Fences are essential for property security and curb appeal, but they can be susceptible to damage from the elements and wildlife. Repairing or replacing damaged fences can be an expensive undertaking.
Some repairs require specialized tools that might not be readily available to the average homeowner, increasing costs. Time constraints can also increase labor costs. Contact Fence Repair Summerville now!
A damaged fence post can create a serious safety risk if it falls or leans, which is especially true in areas where kids or pets may be present. It can also compromise your privacy and security by limiting access to your home or yard.
Luckily, repairing broken posts is usually pretty straightforward for homeowners. The process varies based on the type of fence you have and the extent of the damage. For wooden fences, it often revolves around eradicating rotted wood and applying a new section of post. For metal or vinyl fences, it typically involves replacing rusted sections and reinforcing bent ones.
The first step in identifying and assessing a damaged fence is to look at it visually for obvious signs of wear and tear, such as holes or cracks. Afterwards, you can do a more detailed assessment by touching, poking or wiggling the fence parts to understand the degree of the damage.
For a simple temporary fix, place wooden stakes or metal braces on either side of the broken post to stabilize it. This will prevent it from falling or leaning and allow you to complete more permanent repairs.
If your fence is heavily damaged, a full replacement may be necessary. This can be costly, but it can also improve your fence’s appearance and ensure its long-term stability. Replacing a fence post requires some work, but you can do it yourself with the proper tools. The most challenging part of the job is removing the concrete base of the old post. You will need a shovel, a digging bar or sledgehammer and possibly scrap two-by-fours to help lift the concrete.
Once you have removed the post, make sure to clear away any debris or obstacles that could block your view of the hole. Then, dig up the base of the old post and remove any concrete or gravel that was used to secure it. Make sure to leave behind enough of the footing so that it can be reinstalled when you replace your fence. To avoid a gap between the footing and your new post, you can use a caulk to seal the area.
Leaning or Falling Posts
Often a leaning fence post can be repaired by simply adding braces, but this only works as long as the post is still solid. If the post has rotted out then it needs to be replaced. This is a job for your local fencing specialist as it requires digging up the old post and properly sinking a new one.
A rotten post will need to be cut out (often the section underground), then dug out and replaced with a treated, preservative-coated wood post. This will then need to be bolted in place, and a concrete footing added. This will stabilise the footing and prevent future problems with this particular post.
This process is a little more complicated than merely adding some braces, but it will give you a solid, long term solution to this problem. The fencing specialists will be able to diagnose the root cause and come up with the best and safest way to fix it.
Weather Damage
High winds, rains and freezing temperatures can shift your fence posts and cause them to lean. If this is the case, you will need to dig out around the affected post and carefully examine the soil beneath it. If the ground is muddy, soft or wet, this may be a reason for the post to move and become loose.
Shifting can also be caused by tree roots and other natural forces. It’s important to evaluate all of the factors when determining what type of repair is needed.
In some cases the post might have rotted out at its base, or the soil underneath has given way and is causing the post to wobble in its hole. If this is the case, the post will need to be removed and replaced with a new post.
If the post has shifted due to weather conditions or is just showing signs of age then this can often be fixed by digging out the affected area and adding a concrete footing. This will help to keep the post upright and aligned with the other posts in the area.
Leaning or Falling Panels
A quality fence is an investment for your Colorado Springs or Denver property, adding value and function to your outdoor space. Fences add safety and beauty, keep children and pets safe, and create a property boundary. While they are built to withstand the elements, weather can take its toll on your fencing and may cause it to lean or fall over time. Proper fence repair can help you address this issue quickly and easily.
When a fence starts to lean, it is usually due to the foundation, or footing, of one of the posts. This is a common problem that local fence contractors like Blick’s Fencing see on a regular basis and can be easily fixed.
To fix the leaning post, clear the area around the affected post and dig up the bottom of the post. This will allow you to see if there are any roots or rocks pushing against the post. Once the post is exposed, use a level to straighten it out until it is plumb, then nail long two-by-four pieces of wood to it at a 45-degree angle to brace it against the ground and prevent further movement.
If the shifted fence posts are the only ones causing the leaning, you can simply put another shorter post up against the rotten or shifting one and bond them together by either bolting or tying them to each other. This is a simple process and can be done with a few tools you probably already have on hand or could rent from a home improvement store.
However, if the leaning is due to a missing or damaged footing, it will be necessary to dig up and replace the entire post. It is best to have a partner to help you with this process and make sure you wear proper protective equipment like gloves and safety goggles when working with heavy materials. After replacing the post, it is a good idea to pour a new concrete footing to help support the new post and avoid future issues with shifting. A good contractor will be able to advise you on the appropriate depth for this footing.
Cracked or Rotten Boards
Wood rot is an issue that can impact any type of wooden element in a home. It primarily affects wood that comes into contact with water. It is different from mildew or mold, which are typically a cosmetic issue. Rot eats through the surface of wood and weakens it. It can also be a source of insect infestations. Generally, it is best to address the issue early to avoid extensive damage.
The two main types of wood rot are wet and dry rot. Wet rot is caused by specific fungi that thrive in damp conditions. It is more common than the more severe dry rot, which occurs when the wood is exposed to direct sunlight and moisture for prolonged periods of time.
Fortunately, wet rot is usually easy to repair. In many cases, a simple coating of sealant will be enough to prevent it from recurring. It is important to regularly inspect your home, especially the areas that are prone to moisture, such as around windows or doors. Make sure gutters are clean and that water is draining properly. In some instances, it may be necessary to add a waterproof barrier to help shield the wood from water.
If you have rotten boards, it is important to take the time to remove them without damaging the surrounding area. This may involve cutting through nails or screws holding the board in place, or it may require removing it with a pry bar. After removing the damaged board, the space should be cleaned to ensure that you can install a replacement that will fit correctly.
For minor rotten sections of wood, it is often possible to use wood hardener or filler to strengthen the affected areas and restore their strength. There is a wide variety of these products available, both offline and online. Softwood polyester fillers or epoxies are common choices as they are durable and compatible with wood. If you are frequently working with wood, it is a good idea to keep a container of this product on hand.
If the affected sections of your wood are very bad, it may be necessary to replace them with new material. It is best to use pressure-treated pine or cedar, which are rot-resistant materials. It is also a good idea to stain or seal any new wood to prevent moisture damage.
