Winter Fence Maintenance Tips for Michigan Homeowners

• Posted by Thomas Kholer Wed at 10:09 AM - Filed in Family & Home - #fence contractor  - 26 views

  Winter in Michigan is no friend to fences. Between the snow, ice, wind, and the occasional deer sprinting through the yard like it’s training for a local marathon, fences can take a beating. Top fence contractors know that proactive winter maintenance is far less of a hassle than fixing a fence that’s decided to fall over in February. So let’s get into some practical things you can do right now to keep your fence standing strong until spring arrives.

  • Clear the Base Area

  To keep your fence in solid shape through the freeze, you’ll need to give it a little attention before things get buried in snow. Start by clearing away any leaves, branches, or garden clutter near the base of your fence. Organic debris traps moisture and encourages mold or rot. That gunky buildup may not seem threatening in October, but by February, your fence posts might have different opinions.

  • Seal and Protect Wood Fences

  Wood fences need special care. Sealant is your best friend here. If it’s been more than two years since your last coat, now’s a good time to reapply. Snow and rain soak into untreated wood and create cracks once the water freezes. If your wood fence has peeling paint or gray patches, it’s asking for help. Clean it, dry it thoroughly, and seal it up before winter digs in.

  • Watch for Damage in Vinyl and Metal

  Any reputed fence contractor will tell you that vinyl and metal fences are lower maintenance, but not invincible. With vinyl, check for brittleness or small cracks. Cold temperatures make plastic less forgiving. A stiff breeze could snap a weak section, especially with the extra weight of ice or snow. Metal fences, meanwhile, need a rust check. Touch up chipped paint and keep an eye on joints where moisture hides. A little anti-rust spray now saves you from a full-on replacement later.

  • Avoid Snow Pile Pressure

  Keep snow away from the base of your fence whenever you shovel. Piling snow against it might seem harmless, but all that wet weight puts pressure on the structure. It also melts and refreezes, which causes frost heave and messes with your fence’s alignment. If you’re using a snow blower, aim it away from your fence to avoid accidental damage.

  • Secure Posts Before the Ground Freezes

  Check fence posts before the ground freezes. Wobbly posts don’t magically fix themselves. If you find a post leaning or shifting, secure it now while the soil is still workable. Once the frost sets in, repairs get more difficult and more expensive.

  • Inspect Gates and Hardware

  Inspect gates and latches because they are the first to suffer in freezing conditions. Ice buildup can prevent gates from closing properly or warp the hinges altogether. Lubricate moving parts and tighten any loose screws or bolts. A gate that works well in December has a much better chance of surviving until spring. However, it is always recommended to call a professional fence contractor.

  Conclusion

  Don’t wait for a winter disaster to turn your backyard into a construction zone. If things are looking questionable or you’d rather not mess with it, call a reputed fence contractor. The right fencing team can keep your fence upright and stress-free.