One of the most important summer habits is regular cleaning. Over the course of spring, fences collect everything from dirt and pollen to mold and mildew, especially in New England’s increasingly humid climate. Vinyl and aluminum fences benefit from a gentle wash with soap and water, which not only restores their appearance but also prevents buildup that can lead to long-term surface issues. Materials exposed to moisture and environmental debris can degrade over time if not cleaned, particularly in climates where humidity is a constant factor. A simple rinse every few months keeps things looking fresh and functioning properly. ​ For cedar fences, summer is when protection truly matters. While cedar naturally resists rot and insects thanks to its built-in oils, those protective qualities aren’t permanent. Sun exposure gradually breaks down finishes and dries out the wood, leaving it vulnerable to cracking or moisture absorption. Applying a stain or sealant every few years—ideally during the dry summer months—helps shield the wood from both UV rays and humidity. Without that barrier, cedar can begin to weather prematurely, especially in regions where heat and moisture fluctuate throughout the season. The result is not just fading color, but potential structural wear over time.  Vegetation control is another often-overlooked part of summer fence care in New England. Lawns grow fast, shrubs fill out, and climbing plants can quickly spread across fence lines. While it may look charming, constant contact traps moisture against fencing materials, increasing the risk of rot in wood or mildew buildup on vinyl surfaces. Keeping plants trimmed back improves airflow and reduces the damp conditions that contribute to long-term deterioration. In wetter climates, excess moisture is one of the leading causes of fence damage, particularly for organic materials like wood. A little yard maintenance goes a long way in protecting your investment. Summer is also the ideal time to perform a mid-year inspection. Warm, dry conditions make it easier to spot subtle issues that may have developed unnoticed. Look for signs of warping, loosening, or shifting—especially around posts and gates. New England’s freeze–thaw cycles can weaken structural elements over time, and those effects often become visible once the ground has fully thawed. Checking hardware, tightening fasteners, and ensuring gates open smoothly can prevent minor problems from escalating into costly repairs later in the year. For aluminum fences, summer maintenance is straightforward but still important. While aluminum naturally resists corrosion thanks to its protective oxide layer, its finish—often a powder coating—plays a major role in long-term durability. This coating acts as a barrier against moisture, UV rays, and environmental wear, and maintaining it ensures the fence continues to perform at its best. If you notice chips or scratches, touching them up promptly helps preserve that protective layer and prevents exposure to the elements.  Ultimately, summer is about staying ahead of the wear and tear that New England weather inevitably brings. While winter may cause the most visible damage, it’s the quieter effects of heat, sun, and humidity that gradually break materials down over time. By taking a proactive approach—cleaning regularly, protecting surfaces, managing vegetation, and inspecting key components—homeowners can extend the life of their fence and keep it looking its best year after year. At Spaulding Fence & Supply, we always remind our customers that the best fences aren’t just built well—they’re cared for well. And in New England, summer is your best chance to do exactly that. ​ References: GreenView Solutions. 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The science behind its durability. https://engineerfix.com/why-doesnt-cedar-rot-the-science-behind-its-durability/ [engineerfix.com] Wagner Meters. (2026, May 6). Cedar wood’s remarkable weather resistance. https://www.wagnermeters.com/moisture-meters/wood-info/cedars-remarkable-weather-resistance/ [wagnermeters.com] National Fence Authority. (n.d.). Fence durability and lifespan by material. https://nationalfenceauthority.com/fence-durability-and-lifespan-by-material [nationalfe...hority.com] Baxevani, A., Lamprou, E., Mavropoulos, A., Stergioudi, F., Michailidis, N., & Tsoulfaidis, I. (2025). Investigation of corrosion resistance in powder-coated 6060 aluminum alloy. Metals, 15(10), 1062. https://www.mdpi.com/2075-4701/15/10/1062 [mdpi.com] Yandi Aluminum. (2026, March 2). Aluminum fence materials corrosion resistance and long-term performance (2026 update). https://www.yandialuminum.com/Aluminum-Fence-Materials-Corrosion-Resistance-and-Long-Term-Performance-2026-Update-id00309265.html [yandialuminum.com] ​