Here in Taunton and across Somerset, we know that the weather can be unpredictable. Autumn has arrived, and with it comes wetter conditions, stronger winds and the increased risk of storms. If your garden fence is already showing signs of wear, now is a good time to consider whether it will cope with the winter weather ahead.
A strong, well-installed fence needs to do more than look good. It needs to withstand rain, moisture and strong winds without becoming unstable or damaged. At DH Landscapes, we regularly help homeowners choose and install fencing that’s suitable for their garden and built to last.
Why Is Wind Such a Problem for Fencing?
Fences can act like sails when strong winds hit them. The larger and more solid the panel, the more pressure can be placed on the posts and fixings.
This is particularly important in exposed gardens or properties that regularly experience strong winds. If the posts aren’t securely installed, the ground is loose, or the panels are poorly fixed, a fence can quickly become unstable during bad weather.
Jacksons Fencing recommends considering stronger, heavier-duty posts and deeper installation in wind-prone locations, as well as securely fixing panels to the posts.
Look at the Posts, Not Just the Panels
When homeowners inspect their fencing, they often focus on the panels themselves. However, the posts and foundations are just as important when it comes to creating a strong boundary.
A fence with quality panels can still fail if the posts aren’t properly supported. Jacksons recommends that posts are installed at least 600mm into the ground, with potentially deeper installation or heavy-duty posts required for particularly windy or exposed locations.
The condition of your existing posts is therefore worth checking before winter. If they’re leaning, loose, rotten or moving in the ground, simply replacing the panels may not solve the underlying problem.
Check Your Fence Before Winter
With autumn now here, it’s a sensible time to walk around your garden and look for any obvious signs of damage.
Keep an eye out for leaning posts, loose or rattling panels, cracked timber, rot and gaps developing around the base of the fence. Even relatively small problems can become much more serious when exposed to weeks of heavy rain and strong winds.
Getting repairs or replacement fencing carried out before winter can help avoid being left with a damaged or collapsed boundary after the next major storm.
Choose Quality Fencing
If your existing fence has reached the end of its life, replacing it with a high-quality system can be a worthwhile long-term investment.
At DH Landscapes, we’re proud to be Jacksons Fencing Approved Installers. Jacksons offers a wide range of fencing options, including panels and heavy-duty posts designed for different garden requirements. Their fencing is also backed by a 25-year guarantee on applicable products when installed in accordance with their requirements.
Professional installation is equally important. Choosing the right panels and posts is only part of creating a fence that’s capable of dealing with Somerset’s weather. Proper foundations, fixings and installation all contribute to the finished result.
What About Existing Fences?
Not every damaged fence needs to be completely replaced. If the problem is limited to one or two panels or posts, a repair may be all that’s needed.
However, if the fence is showing widespread rot, movement or structural damage, replacing the entire run can often be the more sensible option. Continuing to repair an ageing fence every time there’s a storm can quickly become more expensive than investing in a new, durable boundary.
Get Your Garden Ready for Winter
With autumn underway, now is a great time to take care of your fencing before the worst of the winter weather arrives. A strong boundary can provide privacy and security while also giving your garden a smart, finished appearance.
Whether you need to replace an existing fence, repair storm damage or install a completely new boundary, DH Landscapes can help homeowners across Taunton and Somerset choose a solution that’s right for their property.
With over 15 years of experience, more than 30 five-star reviews, and our status as a Jacksons Fencing Approved Installer, we can provide professional advice and installation from start to finish.
If you’re considering new garden fencing in Taunton or Somerset, get in touch with DH Landscapes for a free, no-obligation quote before winter arrives.
