Winter weather can be particularly risky for wood fences. Fortunately, there are some steps you can take to protect your fence and make sure it stays in good condition throughout the long winter season. Follow these steps to keep your wood fence safe from cold weather:

Keep Your Trees Trimmed

One major risk to wood fences in the wintertime is damage caused by tree limbs that collapse under the weight of the snow. You can prevent this from happening before winter even begins by having any trees that hang over the fence trimmed. How often your trees need to be trimmed depends on the type and how quickly they grow, but monitor them and make sure they are trimmed back before the first snowfall. It is also a good idea to trim trees that overhang your house for the same reason.

Maintain the Stain and Seal

It is essential for any wood fence to have a weatherproofing stain or seal to prevent water damage. This is especially important during winter, when your fence may be exposed to snow and ice for long periods of time. Melting snow and ice can cause extensive damage to your fence, including mold and decay. Staining and sealing must be done regularly on wood fences. Generally, staining and sealing should happen every two to three years, but you can test your fence by spraying it with water. If the water doesn’t bead up, then your fence needs to be treated. Test your fence before every winter season to make sure it has the proper protections.

Have Repairs Made Promptly

Any parts of your wood fence that are damaged will leave the rest of the fence more vulnerable than before. If you need new panels or any other replacements, have them done promptly to prevent further issues. Have fence repairs performed by a professional to ensure that they are done correctly.

Whether you need wood fence repairs in Chicagoland or are interested in new fence installation, Paramount Fence has the services you need. Schedule an appointment for a free estimate today by calling 630-239-2714.