It can be difficult to know what the best fence material is in cold climates due to the extreme winter weather.
Having a fence around your property is critical for many people—they protect children and pets, keep strangers and large wildlife away, and they create a clean and visually appealing look. Unfortunately, for people who live in cold climates, it can be difficult to decide which fence material is best for their property. Looks need to be balanced with durability and which materials stand up best to harsh winter weather conditions.
What’s Good
Steel
Steel is the best material for fences in cold climates. What makes steel able to withstand the hostility of winter is its inability to absorb moisture and superior durability in comparison to other materials. Galvanized or powder-coated steel fencing is even better, and the vast majority of metal fences will come pre-galvanized or powder-coated to protect the raw metal from damage, such as rust and degradation.
Aluminum
Aluminum is very similar to steel and is, therefore, still a good choice, with one caveat: aluminum is not as strong as steel. Aluminum is lightweight and easy to install, but that also means it’s more susceptible to damage than a heavier and sturdier metal like steel. In winter, heavy snowfall and extreme winds can create large debris, such as falling branches. A steel fence has a chance to remain standing, even after being hit by a falling branch. An aluminum fence, on the other hand, will likely be damaged and need repairs or at least a partial replacement.
What’s Less Good
Vinyl
This may come as a surprise. In general, vinyl is amazing and sturdy, gaining a lot of popularity as a fence material in recent years. While vinyl will likely hold up for a few winters, it won’t have the longevity of a metal fence in cold climates. The value of vinyl is that it has a level of elasticity, making it more resilient to strain and impact damage. During the cold winter, however, the vinyl will become rigid and lose that important elasticity, making it much more susceptible to extreme winds or impacts.
Wood
Wood is the worst possible choice of fence material in cold climates. It is prone to absorbing moisture, which will cause the wood to mold and rot. It also is not as resilient against damage as other options, meaning heavy snow or extreme winds could bring it down. A wood fence with steel poles is sturdier than a standard wood fence and can be a decent option for those in colder climates. In addition, a wood fence that is properly cared for will last longer. It should be regularly cleaned, repaired, and sealed to keep it from degrading.
Commercial Fences from Hercules Fence DC
Hercules Fence DC has been providing property owners with quality fences for over 50 years. We are well-equipped to meet your needs, whether they are residential or commercial. We have extensive experience working with families and pet owners to keep the most important members of their homes safe, so call us today about installing a new pet fence for your family. Contact us by giving us a call at 301-441-1600 or visiting us online. To see examples of our work, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, Pinterest, and Flickr.
