As winter approaches in Northern Virginia, it’s critical to prepare your fence for the challenges that colder temperatures can bring. Properly winterizing your fence ensures it remains strong and visually appealing throughout wintertime. This article explores the primary maintenance tips to help you protect your investment.
Give Your Fence a Deep Cleaning
Before the winter weather sets in, thoroughly clean your fence. This means removing grime, dirt, and debris using a pressure washer or a scrub brush and soapy water. Besides improving its appearance, winterizing your fence prevents the buildup of damaging substances such as mold and mildew.
Inspect & Repair Damaged Areas
Make sure to walk along your fence line and check it for any signs of damage. Also, search for loose or missing boards, nails, or screws. Additionally, pay special attention to areas where the fence may have worsened over time. Most importantly, repair any damage immediately to prevent it from worsening during winter storms.
Solution: Consider applying a protective sealant or wood preservative to your wooden fence. The sealant will help shield the wood from moisture and freezing and thawing cycles that may lead to cracking and warping. So, be sure to select a product suitable for your fence’s material and follow the manufacturer’s instructions.
Trim Any Overhanging Branches
If you have shrubs or trees near your fence, trim any overhanging branches before wintertime. This is because heavy snow and ice might cause these branches to collapse and damage your fence. Also, consider keeping vegetation away from your fence to improve airflow, minimizing the risk of moisture buildup.
Snow Removal Matters
Once winter arrives in Northern Virginia, it’s vital to keep your fence clear of snow and ice. Unfortunately, snow buildup can trigger significant pressure on your fence, leading to collapse or damage. So, use a snow shovel or blower to eliminate snow from your fence, especially after heavy snowfalls. Bonus tip for winterizing your fence: Wrap burlap or another breathable material around it to protect it from harsh winds and snowdrifts. This might help minimize the direct impact of severe weather on your fence.
Choose Hercules Fence Northern Virginia for All of Your Fencing Needs!
Hercules Fence Northern Virginia has countless fencing options for your home and commercial property. Whether you are excited about a beautiful vinyl chain link fence or already planning out your custom wood commercial fence, we are ready to help you frame and secure your property. Hercules Fence Northern Virginia has been providing homeowners with quality fences for over 50 years. We are well-equipped to meet your needs, whether they are residential or commercial. Contact us to see how a beautiful wood fence can protect your property by giving us a call at 703-551-2609 or visiting us online. To see examples of our work, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, Pinterest, and Flickr