With strong winds, sudden storms, heavy rain, and intense heat, fences take a real beating throughout the year. If you live in Bixby or anywhere else in the state, keeping your fence in good shape isn’t just about the looks–it’s about protecting your property and making sure your fence lasts.
In this guide, we’ll share simple, effective tips to help your fence survive Oklahoma’s harsh weather. No matter what kind of fence you have–wood, metal, or vinyl–these tricks will help prevent damage and keep it standing strong.
Tip #1: Inspect Your Fence Regularly
It’s easy to overlook small problems with your fence until they become bigger, more expensive issues. That’s why it’s so important to check on your fence regularly. A little attention now can save you a lot of money and hassle down the road.
You should walk along your fence at least once every few months to catch any early signs of trouble. After a big storm, it’s especially important to inspect your fence since harsh weather can cause damage in no time.
While you’re checking things out, look for these common issues:
- Leaning or wobbly posts
- Cracked boards or panels
- Signs of wood rot or mold
- Rust on hardware or metal parts
Catching these issues early means you can handle small repairs before they turn into expensive fixes or even require you to replace parts of your fence. Not sure what to look for or how to fix any problems you find?
It might be a good idea to call in a local expert for seasonal inspection. They’ll know exactly what to look for and can make sure your fence is in the best shape possible.
Tip #2: Clean and Seal Wooden Fences
Wood fences are a great option for many homeowners, but they do require a bit more care, especially in areas like Bixby, where the weather can be tough. The combination of heat, humidity, and rain can take a toll on your fence over time, so regular cleaning and sealing are essential to keep it looking good and functioning well.
Here’s a simple routine to follow:
Power wash your fence
At least once a year, take the time to power-wash your wood fence. This helps remove built-up dirt, mold, algae, and any other gunk that could damage the wood.
A clean surface also allows the sealant to stick better, providing better protection for your fence. You don’t need to go overboard–just make sure to get rid of all the grime and debris.
Apply a weatherproof sealant or stain
After cleaning, it’s time to apply a sealant or stain. This is a critical step in protecting your fence. A good weatherproof sealant will guard against moisture that can lead to rot and mold, as well as UV damage from the sun.
When choosing a product, look for one that’s designed specifically for storm-resistant fencing or weatherproofing to ensure that it holds up during Oklahoma’s tough weather.
Re-treat every 2-3 years
Wooden fences aren’t set-it-and-forget-it; they need some maintenance every few years. Plan to reapply sealant every 2 to 3 years or sooner if you notice the wood starting to absorb water or fade in color. When this happens, it’s a sign that the sealant has worn off, and your fence needs a fresh layer of protection.
Tip #3: Reinforce Posts and Hardware
When it comes to your fence, the posts are the foundation. No matter how strong the panels or boards are, they won’t do much good if the posts aren’t secure. Oklahoma’s weather can easily weaken your fence if the posts aren’t properly anchored.
That’s why reinforcing your posts is a must to make sure your fence stays standing strong. Here’s how to do it:
Set posts in concrete
Posts should be at least 24 inches deep in the ground to withstand the strong winds that often come through Oklahoma. Concrete helps prevent shifting and ensures your posts remain stable, even during heavy storms.
Use metal brackets or post anchors
For extra security, especially on corner posts and gate areas, you should consider adding metal brackets or post anchors. These provide additional support, helping to keep your posts from leaning or being pulled out of the ground during a storm.
Metal brackets are especially important in places where your fence experiences the most stress, like around gates or turns in the line.
Tighten or replace loose fasteners
Over time, screw, nails, and bolts can loosen or rust, which weakens your fence’s overall stability. Regularly check your fence for any fasteners that need tightening or replacing.
Rusted hardware is particularly vulnerable to storms, as the rust weakens the metal and makes it more likely to break. Replacing any damaged or corroded hardware ensures that your fence can stand up to whatever Oklahoma’s weather throws at it.
Tip #4: Apply Protective Coatings to Metal Fences
Metal fences, like iron and steel, are known for their strength and durability, but they’re not completely bulletproof. Even though they can stand up to a lot of punishment, rain, humidity, and temperature fluctuations here in Oklahoma can still cause damage over time.
Without proper care, metal fences can begin to rust, weaken, or lose their appeal. Here’s how to keep your metal fence in top shape:
Sand away rust spots and repaint regularly
Even small spots of rust can quickly spread and weaken the metal. It’s important to regularly inspect your fence for any rust and sand it away.
After you’ve removed the rust, repaint those areas with rust-inhibiting paint to protect the metal from future damage. This will help maintain the strength of the fence and keep it looking fresh.
Apply a primer and protective topcoat
To prevent rust from forming in the first place, it’s essential to use the right coatings. Start by applying a high-quality primer specifically made for outdoor metal surfaces. This will help the paint adhere better and provide an extra layer of protection.
