Ensure your fence is in top condition before winter rolls into the Northeast. For both residential and commercial properties, preparing your fence for harsh, cold conditions will prevent costly repairs and prolong its lifespan — saving you more in the long run!
Spending a little time on maintenance before the season hits can save you lots of time, money, and headaches once snow starts to fall. Whether it’s a residential or commercial property, proper fence care is key to preserving its durability, safety, and appearance year-round.
Here are seven steps to keeping your fence in terrific shape all through the seasons:
1. Inspect Early for Damage
Before winter arrives in Northeastern Pennsylvania and our surrounding areas, inspect your fence for any existing damage. Small issues can turn into major problems so addressing concerns before the snow and ice take their toll can prevent problems that will be more difficult to fix during the winter.
Check for:
- Sagging sections
- Leaning or unstable posts
- Working gates and hinges
- Cracked or warped panels
- Missing screws and other hardware
- Rust on metal components
2. Clean and Prep Fence for Winter
Dirt, mold, and mildew can accumulate on fences, especially during the fall when leaves and debris lay against them for too long. Especially for wooden and vinyl fences, cleaning is important before winter:
- Split Rail Fence: Clean with a mixture of water and mild soap. You can also use a pressure washer on a low setting to remove any buildup. Be cautious not to use too much pressure to keep the finish looking sharp!
- Vinyl Fence: Use a mixture of water and vinegar or a specialized vinyl cleaner to maintain its appearance and prevent mildew growth before the cold and wet season.
3. Grease Up Those Gates!
Cold temperatures can cause metal components to seize or corrode. Lubricate hinges, latches, and locks with a weather-resistant lubricant such as WD-40. Always a smart thing to have on hand! This simple, easy maintenance habit will keep gates functioning smoothly and properly all winter.
4. Keep Nature Under Control
If there are shrubs, vines, or trees growing near your fence, trim them back before the snow and ice. Vegetation can trap moisture against the fence, leading to rot or rust.
Not to mention, this simple task will be far more difficult if you and the shrubbery are buried in snow – so take care of overgrown landscaping sooner than later!
5. Maintain Metal Fencing and Hardware
Be sure your fence stays strong all winter long! For ornamental and chain link fences, rust is the biggest threat during the winter. Keep an eye out and take measures early.
To prep and maintain:
- Apply a rust-preventative coating to areas prone to corrosion.
- Check for signs of rust and treat them with rust remover or sandpaper
- Replace hardware if they’re too far gone to be maintained.
6. Clear Snow, Sleet, and Ice Regularly
It’s not just the driveway that needs plowing! After snow storms and heavy precipitation, remove snow and ice from the base of your fence as well.
Too much extra weight, like heavy snow, can reduce the life of your fence so…maybe avoid piling shovelfuls of snow against your fence moving forward!
7. Check Em’ Out All Through Winter
Winter weather is notoriously unpredictable, especially around us in Northeastern Pennsylvania! After storms or periods of freezing and thawing, be sure to take a lil’ peek at your fence for any signs of damage.
Remember, unsound fences can cause a major safety hazard, so residential and commercial property owners should inspect and address any issues immediately to prevent more serious problems from arising.
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See any problems with your fence or its hardware? Give Dennison Supply a call at 570-763-8679 or click here to request a quote. We’ll help diagnose the problem and make sure you have all the right tools and products to resolve it too!
