January 7th, 20163 Tips to Help Protect Your Fence From Windstorm Damage

While most fence damage occurs because of moisture or infestation, another common threat to your fence’s integrity is wind. This past November, Chilliwack experienced a windstorm so extreme that the Chilliwack Times called it a windstorm for the ages. Our city experienced nearly a dozen road closures, 75 trees blocking roads and the local fire department responded to 100 calls in 12 hours. Needless to say, private properties also suffered a lot of damage and the A&G Fencing crew has been busy with fence repairs!

You never know when a strong wind is going to pick up and destroy the fence that protects your property. While you can’t predict severe weather and windstorms, there are a handful of steps you can take to prepare your fence for the worst and help minimize damage.

Trim Trees Near the Fence

The most common fence damage that occurs from a windstorm is destruction caused by falling tree limbs and branches. A single weak branch can be ripped from the tree by a strong gust of wind and may easily crush your fence. One way to ensure the safety of your fence in a windstorm is to prevent falling tree limbs and branches by trimming them ahead of time. Make sure that your trees are sturdy and will not easily be uprooted or broken when the wind picks up.

Repair & Reinforce Loose Posts Or Sections

Stability is the most important precaution that you can take to save your fence from windstorm damage. A fence that has loose posts or sections does not stand a chance when high winds pick up. Worse yet, violent winds may blow unstable fence posts or sections into something else, like the neighbour's house - yikes! Take the time to check for these warning signs and repair them before the wind sweeps them away altogether.

If high winds are common in your area, you may want to consider reinforcing posts and rails with concrete, wood, or metal to prevent damage.

Secure Your Gates

Not only can your gate become damaged in a windstorm if it is not properly secured, but it may also damage your home and other surroundings. High winds could cause the gate to swing and slam against your fence or home, or rip the gate off its hinges entirely. Prevent this damage by ensuring that the gate is secured with a padlock or chain, or remove the gate during high winds.

The November 2015 windstorm in Chilliwack was so severe that damage for many homes and fences was unavoidable, but by taking the steps above, you can help minimize the destruction caused by future high winds and save on costly repairs too.