Utah snowstorms are here, and we have already seen a number of homeowners dealing with broken fences from last weeks heavy storm. Considering this is the start of snow season, we expect additional issues to occur. Often the broken fences occur because they were not installed correctly, or the fences are old and in need of replacement. The way the post is placed into the ground does make a difference in how well the fence sustains the heavy snow and tree branches that can fall on them.
Cold Weather and Fencing
The cold weather does wreck havoc on fences because the water expands when it freezes, causing the water in soil to thrust upward onto the fence post. If you do not have the proper post and cement setting in place, the fence post can push out. The footers and posts need to go at least several feet below the frost line in order to ensure the fence is secured. Each city does have different building requirements, so it is important to understand what your city permit office says before you try to fix the fence and dig in the posts deeper.
The best way to ensure the fence is secure is to have concrete footers below the frost line. The expanding frost helps to lock the footers in place, making the overall fence more stable.
Wood fences tend to struggle in the winter months because of the way the water impacts the wood. Humidity will cause the wood to shrink, and then the hot Utah summers can end up leading to dry air that can push the nails and screws out when it shrinks and expands. Vinyl fencing has grown in popularity but it still struggles in the cold. The plastic can become brittle in the cold air, making it easy for the fence to snap.
Fencing for Utah Homes
Since we do live in a cold and also hot climate, it makes selecting the right fencing material a little challenging. What fencing material does work well? We do work with just about every type of fencing solution on the market, and we can help you determine what the best one is for your needs. Some people opt for the cheapest fence possible while others want to build a fence that is guaranteed to last for many years. Here are the best fencing materials for cold climates:
Wood fencing with metal posts. We like wood fencing with metal because it is a little cheaper option for people, but it helps to withstand the cold climate thanks to the metal that helps to give more strength and durability.
Steel fencing is a common fence in Utah. Wrought iron is durable and strong, and does have unique looks to it. We love how it can be customized for homes, and really does give your home some personality. Plus, the steel is water resistant so you won’t need to worry about rust happening water absorption. Steel fences are beneficial as they can allow strong wind to go through them, which is great when we hit those high wind storms!
Aluminum fencing is still a popular option for many Utah homeowners. Aluminum has a wrought iron look, and it is a little lighter in color. The only downside is how “soft” aluminum can be since it can easily bend and dent.
Steel Fencing for Winter
Since Utah is no stranger to heavy snowstorms, we do recommend considering steel fencing. Steel is designed to stand up year after year. Even some heavy tree branches won’t break a steel fence when they fall. Steel does come in multiple options, so we recommend you do work with our experts to determine which is best for your home.
Contact Bronco Fence if you need winter fence repair in Northern Utah. We are ready to come out and help repair your broken fence, or discuss replacement of your old fence.