Bugs, Critters, and Fence Damage: How to Protect Your Property

If you own a fence on your Indianapolis property, maintaining it can be just as important as caring for the exterior of your home. That’s why at Amerifence, we regularly help clients repair fence damage caused by unwelcome critters. Understanding what types of bugs and animals can wreak havoc on your fencing can save you time and money. In this blog, we’ll dive into the most common culprits and offer some practical prevention tips to keep your fence in top shape.

Types of Bugs That Damage Fences

In the Indianapolis area, there are a few common pests that can cause significant damage to your fence.

1. Termites: Termites are infamous for their wood-destroying capabilities. These tiny insects can weaken wooden fences by eating through the wood, often causing significant structural damage before you even realize there's a problem. Regular inspections are crucial to catch termite activity early.

2. Carpenter Ants: Similar to termites, carpenter ants can cause extensive damage to wood fences. They don't eat the wood but excavate it to create their nests. This activity can weaken the structural integrity of your fence over time.

3. Beetles: Various types of beetles, including powderpost beetles, can infest wooden fences. These beetles lay their eggs in the wood, and the larvae tunnel through, causing damage as they grow.

4. Squirrels: These small animals can be surprisingly destructive. They often chew on wooden fences to keep their teeth sharp, which can lead to significant damage over time.

Practical Pest and Critter Prevention Tips

There are practical things you can do to mitigate pest damage.

1. Regular Maintenance: Inspect your fence regularly for signs of damage. Early detection is crucial in preventing minor issues from becoming major problems.

2. Clear Debris: Keep leaves, branches, and other yard waste away from your fence. Debris can attract insects and create a habitat for small animals.

3. Trim Vegetation: Trim shrubs and trees back from the fence line to reduce pests' access points.

How to Prevent Fence Damage

Choosing the suitable fence material is important if you’re in the market for a new fence and want to prevent pests and critters from causing damage.

• Cedar: Cedar wood has natural pest-repelling properties, making it a great choice if you're concerned about bugs. The natural oils in cedar wood deter insects like termites and carpenter ants.

• Aluminum: Aluminum fencing is highly durable and resistant to damage from critters. Animals won't chew through it, and insects won't find a nesting ground.

• Vinyl: Vinyl fencing is another excellent option as it's resistant to most types of damage. It's durable, easy to clean, and does not attract insects or provide a nesting area for animals.

If you're concerned about your fence or are considering a new fence installation, Amerifence offers expert fence repair services in Indianapolis, Westfield, Greenwood, and the surrounding areas. For help with your fence, contact Amerifence at (317) 207-9499 or request a free quote online today!