You could rack up huge costs in if you fail to paint one important garden item. After one of the driest springs on record, the UK is bracing for a shift in weather and protecting your has never been more important. Spring has been exceptionally dry, with the UK recording only 80.6mm of rainfall so far, and as such fences as well as plants could be impacted.

While many Brits are enjoying the sunshine, those with gardens are being warned that this dry spell could lead to costly problems down the line. Bill Jarvis, wood paint specialist at , says: "Unfortunately, dry spells can cause wooden structures to crack, and when the rain returns, these cracks let moisture in, creating the perfect environment for mould, algae and rot."

The price of ignoring it isn't cheap, fence repairs can cost up to £1,839 according to , with full replacements running even higher.

Now is the time to act, before the rain comes in and makes things worse but luckily there's things you can do to protect your garden without too much hassle.

You should make sure to properly protect your fence and other wooden structures ahead of the wetter weather.

Firstly, you should inspect it for damage by looking for signs of wear, including cracks, warping or splintering.

Don't forget to look closely at the base of the fence panels where moisture tends to build up and where damage could get missed.

Another important tip is to clean your fence thoroughly, you should use a stiff brush to remove dirt or flaking paint, or a pressure washer for stubborn spots.

This will help the paint adhere properly and prevent you from sealing in any mould spores.

Make sure you let the paint dry fully which is important because the paint won't stick properly if it's damp, and you'll risk making the issue worse by trapping moisture inside.

If you're going to buy paint, you want to make sure you get it right. You should use weather-resistant wood paint and it should be high-quality so that your fence is protected against moisture, UV rays and fungal growth.

By following these few simple and easy tips, you can avoid any costs in repairs and ensure that your is looking its best for as long as possible.