Installing a wooden fence can be a major project, and no one wants their hard work to be rained on. However, in the temperamental weather of the UK, avoiding all precipitation may not be feasible. Fortunately, with proper planning and precautions, installing wooden fencing Aldershot in the rain is possible. This guide covers everything you need to know, from choosing the right wood, tools, and techniques, to timing your work and protecting the wood. With the right approach, you can end up with a beautiful, durable backyard fence – rain or shine.
Choosing the Best Type of Wood for Rainy Installations
When installing a fence in rainy conditions, the type of wood you choose makes a big difference in terms of weather resistance and minimizing damage.
Recommended Wood Species
- Cedar: With its natural resistance to moisture, decay, and insects, cedar is perhaps the best wood for fence building in wet conditions. Its oils help it withstand rain, dampness, and humidity.
- Redwood: Another great choice is redwood, which stands up well to moisture thanks to its tannins and oils. Redwood is naturally resilient against rot and insects.
- Pressure-Treated Pine: For a more affordable option, go for premium pressure-treated pine. The treatment helps protect the wood against fungal decay and termites.
- Cypress: This dense wood handles weather extremely well. Its natural oils, tannins, and waxes make it suitable for outdoor projects.
- Black Locust: One of the most durable domestic hardwoods, black locust is rot-resistant even when exposed to rain and moisture. It also withstands insects well.
Less Suitable Woods
Steer clear of woods like white pine, hemlock, spruce, and fir if you’ll be installing in wet conditions. These woods have little natural weather resistance.
Understanding UK Weather Patterns
The UK is known for its rain. On average, there are 156 rainy days per year. Rainfall peaks between October and January in most parts. Weather can also change rapidly multiple times a day thanks to the maritime climate.
How Rain Affects Installations
- Precipitation makes lumber slippery and more difficult to work with safely.
- Wet conditions impact tools and equipment, potentially affecting performance.
- Excess moisture causes wood to swell, warp, or twist as it dries if untreated.
- Muddy terrain can make fence post holes troublesome to dig.
Planning Around Weather Forecasts
- Check long range and daily forecasts using multiple sources for accuracy
- Met Office, BBC Weather, AccuWeather
- Be flexible: delay work if heavy rain or storms are imminent.
- Take advantage of dry spells and workable weather, adjusting schedule as needed.
Preparing the Ground for Installation in Wet Weather
Soggy soil can undermine fence stability. Proper drainage and excavation helps strengthen the structure against moisture damage.
Protecting Posts Against Accumulated Water
- Set posts in gravel at the base of holes for drainage before backfilling with soil.
- Use crushed stone around posts instead of soil above ground level to prevent puddling.
- Slope soil away from posts at the bottom of holes so water flows away from wood.
Digging Post Holes in Saturated Soil
- Wait 48-72 hours after heavy rains for ground to dry somewhat before digging holes.
- Use an auger bit powered by an impact driver to bore uniform holes in dense, muddy terrain.
- Shovel muck out and fill waterlogged holes with drainage gravel before inserting posts.
Fabricating a Gravel Trench
- Outline the fence perimeter with a 8-12 inch gravel trench piped to a drainage area if the terrain doesn’t drain well naturally.
- Install woven landscape fabric over the rock bed before backfilling topsoil to prevent dirt and sod from filtering through over time.
Using Waterproofing Products on Wooden Fences
Specialized waterproofing formulas help wooden fences stand up to wet weather. Sealants soak into the wood grain to resist moisture absorption while letting the fence breathe.
Recommended Waterproofing Options
Penetrating Oil Sealers
Oils like linseed oil penetrate into the wood while allowing moisture vapor release. Natural oils must be applied yearly.
Water-Repellent Wood Preservatives
Contain waxes, resins, or drying agents that seal out moisture. Last 2-5 years. Brands like DEFY Extreme Wood Stain and TWP 1500 Series.
Epoxy Resin Sealers
High-performance 2-part coatings with durable acrylic, urethane, or epoxy resins. Withstand UV rays and last 5-7 years. Best left to professionals.