After the primer, follow up with a protective topcoat that’s designed to withstand the elements. This step is key in keeping your fence resistant to corrosion, especially with Oklahoma’s mix of heat and humidity.
Cap open-ended posts
Metal fences often have posts with open ends, which can allow water to seep inside. When water gets inside, it can rust the posts from the inside out. It can cause the posts to weaken and possibly even collapse.
To avoid this, make sure to cap the open ends of your posts. This simple step will keep moisture out and help preserve the integrity of the metal.
Not sure if it’s time to repaint or maintain your metal fence? Contact us today for a quick fence checkup. We’ll make sure your fence is in great shape and ready to handle whatever the weather brings.
Tip #5: Trim Trees and Vegetation Nearby
It might sound surprising, but the landscaping around your fence plays a huge role in its overall health and longevity. Trees, bushes, and shrubs that grow too close to your fence can cause a lot of trouble.
Overgrown vegetation can trap moisture, encourage mold growth, and put unnecessary pressure on your fence, leading to potential damage. So, keeping the area around your fence neat and well-maintained is a simple but effective way to protect your investment.
Here’s what you should do:
- Clear away vines and bushes
- Trim tree limbs that hang over your fences
- Maintain a gap between plants and the fence
By staying on top of your landscaping, you can prevent unexpected damage to your fence. Plus, keeping the area around your fence neat will improve the overall look of your yard, adding to your home’s curb appeal.
Tip #6: Seasonal Fence Maintenance Checklist
Keeping your fence in good condition throughout the year doesn’t have to be overwhelming. By following a simple seasonal checklist, you can stay on top of small issues before they turn into bigger problems:
Spring: Start Fresh
Spring is the perfect time to shake off the winter blues and get your fence ready for the warmer months. Here’s what to focus on:
- Inspect for winter damage
- Trim fast-growing greenery
- Clean and reseal wood if needed
Summer: Stay Ahead of the Heat
Summer heat can be tough on fences, especially in Oklahoma. Here’s what to do during the hottest months:
- Water landscaping to avoid dry soil around posts
- Watch for UV damage and re-stain faded sections
- Check metal fences for heat-related expansion or stress
Fall: Prepare for Storms
Fall is a great time to prepare your fence for the storms that come with winter. Here’s how to get ready:
- Clear away leaves that trap moisture
- Prep for storms by reinforcing weak spots
- Clean out post bases to prevent water pooling
Winter: Protect from the Elements
Winter brings cold temperatures, snow, and ice, which can all put your fence to the test. Here’s how to keep it in good shape during the colder months:
- Avoid letting snow or ice pile up near the fence
- Plan early spring repairs based on winter wear
- Monitor for leaning or shifting due to frozen ground
Tip #7: Consider Upgrading to Weather-Resistant Materials
If you’re finding that your current fence needs constant repairs or just isn’t holding up as well as it should, it might be time to consider an upgrade. Many homeowners are making the switch to stronger, low-maintenance fencing options that can handle the harsh climate without requiring constant upkeep.
Here are some great material options to consider:
Vinyl fencing
Unlike wood, vinyl won’t rot, warp, or fade under the harsh sun or heavy rains. It’s low-maintenance, which means you won’t have to spend time sanding, staining, or treating it regularly.
Plus, it’s easy to clean–just a quick wash with soap and water, and it looks good as new. If you’re tired of constantly having to repaint or treat your wooden fence, vinyl might be the perfect solution for you.
Composite fencing
This type of fencing is made from a blend of recycled materials, often combining the look of natural wood with the durability of plastic. This material is highly resistant to weather damage, including fading, warping, and rotting, which means it will stay looking great for years with minimal care.
Composite fences are also environmentally friendly, making them a great choice for homeowners who want to reduce their carbon footprint without sacrificing quality or style.
Pressure-treated wood
If you love the natural look of wood but want something more durable, pressure-treated wood is a fantastic option. This type of wood has been specially treated to resist rot, insects, and moisture, making it more resilient than untreated wood.
While you’ll still need some maintenance, pressure-treated wood will last much longer than regular wood, especially in areas with high humidity or frequent rainfall. When installed properly and maintained as needed, these materials can provide you with a long-lasting, weatherproof fence that can withstand the intense heat, heavy rain, and strong winds Oklahoma is known for.
Final thoughts
Oklahoma weather can be rough, but with a little upkeep, your fence can handle it. Simple things like regular checkups, cleaning, and using stronger materials can make a big difference.
Want help keeping your fence in good shape? Fortitude Fencing is here for repairs, upgrades, or just honest advice.
Need a fence checkup or have questions? Contact us today–we’ve got your back.