Seasonal Fence Maintenance: Preparing Your Fence for Winter

Seasonal Fence Maintenance: Preparing Your Fence

for

Winter

Inspection Is Key

The first step in preparing your fence for winter is a thorough inspection. Walk along the perimeter and check for any signs of damage such as cracks, rot (in wood fences), rust (in metal fences), or general wear.

Clean and Treat

For wood fences, a good clean can make a significant difference.

Remove debris, dirt, and mildew with a pressure washer or a stiff brush and a mixture of water and mild detergent. Once dry, applying a protective sealant is crucial. This acts as a barrier against rain, snow, and frost, preventing rot and decay.

•

Vinyl and Metal Fences

Vinyl and metal fences require less upkeep but shouldn’t be neglected. Cleaning these materials can be as simple as rinsing with a hose to remove dirt. For metal fences, check for rust spots. Treat any rusted areas with a rust converter before applying a metal paint primer and repainting the affected spots. This will prevent further rusting during the wet winter

Address Vegetation and Debris

Overhanging branches can become heavy with snow and ice, posing a risk to your fence if they break. Trim any branches that overhang or touch your fence. Similarly, clear away any debris accumulated at the base of your fence. Organic materials like leaves hold moisture, which can be detrimental to the condition of your fence when trapped against it during the