The beginning of winter is firmly setting in here in the UK, and as the temperatures drop and the weather shifts, you can do a few things to prepare your garden, or more so, your composite fencing and decking for the colder months.
Preparing your outdoor space for the upcoming season is something that people tend to focus more on during summer. However, the same goes for winter, just in reverse. Preparing your outdoor space for winter is equally important, especially if you have composite decking or fencing! This involves buying new plants, setting out garden furniture, and sweeping away the debris of past seasons.
Why do we prepare our fencing and decking for winter?
Although composite fencing is known for its durability and reliability, it is not completely indestructible. While it has a much higher chance of standing strong in harsh weather conditions and has fewer drawbacks than natural timber, there are some simple tasks that you can perform early on and a few maintenance tips you can follow during winter to keep your fence in great condition!
Batten down the hatches by trimming any loose branches
The first port of call regarding fencing and decking maintenance in winter is to ensure any low-hanging or loose branches are trimmed back. If your garden is full of trees it’s always wise to go out and check for any loose overhanging branches. You don’t want any of these falling down on your decking or fencing during a nasty storm.
As robust as your composite decking and fencing is, a heavy object falling on top of it can cause damage. So, it’s best to move anything heavy and prone to falling in strong winds like overhanging branches. The same goes for heavy plant pots and fencing decor. Put them safely away or ensure they’re firmly in place and are unlikely to move, even in gusty weather.
Clear up any debris and dirt
After trimming all the stray branches and plants and securing anything prone to movement, it’s time to start cleaning. This involves removing all the plant debris like sticks, twigs and dirt that has accumulated over the months.
Start by collecting any larger pieces and add them to your compost heap if you have one (waste not want not!). Then, move on to the smaller pieces, and finally, clean up any remaining dirt with a dustpan and brush. Be sure to check the top and bottom of your fence for any hidden debris and scoop it all out, ensuring every crevice is clear. Once you’re satisfied that everything is tidy, use a mild soap and a cloth to wash down your fence and decking gently. You can use a soft-bristled brush to scrub off any dirt if necessary.
Maintain your handiwork
Now that you’ve finished all the major tasks, it’s important to maintain your hard work. Make sure to keep an eye on your fencing and decking and inspect everything regularly to ensure that everything stays in good condition. If you notice any debris building up after any strong winds or rain, try to clear it up as soon as possible – little and often is the golden rule! Doing this means you can avoid having to do another big clean before spring. If you stay on top of everything, your garden should be ready to go for winter!
It’s these simple tasks that will make your life so much easier come springtime and keep your fence and decking spick-and-span all winter for any Christmas parties you may be hosting – remember, gardens aren’t just for summer, after all.
It’s also never too late to get your composite decking or fencing! If you want to give your garden a sturdy and stylish revamp before the new year, that’s where we can help at North Valley Composites! We supply composite fence boards in various shades, including natural Golden Oak and bold, more contemporary shades like Black Ash and Driftwood.
Feel free to give us a call on 01282 677 300, and a member of our friendly team will be more than happy to help you find the perfect fit for your garden!
Winter decking and fencing checklist
The beginning of winter is firmly setting in here in the UK, and as the temperatures drop and the weather shifts, you can do a few things to prepare your garden, or more so, your composite fencing and decking for the colder months.
Preparing your outdoor space for the upcoming season is something that people tend to focus more on during summer. However, the same goes for winter, just in reverse. Preparing your outdoor space for winter is equally important, especially if you have composite decking or fencing! This involves buying new plants, setting out garden furniture, and sweeping away the debris of past seasons.
Why do we prepare our fencing and decking for winter?
Although composite fencing is known for its durability and reliability, it is not completely indestructible. While it has a much higher chance of standing strong in harsh weather conditions and has fewer drawbacks than natural timber, there are some simple tasks that you can perform early on and a few maintenance tips you can follow during winter to keep your fence in great condition!
Batten down the hatches by trimming any loose branches
The first port of call regarding fencing and decking maintenance in winter is to ensure any low-hanging or loose branches are trimmed back. If your garden is full of trees it’s always wise to go out and check for any loose overhanging branches. You don’t want any of these falling down on your decking or fencing during a nasty storm.
As robust as your composite decking and fencing is, a heavy object falling on top of it can cause damage. So, it’s best to move anything heavy and prone to falling in strong winds like overhanging branches. The same goes for heavy plant pots and fencing decor. Put them safely away or ensure they’re firmly in place and are unlikely to move, even in gusty weather.
Clear up any debris and dirt
After trimming all the stray branches and plants and securing anything prone to movement, it’s time to start cleaning. This involves removing all the plant debris like sticks, twigs and dirt that has accumulated over the months.
Start by collecting any larger pieces and add them to your compost heap if you have one (waste not want not!). Then, move on to the smaller pieces, and finally, clean up any remaining dirt with a dustpan and brush. Be sure to check the top and bottom of your fence for any hidden debris and scoop it all out, ensuring every crevice is clear. Once you’re satisfied that everything is tidy, use a mild soap and a cloth to wash down your fence and decking gently. You can use a soft-bristled brush to scrub off any dirt if necessary.
Maintain your handiwork
Now that you’ve finished all the major tasks, it’s important to maintain your hard work. Make sure to keep an eye on your fencing and decking and inspect everything regularly to ensure that everything stays in good condition. If you notice any debris building up after any strong winds or rain, try to clear it up as soon as possible – little and often is the golden rule! Doing this means you can avoid having to do another big clean before spring. If you stay on top of everything, your garden should be ready to go for winter!
It’s these simple tasks that will make your life so much easier come springtime and keep your fence and decking spick-and-span all winter for any Christmas parties you may be hosting – remember, gardens aren’t just for summer, after all.
It’s also never too late to get your composite decking or fencing! If you want to give your garden a sturdy and stylish revamp before the new year, that’s where we can help at North Valley Composites! We supply composite fence boards in various shades, including natural Golden Oak and bold, more contemporary shades like Black Ash and Driftwood.
Feel free to give us a call on 01282 677 300, and a member of our friendly team will be more than happy to help you find the perfect fit for your garden!