How Does the Weather Impact Your Fence Finish?
Are you looking for a fence that will stand up to the extreme Canadian climate? A fence will endure many conditions throughout the year – heat, rain, snow, ice, wind – and it also will endure animals and insects. Not all fence materials can maintain its structural integrity in every climate, especially with the mix that we receive here in Canada. If you want to find a fence that will maintain its finish and form, you need to first understand how the elements can affect your fence finish. This short guide will demonstrate how weather can impact your fence finish and how you can find the right material for your location.
Sunlight
If your stain doesn’t have UV protection, then you can expect your fence to fade over time. Wood is especially prone to fading, so if your fence is in direct light, you may want to look for another material that will protect the finish from those UV rays.
Hot Temperatures
The hot weather we commonly experience in July and August can cause some fences to expand. If the fencing material is not flexible, it can cause the fence to warp.
Cold Environments
Our freezing cold Canadian winters can cause some fences to become brittle. While this will not damage your fence on its own, if pressure is applied from ice or snow, your fence could crack or even break.
Rain
If you live in an area that receives a lot of rain, you should purchase a fence that has a waterproof treatment. Otherwise, the water can cause mould, mildew, and even rot. Wood is especially sensitive to moisture changes.
Snow
Similar to rain, when the snow melts, the fence can become susceptible to mould, mildew, and rot. However, snow can also place a lot of pressure onto a fence. If it’s particularly cold out or wet, some fence types can lose structural integrity and can crack or break. The pressure of the snow that sits on the fence or against it can also cause warping or sagging as it accumulates and even shifts the posts.
Wind
Forceful winds can cause fence posts to loosen, especially if you have a fence with planked materials. The wind can also blow debris up against the fence, impacting its strength and damaging its finish.
Most fences have strong materials and finishes that can withstand the elements – like wood, steel, vinyl and aluminum. But the installation and quality of the materials used will make a big difference. If you’re looking for a fence that will withstand our extreme Canadian climate and still look as good as the day you bought it years down the road, contact us at Ideal Fence. When it comes to a sound and sturdy fence that will last through our long, harsh seasons, we’re the right team to get the job done. To learn more about our fencing systems or to request a quote today, check out our website.