Winterizing Your Fence & Outdoor Railings: Tips to Avoid Damage

Winters in the Lehigh Valley can be tough on outdoor structures. Snow, ice, freezing temperatures, and the freeze–thaw cycle can take a toll on fences and railings if they’re not properly prepared. Whether your fence is vinyl, wood, aluminum, or chain link, a little preparation in the fall can save you from costly repairs in the spring.

At Ekren Fence, we install fences built to withstand Pennsylvania weather — but winterizing them helps extend their life even further. Here’s how to protect your fence and railings from seasonal damage.

1. Inspect Your Fence Before Winter Weather Arrives

A quick inspection in late fall can help you spot small issues before snow and ice make them worse.

Look for:

• Loose or leaning posts

• Cracked or warped boards (wood)

• Misaligned or sagging gates

• Rust or corrosion (chain link and metal)

• 
  

  Fixing these issues now helps prevent further damage when cold temperatures cause materials to contract.

2. Clear Away Leaves, Branches & Debris

Organic matter holds moisture — and moisture is the enemy in freezing temperatures.

Remove:

• Piles of wet leaves

• Branches resting against the fence

• Built-up mulch or soil touching the bottom rail

• Overgrown vines or plants

Keeping debris away reduces rot, mold, and rust risks, especially for wood and chain-link fencing.

3. Trim Nearby Trees & Bushes

Heavy snow and ice can weigh down branches, causing them to snap and fall on your fence.

Trim back:

• Overhanging limbs

• Large branches near the fence line

• Shrubs that may freeze against panels

This simple step can prevent structural damage during storms.

4. Reinforce Your Gate Hardware

Gates are especially vulnerable during winter because frost heave can shift the ground beneath them.

Check & tighten:

• Hinges

• Latches

• Screws and bolts

• Post alignment

Before winter:

• Apply a fresh coat of weatherproof sealant or stain

• Focus on the tops of posts and rails (water sits here the longest)

• Replace boards that are already damaged

A properly sealed wood fence can resist moisture, mold, and rot through harsh Pennsylvania winters.

6. Check Drainage Around Your Fence Line

Standing water around your fence is one of the biggest causes of winter damage.

Make sure:

• Soil slopes slightly away from the fence

• Gutters and downspouts aren’t draining toward your fence

• Low spots are filled with gravel or proper drainage material

Good drainage reduces frost heave and prevents fence posts from shifting.

7. Clean Vinyl & Aluminum Fences Before Snowfall

Dirt and algae left on vinyl or metal surfaces over winter can stain permanently.

A simple cleaning solution:

• Mild soap

• Warm water

• Soft brush or sponge

Avoid harsh chemicals — vinyl and aluminum don’t need heavy-duty cleaning products.

If you spot rust:

• Lightly sand affected areas

• Apply a rust-inhibiting primer

• Use outdoor metal paint to seal

Fixing rust spots early prevents deeper corrosion.

10. Schedule Repairs Early if You Notice Damage

Winter can magnify small problems — a loose post in October can turn into a leaning fence by February.

If you notice:

• Wobbly posts

• Broken rails

• Cracked panels

• Damaged gates

Reach out to Ekren Fence for a winter or early-spring repair to avoid further structural issues.

Prepare Your Fence Today for a Trouble-Free Winter

With proper care and a little preparation, your fence and railings can withstand even the harshest Lehigh Valley winter. If you’re unsure about the condition of your fence — or need a repair before cold weather hits — Ekren Fence is here to help.

Need maintenance, repairs, or a new fence before winter?

Contact Ekren Fence today for expert service and a free estimate.