With winter fully here and storms hitting one after another, you might be wondering what you can do to keep your timber fencing in top shape over the next couple of months. That way, when spring arrives, you can get back out into the garden with minimal maintenance and enjoy the warmer weather. And while you can’t control the chilly weather, the good news is that there are a few things you can do to keep your fence clear of damage.
Keep on top of debris removal
One of the simplest ways to protect your fence in winter is to keep your fence and the surrounding areas clear from debris like leaves, twigs, snow, and ice. Clearing up falling leaves and other organic debris might not sound like that big of a deal at first, but they will deteriorate as the weeks pass. As they break down, they can trap moisture, which can lead to wood rot, weakening your fence panels.
It can also speed up corrosion, causing rust on metal frames or posts – and sooner or later, they’ll need replacing. After windy spells, storms or heavy snow, take a moment to remove any debris that may have accumulated on your fence. This small task can go a long way in maintaining your fence’s structural integrity.
Make sure you trim back any overhanging branches
Gale-force winds, snow, and ice can all be tough on your fence, but when you’ve got trees nearby, things can get a little trickier. Plus, heavy overhanging branches can snap in harsh weather and fall onto your fence, potentially causing serious damage. So, to avoid this, it’s a good idea to trim back any branches or trees close to your fence before the weather gets too cold. By taking care of the branches early, you can prevent them from snapping, which could damage your fence – or worse lead to costly repairs if it breaks entirely. Plus, you can even make use of these branches around the garden by feeding them through a woodchipper and using them as mulch to protect your flower beds!
Inspect your timber fencing regularly
At the end of every summer, or even in early autumn, it’s always good to spend a little bit of time inspecting your fence to see if it’s sustained any damage that could potentially worsen as the weather turns, but the work doesn’t stop there. Periodically, over winter, it’s always wise to give your fence a once-over, especially after a storm, just to check that everything looks as it should. Keep an eye out for leaning sections, cracks, wood, rot, or any areas where the ground may have shifted. If you happen to spot any damage, you can address it almost immediately. This way, you may end up only having to replace a fence board rather than an entire panel, for example.
Be mindful when clearing snow
When you’re clearing snow around your property, it’s easy to forget how even a small scrape can affect timber fencing. If you use heavy shovels or other sharp tools too close to the fence, you risk scratching or nicking the surface. These little damages might seem insignificant, but they can allow water to get in, which could weaken the structural integrity of your panels. Plus, it can strip away your fence’s protective finish or even the paint, leaving it looking tarnished and more vulnerable. If you do need to use a shovel, just be mindful of where your fence is and try to avoid getting too close. Bristle brushes are great for gently removing the snow from the surface of your fence.
Protecting your fence this winter is just the start – our team will help you find all the timber fencing solutions you need to keep it looking great year-round! At Sherman & Young Timber, we’ve been serving the North West for over 50 years, so whether you’re working on a large garden project or just need some advice, feel free to get in touch with our friendly, professional team today. Just give us a call on 01942 727 314 – we’re always happy to help!
