A Local Guide to Caring for Your Fence Panels

At Stubbs Copse we’ve spent years supplying fencing across West Sussex, and one thing we see time and again is that a little care goes a long way. Good fencing doesn’t just mark a boundary. It protects your garden, frames the space, and keeps everything looking tidy through every season. Whether you’ve just installed new panels or you’re trying to get a few more years out of an older run, proper upkeep can make all the difference.

Why Fence Panel Care Matters

It’s easy to think of fencing as a ‘set it and forget it’ job, but our local climate tells a different story. Sussex winters bring long spells of wet weather, and the summer heat can dry timber out quickly. With seasoned wood we know how to help it last, and fencing is no different. Regular checks and simple maintenance prevent rot, reduce warping, and stop small issues turning into a full replacement.

Start With a Seasonal Check

Twice a year is plenty. In late autumn and again in early spring, walk the fence line and look for:
• Loose or leaning posts
• Panels that are bowing or cracking
• Signs of rot at the base
• Rust on fixings
• Gaps where wind has pushed panels out of line

Most problems start small. Catching them early saves time and money.

Keep Panels Clear of Moisture

The biggest enemy of any panel is trapped moisture. Leaves, soil buildup, or overgrown plants keep timber damp, creating the perfect conditions for rot. Keeping the base clear by a few inches helps panels breathe and dry properly after rain.

If you’re using gravel boards, even better. They lift panels away from the soil, prolonging their life. It’s one of the simplest upgrades we recommend when people ask for fencing materials near me that genuinely make a difference.

Treating and Preserving Timber

A good-quality treatment is the backbone of long-lasting fencing. For most homeowners, an oil-based or solvent-based preservative gives the strongest protection. Apply it every two to three years, or sooner if the fence is south facing and sees a lot of sun.

Brush or spray? Either works. Spraying is faster on large runs, but brushing helps the product really soak into the grain. At Stubbs Copse we usually say: if you want it done quickly, spray; if you want it done properly, brush.

Repair or Replace?

With fencing, it’s often the posts rather than the panels that fail first. If a single panel is sagging but the structure is sound, a small repair can buy you years. Replacing a broken arris rail, refitting a loose bracket, or treating a soft patch early is inexpensive and straightforward.

However, if rot has spread or panels have warped beyond reshaping, replacing them is usually better value. Strong, reliably sourced panels not only look smarter but save you from repeating the same job the following year.

Protect Against the Wind

West Sussex gets its fair share of strong coastal winds. If you’re in an exposed spot, consider:
• Heavier-duty panels
• Additional arris rails
• Securely set posts with adequate depth
• Staggered panel layouts that reduce wind resistance

A fence that ‘gives’ slightly will usually last longer than one that fights the wind.

Sustainable Choices That Last

At Stubbs Copse we take pride in offering timber that’s responsibly sourced and naturally durable. A well-made panel crafted from quality timber will always outperform a cheaper alternative. You use fewer materials over time, create less waste, and spend less on replacements. It’s good for the environment and good for your wallet.

When to Call In Help

There’s no shame in admitting a job needs a professional touch. If a line of fencing is leaning, posts have rotted through, or you’re dealing with a slope or tricky boundary, getting it right first time avoids mistakes that are costly to undo. Many of our customers pick up panels and posts from us and bring in a local installer for the hard graft. It’s often the most efficient combination.

Final Thought

Fence panel care doesn’t have to be complicated. With a bit of seasonal attention, the right treatments, and quality materials, your boundary will stay strong and tidy for years. If you ever need guidance, or you’re ready to upgrade and want trusted garden fencing West Sussex options, the team at Stubbs Copse is always here to help with friendly, practical advice.