When high winds and driving rain strike, a fence that isn't built to handle the pressure can collapse, creating safety risks and leaving your property unprotected. By choosing storm-resistant fencing, you save on repairs, maintain security, and ensure long-term value for your property.
How Asheville's Unique Landscape Affects Fencing
Anyone who has visited or lived in Asheville knows that our region features rolling hills and dramatic slopes. This rugged and picturesque backdrop can complicate fence installation because steep angles and uneven terrain can leave fences vulnerable to wind uplift or erosion around the posts.
In mountainous areas like Asheville:
- Wind gusts funnel around ridges and through valleys, increasing pressure on fence panels
- Heavy rainfall can waterlog soil, destabilizing fence posts
- Winter ice can add extra weight, stressing rails and boards
The region sits at a higher elevation, meaning we sometimes see weather patterns that swiftly shift from mild to harsh within a matter of days—or even hours. The frequent rainfall and occasional remnants of tropical storms, which can bring formidable gusts and torrential downpours, put outdoor structures to the test.
When planning a fence in Asheville's diverse terrain, consider these critical factors:
- Elevation: Higher spots often face more intense wind and precipitation
- Soil Type: Clay may retain water and loosen posts, while rocky soil requires strategic anchoring
- Slope: Steep grades can channel wind or promote runoff that undermines post foundations
Evaluating each site's unique features helps determine the best fencing materials and designs for your specific location.
Storm-Resistant Fencing Materials: Pros and Cons
1. Wood Fences
Wood fences offer classic appeal but require smart construction to withstand storms:
- Durable Wood: Cedar or pressure-treated pine resists rot and moisture better than softer species
- Robust Hardware: Galvanized brackets and screws anchor boards firmly and help prevent rust
- Board Spacing: Solid fences block wind entirely, creating more pressure. A board-on-board or shadowbox style can reduce wind load
- Regular Sealing: Applying stains or sealants repels moisture, extending the fence's lifespan
With diligent care, a wood fence can weather Asheville's storms for many years while providing natural beauty and warmth to your landscape.
2. Chain-Link Fences
Chain-link fences excel at storm resistance. Their open mesh:
- Minimizes Wind Load: Air passes freely, leaving less stress on fence posts
- Offers Durability: Galvanized or vinyl-coated steel holds up in damp climates
- Requires Low Maintenance: Occasional inspections suffice, as there's little need to paint or seal
Though they lack privacy, chain-link fences are dependable and budget-friendly for windy or exposed areas.
3. Vinyl Fences
Vinyl fences have become popular for a clean, modern look. Their storm performance depends on:
- Thick Panels: High-quality vinyl resists cracking under wind pressure
- Sturdy Posts: Posts set deep in concrete keep the fence stable
- Flexible Rails: Some vinyl fences flex slightly to dissipate force without breaking
If you invest in top-tier vinyl and proper installation, these fences can handle fierce storms and require minimal upkeep, making them an excellent long-term investment.
4. Ornamental Steel and Aluminum Fences
Metal fences blend visual appeal with strength. Their vertical pickets:
- Allow Wind Flow: Gaps reduce the sail effect that can topple solid fences
- Resist Rust: Aluminum is naturally corrosion-resistant; steel can be galvanized or coated
- Stay Secure: Quality posts and fasteners keep panels upright even in gusty conditions
While not fully private, ornamental fences handle mountain winds and rain admirably while adding elegance to your property.
5. Farm and Agricultural Fences
Rural properties around Asheville need fencing that withstands storms and livestock:
- Wooden Post-and-Board: Pressure-treated boards anchored in concrete resist wind and animal pressure
- High-Tensile Wire: Thicker gauges hold up in severe conditions
- Regular Checks: Loose boards or wire can fail quickly under storm stress if ignored
Farm fences might seem simple, yet they must be installed thoughtfully to remain secure through storms and daily wear from animals.
Critical Installation Methods for Storm Resistance
In regions with hilly or uneven terrain, proper installation methods are crucial for ensuring a fence's durability, particularly against storm damage:
- Racking or Stepping: Aligning the fence with the natural slope of the land keeps panels stable and minimizes strain caused by strong winds
- Deeper Footings: Digging extra-deep post holes ensures the structure remains firmly anchored, especially in areas prone to gusty winds or soil erosion
- Drainage Solutions: Properly diverting water flow around the fence prevents soil from washing away, preserving the integrity of the posts over time
- Site-Specific Planning: Evaluating each property's unique characteristics is the foundation of a resilient fence installation
A fence is only as strong as its installation method, particularly in Asheville's challenging terrain.
Gate Considerations: The Most Vulnerable Point
A gate bears intense strain in a storm. Wind can push or slam it, so design is crucial:
- Strong Frames: Even a wood gate can use a metal frame for rigidity
- Quality Hardware: Heavy-duty hinges and latches hold tight despite gusts
- Gate Post Depth: A sturdy post foundation keeps the gate from sagging or detaching
Large gates for vehicles or farm equipment need even more support and possibly an automatic opener to resist wind gusts. Gates are often the first component to fail in severe weather, making their proper construction essential.
