If you want a redwood garden bridge in your yard or garden, or if you already have
one, you will want it to last for years and years because it makes sense
to care for any investment, and also because you love the way your bridge looks.
Staining and sealing
Oil-based stains effectively penetrate a garden bridge's wood grain to
offer color coverage and some preserving benefits. For deeper color, multiple
coats must be applied. Sealants are applied to redwood garden bridges to add resistance
to the elements. Some stains and sealers are combined into the same convenient
product. Depending on your climate, redwood garden bridges may require re-staining and
sealing every other year.
What about a naturally weathered look?
Most types of wood used to make wooden garden bridges will age very
attractively if left unfinished or if they are not routinely sealed or stained.
An aged or weathered redwood garden bridge will have a silvery gray hue. Though the
weathered look is desirable for some people, keep in mind that foot bridges routinely
stained and sealed will hold up better against mildew, splintering, and other
common problems. |  |
Routine maintenance for your redwood garden bridge
Every few months, make sure that the garden bridge's components remain
tightly fit together to maintain its stability. Redwood garden bridges that have been
regularly sealed can be sprayed clean with a garden hose; you might even use
warm soapy water and a clear water rinse for occasional cleaning.
Keeping up on routine maintenance for your redwood garden bridge will pay off in the
long run. With a little time and effort, a maintained redwood garden bridge should last
you for many years.
