Updated 1/5/2026

Some common misconceptions surround the idea of doing fence work during the winter, mostly having to do with frozen ground. We at Frederick Fence Company are happy to tell you that installing fences in winter is not only possible, but one of the BEST seasons in which to do so, even in temperatures that dip into the single digits! The benefits of having your fence completed during the winter offer extra convenience to you, our customer, but we will get into that more below.

Frederick Fence has over 40 years of experience installing fences in freezing temperatures. We have learned a thing or two through navigating different materials and methods during the winter months each year. We have the experience you can trust, which makes us top choice for your winter fencing needs. Did you just get a puppy for Christmas? Don’t wait, get an estimate right away so you can have your dog fence installed in January or February.  Want a fence before spring and it’s already winter? We’ve got you covered!

 

Digging and Post Depth

Fence posts require a depth of 24″-30″ per hole. This is well below the freeze line in and around the Frederick, MD area, which does not exceed 4-6″ in a typical winter. Below that frozen surface area, the ground stays around 50 degrees all winter long. In areas with lawn, there is an additional element keeping the ground from getting too cold: grass and its root system.

With respect to the actual digging, Frederick Fence crews do most of their posthole digging using a dingo or compact utility loader. A dingo will quickly break through the initial frozen layer of ground with ease. Complications can arise when a property does not have good access for one of these machines, meaning the crews will have to dig by hand. In these cases, the use of a digging bar and a little extra elbow grease usually gets the job done. 

 

Active Storms

In the event that a snow storm causes us to question road safety, we will err on the side of caution and postpone your installation for the safety of our crews. We will keep you posted and plan to come out when it is safe to do so. There is no need to wait for the snow to melt either. In fact, snow acts as an insulator to the ground beneath, allowing it to warm up slightly, as it is protected from the cold air above.  The crew will simply clear the snow from the fence line before they start digging.

 

Things to keep in mind

DON’T clear snow away from the path where the fence is going. We know you mean well, but when you push the snow away from the ground it will cause the ground to freeze, become icy, and make it harder for us to dig in that area.
Leave that natural insulation where it is so our guys don’t have to dig through ice and frozen ground.

DO clear snow away from any utility marks OR take photos of them before they are covered by snow. If these aren’t made clear and visible, the crew cannot see where they need to avoid digging, putting the utility lines in jeopardy.

DON’T postpone installation yourself.

DO let us make the call. If the weather is in a condition that will compromise the safety of the crew, or the integrity of your fence, we will call you and postpone.

DON’T be nervous!

DO trust your fence company! We are committed to the quality of your new fence! We would not put your investment in jeopardy on account of the weather.

 

Wintertime Fencing Benefits

It is no secret that winter is the slowest season not only for fence companies, but other outdoor construction type businesses as well. Homeowner’s are mainly focused on staying warm and indoors, paying little attention to the needs of their yards until springtime. Lead times drastically decrease from several weeks to 1-2 weeks around Christmastime. If you need a fence quickly or simply before spring, this is the time to call.

Customers who receive estimates during this period will benefit from our most competitive pricing, which is offered in an attempt to win your business. To further aid our customers with the cost involved in a fence project, we have partnered with a vendor that allows us to offer financing! 0% interest over an 18-month period or another minimum payment option with as low an interest rate as 9.9%. You can check out the Service Finance application on our website. 

 

There is no need to wait until the spring and summer months to get the fence you need. Give Frederick Fence a call or request a quote today! You’ll be glad you did.

301-663-4000