Winter can be hard on mesh fences, but a little effort can protect them from damage. These practical tips will help your fence stand up to snow, ice, and freezing temperatures.
1. Clear Snow and Ice Gently
Snow and ice can weigh down your fence and cause it to bend or break over time. It’s important to remove them, but do it carefully:
Snow
Use a soft broom or brush to sweep snow off your fence. Avoid using shovels or metal tools, as they can tear the mesh or scratch protective coatings.
Ice
If ice forms on your fence, don’t try to break it off by hitting it. This can bend wires or even snap sections of the fence. Instead, wait for the sun to melt it naturally, or pour warm (not boiling) water over it to help it thaw.
Clearing your fence regularly will prevent damage and keep it in good shape.
2. Watch for Rust and Damage
Winter moisture can cause rust to form on metal fences, and small damages can worsen if ignored. Regularly inspect your fence for following problems.
Rust
Look for orange or brown spots on the metal. Use a wire brush to scrub off rust as soon as you see it. Once the area is clean, apply a rust-resistant spray or paint to stop the rust from spreading.
Other Damage
Check for bent wires, sagging sections, or loose posts. Even small issues can get worse under the weight of snow and ice. Fixing them early can save you time and money.
Routine checks after snowstorms or icy weather can make a big difference.
3. Protect the Fence with a Coating
Adding a protective coating before winter can shield your fence from the elements.
Metal Fences
Use a weatherproof spray or rust-resistant paint to create a barrier that keeps out moisture. This prevents rust and extends the life of your fence.
Vinyl-Coated Mesh
Inspect the vinyl for cracks or peeling. Repair any damage to ensure the metal underneath stays safe from snow and ice.
A protective layer acts like a winter jacket for your fence, keeping it strong and durable.
4. Trim Nearby Trees and Bushes
Trees and bushes near your fence can become a problem in winter. Heavy snow or ice on branches can cause them to break and fall onto the fence, leading to serious damage.
Before Winter
Trim any branches that hang over your fence and cut back bushes growing close to the mesh.
This can save your fence from unnecessary strain or damage.
5. Keep the Area Around the Fence Clear
Snow and debris that pile up at the base of your fence can create hidden problems. When snow freezes, it puts extra pressure on the fence. Over time, this can cause the mesh to sag or the posts to shift.
Here’s What To Do
- After a snowfall, shovel snow away from the bottom of the fence.
- Remove leaves, dirt, and other debris that may trap moisture and lead to rust.
Keeping the area around your fence clear will help it stay dry and sturdy throughout the winter.
6. Fix Problems Early
Don’t wait for small problems to become big ones. Winter weather can make damage worse if it’s not repaired quickly. Here’s how to handle common issues.
Leaning Posts
Straighten leaning posts by pushing them back into place. Pack soil or gravel around the base to secure them.
Sagging Mesh
Tighten the mesh to prevent further sagging. If a section is torn, patch it before the damage spreads. Snow proof mesh fences in Finland and in Estonia are available for example, from Abpolar.ee.
Broken Fence Sections
If you notice a part of the fence that looks weak, address it before snow or ice puts more pressure on it.
Taking care of issues as soon as you see them will save you from more expensive repairs later.
7. Know When to Call a Professional
Some problems, like broken posts or large sections of damaged mesh, require professional help. If your fence is severely damaged or unstable, it’s better to call a fencing expert. They have the tools and knowledge to fix your fence properly.
A professional repair can ensure your fence stays strong for the rest of the winter and beyond.
Taking care of your mesh fence during winter is all about staying ahead of the weather. Clear snow and ice regularly, inspect your fence for rust and damage, and protect it with coatings or repairs.
