Redwood fencesh the fix

double hot-dipped galvanized fasteners. Inferior hardware, including common iron or steel fasteners or those galvanized by other than the hotdipped process, is likely to corrode and cause unsightly stains when it comes into contact with moisture. As a guide, select l6-penny common nails for the frame, 8- or l0-penny box nails for the fenceboards, and 6or 8-penny finish nails for the fine trim.

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If IINTER storms across the West Y Y have caused extensive damage-not only to power lines, but to backyard fences, too. With do-it-yourselfers increasingly taking on fence repairs, you can expect customers to turn to you for advice for doing the job right the first time.

While redwood is legendary for its ease of workmanship, there are a few tips that can help anyone repair storm damage to their fence.

I I. Know your grades

Redwood looks great for any outdoor project, but not every grade of redwood is appropriate for every project. For example, anywhere that wood will be close to or in contact with the ground, heartwood provides termite- and rot-resistance that make it an excellent choice.

Construction Heart, has some smaller knots-perfect for posts, rails, kickboards and fence boards.

Merchantable Heart can contain larger knotholes and the same durable, decay resistant qualities as Construction Heart. It is great for posts and rails in low fence projects.

. Construction Common is similar to Construction Heart except that it contains sapwood, which can be visually dramatic on large fences. It is great for above-ground applications like fence boards, trellises or gates.

. Merchantable redwood is an economical option for fence boards, and with its larger knots and knotholes can add a rough or rustic look to you fence.

+t 4. Repairing posts

Even the most durable fence may need repairs if a tree is blown over in a storm. When replacing posts destroyed by blown-down trees, remember to use heartwood and to account for the significant loads fence posts can sometimes bear. Most fence posts will be 4x4s or 6x6s, which provide a fence the proper strength. When setting posts, one-third of the above-ground height should be below ground and set in concrete.

a 5. Nails and fasteners

When repairing a damaged redwood fence, it's important to use only aluminum alloy, stainless steel, or

Blending new boards and old Redwood fences can be finished to just about look a consumer chooses. When storm damage causes fenceboards to be replaced, how the original boards were finished and the length of time the fence has been exposed to the elements (and the severity of the weather over time) will determine how best to blend the new boards with the old.

If the original fence was left unfinished and allowed to weather to a distinctive gray look, treating the new boards with bleaching oils or weathering stains can help the new boards match the original boards faster. You may also choose to restore the weathered boards to their original appearance by using trisodium phosphate and oxalic acid treatments. Once the weathered fence has been restored, the entire fence can be finished with clear water repellents to keep the redwood color and grain showing through.

California Redwood Association recommends using finishes that contain a mildewcide and avoiding varnishes, clear film finishes, and oil treatments.

- For more details on repairing and maintaining redwood fences, visit www.calredwood.org.