Living in the Pacific Northwest means enjoying green landscapes and fresh air, but also preparing for the occasional storm. While everyday winds in Portland, Vancouver, and Olympia are mild, gusts during winter events can reach over 50 mph. The key to keeping your fence upright isn’t just about style—it’s about strength.
At Cascade Fence & Deck, we’re often asked what type of fence holds up best in strong winds. The answer? It starts at the ground level.
1. Focus on Your Fence Posts
“Actually, it doesn’t have as much to do with the fence as it does with the posts,” one of our experienced estimators explains. “Steel posts are designed to withstand all comers. You can pretty much have whatever fence style you like—just focus more on the posts.”
We recommend PostMaster® and PostMaster +® steel posts for their exceptional wind resistance and long-term reliability:
| Post Type | Wind Rating (mph) | Load Resistance on 6x8 Panel | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Postmaster Line Post | 70 | ~ 600 lb | G-90 Galvanized Steeel |
| Postmaster+ Line Post | 73 (ULT) | ~ 650 lb | Lifetime Residential Warranrt |
| Postmaster+ Gate Post | 112 (ULT) | ~ 1,540 lb | Handles hinge / latch loads |
Compare this to a traditional 4×4 S-P-F wood post, which begins to struggle around 49 mph winds. Steel dramatically outperforms and also avoids common issues like rot and shrinkage.
2. Debunking the Spacing Myth
You might think leaving gaps between fence boards helps wind pass through and reduces pressure—but that’s a common misconception.
“One misconception with a fence is if you have some board spacing, that’ll help with the wind. And it might a little bit, but not enough to really affect your decision,” our estimator notes. “Don’t give up the thought of a privacy fence just for the wind.”
So don’t sacrifice your privacy. A solid board design paired with steel posts will hold strong.
3. Install Posts the Right Way
Strong posts are only as good as their foundation:
Set deep: Typically 24–30 inches depending on soil and height
Use concrete: For a firm, unmoving base
Mind the drainage: Prevent moisture accumulation around post bases
4. Understand Fence Height and Wind Load
“Another misconception is the taller the fence, the more of a sail it becomes,” he adds. “That could be true—but again, how it’s built and the materials used can help mitigate all of that.”
Taller fences do catch more wind, but thoughtful construction—especially with steel—can offset that risk.
5. Know Your Local Wind Speeds
Here’s what wind really looks like in the PNW:
| Location | Everyday Wind | Peak Gusts Last 10 Years | Historic Record |
|---|---|---|---|
| Portland | 4.3 - 6.2 mph | 45 mph (Nov 2024) | 116 mph (1962) |
| Vancouver | 4.0 - 5.9 mph | 35 mph (Nov 2024) | 92 mph (1962) |
| Olympia | 3.3 - 4.7 mph | 52 mph (Feb 2025) | 78 mph (1962) |
Most windstorms stay below 60 mph—comfortably within the engineered limits of the PostMaster + line.
6. Warranty & Longevity Matter
The PostMaster system isn’t just about raw strength:
Lifetime residential warranty
G-90 galvanized steel resists corrosion over decades
Up to 1,540 lb wind load capacity with gate posts
This means fewer replacements, less maintenance, and peace of mind even in the harshest conditions.
Final Takeaway
Wind-resistant fencing isn’t just possible—it’s practical. With the right posts, smart installation, and professional guidance, your fence can stand firm through whatever nature throws at it.
