Winter-Proof Your Fence: 6 Things Every Utah Homeowner Should Do Before the Snow Hits

Utah winter doesn’t play around. One minute you’re sipping cider on the porch and the next you’re Googling why your fence is leaning like it had a long night out. Cold temps, heavy snow, and icy ground can all take a toll on your fencing, but a little prep work now can save you repairs (and money) in the spring.

Here are the six smartest moves you can make to keep your fence standing strong until the thaw.

1. Check for wobble season

Before the ground freezes, give your fence a quick shake test. Posts that wiggle even a little can become problem children when the soil expands with moisture and cold. If something feels loose, it’s easier to fix it now before winter tries to finish the job.

2. Look for cracks or weather wear

Wood expands and contracts through the seasons, which can create cracks or gaps. Vinyl can become brittle. Metal can rust. A fast visual check can help you spot problems early so they don’t become full-blown spring surprises.

3. Trim back the snow-load creators

Branches bending under snow can snap and land right on your fence. Keep trees and shrubs trimmed back so your fence isn’t taking hits all winter.

4. Clean the fence line

Leaves, debris, and old pumpkins from Halloween can hold moisture that freezes and thaws, pushing against your fence. Clearing the base helps reduce pressure and rot.

5. Protect wooden fences from moisture

A fresh sealant before the cold snaps in can make a huge difference. Think of it like putting on moisturizer before stepping into a snowstorm.

6. Check your gates

Gates get stubborn when the ground heaves in winter. Make sure they swing smoothly and latch properly now so you’re not out there in January wrestling with them like it’s a CrossFit workout.

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A few minutes of prep now can extend the life of your fence by years. It keeps your home secure, your pets safe, and your property looking put together even when everything else is buried in snow.

If you want help winterizing or you’re eyeing a new fence for spring, Western Fence has been Utah’s go to for 78 years and counting. We keep Utah yards safe in every season.