Although the snow may seem harmless at first, the weight of snow and an accumulation of ice can cause your fence to bend and crack over time.
As we experience a handful of unseasonably warm days this month, we may still experience inclement weather in the last few weeks of winter. With this, it is especially important to protect your fence at the end of the month, as freezing temperatures and moisture in the air can pose serious risks to your fence and landscaping as winter comes to a close. Don’t start the year off with a damaged fence! Instead, consider these five easy tips so that you can comfortably enjoy your yard in the warmer days of spring.
Keep the Weight of the Snow Off
If you are shoveling or using a snowplow to clear your driveway, be sure to redirect snow piles away from your fence. Although the snow may seem harmless at first, the weight of snow and an accumulation of ice can cause your fence to bend and crack over time.
Dust Off the Ice
The best way to keep your fence clear of any unwanted snow or ice is to proactively brush it off to the best of your ability as it snows. Whether you’re out clearing your driveway or building a snowman, consider using a broom to get rid of ice and snow on your fence to reduce the risk of buildup on the wood.
Pay Attention to Shifting Soil
Changes in temperature can affect your fence by shifting soil and displacing it throughout the season. If you notice that winter weather has taken its toll on the ground holding your fence, be sure to contact the professionals for repairs as necessary.
Trim Branches Around Your Fence
In any season, particularly in the winter, it is always smart to trim the branches surrounding your fence. Doing so will ensure that no damage is caused by breaking limbs that have become heavy with ice and snow during a winter storm.
Check for Damage
Just as you would check your home, be sure to check your fence for damage following winter weather in order to monitor any cracks or holes caused by changing temperatures and moisture. As the weather starts warming up in the spring, you will have a better idea of what repairs need to be made and other preventative measures to take throughout the year such as adding a protective stain to your wooden fence.
Ready for Higher Quality Fences?
Mid-Atlantic Deck & Fence has almost 30 years of experience in building beautiful custom fences, gazebos, screened-in porches, and decks throughout the state of Maryland. We have the expertise to design your dream fence or custom deck and have it installed in a headache-free process. Give us a call at 1-800-833-9310 or visit us online for a quote today! We offer many different styles of fencing and decking in addition to custom options designed specifically to suit your preferences and tastes. To see examples of our work and get more tips on how to choose the right decking for your family, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, Houzz, Pinterest, Google+, YouTube, and LinkedIn.
Tags: fence maintenance, fence protection, fence winterizing