Learn all about the hazards to fencing that are found underground.
Fences are exposed to many risks being out in the open all of the time. Some hazards to fencing that may come to mind include storms or damage from objects that fall on them from above, but be wary of other hazards too. For example, did you know that there are many dangers to your fencing buried beneath the ground? Knowing these hidden threats to your fence is just as important as knowing the ones found in plain sight. Learn all about the hazards to fencing that are found underground.
Frost Heave
When winter comes around, we enjoy watching the frost that welcomes the season. Sadly, frost is a natural enemy of fences and doesn’t make them feel welcomed. Fence posts are often rooted in dirt. Snow, being a type of water, will dampen the dirt. Then, because of cold winter temperatures, the water will freeze. This makes the dirt begin solidifying, and it will even expand. The expansion process results in what we know as “frost heave”. This phenomenon involves having soil get moved, which results in fence posts getting dislodged from their proper places.
To protect yourself against frost heave, give your soil some coarse gravel and sand. These will help your fence posts stay buried and assist with drainage.
Beware of Rotting Fence Posts
You should always ensure that your fence posts can be buried inside of dirt. Going with other options to try and save money will backfire when you start having rotting fence posts. Fence posts have to go to a factory to get pressure-treated. It’s this pressure-treatment process that gives the fence posts their resistance to rotting. You’d also be best having a strong drainage system and some pebbles along your fence post hole.
Trees and Shrubs Can Be Problematic
Get the measurements of trees and shrubs near your fencing. You need these measurements so you can know if their roots will spread closer to your fence posts. The roots could pull your fence posts out of their proper places and damage your fence.
If you’re thinking of installing trees, don’t install them anywhere near your fencing so you can avoid running into future problems.
Choose Hercules Fence Northern Virginia for All of Your Fencing Needs!
Hercules Fence Northern Virginia has countless fencing options for your home and commercial property. Whether you are excited about a beautiful vinyl chain link fence or already planning out your custom wood commercial fence, we are ready to help you frame and secure your property. Hercules Fence Northern Virginia has been providing homeowners with quality fences for over 50 years. We are well equipped to meet your needs, whether they are residential or commercial. Contact us to see how a beautiful wood fence can protect your property by giving us a call at 703-551-2609 or visiting us online. To see examples of our work, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, Pinterest, and Flickr.
