Five Ways to Protect Your Fence from Winter Weather

Winter is coming! As the leaves start to fall and temperatures begin to drop, it’s time to show your fence some love before the winter weather officially sets in. The good news? A little bit of care and preparation can save your fence from the worst winter has to offer. 

At Chesterfield Fence & Deck, we know a thing or two about keeping your fence strong in every season. So, before the snow begins, follow these five winter fence protection tips to ensure your fence stands tall and strong all winter long. 

Winter-Proof Your Fence with these Five Tips 

1. Clean and Inspect Your Fence

Before winter sets in, thoroughly clean your fence. For wood fences, remove any dirt, leaves, or debris that might trap moisture. Use a power washer or a garden hose with a stiff-bristle brush to remove grime. For vinyl or metal fences, a simple wash with soap and water will do the trick. 

Once clean, inspect the entire structure for signs of wear, such as loose boards, cracks, or rust. Addressing these issues before winter ensures that your fence is in optimal condition to withstand the cold months.

2. Apply a Protective Stain

Wood fences, in particular, are vulnerable to moisture. Without protection, water can seep into the wood, leading to premature rot, mold, and warping. To improve this, power wash your wood fence and then apply an oil-based stain to your fence. 

Choose products designed to repel water and resist mildew, such as stains rated for exterior use. For metal fences, consider washing and keeping corrosive chemicals like snow removal chemicals and fertilizer off the fence to prevent corrosion. Vinyl fences generally don’t need this type of protection, but if there are any cracks or damage, make sure to repair them before winter arrives.

3. Trim Nearby Trees and Shrubs

Falling branches or overgrown shrubs can cause significant damage to your fence during winter storms. Trim any branches that hang over your fence and cut back shrubs or plants that may rub against it. 

This not only reduces the risk of physical damage but also prevents moisture buildup on your fence. Keeping the area around your fence clear also helps with snow removal and reduces the chance of ice accumulation.

4. Reinforce Posts and Hardware

Fence posts are the backbone of your fence, and they can take a beating during the winter. Freezing and thawing cycles can cause the ground to shift, putting extra strain on the posts. Check that all posts are sturdy and firmly set in the ground. 

For wooden posts, ensure they are treated to resist rot, and for metal posts, check for any rust or corrosion. Tighten or replace any loose or damaged hardware, such as nails, screws, or brackets, to prevent structural issues when winter weather hits.

5. Shovel Snow Away from Your Fence

Heavy snow piling up against your fence can lead to significant damage. The weight of snow can cause panels to bow, and moisture trapped under snow can promote rot in wood fences and rust in metal ones. 

After it snows, take the time to shovel snow away from the base of your fence. This simple act can prevent long-term damage and ensure that your fence remains in good condition throughout the winter.

Protect Your Fence this Winter with Chesterfield Fence & Deck 

Proper winter fence protection can make a big difference in the longevity and durability of your fence. By cleaning, inspecting, and protecting your fence before winter arrives, you can avoid costly repairs and keep it looking great for many years to come. 

If you have a fence that was previously installed, give us a call at (636) 532-4054.

Take these steps to ensure your winter fence protection plan is in place. Whether you need assistance or want to explore new fencing options, contact Chesterfield Fence & Deck today!