Winter Storm Damage & Fence Repair in Fargo, North Dakota
If you’ve lived in Fargo, North Dakota for even a single year, you know that winters in the northern U.S. tend to be cold, icy, and rife with blizzard conditions. This means outdoor equipment and fixtures will be subjected to heavy snow, lashing winds, and bitter amounts of frost. Fence maintenance is not uncommon in the wake of a winter storm: broken rails that need to be replaced, posts that require mending, etc. What about before the cold months? Are there any steps you can take to help prevent winter storm damage? The answer depends on the type of fence (consider this if you’re planning to install a fence this year, as well).
- How strong is wood fencing in winter?
- How strong is vinyl fencing in winter?
- How strong is chain link fencing in winter?
- Can American Security and Gate Company perform fence repair in Fargo?
For a free estimate:
How strong is wood fencing in winter?
The source of a wood fence’s stock is the primary determinant of its strength. For instance, the fence panels available at big box stores are typically fashioned from thin, flimsy material—and consequently don’t hold up well against the pressure of high winds and accumulating snowbanks. On the other hand, panels made from heartwood (the interior “spine” of the tree) possess far greater strength and resilience. So if you are thinking of installing a wood fence in Fargo, be sure to ask your local contractor where they source materials from.
Another precaution you can take post-installation is painting and staining. Throughout the year, your fence panels will be exposed to rain, snow, melting ice, morning dew, overspray from sprinklers, etc., which absorb into the wood and—as the temperature changes—expand and contract. This is what typically causes wood fence parts to deform and split. Painting and staining, however, can help protect your fence from these effects by blocking water absorption.
A few last bits of advice after you’ve painted and stained your fence. First, try to keep the fence panels as dry as possible by brushing off snow as needed. Second, when the snow and ice does begin to melt, verify that it melts into small beads of water. If you’re not seeing sheets of water instead of beads, add another layer of paint and stain in the spring. If you have any questions, contact our expert staff here at American Security and Gate Company!
For a free estimate:
How strong is vinyl fencing in winter?
Vinyl fencing is popular nationwide for its aesthetic beauty and dependable strength. As the temperature goes down, PVC tends to become more flexible but—unless struck by an unusual amount of force—should not break. What’s more, it does not require painting and staining like wood fencing does, as it’s intrinsically water-resistant.
That is not to say vinyl fencing is completely immune to the effects of a Fargo blizzard. Throughout the winter season, try to clear snowbanks from your fence so that pressure does not build against the posts and panels. Use a broom to remove excess snow from the rails/slats, and use a snowblower to clear away banks from the posts. (Make sure the chute of the snowblower is directed away from the fence as you do.)
How strong is chain link fencing in winter?
Of the three fence types discussed in this article, chain link possesses the greatest resilience to winter storm damage. American Security and Gate Company fabricates its materials for superior rust resistance, and metal does not shrink or contract like wood does—so you don’t have to worry about painting/staining/keeping your fence dry throughout the year.
Can American Security and Gate Company perform fence repair in Fargo?
Although each fence type comes with its own strengths and weaknesses, winter storm damage is always a possibility. If your fence should need repairs, it is important to hire a reputable contractor offering fence repair and maintenance among their services. Here at American Security and Gate Company, our staff undergoes rigorous training in all aspects of fence installation and maintenance—they are fully ready to make necessary repairs and replacements!