Maintaining the appearance of your fence during the winter can be a challenge, as ice and snow wear at the paint and cause rotting or warping. However, with a few simple precautions, you can easily prevent the need for repair come spring. Follow these steps this season to ensure your structure is sufficiently protected.

How to Maintain a Fence During Winter

1. Trim Nearby Branches

Ice accumulation can weigh tree branches down until they break. While this is troublesome enough, the impact of a falling limb could damage your fence and require a full replacement. Ensure your structure remains intact by trimming back the branches at the start of the season. This way, if any happen to fall, they’ll land safely on the ground and leave your fence in pristine condition.

2. Brush Off Snow

After coming in contact with water, the paint on your fence will bubble and peel. Similarly, if your structure is made of wood, the moisture will lead to rotting over time. Use a soft broom to brush the snow from each of the posts to maintain their appearance and stability.

3. Clear Around the Base

Fencing materials become susceptible to rust and rot when snow piles up around their bases. Gently clearing away this accumulation will preserve their integrity by exposing the surface to the sun and allowing the excess moisture to evaporate.

4. Properly Store Equipment

Fences provide a convenient space to keep shovels, brooms, and other outdoor equipment. However, allowing these items to lean up against the material could gradually wear away at the surface. Rather than risking exposure to moisture, keep outdoor equipment in a shed or garage until it’s needed.

5. Clean the Entire Fence

Airborne particles tend to collect along the surface of fences, wearing on the paint or wood and producing a slight discoloration. Wiping down the entire surface with a gentle solution of soap and water at the end of the season will instantly spruce up its appearance for the spring.

Ensure your fence is ready for the winter by contacting M2 Industrial, Inc. of Ellensburg, WA. This locally owned and operated company has been supplying quality fencing materials since 1992. Whether you need fencing repair or a new structure for the spring, they can help. Call (509) 925-6303 to request a free estimate or visit their website for additional information about their services.