. Consider a UV-blocking stain.
• Vinyl fences: Rinse occasionally to prevent algae growth in humid conditions.
• All fences: Keep lawn sprinklers directed away from the fence. Trim fast-growing summer vegetation weekly.
• Gate maintenance: Lubricate hinges and latch mechanisms. Heat expansion can cause gate alignment issues.

Fall Maintenance (September – November)

Fall in Orangeburg County means hurricane season preparation and getting your fence ready for winter.

• Remove fallen leaves and debris at the fence base — trapped organic matter holds moisture
• Perform a thorough post-hurricane-season inspection if storms passed through
• Check for loose sections that could become dangerous in winter winds
• Wood fences: Apply a second coat of sealant if the spring application has worn thin
• Chain link: Apply rust-inhibiting spray to any areas showing early oxidation
• Secure any loose fence caps, post tops, or decorative elements

Winter Maintenance (December – February)

SC winters are mild but occasional ice storms and sustained wet conditions still affect fencing.

• Remove heavy snow or ice accumulation from fence panels when it occurs
• Avoid using salt or chemical de-icers near metal fences as they accelerate corrosion
• Check wooden fence posts for frost heave after any hard freeze events
• Keep gutters and downspouts directed away from the fence line
• Plan your spring maintenance — schedule a professional fence inspection with Dubya Fence for early March

When to Call a Professional

Some maintenance is best left to professionals. Contact Dubya Fence Company at (803) 855-1001 if you notice:

• Fence posts leaning more than 10 degrees from vertical
• Significant rot at the base of wooden posts
• Multiple broken or missing fence sections after a storm
• Gates that no longer open, close, or latch properly
• Structural damage from fallen trees or vehicle impact

We offer prompt fence repair services throughout our service areas. Regular professional inspections every 2–3 years can catch small problems before they become expensive replacements.

Frequently Asked Questions