How To Care For Your Bespoke Garden Gates

Investing in bespoke garden gates is the best way to put the finishing touch to your garden, but you do need to know how to care for them properly if they’re to stand the test of time. Bear in mind that wood and timber will always move and change, and you need to try to keep this to a minimum… so here’s what you can do.

Use stain and oil

It’s important to keep moisture out of the wood but also prevent it from drying out in hot weather – and this is where stain and oil really come into their own. Stain the wood in whatever colour you like, brushing with the grain as you go. Once this has been applied, you can use oil on the wood, allowing it to soak in. Apply another two or so coats of oil.

Oil regularly

It’s wise to use a wood oil on your gate to replace any natural oils that may have been lost over time. This will help prevent cracking, splitting and warping. And interestingly, wood oil can also help stop timber from bleaching in the sun thanks to UV filters it contains.
Keep an eye on the weather

Always see what the weather is likely to do over the next 48 hours before treating your new garden gate. If frost or rain is likely, put the job off and go and have a cup of tea instead.

Inspect the hinges and fittings

You need to check that these are in good working order, so if you see signs of rust make sure the parts are replaced. Otherwise you may suddenly find your garden gates don’t open or close as they should.