Careful winter fence maintenance can help prevent severe fence damages from cold weather.
As we move into November, winter weather is already appearing on the horizon. With the potential for snowfall and ice comes the equal potential for damage to our homes and property, including residential fences. The weight and changing consistency of melting and freezing snow and ice can damage all kinds of materials from wood to aluminum to vinyl. However, there are some steps you can take to reduce these damaging effects. Read on for Hercules Fence’s guide to your essential winter fence maintenance.
Cut Back Any Overhanging Tree Limbs
If your fence has tree limbs hanging above it, trim them back before the snow and ice arrive. The limbs can bring a higher volume of water to the fence, and the limbs themselves can grow heavy when covered in snow. If the tree limbs get too heavy, they can break off and, if the branch is large enough, can break or otherwise damage your fence. Trimming your trees back as preemptive winter fence maintenance removes this possibility of damage.
Remove Fallen Leaves From Around the Fence
When raking away fall leaves, you may be tempted to leave them up against the fence. However, if these piles are not removed before winter weather arrives, they can cause serious damage. The leaves can help lock in moisture around the fence, which in turn can warp or rust your fence. Additionally, animals and insects could form a home inside the leaves and become a problem for your lawn.
Shovel Out Snow Drifts
If a pile of snow forms around your fence, shovel it away from the edge of your property. You do not need to remove the snow entirely, as it will melt on its own, but you need to remove it from the side of your fence. The fence needs time to dry, and it cannot do so if the snow is melting around it.
Avoid Attaching Items to Your Fence
Homeowners with privacy fences sometimes use their fence wall as a storage space for ladders, sleds, pool toys, and more. However, if these items are left on the fence wall during cold weather, snow and ice will collect on top of them. These items, too, can increase the moisture of the fence and warp or damage the fencing materials. If possible, move any items attached to your fence to a garage or shed until the weather warms up.
Complete Winter Fence Maintenance Tasks As Soon As Possible
Any small fence damages can turn into more significant problems when effected by winter temperatures. If your fence has weak posts, it may not be strong enough to handle the expansion and contraction that occurs with melting snow. Inspect your fence and make any necessary repairs as soon as possible, before your fence experiences too much weather.
Clean Your Fence at the End of Winter
Once the snow finally melts away, your fence materials may look dull or dirty. Most fencing can be cleaned with a soap solution and water, but if you want to get your fence stained, you may be able to bundle in a fence cleaning. Throughout the year, staying up-to-date with fence maintenance is key to avoiding damaged fences and endless repair costs.
Residential Fences for Your Home from Hercules Fence DC
Hercules Fence DC has been providing homeowners with quality fences for over 50 years. We are well equipped to meet your needs, whether they are residential or commercial. We have extensive experience working with families and pet owners to keep the most important members of their home safe, so call us today about installing a new pet fence for your family. Contact us by giving us a call at 301-441-1600 or visiting us online. To see examples of our work, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, Pinterest, and Flickr.
