November through February is peak storm season on Vancouver Island, with multiple systems bringing sustained winds of 80 to 120 km/h and gusts exceeding 140 km/h in exposed areas. Metal fencing and gates are engineered for normal wind loads, but severe storms can cause damage if structures are not properly secured. These simple preparation steps can prevent expensive repairs.
Secure All Gates
The single most important step: ensure every gate is securely latched or locked before storms hit. An unlatched gate becomes a sail in high winds, swinging violently between its stops and generating impact loads that can tear hinges from posts, bend frames, and crack welds. For gates that will not be used during storm season, consider using a padlock or chain to hold them in the closed position. For double gates, use a cane bolt or drop rod to secure the stationary leaf.
Remove Wind-Catching Attachments
Privacy screens, shade cloth, banners, signage, and any fabric or panel attachments to metal fencing dramatically increase wind loading. These materials turn a fence into a wall, catching wind force the structure was not designed for. Remove or roll up any wind-catching materials before major storms. This single step prevents the majority of storm-related fence failures.
Check for Weak Points
Walk your fence line and gate installations looking for loose posts that wobble at ground level, fence panels that have pulled away from brackets, missing or broken fasteners, and any corrosion-weakened sections. A fence panel that is loose in calm weather will fail first in a storm. Tighten, repair, or replace weak sections before wind season peaks.
After the Storm
If your metal structures survive a major storm without visible damage, do a post-storm inspection anyway. Wind loading can loosen fasteners, shift posts slightly, and stress welds in ways that are not immediately obvious. Check gate alignment and operation, fence post plumbness, and all connection points for loosening.
Storm damage to your fencing or gates? Call T & C Fabrication at 250-202-1643 for mobile repair service across Vancouver Island. We respond quickly after major storms.
