A snow fence is a type of barrier that you can place to stop the wind and direct it in a certain way. This is a very useful tool in northern states with heavy winter snow. You can place it in open and windy areas. It slows down the wind speed.
This makes snow fall before it reaches roads or runways. Today, you will learn snow fence working and its different applications. I have also explained the right method you should follow to install a snow fence.
What is a Snow Fence Used For?
You can use a snow fence to control blowing snow. You have to install these barriers when snow leads to safety risks in an area. For example, snow can build up on airport runways. As a result, it can delay or cancel flights.
Hence, people cannot travel safely, which stops air traffic. Therefore, you must install a snow fence around the airport runway to block wind-blown snow.
What Does a Snow Fence Look Like?
You will mostly find a snow fence as a long and strong barrier. It is made of wood, plastic or metal. Snow fences have gaps or slats that let some wind pass through to reduce its speed. You will see it stand tall along roads or open areas. Its design gathers snow safely behind the fence.
How Does a Snow Fence Work?
Airflow & Snow Deposition
The main function of a snow fence is to control the wind and its direction. When the wind hits the fence, it slows down. This way, the snow carried by the fence falls to the ground.
With the installation of a fence at the right spot, you can also choose where the snow will gather. The gaps in the fence guide airflow and you will see snow collect safely behind it.
Placement and Orientation
The location where you install a snow fence is very important for its working. You should place it upwind of the area that you want to protect. The fence must be put across the wind direction, not with it. In this way, the speed of wind will decrease and snow collects where you want it.
Fence Design & Materials
The way a snow fence is made directly affects its performance. So, they are designed to be strong and long lasting. If we talk about snow fence material, you can find it in wood, plastic(PP or PE), metal, and vinyl.
The size of gaps in the snow fence also affects its working. For example: large gaps let too much wind pass through. And, small gaps can block the wind completely.
Snow Storage Capacity
The ability to hold snow depends on snow fence height, porosity (how dense it is), length and placement. For instance: when you install taller snow fences, the capacity to hold snow will definitely be much more.
It will work best to trap blowing snow with 40 to 50% porosity. With the right fence, you can make snow build up to as much as 35 times the fence’s height on the downwind side.
Modern Improvements in Snow Fences
The advanced snow fences are also available in the market. They work better because of new designs and materials. Further, you can adjust their height and the gaps between slats to manage their proper working.
Engineers used strong materials to make a snow fence. So, they can stand stable and can handle heavy snow too. These improvements are useful for you to guide snow safely and keep your roads & runways clear.
Additional Uses of Snow Fences Beyond Snow Control
Snow fences are not only used to handle snow. You can also use them in many other ways to protect your land and property.
Crowd Control: As we all know, different types of barriers are used to control crowds. However, you can also use a snow fence instead of a barrier for this purpose. With these fences, you can make your events safe and more organized.
Construction Fencing: You can install snow fences at your construction sites. With them, you can block wind and keep dust or debris in place. You can also protect your workers and reduce workplace hazards.
Land and Trail Protection: Snow fences are commonly placed to protect land and trails. Because, they slow down wind and prevent soil and sand movement. This keeps your paths and natural areas safe and stable for people and wildlife, too.
Dog Fencing: The use of a snow fence for dogs is the most popular practice. You can create a secure area where your pets can play without running away. This way, you can control their movement and protect them from danger.
How To Install Snow Fence?
The proper way to install snow fence is to plan carefully and decide the right location. Therefore, you have to consider the following factors for snow fence installation.
Dimensions: You have to choose the right size of snow fence based on wind & snow conditions. Generally, snow fences which are 4-8 feet tall are a good option. You must place them around 35 times their height upwind from the location. Also, the fence should extend 20 times its height at each end.
Fence Posts: You have to place posts of fence approx. 8 feet apart with a 6 inch gap at the bottom. So, they can hold the fence and keep it stable. We recommend you to use treated wood or metal posts for maximum strength.
Fencing: It is the main part of the snow fence and important to consider for right installation. Further, it can be made of wood, plastic or metal. You need to attach a fence with posts and make sure it is straight & upright.
Snow Fence Location
- Roads and Railways: You can install snow fences at roads or railways to keep snow off roads and tracks. It improves safety and visibility.
- Farms: Snow fences are widely placed at farms. They protect crops and control snow for water storage.
- Ski Resorts: At ski resorts, snow fences used to increase snow in specific areas and control avalanches.
- Construction Sites: You must install snow fences at your work sites to reduce wind and dust damage.
- Schools and Universities: Snow fences are used in educational institutions to prevent snow buildup in walkways and parking areas.
- Golf Courses: You can put snow fences on golf courses to protect its greens and fairways from snow drifts and wind damage.
Snow Fence Manufacturers
JACKWIN is a leading snow fence manufacturer and supplier in China. We have more than 18 years of experience in this industry. Our engineers produce high-quality snow fences made of wood, plastic & metal.
All our snow fences are highly visible, flexible and available at factory price. These properties make them suitable for your roads, airports, farms, school & construction projects.
Moreover, we provide a variety of options in snow fences. These include heavy-duty/lightweight plastic fences, colored snow netting, roof fences, and T/Y posts for easy installation. We also provide customization in size, color, and mesh spacing to fit your different needs.
Snow Fence Alternatives
Sometimes snow fences may not be practical due to space, cost, requirements or maintenance. In such cases, you can use other types of barriers to control snow and protect areas.
- Orange safety fences
- Temporary fence panels
- Living snow fence
- Plastic barriers (for temporary use)
- Snow blowers or plows
- Barrier mesh
FAQs
How Long Do Snow Fences Last?
Snow fences can last many years if you use strong materials and maintain them well. Wooden fences may last 15 to 20 years, while plastic or metal fences can last 20-50 years or more. With proper installation and care, you can keep the snow fence lasting longer.
How To Properly Use a Snow Fence?
You should place a snow fence across the direction of the main wind. Must leave a small gap at the bottom. In places with heavy snow, you may need a taller fence or multiple fences. You need to make sure the posts are secure to handle strong winds.
What is the Angle of a Snow Fence?
A snow fence should be placed perpendicular (90°) to the main winter wind. You can tilt it slightly, up to about 25°. Keep in mind, the fence works best when it is the right distance from the area you want to protect.
Will Snow Fence Keep Deer Out?
A standard snow fence (4 feet tall) is not enough to keep deer out. Because, they can easily jump over it. To stop deer, you need a taller fence, that is 8 feet or more tall. The other option is that you can use a barrier plus a fence combination.
Conclusion
So, a snow fence is a simple and effective tool that you can use to control drifting snow. You can improve safety, protect your property plus keep roads or open areas clear.
With proper design and placement, you can guide snow where you want it. For further inquiries about snow fences, you can send a message to our team.
