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Irrigation Considerations when Installing a New Fence
Irrigation systems provide nourishing water to landscapes and crops, but can devastate the stability and appeal of a fence if the two come into contact without proper planning. Before installing a new fence, it’s important to evaluate any irrigation systems that are already in place, or any that are planned.
Irrigation involves water and sod, both of which can be detrimental to fence stability when handled improperly. According to the fence professionals at Denco Fence Company in Denver, Colorado, when either a fence or irrigation system is installed incorrectly, the resulting damage to one or both of these can be extensive. Denco offers the following guidelines for preventing fencing and irrigation disasters:
FOLLOW THE CORRECT ORDER.
With new construction, work with other contractors to install the fence in the right order to minimize problems with irrigation systems, landscape or cropland elements – both now and in the future. If possible: • Install a fence after the finished grade is done but before the sprinkler system, brickwork, or planting are completed to construct the fence correctly based on the planned irrigation system setup. • Time sod placement carefully. If sod or grass seed is laid before fence installation, it will likely be damages by the fencing equipment or the excavation process, leading to additional expense. Make sure sod is never placed directly against a fence; it may cause discoloration and wood rot.
The ground will also be wet if sod has recently been laid, making it more difficult or impossible to work in the area. This means a longer, more complex installation process, with potentially more expense.
If the fence is installed on a property where irrigation and landscaping is already in place, it will require some additional planning on the contractor’s part to work around any other irrigation issues.
DON’T PLACE IRRIGATION HEADS NEAR THE FENCE.
Irrigation heads near a fence can result in multiple problems, including: • Discoloration. • Mold, mildew, wood rot and other structural issues. • Shorter lifespan.
SPRINKLER SYSTEM 101.
Watering a fence won’t make it grow but can cause a lot of damage. The best way to prevent accidental spraying of the fence is to have the sprinkler system placed at least two feet away from the fence structure. This will reduce problems and ensure your fencing isn’t damaged due to water or moisture build-up.
KEEP PLANTS OFF THE FENCE.
Some homeowners may desire to have plants crawl up the side or front or back of a fence, but contractors should discuss this with their customers. Depending on the type of fence material, this can be very damaging to the structure. Plants collect moisture which can damage the fencing panels.
STAIN OR SEAL THE FENCE
Seal or stain a wood fence to give it a protective barrier against the elements, including watering systems, such as discoloration, wood rot, mold and more. Use a clear, silicone-based sealant if you want to keep the fence color the same. Otherwise, enjoy a color-boosting enhancement from one of the many options available.
Denco Fence Company specializes in fence and gate installation and repair. Learn more at www.dencofence.com.
