How to Winter-Proof Your Wood Fence
In many parts of the country, the weather is—to use a comforting word—predictable. In the summer, it’s hot, and in the winter, it’s cold. However, in the Midwest, all of the seasons tend to have a mind of their own. This especially applies to winter, which ranges from ecstatically beautiful in the 50s to what feels like Antarctic conditions—blistering cold, with snow and gale-force wind to match. A harsh North Dakota winter brings numerous threats to our property—wood fences ranking among the prospective victims.
Winter fence damage can result from sudden events: e.g., branches falling on your railings or cars sliding onto your property due to icy roads. On the other hand, the most common winter-related damages develop over time. For this reason, it’s important to winterize your wood fence in Fargo. Unlike other fence materials, wood requires extra care before the cold sets in.
Clean up the area around your fence
When preparing for winter, snow isn’t the only thing you need to prepare for. Consider potential damage caused by surrounding trees. It is important to examine the trees around your house or business and trim any branches hanging above your fence—or ones that just plain look loose. Blizzard winds lash forth at minimum speeds of 35 mph. Gales of such force can shatter even the sturdiest of branches, sending them crashing upon whatever lies below.
But let’s say wind isn’t a factor. Suppose you receive a ton of snow but it comes straight down due to lack of air movement. Does this mean you can set aside your cleanup worries? Not at all. When snow accumulates on an overhanging tree branch, the weight can cause it to break off and fall. By trimming the trees around your fence, you can help avoid this incident. Also, clean out debris from between the fence posts—such as twigs—as clutter prevents melting snow and ice from completely running off your fence. By cleaning out all of these things ahead of time, you greatly reduce the odds of an accident. Don’t forget: cleanup takes time but is free; repairing a broken fence costs money!
Let’s talk about pre-existing damage. If your fence has a cracked post or is damaged in any way, make those repairs as soon as possible, before winter sets in. However, if you’re not comfortable making DIY repairs, contact a local fence contractor in Fargo. American Security and Gate Company trains all its employees in professional maintenance, so we can mend fences of all kinds and styles, even those we didn’t install ourselves.
Consider staining your wood fence
Due to the excessive amount of moisture in winter, many wood fences undergo damage initially set up in spring/summer. Wood absorbs all of the rain, snow, and sleet, and the absorbed fluids freezing into ice results in cracking, rotting, and splintering of your fence. The best way to avoid this situation is by staining—and, every 3-5 years, re-staining—your fence. Possible damage ensues after winter. An un-stained wood fence covered with snow and ice invites long-term damage. When temperatures rise in spring, the precipitation turns to water and soaks into your posts and panels. Within months you’ll have unsightly cracks and bulges. If your fence is due for another coat, apply it now before the temperatures drop.
American Security and Gate Company handles fences of all kinds, not just wood. Check out this new YouTube video showcasing our supply of chain link mesh!
Continue maintenance during winter
Winterizing a wood fence is essential, even during winter. Clean your fence often if possible, using a broom to remove snow from panels. Clear out mounds of snow from around the posts, so that the pressure and weight don’t bend posts and compromise your fence’s strength. Also take measures to ensure your fence is not exposed to salt. A corrosive substance, salt can cause discoloration and decay.
Nature has a mind of its own and can be extremely harsh; in winter, this means blizzards. With crazy winds and excessive snow, no amount of winterization promises the safety of your wood fence. So while you’re making seasonal preparations, it helps to research your local contractors in Fargo and get an idea of businesses that are going to be your go-to for fence repair. The ideal contractor has years of experience, works from a comprehensive inventory, and employs professionals in the fields of fence repair and maintenance.
American Security and Gate Company is the right choice. Having operated in the Midwest since the 60s, we’ve honed the best practices for fence installation and repair. We have the region’s largest materials inventory, a collective whole of more than eighteen acres.