Composite Fencing Maintenance Guide

Composite fencing is the best solution on the market if you are looking for a low maintenance fence. Composite fence panels have a much better colour stability, meaning that they will preserve their colour for years to come.  

Because of their superior surface texture, composite materials are more resistant to weather conditions. They are also more difficult to absorb stains due to their enhanced capped surface hence why they do not require any staining throughout their lifetime.  

This innovative type of fencing is made from 95% reclaimed wood fibres and plastic which not only makes it sustainable, but extremely robust. The fence panels do not rot, split, or splinter. They are also resistant to insect attacks.  

Can you paint composite fencing? 

You can paint composite fences, but it is not recommended neither required. Due to their enhanced surface and the materials they are made of the composite panels are able to preserve their colour throughout the minimum of their warranty, which is 20 years.  

The composite fencing boards need to be painted by applying high-quality latex paint to their surface. However, applying regular paints might result in damage and discoloration. 

If you paint your fence, it will eventually start to split away from the plastic because there is nothing to keep it in place. 

Does composite fencing fade? 

After being exposed to the outdoors, nearly all composite fencing boards will start to fade gradually. However, it is nothing to worry about because it is a perfectly normal process and something you should anticipate happening. 

The fading process occurs as a result of the use of natural wood oils known as tannins in the manufacturing process. These dark brown tannins are used to ensure that all of the panels are the same colour. 

Some of the tannins will gradually leak out of the boards when fence panels are exposed to UK weather. This technique is often referred to as "extractive bleeding." Your composite fencing will become slightly lighter as a direct result of this process. Regardless of the colour you choose, the same bleeding process takes place. However, when you select a lighter colour, it is typically the most apparent. 

This process lasts about 6 months but the changes in colour are only minor due to the UV stabilizer in the panels.