Experienced Fencing Company in Portland, OR 97216 - McDermott Fence & Construction

The main cause is constant moisture from rain and fog, which soaks into untreated wood or seeps behind painted surfaces. Signs include soft spots, dark discoloration, and peeling paint. We prevent rot by using pressure-treated or naturally rot-resistant woods like cedar, applying a high-quality water-repellent stain or sealant, and ensuring proper drainage around posts. For existing fences, we can strip damaged sections and weatherproof the rest.

Look for leaning posts, cracked rails, or boards that wiggle. If only a few boards are rotted or loose, repair is fine. But if more than a third of the fence has structural rot, posts are snapped at ground level, or the whole span sags, replacement is more cost-effective. We inspect the entire fence, including the bottoms of posts, and give you a straight answer—no upsell.

Absolutely. A good penetrating stain with UV and water repellents is the best defense against Portland’s moisture. It soaks into the wood rather than sitting on top like paint, so it won’t peel or trap moisture. We recommend a semi-transparent stain applied after the wood dries completely. Reapply every 2–3 years. If your fence is already painted but peeling, we can strip it and switch to stain for longer-lasting protection.