Choosing the Right Fencing Material for Harsh Winter Conditions
When it comes to fencing in cold climates, we face the challenge of frost, snow rain, and freezing temperatures that don’t let up in the Fall and Winter season. The elements can definitely take its toll on your fencing and we’ll explain how. Let’s break it down: when water in the soil freezes, it expands, exerting an upward force on buried objects like fence posts and deck footings. This can cause movement and instability. So, what can we do to combat this issue?
The most common recommendation is to ensure that your fence posts or footers are installed at a depth that extends below the frost line. To determine the frost line in your area, reach out to your local city permitting office for guidance. Digging deep enough is crucial, but even with proper depth, some frost heaving may still occur, especially with posts that are partially buried. The best solution is to incorporate concrete footers below the frost line. These footers should be wider at the base than at the top. By doing so, the expanding frost will actually help lock the footers in place instead of working them loose.
However, the challenges of winter don’t end once we’re above ground level. The cold weather can also impact the materials used in fencing, making them more susceptible to damage and deterioration.
Wood, for example, is particularly affected by winter due to changes in humidity. The drier air during winter can cause wood to shrink. Additionally, alternating periods of wet and dry weather can lead to cycles of expansion and contraction, which can loosen fasteners like nails and screws, and even cause boards and rails to come loose.
While materials like vinyl fencing don’t absorb water, they face their own set of challenges in colder climates. As temperatures drop, plastics enter a glassy state, becoming more brittle and prone to snapping upon sudden impacts. So, while PVC fencing may have its advantages, it may not be the ideal choice for cold climates.
Navigating the winter weather when it comes to fencing requires careful consideration. Choosing the right materials, ensuring proper installation techniques, and understanding the specific challenges of your climate are key to maintaining a sturdy and reliable fence throughout the year. Let’s dive into the best structures for the Northeastern United States.
Ultimate Fencing Material for Cold Climates
When it comes to fencing in cold weather, one material stands out for its structural resilience: metals. The molecular composition of metals makes them less susceptible to water absorption and the subsequent swelling and shrinking that can plague other materials. While metals aren’t impervious to water or immune to contraction, they don’t saturate in the same way that wood does. So, let’s explore a couple of fencing options that capitalize on the advantages of metals:
Wood fences with metal posts offer a sturdy solution. While the wooden pickets may still be prone to water absorption and related issues, relying on metal posts for support enhances the overall durability and longevity of these fences. With this combination, you can expect your wood fence with metal posts to withstand the challenges of several winters.
Steel fences, resembling the classic wrought iron style, are entirely constructed from steel. From the top rails to the pickets and posts, every component is built to withstand moisture without compromising structural integrity. Although water may collect in joints and fittings, it rarely leads to expansion or contraction problems. Steel fences often feature spaced pickets, allowing strong winds to pass through, making them an excellent choice for windy regions like coastal areas.
Aluminum fences offer similar advantages to their steel counterparts. Designed to emulate the “wrought iron” look, these fences are lighter and easier to install. However, there is a tradeoff in strength, as aluminum is more prone to denting and bending compared to steel. One critical consideration for winter is galvanic corrosion, which can occur in environments with high salt content, like areas near salted roads. In such cases, the reaction between steel fittings and the aluminum fence may lead to corrosion of the aluminum.
Structurally, these metal fences are built to withstand the challenges of winter weather. However, there are aesthetic considerations to keep in mind. While a wood fence with metal posts can endure the winter season, its initial charm may fade quickly. The repeated expansion and contraction during winter can force the wood fibers apart, creating vulnerable areas susceptible to mold and rot. On lower-quality metal fences, the protective coating may crack and flake off as the metal contracts and expands with temperature changes, leaving the bare metal exposed to rust.
Choosing a fencing material that can weather the winter elements requires careful consideration. By opting for metal-based options like wood fences with metal posts, steel fences, or aluminum fences, you’ll ensure structural integrity and longevity. Just be mindful of potential aesthetic challenges associated with wood deterioration or corrosion on lower-quality metal fences. With the right choice, your fence will not only withstand the cold but also maintain its visual appeal for years to come.