Winter can be a lovely and magical time of the year, but it does come with a few challenges. For homeowners, you will need to winter-proof your garden fence to ensure that it remains visually pleasing as well as functional. The harsh winter conditions can take their toll on your garden fence, so it is vital that you know what you should be doing at this time of the year to keep your fence in the best condition.
Inspect the Fence
First, you should inspect the fence – ideally, this will be before winter sets in. You should look for any signs of damage, such as rusted nails, sections with rot, and loose boards. You may need to replace a few fence panels, which can prevent further damage in winter and provide peace of mind knowing that your fence is strong and stable heading into winter.
Clear Debris
The garden face can face a lot of pressure during the winter months with wind, rain, snow, and ice. Overgrown plants and vines can put additional and unnecessary strain on the fence, so trimming back vegetation is smart and can lighten the load. Additionally, be sure to remove snow and ice from the fence as it builds up – just make sure that you use non-abrasive methods for ice to prevent damaging the fence.
Apply a Protective Coating
Following this, you should also apply a protective coating before the harsh weather sets in. You can use weather-resistant paints, stains, and sealants that can withstand rain, snow, and cold temperatures. This should ensure that the fence remains durable during the winter months while also retaining its aesthetic appeal.
Secure Loose Components
The garden fence can move around a lot during the winter months, particularly during storms! These movements can loosen nails and screws, which can compromise the structural integrity of the fence. Therefore, it is a good idea to secure loose components throughout winter and always after a storm. By ensuring that all parts are securely fastened, the fence will remain strong and sturdy, and you don’t have to worry about it blowing down!
These are the best ways to make sure that your garden fence is ready for the colder months of the year. The fence can take a beating during the winter months with wind, rain, snow, and ice. You need to make sure that you know how to maintain and look after your fence so that it will remain durable throughout winter while retaining its visual appeal.
