Winter fence maintenance can often go on the back burner due to the excitement of the holiday season, and the cold temperatures of the winter months. While it may be inconvenient to maintain your fence during the winter, it is necessary to preserve the lifespan and appearance of your fence.
Inspecting Your Fence
The first step in winter fence maintenance is to check for existing damage and wear and tear. Look for any weak points and vulnerable areas to see what work needs to be done. Even the smallest damages should be addressed before winter sets in to make the maintenance process easier.
Cleaning and Preparing the Fence
Once you have identified any damage on the fence, you can start cleaning it. Clearing debris and leaves around the fence is one of the best ways to maintain the quality of your fence to avoid anything settling into the fence. Another major part of fence maintenance is applying sealant or protective coatings to enhance durability.
Proper cleaning techniques may vary depending on different fence materials, such as wood, metal, or vinyl. It is important to know which technique is best for your fence to avoid any potential damage. Understanding what types of sealings and protective coatings work best with your fencing material will also enhance the durability of your fence.
Here are some tips for preparing wooden, metal, and vinyl fences for the winter season:
Protecting Wooden Fences
- Clean the wooden fence thoroughly to remove dirt and debris.
- Apply weatherproofing treatments to prevent moisture damage and penetration.
- Inspect and repair loose boards or panels.
- Repair any cracks or damaged areas using wood filler. Sand the surface to remove rough spots and enhance adhesion.
- Stain or paint the fence for added protection against winter elements. Apply a second coat for added durability.
- Clear snow and debris promptly after snowstorms to prevent accumulation.
- Regularly inspect and touch up any worn areas to maintain protection.
Maintaining Metal Fences
- Clean the metal fence to remove dirt and rust.
- Apply a rust-resistant primer to prevent corrosion.
- Inspect for any signs of rust or damage regularly.
- Avoid using metal tools that can scratch or damage the surface of the fence.
- Lubricate hinges and latches to prevent freezing.
- Inspect and tighten bolts and screws to maintain structural integrity.
- Remove snow and ice from the fence to avoid added weight on the fence.
Caring for Vinyl Fences
- Clean the vinyl fence with soap and water to remove dirt and stains and to maintain its appearance.
- Inspect for cracks, damage, or warping, and repair any findings.
- Apply a vinyl protectant or UV-resistant spray to prevent fading and damage from sun exposure.
- Remove snow and ice gently using a plastic shovel to avoid scratches.
- Avoid leaning heaving objects against the fences to prevent warping.
- Secure any loose parts and fasteners to maintain stability.
- Regularly check for mold and mildew, cleaning with mildew remover, if necessary.
Dealing with Snow and Ice
Handling snow and ice can be a cold and grueling task, but it pays off when it means you are maintaining your fence. Removing snow and ice from the fence prevents damage and long term wear and tear from the weight of the snow. There are some ice melt products that are compatible with certain fence types that can effectively remove ice without harming the fence material, as well.
Landscaping Tips for Winter Fence Maintenance
To avoid damaging your fence, there are some landscaping tips that can help. The proper placement of plants, shrubs, and trees is important so they do not interfere with the structure of the fencing or scratch the material. Pruning tree branches that could fall on the fence during winter storms is another way to prevent damages.
Snow can easily accumulate on fences if snow that has been plowed from the road lands on the fence. Creating a barrier between the fence and snow plows can help you avoid a heavy load on the fence that could potentially cause the fence to warp, depending on the material.
Regular Maintenance Throughout Winter
Beyond all the tips we have mentioned so far, regular maintenance is the best way to care for your fence during the winter. Quick checks after severe weather events and setting up a maintenance schedule for every few weeks can help keep you accountable to preserving the life of your fence.
Contact Bronco Fence
If you find that any issues arise during the winter, report those promptly to your fence provider. At Bronco Fence, we can help with any repairs that may be necessary after a gnarly winter. We can also replace any fences that don’t make it through the winter. Contact us if you have any concerns with your fence and we will happily provide you with the highest quality service.