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The Best Fences for Vernon BC Winters

Writer's picture: Wyatt OlsenWyatt Olsen

Vernon BC experiences cold, snowy winters, so choosing a fence that can endure harsh weather while still looking great is important if you want your fence to last. Installing a fence is an investment for your commercial or residential property, so you want to make sure you choose the best fence for Vernon BC winters and other seasons.


black metal corrugated fence with metal poles is one of the best fences for vernon bc winters that blue rhino fence offers

Here are our Blue Rhino Fence choices for the best fences for Vernon BC winters:

1. Chain-Link Fencing for North Okanagan Winter Climates


black powder coated industrial chain link fence protects a yard during a vernon bc winter

This one is probably the most obvious choice for a fence that will hold up to winter conditions around Vernon BC. Chain link requires little to no maintenance and stands the test of time, through all kinds of weather.

  • Pros of chain link fences:

    • Affordable and resilient in heavy snow and high winds.

    • Galvanized metal or powder coating provides rust protection from the elements.

  • Cons of chain link fences:

    • Limited privacy unless slats are added.

    • No weather protection for a property.

  • Pro Fence Building Tip for chain link fences: We use high-gauge wire to ensure a chain link fence will withstand the weight of snow and ice.

2. Wrought Iron (aka Ornamental Iron) Fences Stand Up to Winter Conditions


ornamental wrought iron fence in a winter backyard near vernon bc built by blue rhino fence ltd

Wrought Iron fences (also called Ornamental Iron fences) look classy and are excellent at holding up to the fluctuations we get in weather in the North Okanagan area. Here are the pros and cons of ornamental iron fences:

  • Pros of ornamental iron fences:

    • Strong and long-lasting in extreme weather.

    • Resistant to moisture and warping.

    • Sleek and modern look.

  • Cons of ornamental iron fences:

    • Wrought iron can rust if not coated properly.

    • No weather protection for the property because cold winds and snow can blow through the bars.

  • Pro Fencing Tip for wrought iron fences: Apply rust-proof coatings annually for extra protection.

3. Corrugated Metal (Aluminum, Steel, or Galvanized Iron) Fences Can be Extremely Winter Proof


black corrugated steel fence with black powder coated steel fence posts stands up to the winters around vernon bc

Corrugated metal fences with metal, powder-coated posts, are one of the most popular styles of fences in and around Vernon BC right now. These fences come in three types of metals—Aluminum, Steel, and Galvanized Iron—and each type has its positives and negatives. Blue Rhino usually uses steel for corrugated panels because it's the sturdiest and stands up to North Okanagan winters the best.

Regardless of the type of corrugated metal fence, overall they share some similar pros and cons for winter conditions: 

Pros of Corrugated Metal Fencing for Winter Conditions

  1. Durability

    • Resistant to snow, ice, and wind.

    • Withstands the weight of snow accumulation without warping or bending (especially with steel or thick aluminum).

  2. Corrosion Resistance

    • Materials like galvanized steel or aluminum are rust-resistant, making them ideal for wet and snowy conditions.

    • Powder-coated finishes enhance protection against moisture.

  3. Low Maintenance

    • Requires minimal upkeep; occasional cleaning is enough.

    • Does not need painting, staining, or sealing like wood.

  4. Weather Protection

    • Provides a solid barrier against wind and drifting snow, unlike open-style fences (eg. chain-link or ornamental iron).

  5. Longevity

    • Can last decades with proper installation and occasional maintenance, even through the harshest winter climates.

  6. Modern Aesthetic

    • Sleek, industrial look that works well in contemporary landscapes.

    • Can be combined with other materials like wood or concrete for added design appeal.

Cons of Corrugated Metal Fencing for Winter Conditions

  1. Temperature Sensitivity

    • Metal conducts heat and cold, which can make the surface icy or hot and uncomfortable to the touch.

    • Can expand and contract slightly with extreme temperature fluctuations, potentially causing wear over time (but we haven't experienced this).

  2. Snow and Ice Accumulation

    • Solid panels may cause more snow buildup around the fence, requiring regular clearing to prevent pressure against the base.

    • Snowmelt runoff can cause localized ice patches around the base.

  3. Rust Risk (for Steel)

    • Galvanized or untreated steel can rust over time if the protective coating is damaged, so it's important to inspect the fence every six months to make sure the powder coating is holding up.

  4. Noise

    • Metal fences can vibrate and make noise during strong winter winds (if not properly secured with proper post installation).

  5. Installation Costs

    • Heavier metals (like steel) may be more expensive to install due to their weight and need for greater structural support.

    • Aluminum options, while lighter, can also be costlier upfront.

Tips for Winter-Proofing Corrugated Metal Fencing

  • Choose the Right Material: Aluminum for rust resistance or galvanized (or coated) steel for strength.

