Cold temperatures and harsh winter weather can significantly impact the integrity of your wood fence. High winds can knock over whole sections, and heavy, wet snow can pile up and cause moisture damage to vulnerable fencing. Before the cold sets in, here are some things you can do to keep your fence in its prime condition year-round.
By addressing any issues now, you can prevent further problems from developing and feel protected during the winter months, knowing your fence is at its best even when the elements are at their worst.
Inspect Your Fence
Performing inspections and routine repairs go a long way toward improving your chances of escaping winter unscathed. Use higher quality products like Grip-Rite® Exterior Screws with Prime Guard® Plus for repairs to increase the strength of your fence. Performing yearly winter weather maintenance is essential to increase the longevity of your fence.
After a whole year of backyard activities, it’s extremely important to check your fence for any damage.
Look for damaged fence posts and pickets, paying special attention to rot and mold. Wood rot can compromise the structural integrity of your fence and lead to expensive replacements in the future.
If your fence is leaning, it could be a case of sinking posts. This can happen when posts aren’t securely seated in the ground. Wood posts are often seated in concrete, which is necessary when frost heave is on the table. However, the trend now is leaning toward metal posts that might not require concrete.
You’ll notice that gates are a weak point in many fences and don’t have proper bracing. For an added layer of support, you can install the Gate Saver Pro 2.0 from Nationwide Industries to prevent this problem.
Clean And Seal Your Fence
During your inspection, clear away any overgrown grass and shrubs, and remove rocks and any other yard debris that may have accumulated throughout the year.
After clearing debris, consider power washing your fence to remove any discoloration from dirt, sand, and dust that may have collected. After pressure washing, you will see any gaps or cracks, so you can fix fence posts and seal them up nicely.
Most homeowners don’t include a protective coating when replacing a fence. Protective sealants, coatings, and stains are helpful all year, but they are especially important during the winter.
By applying a few coats of protective sealants to your fence, you create a moisture barrier that allows it to remain resistant to water longer and prevent rotting. When adding a coating to your fence, there are a few items to remember.
- Choose a waterproof or water-resistant coating
- Ensure your coating is specifically for wooden fences
- Follow application instructions
- Allow the coating to dry completely before exposure to the elements
Having this protective layer on your fence is a great addition to ensure your fence is ready for all the conditions that come with winter storms.
Secure Your Gate Latches
If you realize during your inspection that your gate latch is failing, we recommend replacing it before the cold winter months. Nationwide Industries offers a variety of wooden fence latches designed to withstand winter weather. They are also a great option for summer safety when the temperatures rise again next year! Securing your gate helps keep your fence sturdy for years to come.
Trim Overhanging Tree Branches
Trimming your trees is essential to protecting your wooden fence, especially during the winter months when storms and harsh weather can wreak havoc. Overgrown branches can become heavy with snow and ice, posing a significant risk of snapping and falling onto your fence. This often causes damage that may lead to costly repairs.
Regular tree maintenance removes weak or overhanging limbs, reducing the chance of breakage and extending the lifespan of your fence.
After The Storm
After winter storms there can be some damage from the inclement weather. There are a few simple steps you can take to keep on top of any storm-related damage this year.
Inspect Your Fence After Each Weather Event
After a winter storm has come and gone your wooden fence should be inspected for damage. In most cases, your after-storm inspection should be a simple once over, but now and then there may be mild damage you will want to get ahead of.
Preventing snow from piling up against your wooden fence is crucial for preserving its integrity during the winter. When snow accumulates along the base of the fence, it can trap moisture against the wood, leading to rot, warping, and eventual deterioration. Regularly clear snow away from the base, ensuring proper airflow and minimizing moisture contact.
Watch For Shifting Soil
Another form of damage to check for after a winter storm is shifting soil. Shifting soil occurs when the ground becomes saturated with water from rain, snowmelt, or frost, the soil can loosen, causing fence posts to shift or tilt. This movement weakens the entire fence structure, leading to leaning sections or even collapse if left unchecked.
Frost Heave Can Damage Posts
Frost heave is another uncommon phenomenon that can cause significant damage to wooden fences. It occurs when the ground freezes during a storm and thaws out afterward, allowing space for your fence posts to shift and lean.
Over time, this movement can weaken the entire fence structure. To prevent frost heave, when installing your fence, place the posts below the frost line and use gravel or concrete to help anchor them in place.
Nationwide Industries® Fence And Gate Hardware Withstands the Harshest Conditions
When winter storms rage, Nationwide Industries® has you covered with the strongest fence and gate hardware products.
Whether facing extreme weather, heavy usage, or the test of time, our high-quality materials and innovative designs ensure that your fence and gate systems remain secure and functional. By choosing Nationwide Industries®, you’re investing in hardware that stands strong against the elements, protecting your property while requiring minimal maintenance.