Preparing Your Fence for Washoe Zephyr Winds This Fall
The Washoe Zephyr is a daytime downslope wind that sweeps across western Nevada just east of the Sierra Nevada Mountains. In fact, Mark Twain also mentioned these powerful winds back in 1872, describing how flimsy houses could easily be blown away by their force. Likewise, people with fences around their homes face an additional challenge, as the Washoe Zephyr winds can damage or even tear down their fences.
With speeds reaching almost 30 or even 35 miles per hour, these wind usually kicks in during the late afternoon. During this time, your property can take a serious beating, and your fence can be left broken and tattered or blown away altogether. So, what can you do, especially since these winds appear every year?
In this blog, we will take a look at how you can ensure Washoe Zephyr fence protection, what makes the Washoe Zephyr so destructive, and how to inspect your fence for weak spots. We will also discuss the repair methods to consider before the winds strike again and when to call a professional fence contractor in Reno, NV, to get the job done right.
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The Washoe Zephyr Fence Inspection Checklist
Before the Washoe Zephyr arrives, do the following:
- Push gently against fence posts to check for movement
- Look for leaning sections
- Check posts for rot, cracks, or corrosion
- Tighten loose bolts & screws
- Check gate & hinge latches
- Replace cracked or missing boards
- Check for rusting metal components
- Check fence footings for cracking
- Trim vegetation close to the fence
- Photograph existing damage before the next major wind event
What Exactly Is the Washoe Zephyr and Why Does It Damage Fences?
As mentioned earlier, the Washoe Zephyr is a seasonal diurnal wind that occurs across western Nevada. It is caused by intense heat over the Great Basin on summer afternoons when the desert floor heats up.
This can cause hot air to rise, creating a low-pressure area near the ground. However, cooler air remains over the Sierra Nevada Mountains. The resulting pressure difference pulls the cooler air down from the mountains and across the Reno area, creating strong westerly winds.
During this time, Reno fence contractors commonly receive calls to repair wind-damaged fences. But regular fence maintenance in Reno, NV, can help homeowners identify weak posts, loose panels, and other problems before strong winds cause more serious damage.
How Can You Inspect Your Fence for Wind Damage Before Fall Arrives?
Here is how you can prepare your fence before the Washoe Zephyr strikes, ideally during late summer or early fall:
Check Your Fence Posts
Fence posts form the backbone of your fence. So, they need to be sturdy enough to withstand high winds. To check for weak spots, walk around your fence and gently push on each post to see whether it moves, feels loose in the ground, or has cracks or signs of rot at the base.
When the posts are not firmly anchored, strong winds can put pressure on these weak spots and damage the entire structure.
Look at the Panels and Boards
Inspect every panel for splits, warping, or boards that have come loose from the rails. Usually, wooden fences can rot or suffer from insect damage; likewise, vinyl fences can develop cracks or become brittle. Metal fences, on the other hand, can develop rust spots that weaken their structural integrity.
Examine the Hardware
Hardware such as hinges, latches, bolts, and screws can become rusty and can snap under wind pressure. Be sure to tighten everything that is loose or replace anything that looks worn or corroded.
Check for Leaning or Sagging
Check your fence from a distance to see if it leans in any area or has sections that sag more than the others.
Inspect the Gate
Check the gates to see if they swing freely and latch securely. Inspect for sagging hinges, gaps between the gate and the frame, or loose posts. These are the areas where strong winds can put more pressure on the fence and cause damage.
Consider Wind-Resistant Design Features
Wind-resistant designs are recommended if you are planning to install a new fence or repair an existing one. Did you know that some fence styles are more affected by wind than others? Slatted, picket, and chain-link fences allow more air to pass through, which can reduce wind pressure.
Similarly, leaving small gaps between boards or using appropriate lightweight materials can help reduce the wind load. You can contact a fence contractor in Reno, NV, to find a solution best suited to your property.
Add Extra Bracing
Adding diagonal bracing can make a lot of difference when fences are exposed to strong winds. These structures can help transfer wind pressure from the panels down to the ground, thus reducing stress on the posts.
If you find any problems during your inspection, get them fixed immediately, as this can help you avoid a major fence repair bill due to wind damage later.
How Do Different Fence Materials Hold Up Against the Washoe Zephyr?
| Fence Type | Wind Exposure | Main Weakness | Maintenance Priority |
| Wood | Moderate | Rot, loose boards, solid panels | Posts, boards, sealing |
| Vinyl | Moderate | Cracking, brittle components | Posts and panels |
| Metal | Generally strong | Rust/corrosion, connections | Hardware and corrosion |
| Chain Link | Generally good | Posts, fittings, fabric damage | Posts and fittings |
What Should You Do Immediately After a Wind Storm?
Here are a few steps to take after a windstorm to minimize further problems. Most of these are similar to the steps you should take before the strong wind strikes:
Inspect Your Fence Right Away
Walk along the fence line as soon as the wind dies down. Check for new damage, leaning posts, broken hinges, loose boards, and sections that have fallen completely.
Make the Area Safe
If a portion of your fence has fallen and is blocking a walkway or road, move it away to a safe location. Likewise, mark any sharp edges or exposed nails to prevent injury.
Document the Damage
You can take photos of the damage, as they are important for insurance claims and can help you get repair estimates. You should take pictures from various angles, along with close-ups, to document structural issues.
Make Temporary Repairs
If only a certain section of your fence is damaged, temporary repairs are recommended. Use tarps, plywood, or fencing panels to cover the gaps until permanent repairs can be made.
Call a Professional
Wind damage fence repair is not a DIY project, so call a professional fence contractor in Reno, NV, to get your fence back to full strength quickly and safely.
How Can Regular Maintenance Protect Your Fence Long-Term?
Regular fence maintenance in Reno, NV, is highly recommended, as the Washoe Zephyr winds return every year. Here’s how to maintain your fence properly:
- Monthly Visual Inspections: Once a month, you need to check for rust spots, signs of rot, or leaning posts.
- Seasonal Deep Cleaning: Using mild soap and water, clean your fence at least twice a year. For metal fences, use an appropriate rust remover or treatment on rust spots. Likewise, for vinyl fences, a simple rinse and scrub are usually enough.
- Annual Hardware Check: Inspect every hinge, bolt, and latch at least once a year.
- Post-Wind Inspections: Sometimes, the damage is not immediately noticeable; hence, check for loose posts and other weak spots before they become more serious.
- Professional Inspections: Call experienced fence contractors in Reno, NV, who can spot problems that you might miss and recommend preventive measures.
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Final Thoughts
A strong fence is an essential feature for your property, helping protect your home, privacy, and family. The Washoe Zephyr winds have been a part of the valley for centuries, and they are not going to go away anytime soon. So, perform regular inspections, make timely repairs, and consider smart design choices to keep your fence standing tall and strong when the winds strike this season.
Protect Your Fence Before the Wind Hits With Artistic Fence Co.
Artistic Fence Co. is a family-owned business that has been serving customers since 1963. As a BBB-accredited company with a team of experienced local fence contractors in Reno we’re always ready to inspect your fence for damage and provide quick, reliable repairs.
And you don’t have to worry about the materials we use. We always choose quality materials that we’d feel confident installing in our own homes. We provide –
- Fence repair
- Fence installation
- Fence supplies
If you’re a Reno homeowner with wind-damaged fencing, do not wait for the next Washoe Zephyr to make the damage worse. Call our licensed company (Contractor’s License #7798A) at 775-786-6002 to schedule your inspection before minor issues turn into costly repairs.