New Englanders and others who live in colder climates understand the unique challenges that home and commercial landscaping, including fences, face during the winter months. From sunless days to powerful wind gusts, freezing rains and Nor’easters that can yield feet of snow, our homes, shrubs and fences endure harsh weather conditions during the winter. While inclement storms occur, most winter weather is simply cold and dry conditions, which means winter fencing is possible and offers unique opportunities. To help understand the pros and cons of winter fencing, the following guide offers some common questions and answers, including tips to support the lifespan of fences that may experience harsh seasonal weather conditions.
What fencing may be best suited for withstanding New England winters?
Fortunately, there are multiple types of fences that are proven to withstand New England winters. For example, vinyl fences resist moisture absorption as well as cracking and splitting due to freezing temperatures. Similarly, aluminum fencing can endure the weight of snow and withstand water exposure, especially if the metal is treated. Conversely, protective coatings on wooden picket fences help prevent deterioration due to moisture and offer tremendous aesthetic appeal when wrapped with holiday lights.
What are some winter fencing dangers?
During winter months, fencing throughout New England may face multiple dangers. As NBCBoston highlights, the recent warmer winters may seem helpful in avoiding fencing concerns. However, warmer weather may actually result in greater storm and flood potential, which creates more deterioration issues. Consequently, strong winds may contribute to fence post instability with loose or deteriorating fences, if not simply knock-over fences. Similarly, falling branches or heavy snow can put pressure on fence rails, which may result in sagging or breakage. Additionally, any overly ambitious snow plowing or clearing, not to mention any flooding, may also lead to fence damage during winter. Finally, moisture from the many potential winter sources can cause rot and corrosion as well as freezing and thawing weight and stability concerns, which are all potentially problematic.
How can I prepare my fencing for the colder months?
Despite all of the potential hazards associated with winters in New England and in other colder states, winter fencing preparations help prevent the worst-case scenarios from happening with your fence. Consider these 3 winter fencing preparation tips:
- Give your fence some special treatment! Add a fresh coat of waterproof stain or sealant to your fence. Clear fallen leaves and branches away from it and trim nearby trees as needed. Also, as part of your winter fencing and lawn care efforts, establish a snow removal plan.
- Inspect and repair your fence. Is one of your fence posts already wobbling? Have you noticed a broken part of your fence or other deterioration? The impending winter will most likely make any existing issue even worse! Therefore, make sure you identify any fencing problems that may be present and plan to fix them yourself or enlist the help of the fence repair company near you.
- Clean your fence. While it may seem strange to clean fences before the winter mud and muck arrives, this step actually helps preserve your fencing in winter. Seasonal moisture concerns may only further support mold or mildew development and make caked-on dirt or debris even more challenging to remove. Cleaning is also a necessity prior to applying any protective coatings to fencing.
Can I install fencing in winter months?
Whether you are planning a DIY fence project or taking advantage of the greater scheduling availability that often comes with off-season home improvement projects, you can install a fence in the winter, even in New England! However, the timing and conditions of this anticipated service are essential, and dates for fencing work may require flexibility.
What are some common tips for winter fencing, lawn and landscaping care?
Fences, lawns and gardens all benefit from seasonal maintenance. These two important winter care tips pertain both to any fencing installations and to the landscaping on your property.
- Plant management can benefit your fence and vice versa. For example, shrubs and fences can provide each other with some support and protection against the elements.
- For the safety of both fencing and lawns, flowers and other landscape features, choose snow and ice removal products carefully. Even if you aren’t using them directly on a lawn or a plant isn’t in bloom, these products can hinder future growth and soil quality while also contributing to fencing corrosion or deterioration.
No matter what combination of the cold and the wet, the ice and the wind may arrive, Orange Fence can help you prepare your existing fence for the winter or help you choose a fence installation with these winter fencing considerations in mind. Serving many Connecticut communities, we understand the kind of winter weather that local residents face, as well as how these conditions have changed over the course of our more than 90 years in the fencing industry. Consequently, Orange Fence has both the skills and the expertise to provide you with the residential and commercial fencing services that you need throughout all of the seasons. Contact us for a free estimate on your winter fencing repair project or call us at (203) 795-1321 today to discuss any other fencing service!
