Built to Last: What Makes a Great Fence in Thunder Bay’s Climate

When it comes to building a fence in Thunder Bay, looks are only part of the equation. Sure, you want something that adds to your curb appeal but around here, it also needs to stand up to strong winds, shifting ground, and long winters. A fence should offer privacy, hold up through the seasons, and stay solid for years to come.

At Hardland Landscape, we design and build fences with all of that in mind. We use high-quality materials, proven techniques, and a deep understanding of the local climate to make sure your fence not only looks great but lasts.

Here’s what makes a truly reliable fence in Northern Ontario and why cutting corners just doesn’t cut it. Let’s start with the foundation: the posts. They might seem like a small detail, but they play a huge role in how your fence holds up over time.

Why We Choose 6x6 Fence Posts Over 4x4s

It might not seem like a big deal but post size makes a big difference. Many fences are built using 4x4 posts, which might seem sturdy at first. But as soon as that fence is in and the wind picks up, like it often does around here, you’ll start to see wobble. Over time, that shaking wears down the base, loosens the concrete, and leads to leaning or failure.

We use 6x6 posts for every fence installation because they offer a sturdier, more wind-resistant foundation. Once they're in the ground, you can try shaking them, but they won’t budge. And that means peace of mind when those strong Northern winds roll through.

Anchored Deep to Beat the Frost

Frost heave is no joke in Thunder Bay. With our long winters and deep freezes, the ground doesn’t just freeze, it shifts. When posts aren’t installed deep enough, that freeze-thaw cycle pushes them up and out of place, leaving you with a fence that’s crooked, cracked, or worse.

That’s why we dig every post at least four feet deep, well below the frost line. Going deeper helps anchor the structure in stable ground, keeping it from moving when the topsoil starts to shift in late winter or early spring.

It might not be the flashiest part of the job, but it’s one of the most important. This extra depth gives your fence a stronger footing and helps prevent costly repairs down the road.

Double-Sided Design: Because Both Sides Should Look Great

Nobody wants to be the neighbour with the “bad side” of the fence. Our custom fences are built with a decorative finish on both sides, so it looks polished from every angle, yours and your neighbour’s.

We also prioritize full-privacy designs, meaning no gaps to peek through and no awkward shared views. Just clean lines, quality materials, and a fence that fits your space.

Designed to Match Your Yard and Lifestyle

No two yards are the same and your fence shouldn’t be either. Whether you’ve got a wide open property or a compact backyard, your space comes with its own challenges, priorities, and personality.

That’s why we take the time to understand how you use your yard and what you want from your fence. Need something taller for extra privacy? A custom stain to match your home’s exterior? A style that works with your existing landscaping or garden beds? We’ve got you covered.

From decorative top rails to clean, modern lines or a classic wood finish, we build fences that complement your space while serving a purpose. It's not just about boundaries, it’s about building something that fits your lifestyle and enhances your property for years to come.

Why It’s Worth Doing Right the First Time

A fence isn’t just a weekend project, it’s an investment in your home’s value, your privacy, and your peace of mind. When it’s built right, it lasts for years with minimal upkeep. When it’s not, the problems show up fast: leaning posts, warped boards, frost damage, and costly repairs that could’ve been avoided.

We’ve seen it time and time again, homeowners who went the cheaper route or tried to DIY, only to end up replacing the entire fence a few years later.

At Hardland Landscape, we don’t cut corners. From the depth of the posts to the quality of the materials and the care we take during installation, our fences are made to hold up to Thunder Bay’s toughest seasons. Because doing it right the first time doesn’t just save money, it saves stress.

Ready for a Fence That Lasts?

Let’s build it. Whether you’re replacing a worn-out fence or designing something for your brand new yard, we’ll help you create a solution that fits your yard and holds up to Thunder Bay’s toughest conditions.

Start your custom quote today.