Winter in Lynden, Washington, can be tough on farm fences. Between heavy rain, frost, snow, and icy winds, fences take a beating during the colder months. For farmers, a strong, well-maintained fence isn’t just about looks; it’s essential for keeping livestock safe, protecting crops, and avoiding costly repairs in the spring.
Taking the time to inspect and repair fences before the holidays can save you headaches and ensure your property stays secure all winter long. As a trusted Lynden, WA fencing contractor, JTi Fence recommends focusing on a few key areas to winterize your farm fencing.
Inspect and Repair Sagging Rails
Sagging rails are one of the most common winter problems. Wet soil and frost heaving can shift posts and rails, leaving your fence uneven. Walk the perimeter of your property and look for rails that have drooped or separated from posts.
Tighten fasteners, replace damaged rails, and reinforce posts that have shifted. Fixing sagging rails now prevents livestock from escaping and keeps your fence structurally sound through heavy snow or ice.
Tighten Wire and Adjust Tension
Whether you use barbed wire, welded wire, or no-climb horse fencing, winter is the time to ensure your wire fencing is tight. Cold temperatures can make the wire contract and loosen over time. Walk each section and check for sagging, loose staples, or sections pulled away from posts.
Adjusting tension before the coldest months helps your fence resist wind, snow, and occasional animal impact. Tight, secure wire also reduces the risk of injury to livestock.
Replace Damaged Wire and Hardware
Damaged wire, broken staples, or rusted connectors can quickly turn into bigger problems when winter weather hits. Check for frayed, rusted, or missing sections and replace them immediately.
Don’t forget the hardware on gates, hinges, and latches. A small repair now will prevent larger issues during snow or ice, keeping gates functional and livestock secure.
Winterize Wood Fences
Wood fences require extra attention to withstand moisture and cold temperatures. Check posts and rails for cracks or rot, especially near the ground where moisture accumulates. Applying an oil-based stain or sealant protects wood from water infiltration and freezing damage.
Cedar split rail fences, in particular, offer rustic charm while defining property boundaries without obstructing views. Winterizing your wood fences now ensures a Northern Washington privacy fence remains functional and visually appealing.
Check Posts, H-Braces, and Foundations
Fence posts are the backbone of your farm fencing system. Frost heave, wet soil, and shifting ground can loosen posts, making fences less stable. Inspect dowelled H-braces, which provide critical support for agricultural fences by resisting lateral forces.
Properly installed posts and H-braces prevent rails and wire from sagging, keeping the fence strong and reliable through the winter. At JTi Fence, all posts are carefully installed with these supports in mind, giving you long-term stability.
Protect Gates and Entry Points
Gates are often overlooked but critical for farm operations. Make sure all gates swing freely and latch securely. Lubricate hinges to prevent rust and freezing, and reinforce high-traffic areas if necessary. Reliable gates help you manage livestock efficiently and make winter farm work easier.
Plan Ahead for Snow and Ice
Consider how snow and ice will affect your fence. Heavy snow can add extra weight to rails and wire, while ice can loosen staples or bend metal. Keeping a shovel or small equipment nearby to remove drifts along fence lines reduces stress on the fence. These precautions help ensure your fences stay functional and prevent costly spring repairs.
Why Farmers Trust Lynden, WA Fencing Contractor JTi Fence
JTi Fence proudly serves Whatcom County, Washington, and the surrounding areas, providing top-notch farm fence installation services. We specialize in strong barbed wire fences, no-climb horse fencing, field fencing with welded or woven wire, and the rustic charm of cedar split rail fencing.
As a Red Brand Certified Fence Installer since 2018, we install high-quality Red Brand products that resist sagging, rust, and wear while keeping livestock safe. Our team ensures every fence uses dowelled H-braces and high-tensile bracing wire for stability and longevity.
Partner With Our Farm Fencing Pros in Lynden!
For farmers looking for dependable fencing before winter, working with a reliable Lynden, Washington fencing contractor like JTi Fence makes all the difference. Call us today at (360) 526-2628 or contact us through our website to schedule your inspection or repair and enjoy the peace of mind that comes with a durable, secure fence. Your Northern Washington privacy fence or farm fence will be ready to withstand the harsh winter months.
