Jb Carpentry & Fencing - Plattsburgh's Professional Fencing Company

Frost heave happens when water in the soil freezes and expands, pushing fence posts upward or sideways. This is common in Plattsburgh's freeze-thaw cycles, especially in clay-heavy soil near Lake Champlain. Shallow-set posts are most vulnerable. We address this by excavating below the frost line (approx. 48 inches) and using gravel backfill for drainage, which prevents shifting.

Signs include bent or broken horizontal rails, sagging mesh, and posts leaning after ice storms. Ice buildup on chain links adds weight, stressing the framework. You might also see cracked concrete around posts. Our inspection checks for misalignment and rusted components. We then replace damaged sections and reinforce post connections to withstand future ice loads.

For new fences, we recommend installing posts with concrete footings extending below the frost line. For existing fences, we can retrofit with helical anchors or drive replacement posts deeper. We also suggest using pressure-treated wood or galvanized steel for durability. Our carpentry team ensures proper bracing and drainage around posts to minimize heave. Regular maintenance, like sealing cracks, helps extend fence life.