If you buy fence panels from Somerlap, they will have already been pressure treated with an oil-based preservative. Although this gives excellent long-term protection, we would recommend applying a further treatment every few years which will prevent weathering and the growth of mould and algae.

The Greeks were the first to use a fence. Although in Athens the land was kept based on social recognition, with no partitions, when they were outside of local boundaries, conquering territory in Asia Minor, the terrain was divided among themselves with partitions. Romans repeated the pattern.

Let's face it, the colour of most new fence panels is unattractive. Often described as something like “golden chestnut” or “red cedar” they are invariably an unpleasant shade of brick-orange. Left to fade they will disappear into an unobtrusive grey, but wood colours are promoted to “bring them back to life”.

Whenever wood, including pressure treated wood, is constantly exposed to moist or humid conditions, it will mildew. This results in an unsightly appearance. Your preventative maintenance plan will need to include cleaning your wood fence with a cleaner containing a mildewcide.