  • Use High-Quality Coatings: Powder-coating or zinc galvanization can significantly extend the life of the fence.

  • Secure Installation: Use reinforced metal posts and deep foundations (minimum 3–4 feet) to prevent frost heave.

  • Drainage: Ensure proper water drainage around the fence to avoid snowmelt pooling and freezing at the base.

  • Windproofing: Anchor the panels firmly to reduce vibration and noise in windy conditions.


4. Vinyl Fencing as a Choice for Winter-Resistant Barriers

white vinyl fence built by blue rhino fence on a patio in vernon bc

Vinyl fences are not as common around Vernon BC as other places in the North Okanagan, but they are still a viable choice for a winter-resistant fence because of their durability and low maintenance. A plus is that they come in many different colours and styles, so they are quite customizable.


Many people believe vinyl fencing won't be good for climates with harsh winters, but Blue Rhino Fence uses commercial-grade vinyl and it's much hardier than the vinyl panels you'd find at stores like Home Depot or Home Hardware. However, it has some limitations in extreme conditions. Here’s a detailed look at the pros and cons of vinyl fencing in winter:



Pros of Vinyl Fencing in Winter Conditions

  1. Weather Resistance

    • Vinyl is highly resistant to moisture, meaning it won’t rot, warp, or crack due to exposure to snow and ice.

    • It is unaffected by rain or freezing temperatures, unlike wood or some metals.

  2. Low Maintenance

    • Does not require painting, staining, or sealing.

    • Easy to clean; snow and dirt can be removed with a quick rinse or brushing.

  3. Durability

    • Designed to withstand weather fluctuations without significant wear.

    • Unlike wood, it won’t splinter or degrade after repeated freeze-thaw cycles.

  4. Corrosion-Free

    • Vinyl does not rust or corrode, making it ideal for snowy and wet environments.

  5. Flexibility

    • Vinyl has some flexibility, allowing it to handle minor impacts from falling snow or windblown debris without breaking.

  6. Aesthetic Appeal

    • Available in various colours and styles that don’t fade or peel over time, even in harsh winter sun.



Cons of Vinyl Fencing in Winter Conditions

  1. Brittleness in Extreme Cold

    • Vinyl can become brittle in sub-zero temperatures, making it more susceptible to cracking or breaking upon impact (e.g., from heavy snow or debris).

    • Repeated cold stress can weaken older vinyl over time.

  2. Snow Load Pressure

    • Vinyl fences are not designed to bear heavy loads of snow or ice. Accumulation on or against the fence can cause stress and potential damage.

  3. Installation Challenges

    • Vinyl posts must be installed properly to avoid frost heave. If the posts aren’t deep enough, they may shift or loosen during freeze-thaw cycles.

  4. Cost

    • Vinyl fencing has a higher upfront cost compared to wood or chain-link options. However, its longevity often offsets the initial expense.

  5. Limited Customization After Installation

    • Once installed, vinyl fences are difficult to modify or repair seamlessly if damaged. Replacement panels may not perfectly match older ones.


Professional Fence Tips for Vinyl Fencing in Winter

  • Professional Installation: Ensure posts are installed deep enough (3–4 feet) to avoid frost heave.

  • Snow and Ice Management: Regularly clear heavy snow or ice buildup to reduce stress on the fence.

  • Choose Quality Materials: Look for vinyl fences with UV inhibitors and impact resistance to enhance performance in cold weather.

  • Reinforcement: For areas prone to heavy snow, consider reinforcing panels or posts to improve durability.


The other type of fencing common in winter climates is treated wood, but in our experience, treated wood fences require the most maintenance regardless of the outdoor conditions and just don't hold up as well as metal and vinyl fences do. We don't recommend them to our clients if they live in areas where there is a snow belt (such as outside Lumby, parts of Salmon Arm, Armstrong and Enderby) because they get bombarded by too much snow and then water during the spring melt.


a black powder coated chain link fence covered in snow

Whatever type of fence you choose to install here in the North Okanagan, it's important to keep these general tips in mind for winter fence longevity:

  • Proper Installation: Ensure posts are deep enough (minimum 3–4 feet) to avoid frost heave.

  • Drainage: Create proper drainage around the fence to prevent water accumulation during melt and freezing.

  • Snow Management: Regularly remove heavy snow to reduce stress on the fence structure.

  • Coatings and Treatments: Use waterproof treatments or coatings, especially for metal fences.


Considering Vernon’s snowy winters, metal fences and vinyl fences are the best choice for both aesthetics AND longevity.


Get in touch with Blue Rhino Fence today if you'd like to discuss the best fences for winters in Vernon BC and book a consult today!


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