Fences help keep pets and children safe and improve home security. They also provide wind protection, reducing the impact of strong gusts on gardens and outdoor spaces. Fences can help reduce noise, create a barrier against wildlife, and provide support for climbing plants or garden structures, improving outdoor functionality.
Garden support is more applicable to warmer regions; in places like Yellowknife, fences are primarily for security. In order to withstand freezing temperatures, heavy snowfall, frost heave and high winds, building a fence here requires careful planning. It is better to leave the job to professional contractors like Commercial-NDS https://www.commercial-nds.com/, who can advise on proper material selection, foundation construction and weatherproofing. All of this is essential to ensure longevity and durability.
Choosing the right materials
Harsh winters can cause wood to rot, metal to rust and vinyl to become brittle. The best material options are:
- Pressure-treated or naturally durable wood (cedar, redwood) resists moisture and rot.
- Metal fencing (aluminum, galvanized steel, wrought iron) withstands extreme weather, but requires rust-resistant coatings.
- Vinyl fencing resists moisture but can become brittle in extreme cold.
- Composite fencing (a mix of wood fiber and plastic) offers durability and low maintenance.
Deep and secure post installation
Frost heave – caused by water freezing and expanding in the ground – can push fence posts out of the ground. Contractors should start by digging post holes at least 3.5 to 4 feet deep, below the frost line, which prevents movement. Concrete footings with a gravel base improve drainage and stability. Installing metal post anchors can reduce direct contact between wooden posts and the ground, preventing rot.
Wind resistance and flexibility
The high winds that are common during winter storms can damage rigid fencing, so you want to choose flexible but strong materials, such as reinforced wood or vinyl, that can withstand the stress of wind. Installing louvered or semi-private designs allows the wind to pass through rather than pushing against a solid surface. Securing the panels with sturdy fasteners and brackets will prevent them from loosening over time.
Snow load considerations
Accumulated snow can add weight that can damage the fence over time. Fences with angled or rounded tops minimize snow accumulation. Water retention can weaken the fence over time, so contractors must provide adequate ground clearance so that the bottom of the fence doesn’t sit in snow or ice for extended periods of time.