Professional Wood and Vinyl Fencing in Merrill, WI 54452 - Koehler Fencing

The main cause is frost heave—when water in the soil freezes and expands, pushing fence posts upward. Combined with Merrill's clay-heavy soils, this shifting can tilt posts and loosen rails. Koehler Fencing solves this by setting posts below the frost line (about 4 feet) and using concrete footings with gravel for drainage.

Look for signs like gaps between the fence and gate, uneven rail lines, or posts that lean away from vertical. Also check for cracks in concrete around the base or soil pulling away from the post. If you notice any of these, call Koehler Fencing for an inspection before the problem worsens.

For Merrill's freeze-thaw cycles, we recommend vinyl or rot-resistant treated wood like cedar or pressure-treated pine. Steel or aluminum posts with concrete footings are also excellent. Koehler Fencing uses corrosion-resistant hardware and proper drainage to prevent water damage, ensuring your fence lasts for decades.