In winter, you need to take extensive measures to protect any fence from damage. The freezing temperature can crack wood, the moisture can cause rot, and snow severely damages vinyl fences. Here are some of the Best Wood Fence Protection techniques against the biting cold.
Prevent moisture buildup
Before winter hits, ensure that your fence has a fresh coat of Outdoor Paint for Wood. This will prevent excessive moisture from sipping into the wood and causing rot, mold, and mildew. On top of that, for added protection, you need to apply at least two coats of Fence Sealer to stain the fence. You can go for tinted or clear stain. During the winter, keep the spaces between the wood clean and clear of leaves, snow, and ice.
Also, ensure that ground around the fence does not get waterlogged. Make sure the drainage is adequately dealt with by digging drainage trenches and removing organic debris like leaves that would otherwise soak up water.
Prevent shifting soil
Soil easily shifts under the fence due to the freezing and thawing effects of the cold weather. Fence posts that are not properly anchored to the ground move with the shifting soil. To prevent this, ensure that poles are deep enough below the frost line and their footing is well-cemented bellow the top loosened ground. That should guarantee a firm foundation for the fence throughout the winter.
Cut overhanging branches
Overhanging branches along the fence are always a danger that becomes an even greater risk in the winter. Clearing them prevents structural damage caused by breaking limbs overloaded with snow. Continuously trimming the trees along the fence line throughout the year is the best defense, rather than the last minute rush on the onset of winter.
Clear snow build up
A fence along a sloping terrain is especially susceptible to a biased snow buildup on one side. The weight of the snow bearing down on the fence over a long period can cause severe and extensive damage. In the worst cases, breaking the rails and poles or completely burying the fence under the snow.
If you notice an intensify snow buildup on both or either sides of your fence, make an effort to continuously remove it if preventive measures like trenches and barricades fail.
Keep a close eye
Don’t neglect your fence during the winter months; this is the time it needs your attention the most. Stroll the length of the fence after every heavy snowfall or blizzard; check the condition of the fence and take note of structurally compromised parts. Always be on the lookout for signs of weakness. Doing this will alert you on the early or potential damage that can quickly be corrected.
Your fence experts
Fences, mostly wooden ones are quite a handful during the winter period. Nevertheless, with proper care through the chilly weather, they remain standing without so much as a loose nail. Even with care and consideration, you will need a helping hand for most fencing needs.
If you are looking the fence supplies to strengthen and repair your fence for a fighting chance through the winter, look no further than Atlantic Fence Supply. For over 30 years now, they manufacture and supply fencing material in both retail and wholesale scales. No matter the size of the project and material preference, from aluminum, wood, and iron. We are here to help with any installation and material demands. Get in touch with us on 410-796-4747 for a free quotation on your fencing project. Or visit us at www.atlanticfencesupply.com for more information on what we do in fence supplies, repairs, and installation.