Here in Oklahoma, summer doesn’t just mean sunshine and cookouts, it also means strong winds, sudden downpours, and the occasional severe storm system sweeping through. Your fence is one of the first lines of defense for your home and yard, but it’s also one of the most vulnerable.
If your fence is older, slightly leaning, or was installed with light-duty materials, it may not survive another powerful storm season. The good news? Reinforcing your fence doesn’t have to be expensive or complicated. Here’s a practical guide to help you strengthen your fence before the next thunderstorm rolls in.
Inspect Your Fence for Weak Points
Walk the entire length of your fence and take note of:
- Rotting wood, especially near the base where water tends to collect
- Loose or rusted nails and screws
- Leaning posts or gaps where posts meet the soil
- Broken or warped pickets and panels
Bring a notepad or your phone and snap pictures to keep track of trouble spots.
Tighten Loose Hardware
One of the quickest ways to add stability is to reinforce all your fasteners:
- Tighten any screws or bolts with a drill or wrench.
- Replace rusty nails or screws with galvanized alternatives that resist rust.
- Add extra brackets at corners and gate areas where stress is highest.
Pro Tip: Use L-brackets at the base of fence panels for added rigidity.
Reinforce or Replace Fence Posts
The strength of your fence starts at the post level. Here’s what to do:
- Check for wobble: Push each post to see if it moves. Posts should feel solid.
- Add concrete footing: If a post is leaning or unstable, dig around it and pour in quick-set concrete.
- Install metal post anchors: These can be driven into the ground to support a weakened post and are especially helpful if you can’t dig and pour new concrete.
In some cases, replacing a post entirely may be the smartest long-term solution.
Add Wind Bracing
Bracing your fence can prevent swaying and collapse during high winds:
- Install horizontal supports between posts to reduce flexing.
- Use diagonal bracing in corners and along long stretches of fencing.
- Anchor your gate with heavy-duty hinges and a drop rod to lock it into place.
For wood fences, choose treated lumber to prevent rot where it contacts soil or moisture.
Clear Debris and Trim Overhanging Branches
Heavy winds love to turn debris into projectiles. Be proactive:
- Remove leaves, branches, and clutter near your fence line.
- Trim overhanging tree limbs that could fall and crush panels during storms.
- Ensure the ground drains away from the fence so water doesn’t pool and weaken the structure.
Consider Upgrading Materials for Long-Term Resilience
If your fence is showing significant wear or is more than 15 years old, consider investing in an upgrade:
- Steel posts can replace wooden ones for added strength without changing the look of the fence.
- Vinyl and composite fencing resist moisture and wind better than traditional wood.
- Treated cedar or redwood offers excellent longevity and storm resistance.
A professional evaluation can help you decide if repairs are enough or if a new installation is the smarter move.
Call the Storm-Proofing Pros Before the Next Front Moves In
If you’re not sure where to start or don’t have the time to DIY, let the professionals at TaylorMade Exteriors help.
We offer fence inspections, repairs, and full replacements designed to withstand Oklahoma’s toughest storms. With decades of experience serving the Oklahoma City Metro and surrounding areas, we know what it takes to build fences that last, season after season.
Schedule your free storm-readiness fence check today!
Click here or call (405) 896-4949 to book a visit before the next storm hits.
Your fence protects your home—make sure it’s ready.
With TaylorMade Exteriors, you get craftsmanship you can count on and local service that shows up when it matters most.
