5 Ways to Prepare Your Fence for Winter

Cold weather is on its way, meaning your fence will be left out in the cold for several months to bear the elements. This doesn’t mean you should leave it neglected, however. Maintaining your outdoor living space, including your fence, will save you a hassle come spring.

Here is what you should do:

  1. Remove dirt, leaves, and other debris around and between fence posts. This allows air to flow through, minimizing the growth of mold and mildew that come from damp wood. Even if you have special coating treatment applied to your fence, moisture and debris can still cause harm.
  2. Clean the fence with a garden sprayer with a solution of three parts water and one part oxygen bleach. This will kill any existing mold and mildew. Do not spray excessively even though the mixture is diluted. Rinse with water once mold and mildew have vanished.
  3. Use an oil-based stain before winter comes to protect the fence from water damage.
  4. Trim branches that hang low over the fence before winter starts. Buildup of snow and ice could cause branches to break and fall, damaging the fence.
  5. The frosting and thawing that occurs in the winter can sometimes cause soil to shift, meaning fence posts can shift as well. Keep an eye on this, especially once winter is over. Use a thread to ensure posts are still level.

If you need more tips on winter fence preparation, or find that your fence has been damaged due to winter elements, contact Straight Line Fence.

 

Courtesy of Long Fence