Fall Fence Maintenance: How to Protect Your Investment Before Winter

A fence isn’t just a boundary line — it’s an investment in your home’s beauty, security, and privacy. In Wisconsin, our fences take a beating from all four seasons, and none is tougher than winter. Heavy snow, ice, and freezing temperatures can quickly wear down wood and metal, causing expensive repairs come spring.

The good news? A little fall maintenance goes a long way. At Good Neighbor Fencing, we help Madison homeowners prepare their fences for winter so they can last for years to come. Here are the key steps you should take this season.

Clean Away Summer’s Buildup

Dust, pollen, grass clippings, and even mildew can settle onto your fence during the warmer months. Before the frost arrives, take time to clean your fence thoroughly.

• Wood fences: Use a mild soap and water solution with a soft brush to scrub away grime.
• Vinyl fences: A quick spray with the garden hose usually does the trick.
• Metal fences: Look for early signs of rust and remove with a wire brush.

Cleaning now prevents buildup from locking in moisture once the snow piles up.

Seal and Protect Against Moisture

Wood fences, in particular, need protection from Wisconsin’s freeze-thaw cycles. Moisture that seeps into untreated boards can expand when frozen, leading to cracks, warping, and rot. Applying a quality stain or sealant in the fall creates a protective barrier that shields your fence all winter long.

If your fence hasn’t been sealed in a few years, this step is especially important. A professional application ensures even coverage and longer-lasting results.

Check Hinges, Latches, and Gates

Winter puts extra stress on moving parts like hinges and gate latches. Cold temperatures can cause metal to contract, making gates stiff or difficult to use. Before the frost hits, check all hardware for signs of wear or rust.

• Tighten loose screws.
• Lubricate hinges and latches with a silicone-based spray.
• Replace any parts that are corroded or bent.

Taking care of these details now helps prevent frustrating gate issues when the snow is knee-deep.

Inspect for Damage and Make Repairs

Walk the full length of your fence and check for leaning posts, loose boards, or sections that look unstable. Even small issues can worsen under the weight of heavy snow. Reinforcing weak spots in the fall is far easier (and cheaper) than repairing collapsed sections in the spring.

Get Ahead of the Season with Good Neighbor Fencing

A well-maintained fence not only looks better but also lasts longer — saving you money in the long run. Fall is the perfect time to give your fence the care it needs before Madison’s winter sets in.



At Good Neighbor Fencing, we offer professional inspections, repairs, and sealing services designed to protect your investment. Whether you have wood, vinyl, or metal fencing, our team knows how to keep it in top condition year after year.

Call Good Neighbor Fencing today to schedule your fall fence maintenance service. Let’s make sure your fence is strong, secure, and ready for winter.