The upcoming Summer is expected to be quite hot in Townsville this year. High heat can have various effects on fences and we would like to address and hopefully prevent some wear on your fence!
Here are some potential impacts:
Expansion and Contraction: High temperatures can cause materials like metal, wood, or vinyl to expand. When the temperature cools down, these materials contract. This constant expansion and contraction can lead to warping, bending, or cracking in the fence components.
Color Fading: Prolonged exposure to intense sunlight and heat can cause color fading in painted or stained fences. This is particularly true for wooden fences that have been treated with certain finishes.
Drying and Cracking: Wooden fences are susceptible to drying out in hot and arid conditions. This can result in the wood becoming brittle, leading to cracks or splinters.
Loosening of Fasteners: The heat can cause materials to soften, and this may result in the loosening of screws, nails, or other fasteners holding the fence together. This can weaken the overall structure of the fence.
Vinyl Distortion: Vinyl fences may soften and warp in extremely high temperatures. This distortion can affect the appearance and structural integrity of the fence.
Soil Shifting: Intense heat can lead to soil drying out and shrinking. This soil movement can affect the stability of fence posts, potentially causing them to shift or become uneven.
Degradation of Materials: Prolonged exposure to high temperatures and UV radiation can cause materials like plastic and rubber to degrade over time. This can affect the flexibility and strength of certain fence components.
To mitigate the impact of heat on your fence, consider the following measures:
Choose materials that are resistant to heat and UV radiation such as colorbond fencing.
Apply protective coatings to wooden fences to enhance their durability.
Ensure proper installation with secure fastening to minimise the effects of expansion and contraction.
Provide shade for the fence where possible to reduce direct exposure to sunlight.
Regular maintenance and inspections are crucial to identify and address any issues promptly, helping to extend the lifespan of your fence in a hot climate like Townsville.
If you would like to chat to us about your fencing with our experts, feel free to contact us.
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