Heat and Humidity Can Damage Fences, Decks and Custom Carpentry

Toronto, Canada (PRWEB), July 30, 2013 – Total Fence Inc. (www.TotalFenceInc.ca), the leader in residential, industrial, and commercial fence and deck installation in the Greater Toronto Area, warns residents that the recent heat and humidity in the region could result in damage to fences, decks, and custom carpentry projects.

“For those living in the Greater Toronto Area, it’s not uncommon to focus on the damage the cold and wet weather has on decks, fences, and other custom carpentry projects. It’s also important to remember that the heat and humidity associated with Toronto’s hot, short summers can also be damaging,” says Tony Defeo, owner of Total Fence Inc. “By understanding the problems associated with excessive heat and humidity, homeowners can understand the kind of preventative measures that need to be taken to protect their most valuable asset.”

According to Defeo, all wood fences and decks, whether they’re treated or untreated, are susceptible to the damaging effects of heat and humidity. That’s because direct exposure to heat from the sun causes wood to dry out and shrink. Over time, the cyclical weather patterns can cause wood fences and decks to crack, split, and warp, damaging the structural integrity.

Persistent exposure to moisture, whether in the form of excessive rain, humidity, or even shade cover, can be a breeding ground for mildew, mold, or other organisms that feed on wood, Defeo says. Wood-boring insects can also cause irreparable structural damage on wood that is not pressure treated.

“The hot and humid summers in the Greater Toronto Area can be especially tough on decks,” Defeo warns. “Because decks are flat, horizontal surfaces, they retain water, ice, and snow for long periods of time. On top of that, horizontal surfaces are subject to a lot more direct sunlight than fences are, which accelerates damages.”

“Unfortunately, many commercial and residential property owners think ‘pressure treated’ means their fences and decks are waterproof,” Defeo adds. “While pressure-treated lumber protects against rot and decay, it does not provide weather protection on the surface. It can actually make the wood more porous and prone to moisture damage, which can lead to structural failure.”

The experts at Total Fence Inc. conclude that to maintain the strength and integrity of fences, decks, and custom carpentry projects like a pergola or arbour, regardless of if it’s a complete installation project or repair, property owners need to hire a licensed team of professionals that offer a complete range of fencing and deck-building services. Failing to do so can lead to even more troubles down the road.

Total Fence Inc. is a leader in residential, industrial, and commercial fence and deck installation in the Greater Toronto Area. With the technical expertise and experience to handle jobs of any size, from small backyard decks to custom carpentry, pergolas, ornamental iron fences, acoustic sound barrier fencing, and industrial chain-link enclosures, Total Fence Inc. provides residents of the GTA and surrounding areas a complete range of affordable fence installation and repair services to suit their personal tastes and needs.

For more information on Total Fence Inc., visit the company’s web site at www.TotalFenceInc.ca, contact them by e-mail at totalfenceinc@hotmail.com or call (416) 239-5362.