Summer temperatures are still with us, but now is a great time to begin preparing outdoor structures and fencing for fall and winter weather. Fences can be especially vulnerable to wind, rain, and rot caused by damp vegetation and debris collecting against them. And while wood fencing certainly needs more care, even vinyl and aluminum fences benefit from some attention before inclement weather is upon us.
Care is crucial
Fall care and prepping for winter weather is important to maintaining a sound fence and protecting your investment. No one wants to incur the cost of replacing a fence prematurely.
Your winter prep check list includes:
- Clean your fence by scrubbing it with a stiff bristle brush to remove dirt and debris. Avoid power washing a wood fence, as this can damage the wood on your fence. You should be able to remove most of the dirt with a brush and maybe a small amount of water.
- For vinyl and aluminum fences, power washing may be the easiest way to thoroughly clean your fence. Be sure to check for damage or loose parts before hitting with a power washer.
- Get a quality spray to address any excess growth of moss and lichen.
- Vinyl fences can be treated with an algae or moss prevention before winter to keep them free of growth and potential staining.
- Clear dead leaves and overgrowth of grass and plants from the base of the fence. This is especially important for wood fences to prevent rot.
- Preserve your wood fence by painting or staining with a quality product that includes waterproofing properties. Be sure your wood fence is completely dry before applying any paint or stain to avoid trapping moisture that can cause rot.
- If you have not treated your wood fence in the last year, two coats of waterproofing stain or paint is a must.
Always check your fence carefully before beginning cleaning and preservation and make any necessary repairs. Whether your fence is wood, vinyl or aluminum, inspect for loose parts, wobbly posts, and any other structural damage that could make the fence vulnerable to strong wind and heavy snow. Also check gates and latches to be sure all are in good working order.
For wood fences, check carefully for signs of rot and replace any boards or posts before they can compromise the whole structure.
Consider installing a new fence
Has your inspection turned up a lot of problems with your existing fence? A wood fence with a significant amount of rot is probably beyond repair, and any fence that has sustained a lot of damage due to age, use, weather or wind should be replaced to ensure security and aesthetics for your yard.
Now is a great time to consider replacing your fence, even with the cold weather coming. In fact, fall and winter fence installation has many benefits.
- Stretch your budget – You’ll save money because many fence builders and installers offer discounted rates to encourage customers to schedule these projects during their slower season, when it’s harder to keep their workers busy. That discount may allow you to stretch your budget and customize your fence.
- More time with the experts – Designers and experts at your local fencing company may have more time to spend helping you design a custom fence or choose accessories, as their schedules will also be more open.
- Less wait time – With more open schedules, you will find your fence project can be completed a lot more quickly in slow season. Local zoning offices also are less busy, so building permits and final inspections can be completed more quickly.
- Less impact on your landscaping – Most homeowners find that winter installation of a fence does a lot less damage to grass and perennials, as they are dormant during this time. Your fence installer will be able to complete the work while the ground is firm but not frozen and space is accessible with no vegetation to work around.
- You’ll be ready for spring – With your fence project completed before spring, you will be able to plant new shrubs and perennials early, ensuring they are well established when the weather gets hot.
If you are considering a new fence for your yard or you need guidance on repairs or replacement of an existing fence, contact Thomas Fence for more information about fall and winter scheduling. Click here for details about Thomas Fence’s full range of fence styles and materials.