Bamboo fencing is a durable option that can last many years when the fencing is installed and maintained properly. Like other types of natural wood, bamboo is a great choice when you want to enhance your lawns and make your property more visually appealing. Bamboo is also sustainable, making it one of the most eco-friendly options available today.
Prepare Bamboo First
If you are staining your bamboo fence, make sure to finish this step first, especially if you are using whole bamboo sticks since it will be difficult to stain the area where the bamboo curves and touches the pole next to it. Bamboo is a natural wood, which allows you to paint or stain it any color you like. You should also varnish your bamboo to ensure it withstands the weather well over time. Varnish locks in the natural color of the wood and helps reduce the effects of moisture over the years.
Preparing the Area
The next step to install a bamboo fence is to ensure the property where you are installing the fence is ready. You will want to install poles that extend into the ground to provide support for the fence. For the poles, you may want to opt for a treated wood that is designed to withstand moisture. Set the poles about eight feet apart and make sure that each pole extends into the ground about twenty-four inches to ensure the durability of your fence. You can frame your fence with two-by-four boards to keep the bamboo sturdy, or you can frame the fence with bamboo sticks if you want a more uniform look and you live in an area with a mild climate.
Installing Fencing
One of the most important things that you can do if you want your fence to last for a long time is to make sure that the bamboo is off the ground slightly. Bamboo that touches the ground may absorb moisture and experience discoloration more quickly than fencing that is raised off the ground by three-quarters of an inch or so. The bamboo fence will need to be screwed into place to avoid cracking the wood, which can happen if you use nails. You will need to choose screws that are long enough to reach through the bamboo into the frame that you have already built.
Maintenance and Upkeep
After installing your bamboo fence you will want to follow some basic maintenance to ensure the wood keeps its natural color and can withstand the elements. Along with an annual coating of varnish, you can also wash your fencing with plain water or mild soap. Some experts recommend using a chlorine bleach solution to clean fencing, but there are eco-friendly cleaners on the market that work just as well.
Make sure to clean the area under the bamboo frequently, particularly in areas where there is a lot of shade. Removing debris that may be touching the bamboo helps it to last longer and look better over time. With some minimal maintenance and upkeep, your fencing will look great for many years to come.