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There's a lot to worry about every time we enter winter, as the harsh conditions make our homes acutely vulnerable to damage. Many property owners put measures in place to minimize winter weather damage, but some overlook one part of their property—the fence.
It could be because they aren't aware of the effects of cold weather on different types of fences. But the fierce winds, heavy snow, and freezing temperatures can wreak havoc on a fence. Learn how to protect your fence from the winter weather.
1. Trim All Branches Near the Fence
It's never safe to leave large branches hanging over your fence in any season. During winter, though, the risk of them falling increases significantly because of the harsh winds. The branches may withstand the winds but can become weighed down by the heavy snow.
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Even if the branches are strong enough to avoid breaking, they can expose your fence to moisture damage. When the excess snow on branches melts, it drips on your fence. After a winter snowstorm, this can continue for several days, leading to long-term issues if left unchecked.
2. Use a Waterproof Stain or Protective Coating
High moisture and humidity can wear your wood fence down in a hurry. These soften the wood fibers, leading to swelling and rotting. You should apply an exterior wood stain or sealant to protect your wood fence from winter weather. Consider covering your fence with a protective plastic coating if it's metal.
3. Avoid Excessive Snow Accumulation Around the Fence
Allowing the snow and ice to pile up can create tremendously heavy mounds, which can cause structural stress. As a result, your fence can bend or crack. Suppose that doesn't happen. There's still another issue. Ice will melt eventually, seeping into the soil. When the ground becomes too saturated, the soil can shift. Unfortunately, this can affect the stability of fence posts. Therefore, try to clear or divert the snow buildup away from your fence.
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4. Replace the Fence Posts As Needed
You'll want to inspect your fence posts throughout the winter to ensure they're stable and level. You don't need to call the professionals to determine when fence posts aren't secure. Just tie a string around one corner post and run it to another. Check for dips or rises and replace any unstable posts.
As you can see, learning how to protect your fence from the winter weather is pretty straightforward. With these simple measures, you can minimize fence damage and avoid expensive repairs.