Maintenance for Long-Term Storm Readiness
Regular care helps fences hold up over time in Asheville's changing seasons:
- Inspection After Storms: Identify leaning posts, loose hardware, or damaged boards
- Prompt Repairs: Fix minor issues before they become major headaches
- Frequent Sealing: Wood fences especially need restaining or resealing to prevent rot
Spring's heavy rains can saturate the soil, causing fence posts to shift. Summer's heat and humidity create perfect conditions for rot and mildew. Fall brings accumulating leaves that trap moisture around posts, and winter's freeze-thaw cycle can crack boards and loosen posts.
Maintenance ultimately saves money by extending your fence's service life and preventing catastrophic failures during storms.
Balancing Aesthetics and Durability
Fences serve multiple purposes, from providing privacy and security to enhancing a property's aesthetics. When choosing a storm-resistant fence, consider:
- Wood fences bring natural charm but require regular maintenance
- Chain-link fences offer durability and budget-friendliness but minimal privacy
- Vinyl fences provide a sleek, low-maintenance solution when properly reinforced
- Ornamental metal fences deliver elegance and wind resistance with an open design
Selecting the right fence means balancing functionality with aesthetics to ensure it complements both your property's style and your specific needs while still standing up to Asheville's weather challenges.
Cost Considerations: Investment vs. Long-Term Value
A robust fence is an investment. Choosing higher-quality materials and expert installation often pays off in:
- Fewer Repairs: Storm-resistant fencing won't require frequent fixes
- Longer Life: Durable materials extend the fence's utility
- Property Value: A well-built fence boosts a home's market appeal
When comparing costs of different materials:
- Wood fences: Affordable upfront but require more frequent maintenance
- Chain-link fences: Budget-friendly for both installation and maintenance
- Vinyl fences: Higher initial cost but lower maintenance expenses
- Ornamental metal fences: Most expensive option, offering elegance, durability, and weather resistance
When storms hit, a cheaper fence might fail completely, leading to costlier full replacements rather than simple repairs. Consider the total cost of ownership over time, not just the initial price tag.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Many fence failures stem from preventable errors:
- Skipping Permits or HOA Approval: Compliance issues lead to extra costs and potential removal
- Underestimating Wind Stress: Solid panels in high-wind zones often collapse; allow airflow if necessary
- Using Inferior Fasteners: Cheap nails may rust or loosen quickly
- Neglecting Regular Maintenance: Even durable materials can degrade if never inspected
Gates are particularly vulnerable because of:
- Poor Bracing: Without internal reinforcement, large gates can twist or sag
- Shallow Posts: A gate post that isn't set deeply may shift under storm conditions
- Inferior Hardware: Lightweight hinges struggle with repeated slamming or strong gusts
Upgrading gates and avoiding these common pitfalls can prevent repeated failures after each major storm.
Selecting the Right Fence for Your Property
Each property is different, but core questions to consider include:
- Primary Purpose: Privacy, security, containment, or aesthetics?
- Neighborhood Rules: Comply with any material or height limits
- Budget: Balance initial costs with long-term maintenance and repairs
- Preferences: Natural wood appearance or a modern vinyl look?
Action steps for Asheville homeowners:
- Assess your land: Note wind patterns, slopes, and soil drainage
- Consult professionals: Reliable fence installers understand local challenges
- Choose quality materials: Select options that match your needs and conditions
- Invest in good hardware: Hinges, latches, and fasteners must handle wind load
- Maintain consistently: Clean, repair, and reinforce to ward off bigger expenses later
If you still feel uncertain about which fence design or material will best suit your location, seeking professional input can clarify crucial details.
About Asheville Fence: Your Partner in Storm-Resistant Fencing
Since 1966, Asheville Fence has been a trusted provider of high-quality fencing solutions in Western North Carolina. With a rich history spanning over five decades, our family-owned business has established itself as the "go-to" fence and guardrail contractor for both the City of Asheville and the North Carolina Department of Transportation since the 1970s.
Our team comprises experienced professionals dedicated to delivering exceptional service. We understand Asheville's geology, weather patterns, and local regulations, ensuring your fence installation addresses the unique challenges of our region.
We offer a comprehensive range of fencing products and services tailored to meet the diverse needs of residential and commercial clients. From evaluating your property's specific conditions to recommending the most suitable materials and installation methods, we're committed to creating fences that withstand Western North Carolina's toughest storms.
We pride ourselves on providing free local estimates and maintaining the highest levels of customer service, quality construction, and professional integrity throughout every project phase, regardless of size. When you're ready to learn more about storm-resistant fencing, give us a call!