This fence doesn’t need to be rebuilt every spring as in Robert Frost’s poem Mending Wall (where the saying in my title originated).  As a matter of fact, it will weather storms quite well and develop its own weathered look along the way. Not too imposing and not completely private, this uniquely simple fence acts more like a decorative screen that divides, not hides, two properties from each other.

Passersby view from sidewalk

The steel fence will be left to rust for a year or so until it develops a deep orange brown. This natural patination process will begin in earnest in the next few weeks as the autumn rains begin to fall here in the Pacific Northwest. Then we’ll treat it with linseed oil (and a touch of turpentine for easier absorption and faster curing time), which will add a satiny richness along with some protection against further rust.

Here are some different views of the fence. I’ll try to post more pictures throughout the year so you can see the aging in process.

Fun side view

View from our yard

Slim side-of-house view