Do not pile snow against the fence
A metre of wet snow banked against a privacy fence applies serious lateral load, and it stays there for months. When clearing the driveway, throw snow parallel to the fence rather than into it, and leave a gap of at least 30 cm.
Keep the gate swing clear
Compacted ice under the gate is the number one reason gates stop working in February. Clear that arc after every significant snowfall, before it gets driven over and freezes solid.
Avoid salt directly against wood and hardware
Use sand or a non-chloride ice melt near the fence line. Chloride salts corrode hinge hardware, degrade wood fibre and can damage the powder coat on aluminum over repeated seasons.
Watch for frost heave mid-season
If a section starts leaning in January, note it and photograph it, but leave the repair until the ground thaws. Re-setting a post in frozen ground rarely holds. Book spring repairs early — the calendar fills quickly in April.
Quick checklist
- Snow thrown parallel to fence, not against it
- Gate swing arc cleared after each snowfall
- Sand or non-chloride melt used near fence line
- Leaning sections photographed for spring repair