If you don’t look after your wooden gates, even the sturdiest units aren’t going to last as long as they should. On the other hand, if you look after your wood properly, then your wooden gates can last for years.

Why Should You Treat Your Wooden Gate?

There are two reasons that homeowners should consider treating their wooden gates, as well as any other wooden furniture or structures that are exposed to the elements. Treating a wooden gate will ensure that it lasts as long as possible while also improving its overall aesthetics.

Aesthetics

By applying an oil to your wooden gate, you can alter the apparent shade and colour of the wood. Wood treatments come in a variety of different shades, each one designed for a different look. Most people simply match the shade of finish to the shade of the gate.

Protection

The other reason for applying a finish to wood is to provide it with some degree of protection from weathering and seasonal changes in conditions, which can rapidly age an unprotected gate. External oil will provide your gate with protection in addition to enhancing its aesthetics.

While smaller gates are easy to replace, large, heavy wooden gates can be relatively expensive to replace if they do degrade or become physically damaged. Adding oil can significantly prolong their lifespan as well as make them look more aesthetically pleasing.

Choosing the Right Colour

We sell Treatex oil in a variety of different shades. These are to enhance the look of wood and contains a high level of UV protection.

Most people select an oil that will leave their gate matching the exterior of their home. For front gates that lead onto driveways or gardens, a finished wooden gate looks more natural than something painted; many people find this a much better look. If you want a natural look, then you should try to match the colour of the finish to the colour of the wood it will be applied to. You don’t want to stray too far from the colour that you picked out for your gates initially.

If you want to seriously alter the appearance of your gates, you are usually better off buying new gates of a different shade.

Treating your wooden gates will ensure that they are safe from weather, insects, and any of the other hazards that cause gates to age prematurely. The right treatment will enhance the look of your gates as well as their durability.