If your garden’s location is a windier one, chances are you will have issues with your fencing more often. Fences can catch the full brunt of gales like a sail, without the weight and durability of other structures. Whether you’re building, repairing, or replacing a fence that will experience a lot of wind, read our guide for the best counteracting measures.
Choose The Right Fence Type
The main component for managing wind resistance is the type of fence itself. Solid fence panels may provide the best security and privacy, but are also most vulnerable to buffeting winds. For solid panel fences without gaps, maintenance and structural support are paramount. Otherwise, consider alternate fencing types.
Hit And Miss Panels
Hit and miss panel fences are the next best to solid, gapless panels if you’re looking for security and privacy. Boards on each side of the fence are spaced apart, leaving gaps that allow air flow, but creating a fence that still appears solid.
Venetian Slatted Panels
Venetian slatted panels have visible gaps between the slats. This offers even better air flow, and therefore greater wind resistance, than hit and miss. The expense is exposure, although the gaps can be narrow, retaining a good deal of privacy.
Picket Fencing
Picket fences, sometimes associated with American suburbs, have large gaps between the boards. Wind passes easily through picket fences, so as long as the posts are secure, there’s little chance of them blowing down. Of course, this means they also offer reduced privacy and security. Picket fences may be better for marking boundaries or decorative purposes.
Trellis Fencing
Trellis fencing has lots of gaps allowing the wind to pass right through. Typically, trellis fences are more for decorative purposes, often seen on top of other, more solid fences. They can be used to divide a garden into sections, as fence toppers allowing more light, or for climbing plants.
Fence Care
Use Strong Posts
Professional fence installers know, whether you have solid panels or not, strong posts are crucial for a fence’s wind resistance. Consider post sleeves or posts made from materials other than timber. Wood embedded in the ground is vulnerable to moisture, rot and other damage. If one post becomes insecure, the whole fence can be in jeopardy.
Keep On Top Of Repairs
Whether post or panel, you can think of a fence being only as strong as its weakest link. If a post is wobbling or a panel coming down, it puts the surrounding fence at risk of collapse. Keep on top of each and every repair and save yourself an untimely ‘fence installation near me’ search.
Keep Your Fence Clean And Clear
Keep your fence clear of clutter and debris. Remove wild weeds and shrubs. Anything that isn’t meant to be there can be obstructing the natural drainage of your fence. This in turn can lead to rot and decay, leaving your fence weaker to the elements.
Preserve Your Fence
Finally, treat your fence with a preserving agent. Fence preservatives soak into the wood and make it resistant to moisture, rot, and ultraviolet rays, keeping your fence stronger for longer.
Hire Professionals
If in doubt, consult your local, professional fence builders. For domestic and commercial fencing across the South West, contact Groundforce today.