How Does Snow Affect Chain-Link Fences?

Winter in Chicagoland and Northwest Indiana brings plenty of beauty, but heavy snowfall and freezing temperatures can be tough on any property, especially commercial ones with extensive fencing. Chain-link fences are renowned for their durability and security, but they aren’t immune to the harsh realities of winter weather. Snow and cold can cause problems like:

• Frost heave
• Risks of corrosion
• Loss of mesh tension

At Fence Masters, we’ve witnessed severe cold and snow accumulation impact numerous types of fencing materials over the years, including the otherwise fairly robust chain-link. Recognizing and mitigating these risks is essential for ensuring your fence remains standing strong until spring.

What Damage Can Cold Weather Cause Chain-Link Fences?

When snow piles up, it’s not just the weight that causes issues; it’s the combination of moisture, freezing temperatures, and external factors like road maintenance. Here are three primary ways winter weather impacts chain-link fencing:

1. Frost Heave on Fence Posts

One of the most common issues fences face in cold climates is frost heave. This occurs when the soil around your fence posts freezes: As the moisture in the soil expands into ice, it pushes upwards, potentially lifting the concrete footings and fence posts out of the ground. This can leave your fence leaning, unstable, or completely misaligned, compromising the security of your property.

2. Corrosion Risks from Road Salt

If your property is near a street, driveway, or even a parking lot, your fence is likely exposed to road salt and de-icing chemicals. While necessary for safe driving, salt is corrosive to metal, and the salty slush splashed onto your chain-link mesh and posts can accelerate rust and deterioration over time. Galvanized chain-link is designed to resist rust, but constant exposure to harsh chlorides during the winter can eventually break down protective coatings.

3. Tension Loss in Long Chain-Link Runs

Metal contracts in cold temperatures. When the temperature drops significantly, the metal mesh of your chain-link fence can tighten. Conversely, heavy snow drifting against the mesh can stretch it out. This constant battle between contraction from cold and pressure from heavy snowdrifts can cause the fabric to lose some of its tension. Once the snow melts, you may notice sagging sections or warped top rails that need professional repair.

How Can You Protect Your Chain-Link Fence This Winter?

You don’t have to wait and expect damage to occur. A little preventative maintenance can go a long way in extending the life of your investment.

• Clear snow promptly: Avoid letting heavy snow piles rest against the mesh. Use a broom to gently brush snow off the fence line rather than a shovel, which could scratch the coating.
• Inspect for stability: Before the ground freezes solid, wiggle your fence posts. If they feel loose, reinforce them now to prevent frost heave from making the problem worse.
• Keep drainage clear: Ensure that melting snow has a path to flow away from your fence posts. Standing water at the base of your posts is a recipe for rust and ice damage.
• Rinse off salt: On milder days above freezing, consider cleaning off the bottom of your fence if it sits near a salted road. Removing that corrosive residue can significantly extend the lifespan of the metal.

Keeping these steps in mind and taking action to protect your chain-link fence can help it last far beyond this winter.

Secure Your Property for the Season

Winter doesn’t have to mean a loss of your fence’s structural integrity. By understanding the risks of frost heave, corrosion, and tension loss, you can take steps to protect your commercial property and keep your space secure, regardless of the weather.

If you notice leaning posts or sagging mesh during or after this season, don’t hesitate to reach out. The experts at Fence Masters are ready to assist with durable replacement fencing designed to withstand Chicago winters. Contact us today to learn how we can help with your commercial fencing needs.