Winter can be tough on fences, as snow and ice cause damage that must be fixed before spring.
The cold weather is here, and it is time to prepare your fence for the winter. Winter can be tough on fences, as snow and ice cause damage that must be fixed before spring. But you can also do some things to ensure your fence lasts through the season without further issues. Here are some tips on caring for your fence in the winter, so it stays in good condition all year long.
Clear Leaves Away from Your Fence
During winter, leaves can pile up around your fence due to the wind. If these leaf piles are left unattended for most of the winter, they could damage your fencing. The leaves trap moisture around your fence, which could cause wood posts to warp or cause rust damage to metal fences. Small rodents and animals love to make their home in piles of debris as well. Additionally, if snow begins to pile around your fence, be sure to sweep it away from the edge of your property. Large piles of snow can also cause water damage to your fence.
Replace Damaged Posts
If you notice that any of your fence boards or posts seem to be damaged, it is a good idea to replace them before winter comes. These pieces will deteriorate further and could potentially break if you do not take the time to repair them beforehand. By preparing your fence before the snow comes, your fence will still be strong and need minimal repairs once spring arrives.
Cut Back Tree Limbs
As snow builds up on the tree branches, the weight can cause the limbs to bend or break. If you have large or dead limbs hanging near or over your fence, they can become weighed down by ice and snow or blown around by the wind, which can damage your fence. Be sure to cut back those limbs before the first snowstorm.
Don’t Use Your Fence as Storage
It can be tempting to hang plants or store tools against your fence. But, keeping items on the fence during the winter allows snow and ice to accumulate on top. This is just as damaging as a bunch of leaves piled against the bottom of the fence. If possible, move those items away from the fence until the weather gets warmer again, and avoid hanging things on your fence to prevent damage.
Clean Your Fence After Winter
Once the weather warms and the snow melts, your fence may look a little worse for wear. Luckily, you can clean most fencing materials with a pressure washer or with a simple soap solution and a water rinse. By following good fence maintenance practices, your fencing will look great for many years to come.
Contact Hercules GSA Today!
Whether you need a commercial or a high-security fence, Hercules Fence GSA can do the job for you. We have been providing professional, quality service since 1955 and work to uphold our reputation every day. We have locations across the Maryland and Washington Metropolitan area and are ready to cater to your fencing needs. Give us a call at (410)-799-1555 or contact us online. You can also follow us on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, and Pinterest for more updates.
