Unfavourable weather conditions can occur at any time of year. While property owners often worry about how winter conditions can damage their fencing, summer storms can be just as harmful.
In fact, severe summer weather can come in the shape of a thunderstorm, a hailstorm, a tornado or flooding. Here’s how summer storms can damage the fencing on your property.
Lightning
When lightning strikes, it can cause fires and break tree branches. Broken branches can fall on your fence, resulting in significant damage. However, by trimming trees and bushes, you can prevent this type of accident from occurring.
Hail
Summer storms are sometimes accompanied by hail. These large ice pellets can fall from the sky and cause dents and discolouration in your fence. They can also break the protective seal on wood fences and gates.
Wind
Tornadoes and strong winds are one of the most destructive aspects of summer storms. They can uproot trees and rip apart fences. Forceful winds can displace large objects and blow them into your fence. If you’re anticipating a storm, be sure to secure or move indoors any items that could become airborne to prevent them from damaging your fence.
Flooding
Heavy rainfall and flooding can wreak havoc on your fence. Metal can rust and wood can rot when exposed to excessive moisture. You can protect iron fences from rust by using a powder-coated finish, or opt for aluminum as it’s naturally resistant to corrosion. Landslides are another consequence of severe flooding, and it’s important to maintain proper drainage around your fence.
The importance of inspecting your fence after a storm
Proper installation and maintenance can help keep your fence strong and sturdy. But sometimes, even the most well-built fences sustain weather damage. It’s important to do a thorough inspection after a storm to identify any areas that need to be repaired. Here’s how to examine your fence:
• Search the perimeter looking for any areas that may be sagging or leaning
• Make sure your posts are properly secured in the ground
• Look for chips, scratches or dents on the surface of your fence
• Check for moisture damage
In addition, you should open and close your gate to verify that it latches correctly. If your fencing requires a repair or replacement, City Fence can help.
Fence installation in the GTA
A damaged fence can compromise the safety and security of your property. City Fence installs and repairs fences and gates in the Greater Toronto Area. Some common repairs include replacing loose posts, tightening sagging mesh and fixing missing links. We guarantee our work and pride ourselves on offering professional and friendly service. Contact us today to learn more or to get a free quote.