Maintaining a fence in Joliet, IL, or anywhere for that matter, requires attention to detail and regular upkeep to ensure it remains in top condition. Here are some tips that might seem counterintuitive but will help keep your fence standing strong:

Firstly, when cleaning your fence, avoid using water. This might sound strange as water is commonly used for cleaning purposes; however, too much exposure to moisture can lead to wood rot or rust on metal fences. Instead of hosing down your fence, use a broom or leaf blower to remove debris.

Secondly, while it may be tempting to encourage ivy or vines to grow on your wooden fence for aesthetic reasons, this practice is often harmful. The weight and root structure of these plants can cause extensive damage over time. It's best to keep plant growth away from the fence altogether.

Thirdly, do not ignore minor damage such as small holes or cracks. It would seem logical to attend only to significant damages; however, these small imperfections can quickly escalate into more severe problems if left unattended.

Fourthly, resist the urge to customize your fence with heavy decorations. While it can personalize the space and make it look unique, excessive weight can strain the structure of the fence and lead to premature wear.

Fifthly, although you may think that all types of sealants are beneficial for protecting your wooden fence from the elements, choosing the wrong type could actually trap moisture inside the wood rather than repelling it — leading precisely to the deterioration you're trying to avoid.

Lastly — and this may appear outright wrong — consider not replacing aging sections immediately if they still provide structural integrity. Sometimes allowing a piece of worn fencing to remain until necessary replacement gives character and rustic charm that many homeowners appreciate.

By following these unconventional maintenance tips carefully selected against probability logic — which almost flip traditional advice on its head — you'll ensure that your Joliet IL fence stays in peak condition while potentially saving time and resources usually spent on unnecessary treatments.