Vlad Wood Craft: Expert Door, Fence & Gate Services in Shenandoah, TX

The primary cause is our intense Texas sun and heat. Prolonged UV exposure dries out the wood's natural moisture, causing it to contract and crack. In Shenandoah, where temperatures can exceed 95°F, the constant expansion and contraction from heat cycles can lead to shallow surface checks or deep splits. Using a quality, flexible stain or sealant with UV inhibitors, and allowing for proper drainage and air circulation around fence boards, can help prevent this cracking.

Look for three key signs: 1) Faded or patchy color—especially a grayish, bleached-out look on the south- and west-facing sides. 2) Surface checking—thin, shallow cracks that run along the grain. 3) Splintering or warping—edges of boards lifting, and boards that no longer lie flat. If you see any of these, call Vlad Wood Craft. We can assess the extent of the damage and recommend either a restaining with UV-blocking finish or replacement of severely damaged boards before the problem worsens.

A two-step approach works best: First, have a professional carpenter inspect and repair any existing cracks or weak spots—Vlad Wood Craft can replace rotted or split boards with properly kiln-dried, heat-resistant wood. Second, apply a high-quality, semi-transparent or solid-color stain that contains UV blockers and waterproofing agents. Reapplication every two to three years, especially on south and west exposures, will maintain the color and flexibility of the wood. For new fences, we can recommend species like cedar or pressure-treated pine that naturally handle heat better.