Canadian winters aren’t exactly known for being mild and particularly kind to wooden or even chain link fences. In reality, the introduction of freezing temperatures on top of the moisture can damage fences from the inside out. Knowing how to care for your fence can keep it intact and protect your investment from unnecessary damage. Fencing is a necessary expense for many commercial properties and caring for it the right way can help increase your ROI.
Use a Waterproof Sealant One the simplest and most effective things you can do to protect your fence during the harsh winter months is to use a sealant or stain that acts as a waterproof barrier. Fences don’t all come standard with this treatment, and many business owners don’t know to reapply it or to ask their fencing contractors about the best products for their fencing materials. Our team at Urban Fence can answer your questions and help you choose the best stain or sealant for your particular area. We know what winters are like in the Peel and Halton regions, and can help you protect your fencing from all sorts of harsh weather. Inspect Your Fence for Damage Frequently The winter weather means freezing and expanding water within the fibers of wooden planks. This can lead to moisture that gets past the sealant and that can cause mildew or rot. Winter storms can also mean strong winds, fallen branches, ice, and pressure from snow buildup. All of this can cause immediate damage to your fence. It’s important to see that your property management team and landscape maintenance crews go out and check the integrity of your fence after each major incident of winter weather. Hiring a regular maintenance crew can help. Make a habit of having someone walk your fence line frequently throughout the colder months and fix any damage as quickly as possible. It’s also a good idea to call in fencing professionals to help navigate obvious damage and prepare your fence for winter weather. Keep an Eye on the Area Around Fence Posts When soil and dust piles on top of concrete footings that secures your fence, it can lead to the introduction of moisture into the underlying materials. This means that pockets of water can infiltrate concrete and other materials, causing it to crack when it freezes. One damaged footing can pull an entire section of your fence off kilter and out of line. If this happens, it can be difficult and messy to try and repair during the winter, making it even more inconvenient for business owners. No one wants their company represented or projected by poor landscaping. The longer the situation goes without repair, the worse the damage can be to the rest of the fence. This is just bad news all around! Consider covering or reinforcing the area around the footings as soon as the weather takes a turn towards cold temperatures. Be Proactive If there are overhanging branches that pose a risk to your fence, trim them back. Be especially watchful of areas around the parking lot and walkways where your visitors, employees, customers, vendors and business associates will come and go. If there are areas where snow piles up against the fence, consider reinforcing the area at the beginning of the season using planks or removable bolsters. Looking for and finding weak spots before the damage is done can save you some serious trouble come spring and summer! If you have any questions about protecting your commercial fence in the Brampton, Mississauga, Oakville, Vaughan, or Richmond Hill areas, reach out to the professionals at Urban Fence. Call us today at 905-965-6767 or use our online contact form to set up an appointment.