Application Tips
- Prep wood by cleaning with an oxygen bleach solution and light sanding
- Apply waterproofer to all sides of lumber using brush, pad applicator or sprayer
- Follow manufacturer’s recommended drying times between coats
- Check warranty specifics for reapplication schedule
Using the Right Tools to Build Fences in the Rain
Quality tools are essential for working efficiently in wet conditions. Safety should also be paramount when handling damp equipment.
Recommended Equipment
- Battery or generator-powered tools avoid electric shock risks
- Select lightweight fiberglass ladders to prevent slips
- Use weather-resistant fasteners and hardware
- Wear waterproof boots and gloves for traction and grip
Job Site Safety Precautions
- Take extra caution when using power tools in the rain, wear safety glasses
- Set up a canopy tent to keep tools and lumber dry
- Check for hazards like slick muddy patches, branches, and uneven ground
- Avoid working on windy days that can cause falls or injuries
Timing Your Fence Installation Schedule Around Rain
When rainy weather is unavoidable, carefully timing each installation stage can optimize productivity.
Best Times of Day
- Early to late morning generally has the least precipitation
- End workdays mid-afternoon before heavier late day rains
Adapting to Downpours
- Pause work immediately when rain intensifies to avoid accidents
- Take advantage of intermittent showers by preparing holes and posts under canopy tent
- Use tarps over exposed wood and materials when stopping work due to heavy rainfall
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it advisable to install a wooden fence in the rain?
Installing wooden fences in light-moderate rainfall is feasible with planning, preparation, and proper materials and techniques. However, heavy rain or storms can severely hamper visibility, safety, and work quality.
Can rain damage the wood during installation?
Untreated lumber left unprotected from heavy rain as it dries can develop splits, cupping, or other defects. Using naturally weather-resistant wood species and waterproofing products minimizes potential damage.
How long should you wait after rain to install a fence?
Ideally, wait at least 48-72 hours after heavy rains or thunderstorms for soil to dry somewhat before digging post holes or mounting fence boards.
What types of wood are more resistant to rain damage?
Woods like cedar, redwood, cypress, pressure-treated pine, and black locust have natural oils, resins, and durability that help withstand moisture.
Are there specific waterproofing products for UK weather?
Quality fence sealant brands available in the UK like Cuprinol, Ronseal, and Barrettine formulated to withstand damp, rainy environs and UV exposure from the sun when dry.
How does rain affect fence post hole setting?
Excess water fills post holes, collapsing walls and undermining structural stability. Using drainage gravel at the base helps. Pre-drilling holes with an auger makes for smoother digging in muddy terrain.
Can I install a fence in winter when it’s cold and rainy?
Yes, but prepare for Frozen, muddy ground can make excavation difficult. Schedule work during dry spells and allow extra drying time for concrete footing to cure before mounting posts. Treat wood with waterproof coating prior to installation.
Real-World Examples of Fence Projects in Rainy Weather
Backyard Fence Case Study
- Cedar picket fence installed in Manchester during intermittent autumn showers
- Used gravel and drainage pipes around perimeter to manage soggy soil
- Applied three coats of Penofin penetrating oil finish letting dry 24 hours between applications
- Ten years later, the fence shows no signs of moisture damage despite the area’s rain
Windy Rural Build
- Building a pine privacy fence on farmland during stormy spring weather posed challenges
- Augered holes and backfilled with gravel to stabilize posts in muddy terrain
- Had to work carefully on windy days to avoid accidents
- After 3 coats of DEFY Extreme and 5 years, the fence survived despite storms and exposure
Sealing a 20 Year Old Fence
- A homeowner stripped and re-sealed their 20 year old larch lap fence after noticing some surface mold
- Applied BioWash and water repellent wood preservative made for UK climates by Ronseal
- Product restored protection against moisture and signs of aging disappeared
- 6 months later fence looked immaculate after routine heavy rain
With smart preparation and vigilance, installing a beautiful and robust wooden fence is possible even in rainy conditions. From using durable wood types to allowing adequate drying times, the keys are weather-conscious planning, quality materials and applying suitable waterproofing finishes. Proper tools and safety precautions also ensure you can build successfully while keeping risks at bay. Follow these best practices, and your fence can withstand whatever weather comes its way.
Thanks for reading our post, feel free to check out our other services:
